While Srinagar is primarily an urban area, agriculture and horticulture play an enormous role in its economy and the surrounding districts. The region is famous for its high-quality apples, walnuts, and cherries. Nearby Pampore (just outside Srinagar) is one of the few places in the world that cultivates saffron, a highly prized and lucrative spice.
A unique agricultural feature within the city itself is the floating vegetable gardens on Dal Lake. Known as *radh*, these man-made floating islands are constructed from nutrient-rich lake weeds and soil. Farmers cultivate cucumbers, tomatoes, melons, and other vegetables here, which are famously traded at the dawn floating market.
