Tourist places in and around Srinagar
Dal Lake
This could well be Srinagar's lifeline and the favourite site of all honeymooners. And why not? Its claim to fame is the Victorian-style wooden houseboats built as hotels, and shikaras that are perfect to take a tour through the waters. In fact, these shikaras plying the length of the lake are actually floating markets, selling everything from vegetables to fruits and flowers. The lake itself is full of flora that includes lotus and water lilies, and avifauna including kingfishers and herons. Get onboard one of the shikaras to go around the lake - they come with really pretty names, example - Honeymoon Lovers, The Paradise, Love Heaven and the likes! Along the shoreline is the boulevard that is home to numerous shops, hotels, gardens and parks.Dal is a Himalayan urban lake which mainly used for tourism. Fishery is of secondary importance. The lake comprises five basins and a myriad of inter connecting channels. It is one of the most beautiful lakes of India and the second largest lake in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The lake is surrounded by mountains on its three sides. A large number of gardens and orchards have been laid along the shores.
Delightful dal, the largest lake of the city is indeed the icon and focal point of Srinagar. The lovely lake is divided by causeways into four parts - Gagribal, Lokutdal, Boddal and Nagin. Both Lokutdal and Boddal have an island in the centre - called as Rup Lank or char chinari and Sona Lank respectively. Nagin Lake at the foot of Shridhara (Zabarwan Mountain is the smallest and the most beautiful part of the Dal. One can also enjoy shikara rides, staying at houseboats, swimming and water skiing etc.at the dal.
Leading from the Dal is the smaller Nagin Lake. Here too, the waters are edged by trees of willow and poplar whose reflection is mirrored in the lake. 'Bathing boats' here, as well as on the Dal, hire out water-skis and motor launches. The waters of the lakes are pleasantly cool from mid-May to mid-September. Shikaras can be hired from any of the steps called 'ghats' (jetties) leading to the lake. Some rides are fixed and their rates are posted at each ghat as well as opposite the Tourist Reception Centre. Shikaras are a refreshingly novel way of seeing Srinagar by day and at twilight, the gentle soothing motion of the boat, as it glides along the water, is unbelievably romantic. Nagin Lake lies to the east of the city at the foot of the Zabarwan Mountain. The Shankaracharya hill (Takht-i-Sulaiman) is to the south and Hari Parbat on its west. The lake is 6x3 km and is divided by causeways into four parts. Gagribal, Lakut-dal, Bod-dal and Nagin. Lokut-dal and Bod-dal each have an island in the centre, called Rup Lank or Char Chinari and Sona Lank, respectively.
Pather Masjid
Located on the bank of Jhelum across the Shah Hamdam Mosque, this is a typical Mughal construction built of limestone. The mosque itself is not in use anymore, though you can take a walk through its gardens.Shah Hamdan Mosque
This is one of the oldest surviving mosques in Srinagar. Made in wood, it is located on the bank of Jhelum and is noted for its papier-mâché work that adorns its walls and roof. Another striking observation is that no nails or screwes were used for its construction.It is located on the banks of river Jhelum and is one of the most beautiful and oldest mosques of Srinagar. The mosque with pago-like spire commemorates Mir Sayyad Ali Hamdani, a holy sage from Iran.
Jama Masjid
Definitely one of the most active mosques in Srinagar, Jami Masjid owes its origin to 3 Mughal rulers. It is also created in wood and is noted for its 370 towering pillars supporting the roof, each pillar made of one deodar tree truck! Enter the mosque through its south gate and take a walk through the spacious green garden.This important mosque of Srinagar was first built by Sikandar Butshikan in 1402 and further additions to the structure were made by his son Zain-ul-Abidin. The present stucture was built by Aurangzeb and is noted for its 300 plus wooden pillar.
The Jama Masjid at Nowhatta, in the heart of the old city, is the other important mosque in Srinagar at which thousands of people congregate for the Friday prayers. Of imposing proportions, the mosque is built around a courtyard and is supported by 370 wooden pillars. The hushed quiet of the mosque counterpoints the bustle of the old bazaars surrounding it. Originally built by Sultan Sikandar in 1400 AD, and enlarged by his son, Zain-ul- Abidin, it is a typical example of Indo-Saracenic architecture. Destroyed thrice by fire and rebuilt each time, the mosque, as it now stands, was repaired during the reign of Maharaja Pratap Singh.
Hari Parbat Fort
Another Mughal construction, it stands on the hill by the same name and commands an awesome view of the city. It speaks the legend of how the demon Jalodbhava was crushed under this hill, when Goddess Sati dropped a pebble on his head, which expanded to become the massive Hari Parbat. As such it is also home to several religious shrines, including the shrine of Makhdum Sahib. Located a little away from this is the Masjid of Akhund Mullah built in limestone. So revered is this site that locals believe that over 30 crores Hindu Gods and Goddesses reside hereIt has a shrine of goddess sharika, (durga). The hill was first fortified by Emperor Akbar in 1592-98 and was further developed in the 18th century by an A fghan governor Atta Mohammed Khan. Presently the fort is in the state of ruins and the historic shrine of Shan Makhdum sahib on the slopes of Hari Parbat hill is visited by people of all faiths.
The Mughal emperor's fort crowns the top of Hari Parbat hill. There is little left of its former glory, but the ramparts are still impressive and the old apartments within the fort, even though in a state of ruin, still convey at least a little of the grandeur of the Mughals' summer retreat in 'paradise'. An Afghan governor, Ata Mohammad Khan, later developed the fort in 18th century. The hill is considered sacred to the Hindus due to the presence of temple of Sharika, which is believed to be a form of goddess Durga or Shakti. The wall around the hill was built by Akbar in 1592-98 AD. The hill is surrounded by almond orchards, which make a lovely sight during April when the trees blossom, heralding the advent of spring in Kashmir.
Nagin Lake
Literally meaning, Jewel in the Ring, Nagin Lake is located a little away from Dal Lake, at the foot of the Zabarwan Mountains. It is bordered by willow and poplar trees and offers good options to hire a shikara and take a ride through its deep blue waters.Hazratbal Mosque
Undoubtedly the most important Muslim shrine, the white marble Hazratbal shrine is located on the left bank of the Dal Lake, and is reflected in its waters. Its significance comes from the fact that it is home to a hair of the Prophet, which is displayed to the public only on special occasions. Hazratbal has a distinct architecture and is the only domed mosque in Srinagar.The white marble mosque on the north-west shore of the Dal Lake, enshrines a holy hair (bal) of prophet Mohammed and is regarded as one of the holiest mosques of Kashmir.
Srinagar's distinctive feature is the great body of water, the Dal Lake, which forms its focal point. The Dal has, within its area, two enormous sheet-like expanses of water-Lokut-dal and Bod-dal, the rest of its surface being broken up alternatively by man-made strips of land inhabited by whole colonies of people and vegetation. Thus the lake is not a flat, unbroken mass of water, but a labyrinth of waterways, awash with a lifestyle not found elsewhere in the world.
Hazratbal Mosque is located in a village of the same name on the banks of the Dal. Its pristine white marble elegance is reflected in the waters of the lake. Hazratbal's special significance is derived from the fact that it houses a hair of the prophet Muhammad. This is displayed to the public on religious occasions, usually accompanied by fairs. Apart from these occasions, Friday prayers are offered at Hazratbal and attended by throngs of people. Hazratbal is remarkable for being the only domed mosque in Srinagar; the others having distinct pagoda like roofs. The shrine - mosque complex is situated on the western shore of the Dal Lake opposite Nishat Bagh and commands a grand view of the lake and the mountain beyond.
Chhatti Padshahi Gurudwara
The sacred sikh shrine near Kathi Darwaza, in Rainawari, commemorates the visit of sixth Sikh Guru Hargobindji.The sixth guru travelled through Kashmir, stopping to preach occasionally. A Gurudwara has been built at the exact site of each of these halts. The most important one among these is Chhatti Padshahi Gurudwara, situated near the Kathi Darwaza, in Rainawari, Srinagar, which is held in great reverence by devotees of all faiths.
Shankaracharya Temple
Located on the Shankaracharya Hill, this temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is accessible by a flight of stairs. It overlooks the Kashmir Valley and its inner sanctum has Persian inscriptions. The original dome-shaped ceiling has been replaced by a more modern ceiling.This ancient temple on the Takhi-I-sulaiman hill is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is said to be built on the site where the Advaita philosopher saint, Adi Shankracharya stayed during his visit to Kashmir. Historians believe that the first edifice on this site was built by emperor Ashoka's son Jaluka around 200 B.C. and was later rebuilt in the 6th century by king Gopaditya. The temple affords an aweinspiring view of the dal Lake and the snowy peaks of the Pir Panjal range.
The sacred temple of Shankaracharya occupies the top of the hills known as Takht-I-Sulaiman in the southeast of Srinagar. The site dates back to 250BC. The philosopher Shankaracharya stayed at this place when he visited Kashmir ten centuries ago to revive Sanatan Dharma. Before this date, the temple was known as Gopadri, as an earlier edifice on the same site was built by king Lalitaditya in the 6th century AD. In fact, the road below the hill, with residences of high- ranking State Government officials, is still known as Gupkar road. Built on a high octagonal plinth and approached by a flight of steps with sidewalls that once bore inscriptions, the main surviving shrine consists of a circular cell. It overlooks the Valley and can be approached by a motorable road. A modern ceiling covers the inner sanctum and an inscription in Persian traces its origin to the reign of Emperor Shah Jehan. The original ceiling was dome- shaped and the brick roof, it appears, is not more than a century old.
Other Temples
The Khanqah of Shah Hamadan is located on the banks of River Jhelum and is a beautiful wooden structure. Its interiors has carved eaves, brightly painted walls, antique chandeliers and hanging bells. Chhatti Padshahi Gurudwara is especially important for Sikhs and was built at the site where the 6th Sikh guru preached sermons. Don't miss a trip to Martand Temple, which is a temple dedicated to the Sun God. The complex has 84 coloumns, a colonnaded courtyard and commands a breathtaking view of the Valley. Located at Tula Mala Village, Kheer Bhawani Temple is a marble temple dedicated to Ragnya Devi, who is symbolized as the sacred spring that flows here. It derives its name from the kheer offerings made to the spring by pilgrims. Awantipur is home to two imposing temples - one Siva-Avantisvara, which today is reduced almost to ruins, and the other Avantisvami-Vishnu, which is a better preserved temple.Shalimar Bagh
Built by Jehangir for his wife Nur Jehan, Shalimar Garden is a wonderful combination of gardens and lakes. It has four terraces, rising above each other as steps and has a canal, built with polished stones, that is supplied water from the Harwan.Built by Emperor Jahangir for his wife, Nur Jahan, Shalimar, is a beautiful garden with sweeping vistas over gardens and lakes, and shallow terraces. The garden is 539m by 182m, and has four terraces, rising one above the other. A canal lined with polished stones and supplied with water from Harwan runs through the middle of the garden. The fourth terrace, by far the best, was once reserved for royal ladies.
The beautiful terraced garden was laid by emperor Jehangir for his beloved wife Nur Jahan. It has fine fountains in between and a canal runs through the middle of the garden which is supplied with water from Harwan. The fourth terrace of the garden is by far the best and was once reserved for the royal ladies. Panoramic view of the garden and lake can be enjoyed from here.
Harwan
Located near the Harwan Village, this garden has remnants dating to the Buddhist era. The ornamented tiles placed here have depictions of the attire of people, as trousers, caps and turbans.On the hillside, south of the village of Harwan (19 kms from the TRC)), remarkable remains of ancient ornamented tile pavements of the Buddhist period have come to light. The tiles depict the dresses of the people, such as loose trousers, Turkoman caps or close fitting turbans and large ear-rings which reveal Central Asian influence.
Nishat Bagh
Located on the banks of the Dal Lake againt the Zabarwan Mountains, Nishat Bagh, or Garden of Bliss, is known for its panoramic views of the Pir Panjal Range.Situated on the banks of the Dal Lake, with the Zabarwan Mountains as its backdrop, this ‘garden of bliss' commands a magnificent view of the lake and the snow-capped Pir Panjal mountain range which stands far away to the west of the valley. Nishat was designed in 1633 AD by Asaf Khan, brother of Nur Jahan.
Nishat Bagh or the ‘garden of bliss': the beautiful garden with several terraces and a central water course was built in 1633, by Asaf Khan, the brother of empress Nur Jahan on the banks of the Dal.
Chasma Shahi
Originally designed by Shah Jehan, Chasma Shahi is a strikingly made terrace garden commanding superb views of the Dal Lake and the mountains nearby. The cool spring water flowing here is believed to be extremely refreshing.At Chashmashahi, is a tastefully laid garden in terraces, which commands a magnificent view of the Dal Lake below and surrounding mountain ranges. The cool water of the spring is highly refreshing and digestive. The original garden was laid out by Shah Jehan in 1632 AD. TRC Srinagar free of cost to visit the permits can be had from the information Counter Chashma Shahi Garden. Permits can be had from the information counter.
The magnificent garden overlooking the city and lovely lake was built by Shah Jahan in 1632. It is the smallest of Srinagar's Mughal gardens with three artistically designed terraces and a natural spring of water enclosed in a pavillion. The water of the spring is said to possess some curative properties.
Martand
Martand, located atop a plateau, close to the township of Anantnag, has a temple dedicated to Surya, the 'Sun God". Built by King Laitaditya Muktapida (7th to 8th century AD), it is a medieval temple with a colonnaded courtyard, and the shrine in its centre. The temple complex has 84 columns, and offers a commanding view of the valley of Kashmir.Pari Mahal
This was at one time the Royal Observatory. Located next to Chashma Shahi, it is a well-laid out garden, located almost on the ridge of the mountains overlooking the Dal Lake. Visit it at night when it is brilliantly illuminated.Once the royal observatory, Pari Mahal has a charmingly laid out garden and is a five-minute drive from Cheshmashahi. A Buddhist monastery at one time, it was converted into a school of astrology by Dara Shikoh, Mughal Emperor Shah Jehan's eldest son. Situated on the spur of a mountain overlooking the Dal, the ancient monument, with a well-laid spacious garden in front, is connected to Cheshmashahi by road. It is illuminated at night.
Pratap Singh Museum
Located in Lal Mandi, this museum houses an interesting collection of Kashmiri exhibits, including the illustrated tiles found near Harwan.Open from: 10.00 am-5.00 pm (Wednesday closed) The grand palace perched atop a hill near the cheshma shahi garden was originally a Buddhist monastery and was later converted to a palace by Dara shikoth, the eldest son of emperor shah Jahan. It became a royal observatory and a school of astrology was established here by Dara Shikoh.
It is housed in a beautiful palace and exhibits archaeologial artefacts, mammoth remains, paintings, old coins and notes etc.
Wular Lake
Believed to the largest freshwater lake in Asia, the Wular Lake changes its character every few miles! The Jhelum River flows into the lake, traverses about 40 kms along Srinagar and then flows out again.It is difficult to describe in mere words the beguiling beauty of Wular Lake. For one, its formidable size this is one of Asia's largest fresh water lakes - for another, it changes character with every few miles.
Manasbal Lake The drive from Srinagar will take you to the calm waters of Manasbal Lake, where there is no other sound but birdsong. Manasbal has often been described as the bird watcher's paradise, and as your shikara glides through this mirror of tranquillity, you will experience yet another facet of Kashmir. Driving through the town of Bandipora, which has a delightfully laid out Mughal Garden, the Wular will always be to your left. Here and there, you will hear women chanting some age-old ditty as they pick water chestnuts, deftly navigating the weeds in flat-bottomed skiffs.
The Mughal Gardens
There are terraced lawns, cascading fountains, paint-box-bright flowerbeds with the panorama of the Dal in front of them - the three Mughal Gardens of Chesmashahi, Nishat and Shalimar are the Mughal Emperors' concept of paradise and are today very popular places for picnics and excursions.Khanqah of Sha Hamadan
Situated on the banks of the river Jhelum, between the third and fourth bridge, it is the first mosque ever built in Srinagar. The original one was built in 1395. Shah Hamadan's full name was Mir Sayed Ali Hamadni, the surname being derived from the city of Hamadan in Persia. Shah-i-Hamdan, who came from Persia in the 13th century, was responsible for the spread of Islam in Kashmir. Khanqah-i-Mualla, on the banks of the Jhelum, was the very spot where Shah-i-Hamdan used to offer prayers. After staying in Kashmir for many years, he left for Central Asia via Ladakh. A mosque established by him at Shey (near Leh) attracts devotees from far and wide. The Khanqah is a wooden structure whose chief aesthetic feature is its beautifully carved eaves and hanging bells. The interiors are richly carved and painted, and the antique chandeliers give it an air of opulence.The Awantipur ruins
Founded by Avantivarman who ruled Kashmir in the 9th century, this ancient township is 29 kms from Srinagar. The site has two imposing temples, huge walls mark the larger one of Siva - Avantisvara, some half a mile beneath the town on the outskirts of village Jaubror. The subsidiary shrines are to the rear corner of the courtyard. The complex has, over the years, lost its grandeur and been reduced to ruins, though it is still visited by the devout. Half a mile up is Avantisvami - Vishnu, a better preserved, though smaller temple.Watlab
Gradually, the panoply of the 'real Kashmir', miles away from well-traversed areas, will unfold before you, and you will reach Watlab. Here, high on a hilltop is the shrine of a Muslim mystic, Baba Shukurddin. From here, the Wular Lake stretches away as far as the eye can see, edged by picturesque villages around terraced breeze-rippled fields of paddy, in a riotous burst of colour. At Watlab there is a Forest Rest House amidst sprawling apple orchards. You can rest here to enjoy the sheer grandeur of the spectacular countryside at leisure.Around Srinagar
Srinagar to pahalgam
Pampore, 18 km from Srinagar, is famous for the saffron that grows here. About 29 km from here is Awantipora where you find the amazing ruins of the 9th c township founded by king Avantivarman, Enroute to Anantag, you will find the 7th AD temple complex of Martand with the sun god. The temples show strong Greek influences.South of Anantnag, also on this road are Achabal, veering, and Kokernag all with gardens and springs.
Achabal (58 km)
Alluring Achabal near anantnag was the pleasure retreat of Nur Jehna. Jehangir laid out a fine Mughal style garden over here for his beloved wife.Once the pleasure retreat of Empress Nur Jehan, Achabal (1,677 m) has a fine garden in the Mughal style, with its own special charm and character. It was in Kashmir that the Mughal Garden was brought to perfection, and Achabal is one such masterpiece. Situated at the foot of a hill with a row of majestic chinars framing it, the Mughal garden is a visual delight with their stepped terraces, formal elegance, ornamental shrubs, sparkling fountains and falling water. Achabal is 58 kms from Srinagar, via Anantnag.
Aharbal (51 km)
The spectacular waterfall is formed by river Veshav, which plunges down from a height of 24.4 metres into a narrow gorge.Gradually, the distant rumble becomes a roar as one approach the waterfall of Aharbal, which crashes down a narrow gorge. Aharbal is more than just a waterfall. There are several places to picnic in the surrounding areas, as well as delightful walks of varying lengths all over the hillsides. Interesting treks-one of them to the high altitude lake of Kounsernag at 13,500 ft above sea level-takes off from Aharbal.
Charat-I-Sharif (30 km)
It lies on the road to Yusmarg and is famous for the ‘siarat' or shrine of sheikn Noor-ud-Din, the patron saint of Kashmir. The architecture of the shrine is noteworthy.Gulmarg (57 km)
More than the place, it is the journey to Gulmarg that will woo you - roads lined with poplars overlook rice terraces. Gulmarg is not just a mountain resort, it is a high golf course and one of the best ski resorts in the country. En route to Gulmarg, stop at the View Point, so called because of the panoramic views of the snow-clad mountains that it offers.Gorgeous Gulmarg, literally the ‘Meadow of flowers' is one of the most unique hill resworts of the world. This huge grassy, cup-shaped meadow at an altitude of 2653 metres in surrounded by fir trees and majestic snow-clad peaks. The region of Glumarg becomes all the more beautiful as one season changes into another. Gulmarg is also famous for various outdoor sports activites like golf, horse riding, skiing, trekking etc. Golfing at Gulmarg's 18-hole course is a unique experience. It is also the premier skiing resort during the winters. There is a facility of Gondola Cable car at Kongdor, which carries you to the top of a ski run.
Sonamarg (84 km)
Literally meaning The Meadow of Gold, Sonamarg is set against the backdrop of snow-clad mountains. The Sindh River that meanders through it is one of the best places to catch the trout and mahaseer. Sonamarg forms the base for trekking enthusiasts looking to traverse through the mountain lakes Vishansar, Kishansar, Gadsar, Satsar and Gangabal.Sonamarg, the ‘Meadow of Gold' nestles at an attitude of 2730 metres in the valley carved out by the waters of the mighty Indus River. The beauty of the blooming valley full of alpine flowers and towering conifers with incredible Indus menadering through it and snow clad peaks in the backdrop, leaves a lasting impression on the minds of the visitors.
Verinag
This is one of the largest springs in India, located south-east of Srinagar via Anantnag. The water is crystal clear and abounds in schools of fish, while the pine trees in the background are reflected within. The lawns are well-manicured with trees and multi-hued flowers. A shrine dedicated to Shiva is located outside the complex and visited by pilgrims every year.Located 80 km from Srinagar at an altitude of 1,876 m, the spring of Verinag is believed to be the chief source of the river Jhelum. Construction of the octagonal base of the spring and the arcade around it was undertaken by the Mughal Emperor Jahangir and completed during the reign of Shah Jahan. Down the stream to the east lie the remains of a Mughal pavilion and baths. Verinag can be approached through the link road, which turns off, from the national highway at Lower Munda.
Daksum & Yusmarg
Daksum is a popular trekking ground for adventure enthusiasts set amidst coniferous pine and oak trees. Yusmarg is a small meadow popular as a picnic spot and the ideal base for visiting the Nilnag Lake.Past the Mughal Gardens of Achabal, with their tinkling fountains, through the breathtaking splendour of the springs at Kokarnag, lies Daksum. Tucked away in a densely forested gorge at an altitude of 2438 m, Daksum would be completely silent but for the Bringhi River which gushes through it. Daksum is a walker's paradise. Up the hills which are swathed in coniferous trees, past gurgling brooks, the simple, haunting notes of a flute will waft down to you from where an unseen shepherd tends his flock. For in the hills surrounding Daksum, suddenly you will find yourself in grassy meadows where sheep are taken to pasture. Daksum is a reviving experience -the bracing mountain air, the solitude, the densely clad hills, and beyond them, snow covered mountains, all contribute to Daksum's mystique, making it the perfect retreat.
Dachigam National Park (21 km)
One of the best known National Parks located 22 kms from Srinagar, Dachigam is sited amidst lush forests and beautiful scenery. You will find here the endangered Hangul Deer. It is also home to the brown and black bear, musk deer, leopards and several varieties of birds. Also located nearby is a trout farm. Remember to take prior permission from the Wildlife Authorities before exploring the park.Anchar Lake One of the lesser visited lakes it is located quite close to Srinagar and is accessible by buses that ply to and fro Srinagar. Winter sees several varieties of water birds, especially the Mallard, Pochard, Gadwall Snipe and Teal.
It vocers an area of 141 Sq.km with altitudes varying between 1700 and 4300 metres. The most famous inhabitants of the park are hangul or the Kashmir stag, musk deer, Himalayan black bear, Himalayan marmot, leopard, species of wild goats etc. Exotic birds like crimson tragopan, the iridescent monal pheasant etc. Can also be seen here.
Pahalgam (96 km)
Located at the confluence of the Lidder and Sheshnag Rivers, Pahalgam literally translates into The Valley of the Shepherds. It is a cool mountain resort with wonderful picnic spots, the most popular being the pine-clad Baisaran and Hajan. Explore Pahalgam on horseback, enjoy a session of golf at the Clubor try your hand at angling at the Lidder River.Picturesque Pahalgam, an idyllic resort set on the confluence of Lidder and shesnag streams is endowed with enormous natural beauty and scenic vistas. It is a perfect place for leisure, pleasure and relaxation and is also an important trekking base, the most famous being the holy pilgrimage to the sacred Amarnath cave.
Kheer Bhawani Temple (27 km)
It is dedicated goddess Raginia Devi (durga) at Tula Mula village and is considered to be the most important Hindu pilgrim centre in Kashmir, after Amarnath cave. A marble temple with golden dome stands in the middle of the pool created by the spring water.The Goddess Ragnya Devi is symbolised as a sacred spring at Tula Mula village, 27 kms from Srinagar. Within the spring is a small marble temple. The devotees of the goddess fast and gather here on the eighth day of the full moon in the month of May when, according to belief, the goddess changes the colour of the spring's waters. The temple-spring complex is affectionately known as Kheer Bhawani because of the thousands of devotees who offer milk and 'kheer' to the sacred spring, which magically turns black to warn of disaster.