In the outskirts of Srinagar city, about 18.7 kilometers south, lies the Harwan village which is located on the hillside. This place is famous for some remarkable remains of ancient ornamented tile pavements of the Buddhist era. It is believed that the fourth Buddhist council was held here under the patronage of Kaniska. The proceedings of the council are said to have been scribbled on copper plates and buried somewhere in the premises of the Buddhist temple. The archeological remains include the ornamental tiles that depict the dresses of the people of that time, such as loose trousers, Turkoman caps or close fitting turbans and large ear-rings. The findings here have the central Asian influence.
There is a garden at Harwan as well. This beautiful and massive garden is located in the foothills of Zabarwan mountain and the snow- capped peaks beyond. It has become a popular picnic spot for the locals and for the tourists from the outside UT, it is a must visit in Srinagar. Behind the Harwan garden just near the Dachigam National Park lies a beautiful but small lake which sends out a canal through the center of Harwan garden. The canal is bordered with blossoming flowerbeds and chinar trees. Harwan Garden lacks the usual terraces, artificial fountains etc, like the other gardens of Kashmir.
It has been deliberately kept devoid of these man-made things as the main attraction of the Harwan garden, is its natural beauty that is present in plenty. The huge verdant lawns attract locals and the tourists to this place who enjoy its serene environs. Harwan is an ideal place to take long walks in the lap of nature.
BEST TIME TO VISIT
Throughout The Year