What attractions make Srinagar a major tourist destination?

Srinagar, the summer capital of the Jammu and Kashmir union territory, is a major tourist destination renowned for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Situated in the Vale of Kashmir along the Jhelum River, the city offers several key attractions:

• Waterways and Lakes: The city is famous for Dal Lake, known for its unique "floating gardens." Visitors often explore the local canals and waterways via shikara (traditional gondolas).1
• Mughal Gardens: The city features historic gardens, including the Shalimar Bagh and Nishat gardens, which showcase traditional Mughal architecture integrated with the mountainous landscape.12
• Religious Sites: Srinagar is home to significant landmarks such as the Hazratbal Mosque, which houses a relic of the Prophet Muhammad, and the 15th-century Jāmiʿ Masjid, considered the largest mosque in Kashmir.1
• Proximity to Nature: The city serves as a gateway to the region, including the nearby town of Gulmarg, which is well-known for its snow sports and panoramic views of the Himalayas.13