Char Chinar, Kashmir - Timings, Tips & Things To Do

Char Chinar, Kashmir: Overview

Char Chinar, located on the beautiful Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir, is a breathtaking island known for its stunning beauty and four iconic Chinar trees. These majestic trees, known for their large size and vibrant autumn leaves, give the island its name. The serene waters of Dal Lake reflect the towering trees, creating a picturesque scene. Char Chinar is a peaceful getaway, offering a blend of nature, history, and tranquility. Visitors can take a shikara ride to reach the island and enjoy its calming surroundings. The location is perfect for photography, relaxation, and witnessing the beauty of Kashmir’s landscapes. Whether you’re seeking solitude or a scenic view, Char Chinar offers an unforgettable experience.

Plan a trip that includes this site and more—browse our Kashmir trip packages.

How To Reach Char Chinar

Char Chinar is easily accessible by shikara from the famous Dal Lake. The nearest road access is from Srinagar’s main city, which is about 15 minutes away. Once you’re near the lake, you can hire a shikara, which is a traditional wooden boat, to take you to the island. The ride is scenic and takes about 20-30 minutes, offering a peaceful and serene journey through the lake’s waters. The nearest airport to Char Chinar is Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar. You can also reach the location by taxi or local transport, followed by a boat ride to the island.

Best Time To Visit Char Chinar

The best time to visit Char Chinar is during the spring and autumn months. Spring, from March to May, offers pleasant weather with blooming flowers and lush greenery. Autumn, from September to November, brings vibrant colors as the Chinar trees change to deep reds and oranges, creating a mesmerizing view. The winter months can be chilly and may lead to snow, making the area less accessible. For optimal weather and scenic beauty, visiting Char Chinar during spring or autumn is ideal. The summer months can also be comfortable, though it can get crowded with tourists.

Tips To Visit Char Chinar

Hire a Local Shikara: Make sure to book a shikara with a local guide for an authentic experience.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: The walk around the island can involve uneven paths, so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Carry Water & Snacks: There are limited food options, so carry your own snacks and water.
Photography: The view is spectacular, so don't forget your camera to capture the beauty of Char Chinar.
Respect the Environment: Keep the area clean and respect nature to preserve its beauty.

Things To Do at Char Chinar

Shikara Ride: Take a peaceful shikara ride to the island from Dal Lake and enjoy the scenic views.
Photography: Capture the vibrant Chinar trees, beautiful reflections in the lake, and the serene landscape.
Picnic: Enjoy a quiet picnic surrounded by nature while taking in the peaceful environment.
Nature Walks: Explore the island and its surroundings, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

Quick INFO

Char Chinar Timings:

Monday

6.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Tuesday

6.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Wednesday

6.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Thursday

6.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Friday

6.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Saturday

6.00 AM - 6.00 PM
Sunday

6.00 AM - 6.00 PM

Time Required to Visit Char Chinar:

Char Chinar location Map

Google Map Embed

Get In Touch With Our Travel Expert

Nearby Places in Kashmir

Dal Lake

Shankaracharya Temple

Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden

Shalimar Bagh Mughal Garden

Nigeen Lake

Gulmarg Gondola

Apharwat Peak

Alpather Lake

Aru Valley

Baisaran Valley

FAQs About Char Chinar

What is Char Chinar famous for?

Char Chinar is famous for its four large Chinar trees, which give the island its name. These trees offer a stunning view, especially during autumn when their leaves turn vibrant colors.

How do I get to Char Chinar?

You can reach Char Chinar by taking a shikara ride from Dal Lake in Srinagar. It’s a short 20-30 minute boat ride that offers scenic views of the lake.

Is Char Chinar accessible during winter?

Char Chinar can be challenging to access during winter due to snow and cold temperatures. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is more pleasant.

What can I do at Char Chinar?

At Char Chinar, you can enjoy a peaceful shikara ride, take photographs of the beautiful landscape, have a picnic, or take a nature walk to explore the surroundings.

What are some iconic tourist spots in Kashmir besides Khilanmarg?

Here are some of the most famous attractions to visit in Kashmir.

Char Chinar