Peaceful and blooming with the vibrant colors of Kashmir's natural landscape, the Srinagar Botanical Gardens offers blissful respite from busy travels. Also known as the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Gardens, this serene landscape honors India's first prime minister.
The gardens were built in 1969, situated around the base of a hill overlooking Dal Lake. Enjoy the scenic locale as you explore its 197 acres (80 hectares), embellished by hedgerows, flower displays and maintained lawns.
As you stroll the winding paths, try to identify some of the hundreds of species of plants that bring vibrant colors to the landscape's palette. The carefully manicured displays are split up into several mini gardens, each offering a new combination of patterns and hues.
Find the central greenhouse and spot the delicate Himalayan orchid alongside a number of different species. Bring a picnic to the children's recreational area and take a seat under a cedar tree. See your kids enjoying the swings against a backdrop of Dal Lake.
The commons also feature a Research Section and a Plant Introduction Centre, where you can get an in-depth insight into the lives of resident plants. Head to the nearby sporting grounds to watch local soccer teams play or start your own game.
As the afternoon cools, meander to the gardens' lake. This 42-acre (17-hectare) water feature is decorated with fountains and ornate sculptural designs. Get a complete view with a ride on a paddleboat, available for rent nearby.
Find the Jawaharlal Nehru Memorial Gardens to the east of Srinagar, an urban hub in India's Jammu and Kashmir district. The summer months between March and November make for the best visiting times, when the flower displays are in full bloom. The gardens are open daily. An admission fee is charged.
Fans of these gardens may also enjoy stopping by the nearby Chashma Shahi. These Mughal gardens feature fountains, waterfalls and an aqueduct surrounded by inspiring plant decorations.
