Seniors Seek the Exotic in Srinagar

Srinagar, situated in the Kashmir Valley, is a city of nearly 1 million, famous for its 400 year-old Mughal gardens, its lakes and throngs of colorful houseboats. Senior travelers find it to be a hot spot for tourism and CNN listed it on their Travel Photos of the Day. Srinagar is composed of two Sanskrit words, one for the goddess Lakshmi and nagar, which means “city”.

The city has a long history and is said to have been named by the King Pravarasena II over 2,000 years ago, who named it Parvasenpur. Srinagar is a collection of images, a paradise vale of deep green rice fields, river bridges of gardens in bloom and lakes rimmed by houseboats. Srinagar is also a summer capital of the state, business center and holiday resort.

Lonely Planet notes that “Indulgent houseboats, historic gardens, distinctive Kashmiri wooden mosques and a mild summer climate combine to make Srinagar one of India’s top domestic tourist attractions.” I just could not pass up this series of great photos of a farmers market in Srinagar. I loved the one with the lady sacked out on pile of carrots.

 Seniors Enjoy the Venice of the East

Srinagar is known for traditional quality Kashmiri handicrafts and dry fruits. The city is located on both the sides of the Jhelum River which is called Vyath in Kashmir. The river passes through the city and meanders through the valley, moving onward and deepening in the Dal Lake. The Jhelum and the Dal and Nagin lakes dominate Srinagar and its life and activities.

The city is famous for its nine old bridges, connecting the two parts of the city, like so many old European cities. Srinagar is one of several places that has been called the “Venice of the East”.

Hotel/Houseboat, Resorts And Old City

For a “classic Kashmir” vacation in Srinagar, consider a stay in a hotel/houseboat. They are everywhere. You will not want to miss the 16th century Moghul gardens and nearby mountain resorts of Pahalgam and Gulmarg, Sonamarg and old city Srinagar.

Every season offers senior travelers new touristic vistas to this city of great antiquity. Spring breathes new life into a frozen world and the air is fresh with the fragrance of a million flowers that blossom on trees and shrubs.

So watch your timing for a visit, senior travelers, winter brings with it snow and sometimes Dal Lake freezes over. I would suggest a tour using a qualified travel agent for your trip to India. I have personally known couples who make their own arrangements in India and got by just fine. It is simply that India is a huge, highly populated country.

Enjoy your time in Srinagar. jeb