Dal & Nageen Lake | Manasbal Lake | Wular Lake
High Altitude Lakes

Dal and Nageen Lake

The Dal Lake and Nageen Lake is the most outstanding feature of Kashmir. In a way the lake is Srinagar's aquatic plaza and its heart. Sir Walter Lawrence has described the world famous water body as Lake Par-Excellence.

These lakes are host to worlds famous Shikaras and Houseboats. Brightly hued houseboats are anchored on this lake. The Lake changes its moods and scenery through out the day and after every few kilometers. Ringed by mountains, its banks are shadowed by poplars and willows. The lake offers a huge exploration of flora and fauna. In Autumn, the lake is covered with lotus leaves. The darkening twilight transforms Dal Lake into a shimmering fantasy of lights.

Srinagar revolves around this expanse of blue water, bustling with a variety of crafts. In a way the lake is Srinagar's aquatic plaza and its heart. Brightly hued houseboats are anchored on this lake. Each a comfortable home. Ringed by mountains, its banks are shadowed by poplars and willows. In Autumn, the lake is covered with lotus leaves and the canals fill up with a tiny plant which turns the surface into a green carpet. The darkening twilight transforms these Lakes into a shimmering fantasy of lights.

Manasbal Lake

Manasbal Lake is located about 30 km north of Srinagar. Manasbal is considered as the 'supreme gem of all Kashmir lakes' with lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) nowhere more abundant or beautiful than on the margins of this lake during July and August. It is the deepest lake of Kashmir valley and perhaps the only one that develops stable summer stratification. Manasbal is classified as warm monomictic lake and circulates once in a year for a short time. The local people believe in the legend that the lake is bottomless.

Laden with lotus in summer and a bird watcher’s paradise, this lake is one of the largest haunts of aquatic birds of Kashmir. Small but beautiful, Mananbal’s deep stretches ensure a peaceful clarity in its waters, making it a still haven among the mountains, water meadows and reeds. Its serenity is undisturbed by anything except the chirping of birds. It is a famous spot to enjoy Sunset.

Wular Lake

Wular – known to be one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia Wular is the largest freshwater wetland in India. the lake is 10 miles (16 km) long and 6 miles (10 km) wide. It lies at the north end of the Vale of Kashmir, 20 miles (32 km) north-northwest of Srinagar. Its area varies from 12 to 100 square miles (30 to 260 square km) according to the season.

In recognition of its biological, hydrological and socio-economic values, it was designated as a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention.
The Wular lake is densely populated with different macrophytic species. The Wular lake is an important habitat for the fish fauna of the region. It provides about 60 per cent of the fish yield of the Kashmir region. The lake has large marshes surrounding it that are important wildlife habitat. Many migratory waterfowl species use the lake and surrounding wetlands.

High Altitude Lakes

Gangabal, Vishensar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Tarsar and Marsar are some of the high altitude lakes of Kashmir nestling in the laps of Himalayas. These lakes are at an altitude of about 5000 mts and can be reached through alpine trekking. They provide a wonderful time to an Angler looking for wild trout fishing. These Lakes are abundant with brown trout’s and are major attraction for those looking for Fly Fishing.