10 Places To Visit Near Dachigam National Park Kashmir

Let’s talk about the popular Dachigam National Park Tourism of Kashmir and then learn more about the places to visit near Dachigam National Park, shall we?

Dachigam National Park Highlights

• Timings: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. everyday
• Popular For: Hangul
• Distance from Srinagar: 22 kilometers
• Entry Fees: Vary from one season to another
• Permits: Permits are required for the entry
• Best Time: May to August
• Ideal Duration: 1 day

Covering an area of 141 square kilometres, the Dachigam National Park has a rich diversity of flora and fauna and is particularly popular for Hangul, and features dense valleys, blooming meadows, steep slopes, and immense beauty that surrounds the place. 

Besides the beautiful park, there is more to Kashmir, so let’s check out the places to visit near Dachigam National Park.

Places To Visit Near Dachigam National Park

1. Aru Valley

Aru Valley is a lush green valley with diverse landscapes is a treasure trove, and is also popular for the plenty of movies shot here. Located in the Anantnag district of Jammu & Kashmir, Aru Valley is situated at an altitude of 2414 meters above sea level. 

Located at a distance of approximately 12 km from the main market of Pahalgam, and 21 km from the Dachigam National Park, Aru Valley is one of the most serene places to visit near Dachigam National Park. 

• Distance From The Park: 21 km approximately 
• Best Time To Visit: May to October

2. Chashme Shahi

If you are a history buff and wish to witness the grandeur and the cultural and historical side of Kashmir, then you should head to Chashme Shahi. It is a beautiful Mughal Garden, situated in Srinagar, and is located at a distance of approximately 15 km. 

This Mughal Garden’s terraced garden was commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1632 AD and was designed by the governor Ali Mardan Khan. The garden is very well maintained and one can have a nice time having family picnics, while enjoying the panoramic views of the Dal Lake, making it one of the beautiful places to visit near Dachigam National Park. 

• Distance From The Park: 15 km approximately
• Best Time To Visit: May to October
• Timings: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

3. Pari Mahal

The best part about Pari Mahal is that you can witness a small corner where you can see bars, similar to that you find in lockups, and it is believed that the fairies used to visit the Palace from that place. Even though it looks scary, and you may feel like only a witch can come out of something so dark, maybe we have to believe however the story goes. 

The structure of the Pari Mahal stands as an architectural wonder and allows you to dive deep into the historical realms of the Mughal Era. The structure features Islamic architecture with a blend of Persian elements, making it one of the most beautiful nearby places In Dachigam National Park. 

• Distance From The Park: 25 km approximately
• Timings: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

4. Hazratbal Shrine

Hazratbal Shrine, situated on the banks of Dal Lake, and located at a distance of approximately 18 km from the Dachigam National Park, is an epitome of beauty and the brilliance of Mughal Architecture. 

The Hazratbal Shrine is not only one of the most fascinating places to visit near Dachigam National Park but also an iconic religious site in Kashmir. The shrine features a perfect blend of Mughal and Kashmiri architecture, attracting thousands of visitors from all corners of the country throughout the year.

• Distance From The Park: 18 km approximately
• Timings: 9:30 a.m. to 5: 30 p.m every day (except on Fridays when it’s closed for some time due to Friday prayer)

5. Dal Lake

A Shikara ride in Kashmir is the experience of a lifetime, especially during the sunset, when the sky takes on some really pretty hues, while you take in all the stillness and calm present in the moment, making it one of the best places to visit near Dachigam National Park.

• Distance From The Park: 16 km approximately
• Timings: 6 a.m. to 7 p.m.

6. Jamia Masjid

Jamia Masjid is a mosque located at Nowhatta in the Old Srinagar area and is also an attraction that you can explore if you are looking for places to visit near Dachigam National Park. 

The mosque features a perfect example of Kashmiri wooden architecture, with elements of Mughal architecture, making it one of the must-visit tourist attractions in the Nearby Places In Dachigam National Park. 

Despite having a traumatic past with all the earthquakes and attacks, it has survived, and the grandeur of the mosque remains undiminished. 

• Distance From The Park: 21 km approximately 
• Timings: 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.

7. Tarsar Lake

Situated at an altitude of 4000 meters above sea level, the Tarsar Lake is an absolute beauty, surrounded by lush green mountains, and snow-capped peaks, and is every trekker’s paradise. The trek starts from the Aru Village, encompassing through Lidderwat, and traverses through the rugged terrains. 

If you are looking for an adrenaline-pumping activity in the places to visit near Dachigam National Park, then this is your chance. You can take plenty of pictures to freeze the moment and have family picnics near the lake to make infinite memories. 

• Distance From The Park: 10 km

8. Tulip Garden

You will be stunned to witness the millions of tulips all neatly organized in flowerbeds, making it one of the must-visit places to visit in Srinagar. 

• Distance From The Park: 15.4 km
• Timings: 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Best Time To Visit: April
• Entry Fees: INR 75 for adults; INR 30 for kids; INR 200 for foreigners

9. Kolahoi Glacier

The Glacier is a major source of water for the Jhelum and Lidder Rivers and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Adventure lovers are in for a treat for one can indulge in adventure activities to get that adrenaline pumping including some beautiful trekking trails. 

• Distance From The Park: 27.7 km approximately
• Timings: Daylight Hours
• Entry Fees: Free

10. Doodhpathri

• Distance From The Park: 51 km
• Timings: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Historical Roots Of Dachigam National Park

The name Dachigam stands for 10 villages which could mean that 10 villages had to be relocated in order to build the park. This protected area was converted into a National Park in the year 1981. 

From that time onwards, the Dachigam National Park has been a popular tourist attraction and is popular for Hangul or the Kashmiri stag that is found here in abundance. There are plenty of places to visit near Dachigam National Park as well, so you can try visiting there as well.

Best Time to Visit Dachigam National Park

How To Reach Dachigam National Park in Kashmir

By Air: 

The nearest airport to Dachigam National Park is Srinagar International Airport, also known as Sheikh ul-Alam Airport. It is located approximately 28 kilometres from the park’s entrance. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a prearranged private transfer to reach the park. Srinagar Airport is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai, with regular flights operated by various airlines.

By Road: 

Dachigam National Park is accessible by road from Srinagar, the capital city of Jammu and Kashmir. Srinagar is well-connected to other major cities in North India by a network of national highways and state roads. From Srinagar, you can drive or hire a taxi to reach the park’s entrance. The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic.

By Bus: 

Public buses and private tourist buses operate between Srinagar and Dachigam National Park, providing an affordable transportation option for visitors. Buses depart from designated bus terminals in Srinagar, such as the TRC (Tourist Reception Center) or Lal Chowk, and drop passengers near the park entrance. However, bus services may be limited, especially during the off-peak tourist season, so it’s advisable to check the schedule in advance.

By Trekking: 

For adventurous travellers, trekking is another option to reach Dachigam National Park. Several trekking routes lead to the park from nearby villages and towns, offering scenic views of the Himalayan landscape along the way. However, trekking to the park requires proper planning, permits, and knowledge of the terrain, so it’s recommended for experienced trekkers only.

Suggested Read: Trekking Guide In Kashmir

Best Hikes And Trails In Dachigam National Park

• New Theed: Length 10 km
• Pathlipora Trek: Length 17 km
• Nishat Bagh to Daghvan River Trail: Length 26.7 km
• New Theed Loop: Length 15.6 km
• New Theed to Daghwan Nala: Length 13.2 km
• Daghwan Trek: 28.3 km

Dachigam National Park Travel Tips

Before you move ahead, it is important to go through our Dachigam National Park travel tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes
• No food stalls are available, so carry food and water and some basic medicines
• Dress in layers to adapt to the changing weather. 
• Do not litter the place
• Make sure you have a permit. 
• Take plenty of pictures
• Keep yourself hydrated.