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Chashma Shahi

Hemis

Brief Introduction of CHASHMA SHAHI - Near Rajbhawan (the governor's house), on the sloping slopes of the Zabarwan Range, nine kilometres outside of Srinagar, is Chashma Shahi, also known as the Royal Spring. The tiniest and most alluring of Srinagar's Mughal gardens, it is positioned halfway up the Dal side of the hillside and offers views of the enormous lake below and the distant, snow-capped Himalayan mountain ranges. The Mughal emperor Shah Jahan established the garden in 1632 AD and had a spring built around it. The spring is renowned for its clear, cool, and sparkling waters, which have both therapeutic and digestive characteristics. Chashma Shahi is "architecturally the most lovely of the gardens around Srinagar," according to renowned author Aldous Huxley.

Chashma Shahi is a one-acre complex that is 108 by 38 metres and features three terraces, an aqueduct, waterfalls, and fountains. The fountains are constructed such that spring water serves as their source. Water then cascades down a polished black stone chute to a lower terrace along the pavilion's floor. The Persian design of the artistically constructed garden puts a lot of emphasis on the spring, whose water runs through its centre in terraces and gives it a calm and vibrant appearance.

A set of stairs leading up along the terraces to the spring leads guests to the hillside garden. Its water has been so beloved by the Mughal kings that during Shah Jahan's rule, it used to be transported all the way from Srinagar to Agra. Additionally, Jawahar Lal Nehru used to transport the springwater from Delhi. The Boulevard Road, which travels beside the Dal lake's shores, connects to the garden. For boarding and lodging, there are numerous hotels and eateries close to the garden. If you Are looging for Kashmir Holiday Package then You have Landed on thr right Page

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Chashma Shahi – frequently asked questions

What is the difference between Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake houseboats?

Dal Lake is a popular choice for first-time visitors because of its iconic scenery, Shikara rides, and convenient access to several Srinagar attractions. Some areas can be busy during peak travel periods.

Nigeen Lake is often preferred by couples and travellers looking for a quieter atmosphere. It offers a more peaceful setting for relaxing and enjoying the surroundings.

The right choice depends on your preferences, the exact property, and your budget. Before booking, check the houseboat's location, room category, heating, hot water, meals, transfer arrangements, and whether a Shikara ride is included.

At Acme Tour & Travels, we help guests select accommodation based on their expectations rather than price alone. See our Srinagar hotels and houseboats.

Which is the best month to visit Kashmir?

Kashmir is beautiful throughout the year, but the best month depends on the experience you want.

  • March–April: Spring flowers, fresh greenery, and the tulip season, depending on bloom dates (see the Tulip Garden).
  • May–August: Green valleys, mountain scenery, gardens, and outdoor sightseeing (see our summer in Kashmir guide).
  • October–early November: Golden and reddish autumn colours, especially around Srinagar's chinar trees.
  • December–February: Winter scenery and opportunities to experience snow, depending on weather conditions, especially at Gulmarg.

Each season offers a different side of Kashmir. Our recommendation is to select your travel dates according to your preferred experiences, budget, and comfort.

How many days are enough for a Kashmir trip?

We generally recommend 5 nights and 6 days for a relaxed first Kashmir trip. This gives you more time to explore the major destinations without rushing between places.

Suggested durations include:

  • 3 nights / 4 days: Srinagar, Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, and a Gulmarg excursion.
  • 4 nights / 5 days: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.
  • 5 nights / 6 days: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam with a more relaxed pace and overnight stays in different destinations.
  • 6 nights / 7 days or longer: More time for Sonamarg, Doodhpathri, Yusmarg, or other destinations, subject to season and accessibility.

For travellers interested in offbeat places, photography, or a slower holiday, we recommend allowing a week or longer.

Should I book my Kashmir package in advance or after arriving?

We recommend booking in advance, particularly during summer holidays, the tulip season, New Year, and other busy travel periods.

Advance planning gives you a better opportunity to compare accommodation, confirm suitable rooms and vehicles, and organise your preferred itinerary. Availability and rates can change as demand increases.

We have helped travellers who arrived in Kashmir without confirmed hotel and cab arrangements and then struggled to find suitable options at reasonable prices.

For this reason, we recommend confirming your accommodation and transport before departure rather than relying entirely on last-minute arrangements. You can contact our Srinagar team to start planning.

Is Kashmir safe for families and honeymoon couples?

Kashmir welcomes families, couples, and travellers with different interests. However, no destination can be guaranteed completely risk-free, and conditions can change.

We recommend checking current travel advisories, local conditions, and weather updates before departure. During your trip, follow local guidance, especially when travelling to higher-altitude destinations or areas affected by snow.

For families, we suggest comfortable accommodation, suitable transport, and a flexible itinerary. For honeymoon couples, we can recommend peaceful stays and romantic experiences based on the season.

Our aim is to help guests plan responsibly and enjoy their holiday with confidence.

Majid Hussain, founder of Acme Tour And Travels

About the author

Founder, Acme Tour And Travels · Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir

Majid Hussain is the founder of Acme Tour And Travels, a Srinagar-based travel agency registered with the Jammu and Kashmir Tourism office. Working with a local team that has more than seven years in the hospitality industry, he plans Kashmir, Ladakh and Jammu trips for couples, families and groups, from hotels and houseboats to cabs and pilgrimage packages. The guides and package pages on this site are written from that day-to-day experience, and he welcomes questions from travellers planning a trip.

  • Kashmir itineraries
  • Houseboats and hotels
  • Cab and transport planning
  • Seasonal travel advice

majiidhussain@yahoo.com · About the team · Contact us

Last updated 21 October 2026

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