The topography of Srinagar is largely a flat valley floor set at an average elevation of 1,585 meters (5,200 feet). Despite this relatively flat urban core, the city is beautifully framed by the imposing Zabarwan Mountain Range to the east.
Prominent topographical features within the city limits include two major hillocks that rise sharply from the valley floor. Shankaracharya Hill (historically known as Takht-i-Suleiman), crowned with an ancient Shiva temple, overlooks Dal Lake. Hari Parbat, another prominent hill, is topped with an 18th-century fort and is considered sacred by Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs alike. The city is also characterized by a high water table and extensive flood plains adjacent to the Jhelum River.