The short answer
Salim Ali National Park: what visitors should know first
A modest add-on, not a headline sight. Birdwatching and short forest walks are promoted, but much of the original park area is now the golf course, so confirm access with the wildlife department before making a trip around it.
History and context
The story behind Salim Ali National Park
The park was notified in 1986 as City Forest National Park and named after the ornithologist Salim Ali. It covers about 9.07 sq km.
Between 1998 and 2001 a portion was converted into the Royal Springs Golf Course.
Useful facts
Salim Ali National Park facts at a glance
- Location
- Zabarwan foothills above Dal Lake, Srinagar
- Experience type
- Birdwatching and short forest walks
- Known for
- 70+ bird species; City Forest park
- Area
- About 9.07 sq km; notified 1986
- Listed hours
- 9 am to 5 pm (confirm locally)
- Managed by
- Department of Wildlife Protection, J&K
Why it matters
Why Salim Ali National Park is worth your time
Salim Ali National Park, also called City Forest National Park, was notified in 1986 and named for the ornithologist Salim Ali. At about 9 sq km it is a small green lung right behind Srinagar's lake.
Its story is also a lesson in how Kashmir's protected land is contested: a large part was turned into a golf course between 1998 and 2001. What remains protects forest and birdlife close to the city and is a quiet counterpoint to the crowded gardens below.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Birds near the lake
Over 70 species are recorded, from bulbuls and magpies to winter waterfowl.
- 02
Forest above the gardens
Pine and mixed forest sit just above the Mughal gardens, a calmer contrast to the lakeside.
- 03
A conservation story
The park's reduced area explains how city growth and protection collide in Srinagar.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Treat this as a short nature stop rather than a full outing. The park lies in the foothills above Dal Lake, close to the Mughal gardens, so it combines well with a morning at Chashme Shahi or Nishat Bagh. Check at the garden gates or with your driver whether the forest section you want is open to walkers.
The tourism board lists guided birdwatching and nature trails, with more than 70 bird species recorded, including the black bulbul, blue magpie, sunbirds, kingfishers and winter waterfowl; the Himalayan monal is also mentioned. Early morning gives the best birds and the coolest walking.
Part of the original park was converted to the Royal Springs golf course in the late 1990s, so do not expect a continuous wilderness. Keep to marked paths, carry water, and ask before entering fenced or golf areas.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Confirm access with the wildlife department first
- Go early for birds and cooler air
- Keep to marked paths and away from golf areas
- Carry water and binoculars
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Zabarwan foothills above Dal Lake, near Chashme Shahi and Nishat
- Time needed
- 1 to 2 hours
- Best time
- April to November, mornings
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- Forest paths slope and are uneven, with few benches. A short visit near the lake edge is easier than the upper tracks.
- Tickets and access
- Opening hours of 9 am to 5 pm and guided birdwatching are listed by the tourism board, but entry procedure and any fee are not published. Confirm with the wildlife department, as part of the area is the Royal Springs golf course.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Salim Ali National Park
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Forest paths slope and are uneven, with few benches. A short visit near the lake edge is easier than the upper tracks.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
Is Salim Ali National Park open to visitors?
The tourism board lists it as open from 9 am to 5 pm with guided birdwatching, but entry procedure is not published, so confirm with the wildlife department.
What is the Royal Springs connection?
A part of the original park was converted to the Royal Springs Golf Course between 1998 and 2001, which limits the forested area.
What birds can I expect?
Over 70 species are recorded, including black bulbul, blue magpie, sunbirds and kingfishers, plus migratory waterfowl in winter.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
