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Dal Lake in summer, the jewel of Srinagar, Kashmir, is a paradise on earth. The shimmering waters reflect the adjacent snow-capped peaks, houseboats, and shikaras populate the lake. It’s adorned with lush floating gardens, lotus blooms and, nearby, colourful Mughal gardens, making it essential to see. If you want to refresh, take photographs or enjoy cultures, Dal Lake is a mesmerising experience. The refreshing cool breeze and panoramic views form a welcome respite from the heat of summer, making it one of the most picturesque destinations in India.
Quick Details
Location: Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, India
Best Time To Visit: May to September
Temperature: 15 – 30°C in summer
Lake Type: Warm monomictic
Primary inflows: Inflow Channel Telbal Nallah from Marsar Lake
Surface elevation: 1,583 m (5,194 ft)
Location
Photo: Deepank Ranka / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dal Lake is located in Srinagar, the capital of Jammu and Kashmir, in northern India. It is the centre of Srinagar’s tourism. The site consists of a rare lake at an altitude of 1,583 meters above sea level, with an approximate surface area of 18 square kilometres. Its lofty Zabarwan mountain range complements Mughal-era gardens, including Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, along its banks. The lake is unique because it is made up of various interconnected bodies of water and floating islands.
How To Reach
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: Srinagar International Airport, 15 km away, is connected to all major Indian cities by direct flights. You can take taxis and cabs to reach Dal Lake.
By Rail: The nearest well-served railhead is Jammu Tawi Railway Station, which is 270 km away. From there, a taxi or bus to Srinagar. You can also travel through the Srinagar Railway.
By Road: Well connected with NH44, Srinagar is reachable from Jammu (270 km) and Delhi (800 km) by bus, taxi, or personal vehicle.
Things To Do
Enjoy many different things to do in Dal Lake in summer and experience the beauty of Kashmir.
1. Shikara Ride
Photo: Basharat Shah / Wikimedia Commons
A shikara ride on Dal Lake isn’t simply about paddling across water but a deep dive into the lake culture of Srinagar. In summer, the lake bustles with floating markets, where vendors sell fresh vegetables, saffron and handicrafts from their boats. As you float, clusters of pink and white lotus flowers drift past, their scent blowing on the breeze. The ride provides an up-close look at typical houseboats and the Zabarwan mountains. Sunrise and sunset rides are particularly surreal, where candlelit backdrops shimmer golden against the water, making it a photographer’s dream.
2. Stay In A Houseboat
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons
Houseboats on Dal Lake provide an immersive experience of Kashmiri hospitality. Unlike ordinary houseboats, these floating hotels feature intricately carved wooden interiors, stained-glass windows and luxurious Kashmiri rugs. In summer, you can lounge on the deck, drink traditional Kahwa tea and take in the lake’s shifting landscape. Evening shows of Kashmiri folk music are organised in some of the houseboats as well. A stay here comes with delicious Wazwan cuisine, sunset views from their rooftop and direct access to shikara rides.
3. Explore Floating Gardens
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The floating gardens of Dal Lake, called ‘Rad’ in Kashmiri, are an agricultural wonder. They are artificial islands created from weeds and soil, on which locals plant fresh vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers and leafy greens. In the summertime, these gardens are filled with vibrant flowers, giving them a fairytale touch. You can visit at the crack of dawn when farmers pick fruits and vegetables for sale in floating markets. It’s a glimpse into Kashmiri farming traditions and lake life. Local guides also accompany visitors to explain the sustainable techniques behind these floating farms.
Places To Visit Near Dal Lake
Visit the following places near Dal Lake in summer and explore the beautiful corners of Kashmir.
1. Nishat Bagh
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Nishat Bagh, or “Garden of Bliss,” is an impressive Mughal garden facing Dal Lake. Built-in 1633 by Asif Khan, the brother of Empress Nur Jahan, it has 12 terraced levels that represent the zodiac signs. In summer, the area bustles with flowers in full bloom, moving fountains and fresh-mown lawns. Chinar trees surround it, and the Zabarwan Mountains form a splendid backdrop. Its symmetrical layout, inspired by Persian gardens, establishes a serene environment that encourages leisurely wanders and photo opportunities.
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
2. Shalimar Bagh
Photo: Madhumita Das / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The most opulent of Kashmir’s Mughal gardens, Shalimar Bagh, was commissioned by Emperor Jahangir in 1619 as a love offering for his wife, Nur Jahan. Its Persian-inspired layout is made up of three terraces, each decorated with ornate pavilions, fountains and flower beds. In the summer, the garden seems full of roses, tulips, and marigolds. The highest terrace, reserved for royalty, still reflects traces of fine Kashmiri craftsmanship. The calm surroundings, with Dal Lake in summer behind, are also an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of Kashmir’s heritage.
Timings: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
3. Hazratbal Shrine
Photo: Hardikmodi / Wikimedia Commons
The Hazratbal Shrine, on the northern banks of Dal Lake, is Kashmir’s holiest Islamic site. This eye-catching white marble mosque contains a relic credited as a strand of hair belonging to Prophet Muhammad. The shrine is characterised by a combination of Mughal and Kashmiri architecture with a high dome, minaret and huge prayer halls attached. With clear skies and green surroundings in summer, it is a beautiful and contemplative space. On Fridays, you can see large congregational prayers, with people coming from different parts of the region to attend.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 5:30 PM
4. Pari Mahal
Photo: Vinay Parepalli / Wikimedia Commons
A Mughal-era architectural marvel, Pari Mahal, or the “Palace of Fairies,” sits on top of the Zabarwan Hills. Constructed in the 17th century by Dara Shikoh, the son of Emperor Shah Jahan, this seven-layered garden used to function as an astronomy school. Its terraces lined with flower beds and arched corridors open on to spectacular views over Dal Lake and Srinagar. Summer is a magical time in this park and makes for a great photography spot. Pari Mahal is particularly enchanting at sunset and at night, the illuminated gardens become a fascinating spectacle.
Timings: 9:30 AM – 7:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
5. Tulip Garden
Photo: Aman Sachan / Wikimedia Commons
Asia’s largest tulip garden, the Indira Gandhi Memorial Tulip Garden, is 30 hectares in area and situated at the foothills of the Zabarwan Range. It features over 1.5 million tulips in 60 different varieties, creating a stunning kaleidoscope of colour. The garden is open from the end of March to the middle of April. After the tulip season, summer also brings a nice variety of flowers like lilies, daffodils and hyacinths. The paths are beautifully landscaped and it’s a nice place for a stroll.
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 per person
Where To Stay
Photo: flowcomm / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are plenty of places to stay, from luxury houseboats to budget hotels around Dal Lake. Houseboats such as Sukoon and Butt’s Clermont Houseboats offer a unique stay experience, combining Kashmiri architecture with modern comfort. Rates vary between ₹5,000 and ₹15,000 a night. Other mid-range options include The Lalit Grand Palace Srinagar (₹10,000 per night) and RK Sarovar Portico (₹6,000 per night), which also overlook the lake and are very comfortable. Budget tourists can prefer guesthouses around Boulevard Road, where they cost from ₹1,500. Summer months can get busy, so make sure to book early if you want the best lakeside spots.
Where To Eat
Photo: Jakub Kapusnak / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Srinagar’s eateries around Dal Lake in summer combine traditional Kashmiri fare with modern bites. Do not miss Mughal Darbar, which rides high on authentic Wazwan so you get your Rogan Josh and Yakhni starting at ₹400 a plate. Ahdoos Restaurant serves Kashmiri food, most notably the Gustaba, and costs an average ₹600 per person. If you fancy some lakeside dining, Stream Restaurant serves you cash-only trout fish, kebabs, and other Indian meals for ₹500 a dish. Mid-range and budget cafes dot Boulevard Road, which serves local bread and Kahwa tea and is an ideal bet for a pocket-friendly meal with stunning views of Dal Lake.
Other Factors To Consider
Average Cost Of The Trip
A trip to Dal Lake can fit into any budget. A backpacker can spend anywhere from ₹3,000 to ₹5,000 a day, including accommodation, food, transport and sightseeing. Mid-range travellers can spend ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 per day, including houseboat stays and guided tours. Luxury travellers who prefer premium stays, fine dining, and private experiences can see expenditures of ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 a day. Other expenses include shikara rides (₹500 to ₹1,000 per hour) and entry to attractions.
Tips For Travellers
- The weather is mild, so opt for light cotton wear. Carry a light jacket for cooler evenings
- Follow cultural norms, especially at religious sites like the Hazratbal Shrine
- Don’t miss Wazwan, the traditional multi-course meal, and a cup of saffron-infused Kahwa
- Many areas may have limited access to digital payment options
- Respect the fragile ecosystem by avoiding littering and supporting eco-friendly initiatives
Dal Lake in summer provides an experience akin to heaven with its glittering waters, houseboats, and incredible vistas. Whether you prefer a leisurely shikara ride, visiting floating gardens, or staying on a traditional houseboat, a visit to the lake is one of the most unforgettable experiences that you can ever have. A trip to Dal Lake is ideal for all kinds of travellers, with a combination of adventure, relaxation, and culture. Plan your trip with TripXL and explore Kashmir through water.
Cover Photo: Divya Agrawal / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
