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Wular Lake is the second-largest freshwater lake in the continent of Asia. It is fed by the water of the Jhelum River and the streams Madhumati and Arin. Wular Lake is not only of historical significance but also of ecological wonder. It is one of the 26 wetlands of India and has a vital role in managing the hydrological balance and climatology of the region. Wular Lake in India is designated as a Ramsar site. This lake is the habitat for terrestrial birds and fishes. Explore Wular Lake to unveil biodiversity management and gather a lifetime experience.
Quick Details
Type: Freshwater lake
Location: Bandipora District, Jammu & Kashmir
Diameter: 10 km
Depth: 14 m
Formation: The lake Basin is formed due to tectonic activity.
Location
Photo: Mohit.vaishnav1 / Wikimedia Commons
Wular Lake is situated near Bandipara town in Jammu & Kashmir. It is situated on the foothills of the Haramuk Mountains at an altitude of 1580 meters. This lake is about 60 Km north of Srinagar.
How To Reach
Photo: Alex Graves / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
By Air: The nearest airport is Srinagar, about 67 Km from Wular Lake. Regular flights are connected with Srinagar from major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Jammu, Bengaluru, etc.
By Train: You have to reach Srinagar and then take a separate train towards Sopore. It is the nearest rail station, about 30 Km from the Lake.
By Road: After reaching Srinagar, you can book a private taxi or bus to the lake. If you are going by bus, Bandipora is the nearest bus stop which is approximately 15 Km from the lake.
Things To Do
The only Wular Lake in India offers several interesting activities to visitors.
1. Enjoy Boat Ride
Photo: Jamie Morrison / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Boating is one of the most interesting things to do in Wular Lake. As it is the second-largest freshwater lake in Asia, this lake offers a wide array of calm waters appropriate for a peaceful and relaxing ride. Visitors can experience 360-degree breathtaking views of the mountains surrounding the lake. The tranquil atmosphere and gentle breeze create a relaxing atmosphere.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
2. Discover A Wide Range Of Bird Species
Photo: Maxx786 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Wular Lake in India is the home to different species of resident and migratory birds. Bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts find this place heaven as they can spot different migratory and rare birds such as herons, kingfishers, cormorants and migratory ducks and geese. Take time to observe their habits and behaviour, including feeding, nesting and flying. This place is a paradise for photographers.
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
3. Enjoy A Picnic Beside Lake
Photo: Russel Wills / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
After a relaxing boat ride, discover a calm spot around the lakeside and enjoy a picnic with your family and friends. The cool breeze, peaceful surroundings and the soothing sound of the water will turn your picnic into a rejuvenating experience. Experience the beautiful nature beside the lake and make an outstanding memory.
Best Time To Visit: Morning and afternoon
4. Experience Trekking Around The Lake
Photo: Sergio Tittarini / Wikimedia Commons
If you are an adventure enthusiast, trekking is the best thing to do in Wular Lake. The surrounding hills and valleys offer an appropriate set-up for exploring the natural beauty of the region. Therefore, pack your backpack, tie your hiking shoes and get ready for a memorable hiking experience through the dense forest, and rough terrains of hills and enjoy the breathtaking viewpoints.
Best Time To Visit: June to August
Places To Visit Around Wular Lake
Here is a list of the best places to visit around Wular Lake are as follows.
1. Zainul Lank
Photo: Christopher Michel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Zainul Lank is a piece of land that floats on the surface of the lake and it is famous for its religious importance. Residents believe that this piece of land saves lives during natural disasters. This floating island was made by the King Zainul-Abi-Din. From the local myths to religious significance, this island has become an important part of the cultural and ecological heritage of the place.
2. Srinagar
Srinagar is known as the ‘Heaven on Earth’. It is situated beside the Jhelum River. Srinagar is one of the famous tourist places near Wular Lake because of its tranquil lakes, lush greenery and Mughal architecture. Srinagar is known for its beautiful houseboats and shikaras at Dal Lake. Floating markets at Shikaras are the main attraction in Srinagar.
Best Time To Visit: April to October
3. Gulmarg
Photo: Digjot Singh / Unsplash
Gulmarg is called a ‘meadow of flowers’. It is one of the most-visited locations because of the scenic beauty of the Himalayas in the backdrop. The main attraction in Gulmarg is the Gondola or cable car ride which is the highest cable car in the world. Visitors can enjoy horse riding and go to Strawberry Valley, and Leopard Valley and ride up to Kongdori to visit the frozen lake of Al-Pathar.
Best Time To Visit: March to June
4. Pahalgam
Photo: KennyOMG / Wikimedia Commons
Pahalgam is the most famous tourist place to visit. It is situated at an altitude of 7200 ft above sea level. It is the best place to enjoy the tranquillity. In Pahalgam, you can visit Betaab Valley which is surrounded by snow-capped mountains with dense greenery, waterfalls and forest. This is the most famous tourist attraction because of its picturesque background. The other must-visit places in Pahalgam are Chandanwari, Aru Valley, Baisaran Valley, Tulian Lake and so on.
Best Time To Visit: March to November
5. Sonmarg
Photo: Mike Prince / Wikimedia Commons
Sonamarg, situated at an elevation of 2730 meters is a picturesque hill station. The snow-laden fields, glaciers and serene lakes are the main attractions for the tourists. Sonamarg is surrounded by Kolhoi Glacier and Machoi Glacier. It is the gateway to the Kashmir Great Lakes Trek which reveals the breathtaking mountain lakes such as Gangabal, Gadsar, Vishansar and Krishnasar.
Best Time To Visit: April to June
6. Shalimar Bagh
Photo: Madhumita Das / Wikimedia Commons
Shalimar Bagh is one of the finest gardens in Kashmir. It is the most visited place located near Dal Lake. The main features of this garden are terraces, a network of canals and blooming beds. This place is perfect for both the history enthusiast as well as nature lover. The flower beds and the Chinar trees decked up this beautiful garden and the intricate pattern of stone pavements and traditional geometrical patterns enhances the beauty of the garden.
Best Time To Visit: April to October
Where To Stay
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
As Wular Lake is a remote and protected place, the lodging options are limited. You can find some homestays and guesthouses near the lake which offer basic amenities and services. Lone Palace is a great option located at 10 Km from Wular Lake. It is a 4-star hotel with good amenities and a wonderful view. Wular View Resort is another option which is 15 Km away from Wular Lake, offering a peaceful atmosphere and environment-friendly practices. To enjoy the breathtaking view of the Tulip Garden and Gulmarg range, Taj Dal View is the perfect option for staying.
Where To Eat
Photo: Viktor Forgacs / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Since Wular Lake is situated in a rural area, the food option is limited here. You can find some local food stalls and vendors around the lake. Most of the vendors sell snacks and beverages such as kahwa, nun chai and bakarkhani. Here, you can get some authentic and delicious Kashmiri foods such as rogan josh, yakhni and gushtaba. Here, you can visit Boulevard Avenue Dine In for authentic Kashmiri cuisine and Stream Restaurant for different varieties of Indian, Chinese and Kashmiri foods. All the restaurants are located over 25 km from Wular Lake.
Wular Lake in India is the place where you can experience both natural beauty and adventure. In this place, you can witness the beauty and diversity of a freshwater lake in India as well as a Ramsar Site. Wular Lake and its surrounding places will show you the beauty of nature and the Himalayas. It ranges from a snow-capped mountain to a valley amidst the lush greenery. Plan a trip with TripXL and explore this paradise.
Cover Photo: .M.Q Huang / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
