A shikara ride is less a single attraction than the way you see a lot of Srinagar — floating vegetable markets, lotus beds, and houseboats along the shore. Morning rides are quieter and cooler; the floating market itself is really only active early, around sunrise, so go then if that's the part you want to see.

Larger and, in most travelers' opinion, better positioned than Shalimar Bagh next door — the terraces step down toward Dal Lake with the mountains behind, so the views are as much the point as the garden itself. Fountains run on a schedule rather than continuously, so timing can affect what you see.

The most historically significant of the three main Mughal gardens, laid out on four terraces originally intended to separate the emperor's public and private areas. Come in autumn if the timing works — the chinar trees turn a deep red-orange and it's a different garden entirely from the summer green.

Perched above the city on Zabarwan hill — you'll either drive most of the way up or commit to the climb on foot. Security checks are routine here, so carry ID. The payoff is the view: the whole of Srinagar and Dal Lake laid out below, which is why it's worth timing the visit for late afternoon rather than midday haze.