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As snow covers the surrounding Pir Panjal mountains, Wular Lake, the largest freshwater lake in India, becomes a scene straight out of a winter wonderland. Wular Lake in winter is all about raw natural beauty and a unique winter experience for travellers. The lake, which freezes over during winter, becomes a haven for migratory birds during this season, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Thrill seekers can explore a different facet of Kashmir with its misty mornings, fresh air, and fewer crowds.
Quick Details About Wular Lake
Location: Bandipora district, Jammu & Kashmir, India
Altitude: 1,580 meters above sea level
Type: Freshwater lake
Primary Inflow: Jhelum River
Surface Area: 30 to 189 km2
Best Time To Visit: December to February
Location
Photo: Mohit.vaishnav1 / Wikimedia Commons
Wular Lake is situated in the Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir. With an area of 189 square kilometres, the lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia. It is fed by the Jhelum River and enveloped by the Himalayan foothills, which receive heavy snowfall in winter. Bandipora, the nearest major town, is 12 km away and Sopore is about 27 km. The lake is reachable from Srinagar via Bandipora-Sopore Road (NH-701A).
How To Reach
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: the nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Srinagar (60 km). From this point, you can hire a cab or travel by bus to Bandipora.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Sopore Railway Station (27 km). Alternatively, you can arrive at Srinagar Railway Station (62 km). Both places have taxis and shared cabs available.
By Road: it takes 1.5 hours from Srinagar on NH-701A via Bandipora. You can take a regular JKSRTC bus or shared sumo from Srinagar, and local transport can take you to Wular Lake.
Things To Do
Experience unique things to do at Wular Lake in winter and enjoy the beautiful lake and its surroundings.
1. Winter Birdwatching Amidst The Mist
Photo: Maxx786 / Wikimedia Commons
Wular Lake in winter offers one of the best birdwatching opportunities in India, coming alive with migratory birds such as the Greylag Goose, Northern Pintail and Common Teal, despite the chilly weather. The formless mornings and half-frozen lake provide a thrilling stage for finding rare waterfowl and raptors. Go early in the morning near Zurimanz or Garoora villages, where birds gather in shallower waters. The tranquil atmosphere and birds diving through frozen waters create a magical moment that must be felt by nature enthusiasts and photographers.
2. Traditional Ice Fishing With Local Fishermen
Photo: Lorie Shaull / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
At Wular, fishing is a way of life, and in winter, some locals resort to ice fishing, a rare sight in India. You can go to Lankreshipora or to Saderkoot Bala, where fishermen chip small holes through the thin layer of ice to catch snow trouts and common carp. Their aged techniques can be experienced and you can learn them while having a freshly grilled fish meal at the lakeside. Together with the adventure of fishing in a semi-frozen lake, the interaction with Kashmiri fishermen is an experience hard to forget for many visitors of the wintertime Kashmir valley.
3. Camping In A Kashmiri-Style Winter Hut
Photo: Zahoor Bhat / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For a real experience, spend the night in one of the traditional winter huts close to the lake. Most of these wooden structures are insulated to shield them from cold and have Kangris (fire pots) for the hot environment. Local hosts from Zurimanz or Watlab are more than happy to share authentic Kashmiri meals such as harissa (slow-cooked meat porridge) and kahwa (spiced tea) to keep your spirits up. At night, go outside to stargaze over the frozen lake, with the Himalayas covered in snow behind it. The unique combination of warmth, hospitality and surreal land makes this a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Wular Lake in winter.
Places To Visit Near Wular Lake
Following are some of the must-visit places near Wular Lake in winter to capture the ultimate winter wonderland.
1. Watlab Viewpoint
Photo: Jawadrather / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Watlab, on the northwestern shore of Wular Lake, is one of the most elevated and beautiful viewpoints of the lake and the Pir Panjal peaks surrounding it. Snowy mountains and misty waters create a surreal atmosphere in winter. Another highlight is the Watlab Shrine, honouring Baba Shukuruddin, a venerated Sufi saint. This location is perfect for winter photography, sunrise views and peaceful reflection. Kashmiri noon chai and harissa are served piping hot in local stalls to beat the winter.
Distance From Lake: 15 km (30-minute drive)
Timings: 24*7
2. Arin Valley
Photo: Aehsaan / Wikimedia Commons
Secluded Arin Valley is a pristine winter retreat with snow-capped pine trees and a stream that partly freezes during the peak winter, tucked away. Going off the beaten tourist trail in Kashmir, Arin is unspoiled, serene and provides an insight into rural Kashmiri life in winter. The valley is home to several exotic birds like the Himalayan Monal and Koklass Pheasant, making it a popular stop for birdwatchers as well. The valley is also blessed with the Arin River, which comes from the Harmukh glaciers.
Distance From Lake: 14 km (25-minute drive)
Timings: 24*7
3. Manasbal Lake
Photo: Nsheenm / Wikimedia Commons
Manasbal Lake, one of India’s deepest lakes, gets partially frozen in winter, creating a sharp contrast between frozen water and the floating patches of migratory birds. The lake is famous for its Mughal Garden ruins, which look unique and unsettling when covered in snow. By contrast, Manasbal’s relatively small size makes it easier to scale on foot, especially for photographers. When visiting at dawn, you are greeted with frost-layered lotus stems and reflections of snow-capped peaks on the water’s glassy surface.
Distance From Lake: 35 km (50-minute drive)
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹30
4. Lolab Valley
Photo: Eshankaul007 / Wikimedia Commons
A hidden treasure, Lolab Valley is an offbeat destination near Wular Lake in winter. In summer, the valley is a scene of lush green meadows, which metamorphose into white in winter, with frozen streams and snow-draped deodar woods. The Kalaroos caves, an ancient rock-cut cave system with measurements of mystic inscriptions, are open in early winter. Adventurers can trek up snow-clad routes to the remote hamlets, where homestays offer traditional Kashmiri winter fare. The valley connects with Kupwara, another picturesque winter spot.
Distance From Lake: 50 km (1.5-hour drive)
Timings: 24*7
Where To Stay
Photo: Engin Akyurt / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Bandipora town has budget guesthouses and homestays where warm Kashmiri hospitality awaits. Among options are Wular Lake Resort (₹2,000 to ₹3,500 per night), offering picturesque views of the lake. Another good option for budget-conscious travellers is Kashmir Residency Bandipora (₹1,500 per night). For a more traditional experience, homestays in Zurimanz or Watlab villages (₹1,000 to ₹2,500 per night) are also available, with rooms heated with Kangri and local cuisine. Srinagar offers more mid- to high-range options, including houseboats (₹4,000 to ₹8,000 per night). Winter is a season with less availability, so it is advisable to book in advance.
Where To Eat
Photo: Miansari66 / Wikimedia Commons
Eating around Wular Lake means local Kashmiri dhabas and homestays. Along the Watlab Road and in the Bandipora Market, there are small eateries that serve Noon Chai (salt tea), Harissa (slow-cooked meat porridge) and Rogan Josh. Arin Valley Dhaba (₹200 to ₹400 per meal) is the place to go for traditional Kashmiri wazwan and make sure you stop by Wular View Café (₹300 to ₹600 per meal) for fresh fish dishes. Homestays serve home-cooked meals (₹500 per day), such as Sheermal bread and Gushtaba (meatballs in yoghurt sauce). For fine Kashmiri cuisine, Mughal Darbar and Ahdoos Restaurant are both in Srinagar, 1.5 hours away.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Jawadrather / Wikimedia Commons
Average Cost Of The Trip
A budget trip to Wular Lake in winters costs about ₹8,000 to ₹12,000 per person for three days, which includes basic accommodation, food and transport. Mid-range travellers can spend ₹12,000 to ₹18,000, which includes better stays and local experiences. At a luxury level, accommodation in premium hotels in Srinagar and hiring private guided trips can take it up to ₹18,000 to ₹25,000.
Tips For Travellers
- Wear layers, including thermal wear, woollens and waterproof boots, as temperatures fall below freezing around Wular Lake in winter.
- Daylight hours are shorter, so wake up early to maximise your trip.
- Make sure to book your accommodations in advance, as options are limited in Bandipora and surrounding villages.
- Bring cash, especially in remote areas. Expect snow to cause occasional roadblocks, so check the weather ahead of the trip.
Wular Lake in winter is a hidden gem, a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and adventure. The frozen lake, migratory birds and traditional Kashmiri experiences make it a gem for those who want to try something other than mainstream Kashmir destinations. Whether you’re into birdwatching, ice fishing or simply want to enjoy the snowy scenery, Wular Lake has something for everyone during the winter. So, add Wular Lake to your winter travel bucket list and plan your trip with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Ethan Hu / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
