6 Lakes You Must Visit While on a Kashmir Tour

Since ancient times, the beauty of Kashmir has enchanted poets, emperors, and commoners alike. From the snowcapped mountain picks to breathtaking valleys and lakes, the “heaven on Earth” is bestowed with unparalleled natural beauty. The lakes in Kashmir are something to definitely witness when visiting . So if you're planning to visit Kashmir soon, don't forget to visit the following 6 famous lakes in Kashmir.

• Dal Lake 

Any discussion on famous lakes in Kashmir should begin with the majestic Dal lake. The lake and its iconic houseboats have been featured in many Indian and international movies. The lake is often referred to as Srinagar’s jewel and is on the must-visit list of every tourist visiting Kashmir. 

Check into Kashmir Houseboats, a Club Mahindra affiliate resort nestled in the heart of Dal Lake, and experience the novelty of living in a beautiful and comfortable houseboat. You can also go on a Shikara cruise and explore the floating markets on the lake. 

• Nagin Lake

Nagin lake is an offshoot of Dal lake. A causeway which can only be crossed by foot or by a two-wheeler separates the two lakes. The beautiful lake is surrounded by greenery and hills all around. You can go swimming, shop at the floating markets or just take a leisurely ride on Shikara. 

• Manasbal Lake 

One of the popular lakes in Kashmir, Manasbal lake is situated at Safapora of Ganderbal district, J&K. The freshwater lake is encircled by four villages-Jarokbal, Kondabal, Nesbal, and Gratbal. The lake is one of the largest natural stamping grounds for Aquatic birds in Kashmir and is overlooked by Jaroka bag, the Mughal garden built by Nur Jahan.

The beauty of the lake is enhanced when the lotuses at its periphery bloom during July and August. 

• Wullar Lake

Located near the Bandipora town of Jammu and Kashmir, Wullar lake is not only the biggest lake in Kashmir but also one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia. Also pronounced as ‘Wolar’ in Kashmiri, the lake’s size varies from 30 to 189 square kilometres depending on the seasons. 

• Surinsar and Mansar Lakes 

The serene and peaceful ambience of Surinsar and Mansar lakes attracts several tourists. The lakes are surrounded by lush green forested hills on all sides, making it a natural retreat and an ideal picnic spot. Apart from the ancient temples on the lakefront, Mansar lake is also famous for its annual Food and Crafts festival. 

• Gadsar Lake

Gadsar means the lake of fishes in Kasmiri. The lake is situated at a distance of 28 Km from Sonamarg, just before the Zoji La pass. It is one of the highest lakes in Kashmir and is accessible through an alpine trek. The lake is also known as "The valley of flowers" as it is surrounded by alpine meadows with different varieties of wild alpine flowers. 

So, now that you have a travel handbook of the popular lakes of Kashmir, all you need is a packing bag and a travel ticket and a houseboat stay with Club Mahindra to make the most of your holiday experience.