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Jammu and Kashmir, popularly known as “Paradise on Earth,” is blessed with some of the most picturesque lakes seen in India. Sitting between towering mountains and green valleys, these famous lakes in Jammu and Kashmir bring travellers, nature lovers and adventurers from all around the globe. From the famous lakes with houseboats to the more peaceful lakes, each waterbody boasts an interesting story. With rich biodiversity, they are pilgrimage sites and also contribute to the economy of the region through tourism and fishing.
10 Famous Lakes In Jammu And Kashmir
Explore the following famous lakes in Jammu and Kashmir and experience the exalting beauty of the region.
1. Dal Lake
Photo: Suhail Skindar Sofi / Wikimedia Commons
Dal Lake is also known as the Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir. Covering an area of about 18 square kilometres, it is famous for its clear waters, set against the backdrop of the Pir Panjal mountain range. The lake has four basins, namely Gagribal, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal and Nigeen. It is regarded as one of the most moving and vibrant lakes, made more beautiful by floating gardens, gorgeous lotus flowers in summer and quaint houseboats. Shikara rides on Dal Lake offer stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and the Mughal-era gardens, such as Shalimar Bagh and Nishat Bagh, that border the lake’s shores.
Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to November; December to February
2. Wular Lake
Photo: Mohit.vaishnav1 / Wikimedia Commons
Wular Lake is a famous lake in Jammu and Kashmir, with a seasonal maximum area of 30 to 189 sq km. Rich biodiversity, including fish species and migrating birds, inhabits the lake. The Himalayan golden eagle, short-toed eagle, Eurasian sparrowhawk, and black-eared kite are among the terrestrial birds that have been spotted near the lake. Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin built an island in the middle of the lake named the Zaina Lank in 1444. The area’s economy is largely dependent on Wular Lake, as it facilitates fishing and agriculture. The lake also serves as a natural flood basin, trapping floodwaters during rainy periods.
Location: Bandipora district, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: April to October
3. Nigeen Lake
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons
An extension of Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake offers a more tranquil experience. Surrounded by willow and poplar trees, it offers a quiet environment for visitors. The lake is more isolated, perfect for anyone who craves peace and solitude. Accommodation and relaxing rides are available at houseboats and shikaras. Nigeen Lake is known for its fishing, with carp in its waters. The surrounding area also provides excellent birdwatching opportunities, as migratory birds visit at certain times of the year.
Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: June to August; September to November
4. Manasbal Lake
Photo: Soporekashmir / Wikimedia Commons
Manasbal Lake is the deepest and a famous lake in Jammu and Kashmir, at a depth of up to 13 meters. Surrounded by Jarokbal, Kondabal and Ganderbal; in the summer it has clear waters and lotus blossoms. Panoramic views of the lake are offered from the Mughal Garden, Jaroka Bagh, on the northern shore. The Manasbal Lake attracts both migratory and resident birds, making it a birdwatching paradise. Common carp and snow trout are among the lake’s abundant aquatic life.
Location: Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: May to August
5. Tso Moriri
Photo: Ingo Mehling / Wikimedia Commons
Lake Tso Moriri, or Lake Moriri, is a 4,522 m (14,836 ft) high brackish lake. Located within the Tso Moriri Wetland Conservation Reserve, Tso Moriri is supplied with snowmelt in summer and offers various species of birds and rare fauna, including the bar-headed goose, brown-headed gull and great crested grebe. The area of Tso Moriri is protected under the Inner Line permit system. The closest settlement is the village of Korzok, where basic hotels and homestays are found.
Location: Changtang plateau
Best Time To Visit: May to August
6. Surinsar Lake
Photo: Dashrathgoyal85 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the famous lakes in Jammu and Kashmir, Surinsar Lake is a peaceful escape from the busy city due to its proximity to thick forests and hilly territories. The lake is revered as sacred and local lore connects it to the epic Mahabharata. Surinsar Lake lies within the Surinsar-Mansar Wetland, which is a Ramsar site of ecological significance. The terrain is a haven for nature lovers and bird watchers alike, with an abundance of flora and fauna. There are boating facilities nearby so you can enjoy the lake’s tranquil waters up close.
Location: Jammu city, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: April to October
7. Mansar Lake
Photo: Pranavmagotra03 / Wikimedia Commons
Mansar Lakes is a freshwater lake measuring over one mile long and half a mile wide, surrounded by forested hills. The lake also harbours some fish and has a large population of turtles, which you can often spot. Boat docks are accessible so you can quietly roam the lake’s crystalline bay. The surroundings of Mansar Lake are scenic spots with developed tourism such as pathway walking, picnic areas, and a wildlife sanctuary nearby. Traditionally, the lake has long been a festival ground and is still used for many cultural events.
Location: Jammu city, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: April to October
8. Gadsar Lake
Photo: Mehrajmir13 / Wikimedia Commons
Gadsar Lake is a high-altitude oligotrophic lake located at an elevation of 3,600 meters at Ganderbal. The lake is known for the clear blue colour of its water and the meadows that bloom with colourful alpine flowers during summer. It is one of the alluring Great Lakes Treks, and people visit for trekking adventures at Gadsar Lake. The lake is also famed for its trout, making it a popular fishing hole for which permits are needed. This region is still untouched and provides a peaceful environment for people seeking solitude in nature.
Location: Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: June to September
9. Vishansar Lake
Photo: Critical koshur / Wikimedia Commons
At about 3,710 meters in the Ganderbal district, another high-altitude lake named Vishansar Lake, meaning the “Lake of Vishnu”. The lake, 1 kilometre long and 0.6 kilometres wide, is among lush green meadows and alpine flowers. One of the most beautiful parts of the Great Lakes Trek is the striking Vishansar Lake, famous for its crystal clear water and beautiful reflection of the snowy peaks around it. The meadows by the lake are grazed by the local shepherds’ cattle. Different types of birds also inhabit the area, which makes the place rich in fauna.
Location: Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir
Best Time To Visit: June to September
10. Sheshnag Lake
Photo: Photos Worldwide / Wikimedia Commons
Sheshnag Lake is a high-altitude oligotrophic lake situated around 3,590 m in elevation. The lake, Shesh meaning seven in Sanskrit, is named after Sheshnag, the mythological serpent of Hindu mythology, and is of religious significance to pilgrims travelling on the Amarnath Yatra, held annually. It also shares a part of a heart-shaped lake with the snow on the mountains and their traditional green meadows. Sheshnag Lake is fed by melting glaciers that keep the turquoise waters and lake frozen during the winter months. There are many species of alpine flowers and wildlife in the area surrounding the lake.
Location: Anantnag district
Best Time To Visit: June to September
These famous lakes in Jammu and Kashmir are covered with beauty and culture, which is also an eco-treasure. Whether you are looking for adventure, serenity, or an insight into local customs, the lakes provide you with an unforgettable experience. Enjoy a tour of these blissful lakes and dwell in the beauty of the Jammu and Kashmir landscape. So plan your visit with TripXL and enjoy no-stress planning.
Cover Photo: Isa Macouzet / Unsplash
