Lakes in Jammu and Kashmir :

 The center of life for the inhabitants of the state, the lakes are credited for the emergence of a unique culture of the state of J&K. One can almost see the whole city travelling through these lakes. These tranquil and snowy lakes have been a major attraction of this paradise on earth. Surrounded and protected by the Himalayan Mountains on all sides, these natural treasures offer a unique experience of living on water in the specially designed houseboats. Several scenic lakes with multi-faceted eco-system and grandeur, which epitomize the state of Jammu and Kashmir are -

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  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. Surrounded by mountains on three sides, the lake gives a paradisiacal view when frozen in winter.

It's a maze of intricate waterways and channels, floating islands of vegetation, houseboats that look so firmly moored they could almost be islands and hotels on islands which look like they could simply float away. Dal Lake lies immediately to the east and north of Srinagar and stretches over 5-km. The lake is divided into Gagribal, Lokut Dal and Bod Dal by a series of causeways.

Nagin Lake :

Located east of Kashmir, the lake lies on the foothills of the mountain Zabarwan. A number of willow and poplar trees lining the lake, Shankaracharya hill on the south and Hari Parbat on the west provide a charming view to the surroundings. Along with several water activities and Shikara rides, one can also hire  boats,  a romantic experience. Several salesmen can also be seen selling fruit, nuts, fresh flowers, baked goods, woolen shawls, silk carpets, leather goods and other materials on their boats.

Wullar Lake :

With a width and length of approximately 10 and 24 km respectively, Wullar Lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes in Asia. The lake gives about 60 percent of the fish yield of the region. Its perfect location between the cities of Sopore and Bandipore provides a marvellous view of the majestic hills on one side and steep valleys on the other. Wullar 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.

Surinsar Lake :

With wooded hills all around, thick forests in the backdrop and countless lotus flowers on the surface, the beautiful Surinsar lake is a great picturesque tourist spot situated about 42 km from Jammu. The lake  appears like a lotus garden in summers. The lake is a much sought after by nature lovers. According to Hindu mythology, the lake originated when Arjuna, the hero of the epic Mahabharata, shot an arrow to the land.

Mansar Lake :

Popular for the food and crafts festival, the Mansar lake draws thousands of tourists every year around Baisakhi. Apart from the scenic beauty and landscapes, the lake has several religious values too. Situated about 40 km south of Udhampur, the Mansar lake is surrounded by dense forests and hills. The lake is counted among major tourists destinations because of boating facilities and its religious values owing to Sheeshnag shrine. Newly wed couples perform three 'Parikramas' (circumambulations) around the lake to seek the blessings of the lord of serpents. Flickering of seasonal birds, tortoise and fish of different species can be observed while boating in the calm Mansar lake.

Vishansar Lake :

Vishansar is the shortened word for Vishnusar. This lake holds great importance for Kashmiri Pandits. Vishansar in Kashmiri means the lake of Vishnu is home to many types of fishes among of which is the brown trout. It freezes during winter. During the summer season, the lake is surrounded by green lush meadows where local shepherds graze their flocks of sheep and goat.The Lake with its scenic beauty, snow-covered mountains and their gorges filled with small glaciers and the meadows around, with alpine flowers is an attraction for the trekkers in the Kashmir Valley. It is fed by the Krishansar Lake and glaciers. The Vishansar Lake is the source of Neelum River[6] which flows northwards up to Badoab and then westwards through Gurais along the Line of Control. The Gadsar Lake lies some 9 km in west crossing Gadsar Pass.

Gangabal Lake :

The Gangabal Lake, also known by the name of Haramukh Ganga is a lake situated at the foothills of Haramukh Mountain in Ganderbal district of Kashmir valley. This alpine high altitude lake lies at an elevation of 3570 meters, is home to many types of fishes including rainbow and brown trout. The lake can be reach via Ganderbal and Naranag and then, need to cover 15 km trek route via Vishansar and Krishnasar Lake. The Gangabal Lake can also be accessed through a trek from Bandipore via Arin.

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.

Krishnasar Lake :

Located just 21 km from Sonamarg and sitting at a height of 3,801 m, Krishansar is one of the most beautiful lakes in Kashmir Valley. Surrounded by dense forest and snowcapped mountains, the reflections make it an astonishing site. Besides its beauty, Krishansar is also famous for its huge cache of trout fish, especially the brown variety. The other widely found fish is salmonid. Amateur anglers also visit here often but get so engrossed in the beauty they often forget about their fishing rods. The State Administration ensures the lake has ample fishes for everyone and prevents rampant fishing, a great initiative. During winter season this lake freezes yet the contrasting blue white combo of water and ice makes for an amazing site. June to September is the recommended period when the weather is invitingly cool and pleasant.

               These waterways, surrounded by majestic mountainous ranges, form the uniqueness of the state of Jammu and Kashmir with their charming houseboats, blossoming gardens, and water sports activities. All these specialties are ideal to make your holiday memorable for a lifetime.