Srinagar, the capital of Kashmir

Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, has a history stretching back over two millennia. Founded, according to tradition, by King Pravarasena II in the 6th century CE, it became an important centre in the Kashmiri Hindu dynasties, with temples and learning flourishing. Under King Lalitaditya Muktapida (8th century), it was linked to Central Asian trade and culture. By the 14th century, Islam spread through Sufi saints, and Srinagar grew under the Shah Mir dynasty, with mosques and gardens shaping its identity. The Mughals in the 16th century transformed the city with exquisite gardens, such as Shalimar and Nishat, along Dal Lake. Later ruled by Afghans and Sikhs, it came under Dogra control in 1846. During the Dogra period, Srinagar expanded as an administrative and cultural hub. Today, with its lakes, wooden houses, gardens, and shrines, Dal Lake especially is a shimmering jewel, famed for its houseboats, shikaras, lotus gardens, and mountain reflections.