Key hubs
Srinagar airport and railway station
- Nearest airport
- Srinagar International Airport (SXR), also called Shaheed-i-Alam Airport, roughly 15–20 minutes by road from the old city, traffic dependent
- Railway station
- Srinagar Railway Station (SJ) is the main station, near the city centre; trains to Jammu and other destinations run through the year, though schedules vary by season
- Getting around
- A private car and driver is most comfortable for gardens and outlying sights. Shikaras and local boats are the way to see Dal Lake and Jhelum River. Walking is pleasant in gardens and the old city, but roads are congested and uneven.
How to reach Srinagar by air
Srinagar International Airport (SXR) is roughly 15–20 minutes by road from the old city, traffic dependent.
How to reach Srinagar by train
Srinagar Railway Station (SJ) is near the city centre, with trains to Jammu and beyond running year-round, though schedules vary by season.
How to reach Srinagar by road
The Jammu–Srinagar highway is the main road link, though it can be affected by snow and landslides in winter.
Getting around Srinagar
A private car and driver is most comfortable for the Mughal gardens and outlying sights; shikaras and local boats are the way to see Dal Lake, and the gardens themselves are pleasant on foot.
For parents and senior travellers
Easy transfers to and in Srinagar
- Choose a houseboat with good heating, hot water and a private bathroom. The lake experience is worth the logistics. Confirm access by small boat and car drop-off before booking.
- Hire a car and driver for the whole day when visiting gardens. It gives you rest between sights and avoids the narrow, uneven old city lanes.
- Winter (December–February) is beautiful but very cold, with snow that can block roads. Summer (June–August) is green and warm but crowded. Spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) are ideal.
- Carry a good jacket, even in summer—the lake and mountains bring cool winds. Hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes are essentials.
- Ask the airline or railway for wheelchair or porter assistance when you book, not on the day.
- Pre-book the pickup from the airport or station, so nobody has to negotiate with drivers after a long journey.
- Choose arrivals in daylight where you can, and keep the first afternoon free to rest.