Char Chinar Srinagar
What is Char Chinar in Srinagar?
The name itself tells the story “Char” means four, and “Chinar” refers to the majestic Platanus orientalis (chinar) trees so deeply rooted in Kashmiri landscape and culture. It is known for four Chinar trees growing at its corners, which gave the island its name. The iconic spot is a favorite destination for tourists who visit via a traditional wooden boat called a shikara.
If you are planning your itinerary for Srinagar adding a sunset or sunrise visit to this floating island is an absolute must.
Did you know? There were actually two “Char Chinar” islands during the Mughal era Rupa Lank (Silver Island) and Sona Lank (Golden Island). The one most visitors see today is Rupa Lank, while the other lies further south on Dal Lake and is less accessible.
The Island Was Featured in Early Bollywood Films
During the golden era of Indian cinema, Char Chinar and Dal Lake featured in several 1960s and 1970s Bollywood films most notably in “Kashmir Ki Kali” (1964) and “Jab Jab Phool Khile” (1965).
These films helped make the spot a romantic symbol for couples visiting Kashmir.
The History of Char Chinar
Char Chinar was built during the Mughal era. The Mughal rulers created many beautiful gardens and landmarks across the valley. Char Chinar still stands today as a reminder of their style and the natural beauty of Kashmir.
Historical records suggest that the island once featured a small Mughal pavilion at its center, surrounded by fountains and garden layouts typical of Mughal aesthetics. Though the structure no longer exists today, remnants of its stone foundation were visible until the mid-20th century, as confirmed by local boatmen and heritage researchers.
Interesting fact: The Mughals used a unique engineering method to construct this island. Its base was artificially built using layers of stone and compacted mud a technique that prevented erosion and allowed the island to stay afloat for centuries.
Char Chinar Srinagar – Quick Facts
- Location: Dal Lake, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
- Built By: Prince Murad Baksh (Son of Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan)
- Era of Construction: 17th Century (Mughal Period)
- Famous For: Four majestic Chinar trees marking the four corners of the island
- Island Type: Man-made (constructed using stone and compacted mud)
- Alternate Names: Char Chinari, Ropa Lank, Silver Island
- Access: Only by Shikara (traditional wooden boat) from Dal Lake ghats
- Nearest Landmark: Nehru Park, Boulevard Road
- Best Time to Visit: April to October
- Managed By: Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department
Who Built Char Chinar in Dal Lake?
The Char Chinar was built by Prince Murad Baksh, the youngest son of the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, in the 17th century. The Mughals, known for their love of gardens and symmetry, designed this island as part of their grand architectural vision for Srinagar city.
The four chinar trees were planted to beautify the space and create a serene retreat. While his brother, Dara Shikoh, built the nearby Zaina Lank (or Sona Lank), Murad’s Rupa Lank(Char chinar) has become the more famous of the two islands on Dal Lake.
Char Chinar served as a private retreat for royal gatherings and leisurely moments on Dal Lake. Even today, it reflects Mughal elegance through its layout and the iconic Chinar trees planted symmetrically at each corner.
Where is Char Chinari Located?
Char Chinari (also spelled Char Chinar) is an island in the middle of Dal Lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, not far from Nehru Park. The island is clearly visible from Boulevard Road, the famous road that runs along the eastern shore of Dal Lake. From the road, you can often see Shikaras making their way to and from the iconic island adding to the picturesque landscape of Srinagar.
Its strategic location makes it a central attraction for anyone exploring Srinagar tourist attractions. As you stroll along Boulevard Road or enjoy a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants, you can spot the four Chinar trees rising from the water. Lake, making it easily accessible from various ghat points around the lake. This central positioning making it easily accessible from various ghat points around the lake.
Did you Know: The four Chinar trees on the island are believed to be over 300 years old, planted during Prince Murad Baksh’s reign. Interestingly, each tree was symbolically planted to represent one cardinal direction, emphasizing the Mughal passion for symmetry in landscape design.
Char Chinar Aligns Perfectly with Nishat and Shalimar Bagh
From above, the island aligns visually in a straight line between Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, reflecting the Mughals’ advanced geometric planning of Srinagar’s landscape architecture.
How to Reach Char Chinar Srinagar
There are no direct roads or walkways to Char Chinar, The only way to reach the Char Chinar island is by taking a Shikara ride to Char Chinar. You can hire a Shikara from one of the many ghats (boat docks) located along Boulevard Road. Popular starting points include the ghats near Nehru Park or Ghat No. 17.
The duration of the ride depends on the starting point but generally a dedicated round trip to Char Chinar and back takes approximately 3 to 4 hours including the time spent on the island itself. A longer tour covering floating gardens and other lake attractions can last 4–5 hours.
Shikara fares generally range from ₹600 to ₹1,500 for a round trip depending on the duration and negotiation. Always agree on the price before starting your journey. For booking and updated pricing visit our Shikara ride dal lake booking page
Pro Tip: Visit early in the morning or during sunset for the best photography conditions and fewer crowds.
Many Travel agencies in Kashmir like Travel My Kashmir offer package tours for srinagar city that include Char Chinar along with other Dal Lake sightseeing spots like the floating vegetable market, floating gardens and nearby Mughal gardens. This can be a cost-effective way to maximize your experience on the lake.
Accommodation and Dining Near Char Chinar
Finding the right place to stay and great food to enjoy is an essential part of your Char Chinar experience. Luckily, Srinagar offers a range of options that fit every traveler’s budget from luxurious hotels overlooking Dal Lake to cozy budget stays and traditional houseboats.
Where to Stay
Luxury Properties:
For a premium experience, The Lalit Grand Palace offers royal Mughal era architecture with modern amenities and stunning Dal Lake views. Other top choices include Vivanta Dal View and Radisson Srinagar. These hotels feature lake-view rooms, fine dining restaurants and world class amenities, making them perfect for a relaxing stay near Dal Lake.
Mid-Range and Budget Stays:
If you prefer affordable comfort, hotels such as Hilltop Hotel, New Shaheen Hotel and Hotel Signature are excellent choices. They offer clean rooms, friendly service and easy access to Srinagar’s main attractions.
Houseboats on Dal Lake:
To make your trip more memorable, consider staying on a traditional Kashmiri houseboat. These Houseboats are unique floating accommodations with traditional decor, home cooked meals and direct Shikara access to Char Chinar. Prices start from ₹2,500 per night making them both affordable and memorable.
Budget Stays:
Guesthouses and homestays throughout Srinagar offer warm hospitality and comfortable lodging from ₹800 to ₹1,500 per night perfect for backpackers and solo travelers.
Dining Options near Char Chinar
No visit to Kashmir is complete without indulging in its rich culinary traditions. While there are no hotels or restuarants available at char chinar , However you can find some locals selling tea, ice creams and snacks. Here are the best dining spots near Char Chinar:
Mughal Darbar:
This legendary restaurant serves authentic Kashmiri Wazwan cuisine. Don’t miss their signature Rogan Josh (aromatic lamb curry) and Yakhni (yogurt-based mutton curry). Located on Residency Road, it’s a must visit for food lovers.
Ahdoos Restaurant:
One of Srinagar’s oldest and most beloved dining spots offering a mix of Kashmiri and popular Indian dishes in a comfortable, heritage style setting.
Lal Chowk Restaurant:
Known for its homely atmosphere and traditional meals, perfect for those looking to taste local recipes made with love.
Things to Do Around Char Chinar
A visit to Char Chinar Srinagar can be a peaceful retreat or an active part of a larger sightseeing day. Here are a few things to do when you visit:
- Shikara Photography: The views of Char Chinar, with the snow-capped Pir Panjal mountains in the background offer unmatched opportunities for landscape and travel photography.
- Sunset Viewing: There is nothing quite like watching the sun dip below the mountains from the middle of Dal Lake. A Shikara ride to Char Chinar during the golden hour offers an unforgettable spectacle of colors painting the sky and water.
- Combine with Mughal Gardens: Since the island is close to the famous Mughal Gardens, you can easily combine your visit. Plan a day trip that includes a stop at Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh both of which offer stunning examples of Mughal-era landscaping.
- Explore Nearby Attractions: Combine your visit with stops at other Dal Lake islands and points of interest, such as the famous Floating Gardens of Kashmir, the bustling floating market, and the Nehru Park island.
Tips for Visiting Char Chinar
To enhance your char chinar trip experience , keep these practical tips in mind:
- Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit is from April to October. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the chinar leaves are at their most beautiful lush green in summer and a brilliant gold and crimson in autumn (mid-October to November).
- Best Time of Day: For the most dramatic lighting and peaceful experience, plan your visit for early morning (7-9 AM) (sunrise) or late afternoon (5-7 PM) (sunset). The soft light during these times is perfect for photography and the lake is generally calmer. Midday visits can be hot during summer months.
- Entry Fee: There is no separate entry ticket for the island itself. The cost is included in your Shikara ride fare.
- What to Carry: Bring your camera, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat and drinking water. If visiting during autumn, a light jacket is advisable as it can get breezy on the lake.
Conclusion
Char Chinar Srinagar is more than just a landmark, it’s a living reflection of Kashmir’s soul, where nature, history and artistry meet. This floating island with its four Chinar trees on four corners, offers visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time while immersing themselves in the tranquil beauty of Dal Lake.
Whether you are seeking the perfect photograph, a moment of peaceful reflection or simply want to experience one of Kashmir’s most iconic landmarks, Char Chinar delivers an unforgettable experience.
The gentle Shikara ride across Dal Lake’s calm waters, the sight of snow-capped mountains in the distance and the timeless beauty of those four majestic trees create memories that last a lifetime. As you plan your journey to the Paradise on Earth make sure Char Chinar is prominently featured in your Srinagar itinerary.
Plan your Shikara ride and Srinagar sightseeing tour with Travel My Kashmir your trusted local travel partner for authentic experiences across Kashmir.
FAQs About Char Chinar Srinagar
Char Chinar was built by Mughal Prince Murad Baksh, the youngest son of Emperor Shah Jahan, in the 17th century. It was designed as a private retreat following the traditional Mughal garden principles.
Char Chinar is located on a small island in Dal Lake, Srinagar, between Nehru Park and the Nishat-Shalimar area. It's visible from Boulevard Road and accessible only via Shikara ride from various ghat points around the lake.
You can reach Char Chinar by taking a Shikara ride from Dal Lake ghats like Nehru Park or Ghat No. 17 on Boulevard Road. The trip takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes one way and costs between ₹790 to ₹1,500 for a round trip.
Char Chinar is famous for its four ancient Chinar trees, Mughal-era charm, and tranquil island setting making it one of the most photographed locations in Kashmir.
Absolutely! Char Chinar is a must-visit spot for anyone traveling to Srinagar. It offers a unique blend of natural beauty, Mughal history, and peaceful ambiance. Photography enthusiasts and nature lovers particularly appreciate its serene setting and the stunning visual composition created by the four ancient Chinar trees.
The best time to visit is from April to October when the weather is pleasant. Spring (April-May) showcases fresh green foliage, summer (June-August) offers lush greenery, and autumn (September-October) presents the most spectacular views with golden and crimson leaves.
