The serene, slightly rippling water, quiet shikaras floating, scent of flowers in the breeze, the occasional laughter of honeymooning couples in the distance coming from the wooden houseboats, and the tranquilizing view of the Himalayan ranges – Dal Lake is gorgeous, romantic, and one of the most sought-after and spell-binding places to visit in Kashmir. In fact, it is an icon of the Jammu and Kashmir tourism industry.  

Why Visit Dal Lake?

Dal lake, known as the Jewel of Srinagar, spreads across 18 square kilometers and is a part of a 26 square kilometer natural wetland. It has five basins and several streams and channels interlinked to each other. Dal lake is surrounded by snow-peaked mountains on three sides and beautiful flower gardens and apple orchards along its shore, undoubtedly making it the most gorgeous lake in India. Houseboats, floating gardens, and shikaras contribute to the exquisiteness of Dal Lake. They provide the unforgettable experience Srinagar and Dal Lake is known for, always ready to take tourists on peaceful, romantic rides with the most exotic views of Kashmir.  The Mughal gardens, parks, and hotels on its shoreline form the major tourist attractions around Dal Lake. While 500 gardens were laid in the 16th and 17th centuries, only a handful still survived. Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh are the two popular Mughal gardens here. They were built during the reign of Mughal Emperor Jahangir.   

What Can You Do Around Dal Lake?

Dal lake contains three real islands and a few small islands linked by causeways. Surrounding the Lake are Sri Nagar’s priced jewels and the most interesting sights to see, such as Mughal Gardens, Shankaracharya hills, and floating gardens. The best time to visit Dal Lake is between May to November. The winter freezes the entire lake, and the temperature drops to as low as -11 °.  Houseboats: It is a thumb rule – When in Srinagar, do not miss staying on a houseboat. The majority of the houseboats lie along the western edge of the lake, towards the Dal gate. They are linked together and float around small islands. The houseboat features intricate floral motifs and carvings. You can book luxury suits or single rooms based on your requirements and enjoy ice skating on the frozen lake during winter.  Floating Gardens: The floating gardens, also known as Rad, are a strange site to reckon with. They are made out of matted vegetation, and during the season, the gardens are cut out from the lake’s bottom and shifted to a secure location, where they are secured. Surprisingly, you can grow tomatoes, cucumbers, and melons quite well. The heavy water weeds form an excellent source of compost for the floating gardens.  Shikaras: Don’t like walking? You can book a shikara for an entire day and do a circuit trip around the Mughal gardens.   Dal lake is Jammu and Kashmir’s second-largest lake and is one of the prized possessions of India. If you are anywhere in Kashmir, you mustn’t miss the golden opportunity to visit Dal Lake. Learn more about Kashmir Tourism on Daily Excelsior.  

0