The Zabarwan Hills rise steeply from the eastern shore of Dal Lake, forming the immediate backdrop to the Mughal Gardens and visible from almost everywhere in the city. The range runs northeast from Srinagar, reaching around 3,000 metres at its highest points. The lower slopes carry the Mughal gardens, Pari Mahal, and Chashme Shahi; higher up are forest walks and, eventually, alpine terrain leading to the ridge connecting with Dachigam National Park.
The Dachigam National Park begins just beyond the Zabarwan ridge, about 22 km from Srinagar. It protects the Hangul (Kashmir stag), one of India's rarest deer, and a viable population remains in the valley above the city. Entry requires a permit from the wildlife department. The park is most easily visited in winter and early spring when the deer descend to lower elevations. For day walks, the forest paths on the lower Zabarwan — accessible from the Chashme Shahi road — are pleasant and can be done without entering the formal protected area. The combination of forest walking and lake views on return makes this a reasonable half-day option during the cool months.