Srinagar (Garhwal)

Srinagar is a historic town in the Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River. It has long been an important center of education, culture, and administration in the Garhwal region. Historically, Srinagar served as the capital of the Garhwal Kingdom for several centuries under the rule of the Panwar dynasty. Kings like Ajay Pal, who unified the Garhwal region in the 14th century, ruled from Srinagar and strengthened its political importance.

Because of its strategic location on ancient trade and pilgrimage routes, Srinagar developed as a major cultural and commercial hub in the central Himalayas. The town witnessed many historical events, including conflicts during the Anglo-Gorkha War (1814–1816), after which the Garhwal region came under British influence. Later, the capital of the Garhwal princely state was shifted to Tehri.

After India gained independence, Srinagar continued to grow in importance as an educational center. The establishment of Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University gave the town a new identity as a major academic hub of Uttarakhand. Today, Srinagar is known for its scenic beauty, historical legacy, riverfront life, and its role in shaping modern education and culture in the Garhwal Himalayas.