Srinagar Jammu And Kashmir, India Travel Guide
India has two main mobile providers: Airtel and Jio. Foreigners acquire a prepaid SIM card upon arrival in India.
Wi-Fi is widely available in most hotels and houseboats in Srinagar. Speed and reliability vary.
Kashmiri and Urdu are the main languages. Hindi also widely understood. English understood in tourist areas.
Learning a few basic phrases in Kashmiri or Urdu shows respect and can elevate interactions with locals.
A local SIM card makes your travel experience more positive, giving access to maps and information on the go. Airport lounge access can be a Priority Pass benefit.
Typical operating hours for businesses and attractions.
Shops generally open 10 AM to 8-9 PM. Smaller shops close for the afternoon break. Some shops observe a weekly day off.
Most banks operate 10 AM to 4 PM, Monday to Friday, and until 2 PM each Saturday. Sundays are usually closed.
Mughal Gardens typically open 9 AM to 6 PM. Check specific timings for each attraction, since they differ seasonally or on public holidays.
Some houseboats close during the coldest winter months (January-February).
Major Muslim holidays (like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) and South asian national holidays (Independence Day, Republic Day, Gandhi Jayanti) affect services.
Planning your daily schedule around business hours makes for smoother travel. Consider potential disruptions during holidays.
Srinagar is a conservative zone with its own set of cultural norms.
Modest clothing highly recommended for men and women. This shows respect for local culture.
When eating, especially traditional meals or shared platters, use your right hand.
Always ask permission before photographing people, most notably women and children.
Avoid discussing local politics or sensitive security issues with strangers.
Respect local customs and traditions to render your visit meaningful and positive. Your actions shape your experience and interactions with the community.
Travelers with mobility challenges or other special needs plan carefully, as limited infrastructure.
Generally, infrastructure for travelers with mobility challenges is limited in Srinagar.
Newer, higher-end hotels offer some accessible rooms and facilities.
Services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are not specialized.
Contact hotels or local tour operators in advance to confirm specific accessibility features.
Always carry identification documents, especially your passport and visa copies. Security checks are common.
