Dal Lake

Popular as the jewel in the crown of Kashmir, the Dal Lake is the most famous and most visited lake in the state. Lined with Mughal-era gardens, the lake is rich in lotus, water lillies and water chestnuts. It is among those major destinations that let you free to enjoy life on water in the houseboats. One can have the pleasure of Shikara rides, kayaking, canoeing and other water activities in the Dal.
Dal Lake is the finest manifestation of the power and beauty of nature. Fringed by majestic mountains and the Mughal Gardens, Dal Lake has steadfastly maintained its position as a favourite tourist place to visit in Srinagar.
The canopied Shikaras sailing on the sparkling water offers a picture perfect moment. On the other hand the houseboats on the lake render luxurious accommodation option. Along with nature lovers, Dal Lake also proffers great options to adventure seekers. Water sports including water skiing, golfing and hot air balloon riding have lately become quite popular in Dal Lake.

Nagin Lake

Nagin Lake in Srinagar is a deep blue water offshoot lake of Dal Lake that is interconnected by a thin causeway. The lake is located to the east of the city of Srinagar, at the foothill of the Zabarwan Mountain. The Shankaracharya Hill on the south and Hari Parbat on the west enclose the Nagin Lake offers breathtaking views to the visitors.
It is flanked by beautiful willow and poplar trees. Good numbers of houseboats and shikaras can be seen in Nagin Lake where tourists enjoy their peaceful vacations in Srinagar. Unlike Dal Lake, Nagin Lake is a calm, serene and peaceful getaway for those who want to spend holiday in sheer nature. Apart from houseboat staying and shikara ride, tourists can also enjoy water skiing, motor rides and sailing over there.

Wular Lake

Wular Lake (also pronounced as Wullar Lake), the livelihood source of thousands of fishermen, is situated between the towns of Bandipore and Sopore. The lake, covering an area of about 125 sq km, is rated amongst the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. The natural beauty of this lake, being located amidst snow clad hills, is undoubtedly beyond description.
According to Hindu mythology, the lake is believed to be the remnants of the Satisar lake, which used to flow in the region in pre-historic times. This fresh water lake is a natural flood reservoir for Jhelum River, which drains off the excess water.
Wular Lake, which draws water from the northern river Jhelum, lies at a distance of 60 km from Srinagar. Moreover, a renowned bird watcher’s paradise, Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary is also situated near the Lake.

Manasbal Lake

Manasbal Lake is located in Jhelum valley, 30 km north of city of Srinagar enroute to the Wular Lake via Shadipur. Surrounded by three villages Jakorbal, Kondabal and Gratbal, the picturesque lake is also known as 'Bird's Paradise'. This is the deepest lake of Kashmir and its beauty is further enhanced by the presence of beautiful lotus flowers. This quiet, secluded, crystal clear green water lake was named after the sacred lake of Mansarovar.
The Mughal Garden 'Jharokha' meaning 'bay window' built by Nur Jahan overlooks the lake. The ruins of a 17th century fort, called the Darogabagh and Jharokha garden on the northern shore of the lake are attractions for tourists. Apart from natural beauty and bird watching activity, tourists can also enjoy boat riding, water skiing, fishing and many more.