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Wular Lake is the largest lake in Kashmir, India, and among the largest in Asia, being 130 square km approx in area. Fed by the Jhelum River, this massive body of water has been essential to sustaining Kashmir’s ecosystem, controlling floods and nourishing local fisheries. The lake’s waters mirror the majesty of the surrounding Pir Panjal mountains, making for a spectacular sight. Located away from the popular tourist circuits in beautiful, desiring peace and tranquillity, Wular Lake is the largest freshwater lake in India. If you are a wildlife lover, a photographer, or someone who just likes solitude, Wular is a must-visit place.
Quick Details About The Largest Lake In Kashmir
Name: Wular Lake
Location: Bandipora district, Jammu and Kashmir
Size: 130 square kilometers (varies seasonally)
Depth: Maximum 14 meters
Primary Inflows: Jhelum River, Madhumati River, and Erin River
Best Time To Visit: April – September
Location
Photo: Mehrajmir13 / Wikimedia Commons
This lake is situated in Bandipora district, nearly 60 km north of Srinagar. Srinagar Bandipora National Highway 1 (NH-1) connects to Bandipora and the Bandipora-Wular Road passes directly from Bandipora town to the shores of the lake. For nearby landmarks surrounding the region, Bandipora town is the closest major settlement. Others include Ajas village, the Jhelum River embankment and the Wular Conservation Park, an eco-project to restore the lake’s natural ecosystem.
How To Reach Wular Lake
Photo: Sanu N / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The closest airport to Wular Lake is Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, which is around 70 km from the lake and is in the town of Srinagar itself. Taxis and shared cabs to Bandipora town are available from the airport. It is a 2-hour drive via NH-1.
By Rail: The closest railway station is Srinagar Railway Station, which is situated 65 km away. Then hire a taxi or take a local bus to Bandipora.
By Road: If travelling from Srinagar, take NH-1 and head towards Bandipora, then take the Bandipora-Wular Road. From Sopore, take the Sopore-Bandipora Road, an alternate scenic route. For public transport, state-run buses and private sumo taxis ply between Srinagar and Bandipora.
Things To Do At Wular Lake
Although the largest lake in Kashmir may not be as commercialised and crowded as Dal Lake, Wular Lake has its own sense of peacefulness to it:
1. Kayaking Through The Vast Waters
Photo: Roman Pohorecki / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Strong winds and gentle waves on the lake can make kayaking a unique adventure, perfect for those who want something offbeat. In Bandipora town, you can rent kayaks from local vendors to explore the lake. As you paddle across the lake, you can see the floating vegetation, migratory birds and fishermen casting their nets. The surrounding Pir Panjal mountain range makes for a stunning backdrop and is a paradise for photographers.
2. Birdwatching At Wular’s Wetlands
Photo: Maxx786 / Wikimedia Commons
Birdwatchers can find paradise in oodles at Wular Lake, a Ramsar wetland site. The lake attracts over 150 species of birds, including resident and migratory birds from Central Asia and Europe. The lake is at its calmest, and the birds are most active in the early mornings. You can take a slow boat ride into the marshy areas to get up close, or head to elevated viewpoints at the nearby Wular Conservation Park for a wider view of the wetlands.
3. Fishing With Local Fishermen
Photo: Brett Sayles / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Wular Lake fishing is not just a recreation but a time-honoured tradition that provides sustenance to the local communities. Those curious about the cultural aspect of Kashmir can spend a day on the lake with fishermen, gaining insight into their daily lives. In the early morning, the wooden boats are put out to sea as fishermen prepare their handmade nets with techniques passed down for generations. Being rich in fish resources, it is mainly inhabited by Schizothorax (snow trout).
Places To Visit Near Wular Lake
After exploring or staying in the largest lake in Kashmir, go on an expedition and explore the nearby places.
1. Watlab Scenic Point
Photo: Jawadrather / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Watlab Scenic Point is an underrated yet amazing place to visit near Wular Lake. Perched on a hill, this point offers an unparalleled panoramic view of the lake that mirrors the soaring Pir Panjal mountains on its expanse. The drive to Watlab is the attraction, with the roads lined with apple orchards, mustard fields and rolling meadows. One of the famous places here is the Watlab Shiva Temple, which is an old Hindu temple and a sacred site for the residents.
Distance From Wular Lake: 10 km
Best Time To Visit: April – October
Nearby Attractions: Watlab Forest Reserve, fishing villages along the lake’s shore
2. Nishat Park
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Set in the Bandipora town is Nishat Park, a well-kept riverside garden that makes for a convenient stopover after your exploration of Wular Lake. Home to a variety of colourful flowerbeds, groomed lawns and shaded seating spots, this scenic park makes for an escape from the bustle of town. Families and couples seeking a quiet outdoor space flock to the park in particular. It has a small cafe where you can enjoy traditional Kashmiri snacks such as Noon Chai (salted tea) and Kashmiri Kulcha, perfect for a leisurely picnic.
Distance From Wular Lake: 8 km
Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM
Entry Fee: ₹20 per person
3. Manasbal Lake
Photo: Mehrajmir13 / Wikimedia Commons
Known as the “Gem of Kashmir’s Lakes” and one of the deepest lakes, Manasbal Lake is truly a paradise for nature lovers, adventure lovers and photographers. Manasbal Lake is more placid, nestled among acres of greenery, and is popular for boating, fishing and birdwatching. One of the lake’s unique features is its lotus fields, which burst into bloom in July and August, giving the lake a surreal beauty.
Distance From Wular Lake: 30 km
Best Time To Visit: April – October
Nearby Attractions: Jaroka Bagh Mughal Garden, Manasbal Bird Sanctuary
4. Lankar Reshi Shrine
Photo: VECTOR A / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you are inclined towards spirituality or Kashmiri heritage, then the Lankar Reshi Shrine makes you feel really enriched. This shrine is dedicated to a famous Kashmiri Sufi saint, Baba Shakur-ud-Din, and is situated in the Lankar Reshi village. Pilgrims and spiritual seekers from across the valley visit the shrine to offer their respects and engage in traditional Sufi music and prayers. The surrounding landscape is equally mesmerising, with paddy fields, the Jhelum River, and dense forests making the journey to the shrine as serene as the destination.
Distance From Wular Lake: 15 km
Timings: 6 AM – 8 PM
Nearby Attractions: Jhelum Riverbanks, Sufi prayer halls
5. Kheer Bhawani Temple
Photo: Shivansh.ganjoo / Wikimedia Commons
Kheer Bhawani Temple, one of the holiest shrines for Hindus in Kashmir, is dedicated to Goddess Ragnya Devi, an important deity in Kashmiri Pandit custom. Set within the Tulla Mulla village and surrounded by centuries-old chinar trees, the temple has a serene aura. The temple’s most interesting feature is its spring-fed pond, the waters of which locals say change colour and take this as a sign from God.
Distance From Wular Lake: 40 km
Timings: 6 AM to 8 PM
Nearby Attractions: Sindh River, Tulla Mulla village market
Where To Stay
Photo: Sanu N / Wikimedia Commons
Places to stay near Wular Lake range from budget hotels in Bandipora to resorts in Srinagar and Sonamarg. One pocket-friendly option with basic amenities is the Hotel Lala Rukh in Bandipora, Hotel Grand Kaiser in Bandipora has comfy rooms and a restaurant dishing out Kashmiri fare, Rah Villas, Sonamarg, featuring classy and elegant spacious rooms, including river views. For authentic Kashmiri-style hospitality, some homestays are available in villages around Wular Lake.
Where To Eat
Photo: Valeria Boltneva / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
The nearest dining options are at Bandipora town, located around 10 km away from Wular Lake. Stray Dhabas offer local favourites such as Gushtaba, Dum Aloo, and Kebabs for ₹200 to ₹500 per meal. If you are a refined diner, Kashmir Saffron Restaurant in Bandipora offers a traditional Kashmiri Wazwan. In Srinagar and Sonamarg, fine dining restaurants like Ahdoos and Mughal Darbar. Homestay travellers near Wular Lake can tuck into home-cooked meals, and the fresh fish from the lake is often the star of the meal.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Pexel Captures / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
A visit to Wular Lake can be customised for any price range. A two-day trip from Srinagar for budget travellers can cost you around ₹3,500 to ₹5,000 per person, including transport, food, and budget accommodation. Midrange budget travellers can spend about ₹7,000 to ₹12,000 per person with comfortable stays and private transport. A luxury experience with high-end resorts and private guides can drive prices up to ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 per head.
Tips For Travellers
- Bring warm clothing, especially at night, when temperatures by the lake can plunge unexpectedly.
- During peak seasons, it is a good idea to book accommodation well in advance.
- For travellers setting out on adventures beyond the Wular Lake, hiring a local guide can enrich your experience.
- Respect the culture, especially in the villages around the lake.
The largest lake in Kashmir Region, Wular Lake, is an enticing natural heritage full of serenity, joy, and cultural value. Experience raw Himalayan beauty while kayaking through its expanse or hanging out at picturesque villages not far away. Wular Lake is one such mesmerising destination that represents the untouched beauty and wonders of Kashmir, and for those who are looking to escape the usual trails. Plan your visit with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Mohit.vaishnav1 / Wikimedia Commons
