Introduction
When envisioning Srinagar, it’s likely that many people focus on Dal Lake, Mughal Gardens, and Pari Mahal as their first thoughts. However, while these same attractions remain timeless, there are many other less well-known, beautiful and peaceful places located just a short distance from Srinagar—outdoor areas that can provide a tranquil escape from hectic city life for families to de-stress and enjoy nature together without large crowds. There are literally dozens of incredible family-friendly picnic locations near Srinagar offering families a chance to find solitude, enjoy scenic surroundings, interact in the great outdoors, experience time away from electronic devices, and reconnect with each other.
This guide outlines some of the most scenic, less travelled-to picnic locations within easy reach of Srinagar for anyone wishing to enjoy the beauty of our beautiful valley during the day with their children. Each one of these breathtaking picnic spots has been carefully chosen for those who prefer to have a relaxed, happy experience while experiencing the natural beauty around them. All these picnic areas offer security, ease of access, fitness, charm, and have been specifically selected so that family members can connect as a group while enjoying the great outdoors.
Why Choose Offbeat Picnic Spots Near Srinagar?
Most well-known sites get crowded, especially during summer, weekends, and holidays. The families seeking calmness often look for places where they could spread a mat under a tree, cook simple food, enjoy riverside time, or let kids explore freely.
Choosing offbeat picnic spots gives you:
1. Complete Peace & Privacy
No crowds, no noise of traffic—only nature.
2. Ideal Environment for Families
Shade, fresh air, riverbanks, meadows, soft terrains for kids.
3. Cleaner Spaces
These destinations are untouched and far from commercial chaos.
4. Safe & Accessible Routes
Most of the hidden picnic spots around Srinagar have a driving distance within a 15–60 km radius with smooth connectivity.
5. Beautiful Photography Opportunities
Ideal for family photos, reels, and serene landscape memories.
Top Unknown Picnic Spots Near Srinagar (Family-Friendly + Scenic)
1. Dara and Dachigam Foothills (Located 14 km from the city of Srinagar)
Located near the beautiful Nishat, the tranquil green hills of Dara are also located at the entrance of a famous national park (Dachigam National Park) buffer zone. There are abundant meadows, fresh water springs, coniferous tree forests, as well as an ideal environment for a relaxing family picnic.
How to spend valuable time with your family
- Safe walking trails
- Many shaded areas
- Close proximity to the city
- Cool, comfortable weather, even in the summer months
- Families frequently use Dara for short Sunday trips or as a location to enjoy a family-style lunch or picnic.
2. Branwar Kralpora Meadows (Located 35 km from Srinagar)
A local name only, Branwar is located at the very top, beyond Budgam. It has many large open grassy meadows and a cool river flowing in between the meadows and thickly wooded forests on each side.
Why it’s great for Families
- No other tourists in the vicinity
- There are many wide open meadows for children to enjoy playing
- Safe to play along the river
- Great for all-day picnic activities
Travelogear Holidays can arrange transport to Branwar from the city of Srinagar within an hour.
3. Doodhpathri Outer Meadows (previously unknown off the feet)
Whereas the name Doodhpathri is known by many people, other outer Doodhpathri meadows are currently unnamed and unknown to tourists. The Other Outer Doodhpathri Meadows include:
- Palmaidan
- Paristan
- Tragpo Ash
- Chalki Pathri
The reason that Doodhpathri is so much loved by Families
- There are many large green pastures
- Calm flowing river streams
- Great for a relaxing place to cook, eat, relax and play
- Safe to play in large open spaces
The Outer Doodhpathri Meadows provide the best, most unique experience of all and allow you to create special family memories.
4. Harwan Upper Forest Belt and Astanmarg Viewpoint (10 – 12 km)
Harwan is a well-known area, but the upper forest areas and Astanmarg Peak are both hidden gems of Harwan. Enjoy the 15-minute drive through pine trees to get to this open field which makes for a perfect picnic spot.
Reasons to go there:
- Proximity to the city
- A very safe, police-monitored area
- Breathtaking views of Dal Lake
- Pleasant weather and fresh air
- An excellent location for family photo opportunities or a short visit.
5. Shikargah Tral (40 km)
Shikargah Tral is located in the Pulwama district and is a woodland area with picnic areas, streams, and gentle meadows. This area is extremely peaceful, very clean, and very appealing.
Ideal for:
- A family picnic that lasts the entire day
- Walking through the woods
- Relaxing at the riverbank
- While walking, you may come across rare birds and can enjoy sunny days in the shade of tall cedars.
6. Yousmarg Outer Meadows – Lesser known pockets of Yousmarg
Although Yousmarg is very popular, the outer meadows have not received the attention they deserve – namely Neelnag Trail, Haijan Valley and Pathri Sector.
Here is what makes these places unique
- No crowds
- Gentle Green Slopes,
- Bubbling mountain stream providing refreshing
- Ideal for family groups
- Children will enjoy the easy access to nature trails, which are safe.
7. Baba Shukur Din Shrine Meadows – 45 Km from Budgam
The meadows’ views are breathtaking and offer many secluded areas for sitting and enjoying nature. This location is very peaceful, breezy and perfect for visiting in the afternoon.
Family friendly attributes include:
- Clean Air
- Peaceful Nature
- Beautiful Shade Trees
- Safe for Grandparents and Children
- Breathtaking sunset views.
8. Khag Valley – 50 km
Khag Valley has untouched meadows and the magnificent small Naranag spring along with a moderate climate. Therefore, if your family is looking for fresh clean drinking water, peaceful on-site picnic – walking distance lawn areas, and long nature walk – then Khag Valley is the best place for you to stay.
The Khag Valley is family friendly because
- It is a very safe rural environment
- There are many picnic-friendly open areas,
- There is a shallow stream for children to play in,
- The valley has a beautiful pine forest that is located about 1 hour and 20 minutes from the city of Srinagar!
9. Outer Belts of the Aru Valley (as opposed to tourist spots) provide more quiet areas for families. The following areas are included in the outer belts:
- Lidder View Meadows
- Dais Meadows
- Nagbal Forestline
- They all have quiet riverbanks, fresh breezes, and cooler temperatures.
Great for:
* Summer picnics
* Scenic riverside lunch
* Family Picture Taking
Travelogear Holidays will also assist in helping you get to the less frequented areas safely.
10. Naranag Meadows & Forest Edges (35 – 40 km): Naranag is a popular place for trekking; however, many of its surrounding meadows are largely untouched. Many of these areas are ideal for relaxing and spending time with family.
What Makes Them Great:
- Historical Sites
- Clean River Streams
- Cool Temperatures in June
- Open Picnicking Areas
- Good areas to relax and cook along with forest edges.
11. Faqir Gujri Forest Trails (Only 9 km from Srinagar): This is possibly the closest “unknown” picnic spot near Srinagar. Located above Nishat, it features beautiful streams, shaded tree areas, and grassy patches.
Why Families Choose It:
- Short drive
- Very Safe
- Ideal for Quick Picnicking
- No Crowds on Weekends
- Great for Families with Older Relatives.
12. Wangat & Kangan Forest Blanking (45 Km): In this region will be found sparkling rivers with flat picnic spots, and Pine cooler areas. Perfect for the entire Family to break up a day.
Why It Is Great:
- Tranquil Natural Setting.
- Beautiful Riverbanks
- Many Flat Grassy Areas
Tips for Planning a Family Picnic Near Srinagar
1. Start Early
Traffic is not that bad if you leave before 9 AM, and in this way you have more time to relax.
2. Carry Reusable Cutlery
Helps avoid litter and keeps nature clean.
3. Weather-appropriate clothes should be packed.
Even in summer, mountains can get cold.
4. Spots with Easy, Flat Terrain
Especially if you have toddlers or elderly people with you.
5. Keep First Aid & Essentials
Ointment, band-aids, basic meds, sunscreen.
6. Check the Road Conditions Before Leaving
Sometimes, after rain, roads to offbeat spots get blocked.
How Travelogear Holidays Helps Families Travel Comfortably
Travelogear Holidays has specialized in family-friendly tours across Kashmir, offering:
- Clean, safe vehicles
- Experienced local drivers
- Guide to best offbeat picnic spots
- Custom itineraries for families
- On-ground support throughout your trip
Whether you are looking for a day picnic or a multi-day Kashmir tour, Travelogear Holidays ensures comfort, safety, and memorable experiences.
Conclusion
While Srinagar is well-known for its beautiful gardens and expansive lakes, there are also many less popular and less trafficked areas around it where a family could find an ideal location to spend time together enjoying peace, tranquility, beauty, and privacy. The hidden family outing spots located outside of Srinagar are some of the best places to find the true beauty of Kashmir; cool breezes, flowing streams, gentle pastures, and nature in all its glory! When you properly plan with Travelogear Holidays, you can create an unforgettable experience for your family while being surrounded by nature.
Frequently Asked Questions About Picnic Spots Near Srinagar
1. Which is the best unknown picnic spot near Srinagar for families?
Dara, Branwar, and Faqir Gujri are the closest and safest hidden picnic options.
2. How far are these picnic spots from Srinagar?
Most lie between 10–60 km, making them ideal for single-day trips.
3. Are these offbeat locations safe for children?
Yes, most have open meadows and calm spaces perfect for families.
4. Do these spots have washrooms or restaurants?
Some don’t, so it’s better to carry essentials.
5. What is the best season for family picnics near Srinagar?
April to October is ideal. Summer and early autumn are perfect.
6. Can we cook food at these picnic spots?
Yes—many locals cook meals, especially in meadows and forest belts.
7. Is transportation easily available?
Travelogear Holidays provides reliable transport for all offbeat routes.
8. Are there any entry fees at these hidden spots?
Most are free and open natural spaces.
9. Can elderly family members visit these places comfortably?
Yes, choose easily accessible areas like Dara, Harwan upper belt, and Faqir Gujri.
10. How to book a family picnic tour in Srinagar?
You can book directly through Travelogear Holidays for customized itineraries.
How to book family Picnic Tour Packages With Travelogear Holidays?
For a seamless and exceptional booking experience,
Contact Travelogear Holidays at: reservationtravelogearholidays@gmail.com or call us at : 9906903196