Jammu and Kashmir, India

Dal Lake

Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India

9/10

Best time: May to September

8 hours

Welcome to Dal Lake, Srinagar, the 'Jewel in the Crown' of Kashmir! Imagine gliding on a shikara across shimmering waters, surrounded by majestic mountains. Once known as 'Mahasarit', this enchanting lake has been a timeless beauty for centuries. Explore floating gardens and experience the magic of Kashmir's heart!

Bird-Watching

Boating

Garden

Nature

Photography

Shopping

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Key Activities

Must do things

Additional Places

In Jaipur

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Traveller's Ratings and Reviews

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Top Activities in Dal Lake

1
Enjoy A Relaxing Shikara Ride
2
Enjoy Traditional Kashmiri Cuisine
3
Explore The Floating Gardens
4
Go Birdwatching
5
Shop For Local Handicrafts
6
Stay In A Houseboat
7
Visit The Mughal Gardens
8
Witness The Sunrise/Sunset

Detailed Information

Best Time to Visit

May to September

When to visit place on the day

All-Day

Approximate expense

₹5,000 per person

History

Dal Lake has been a prominent feature of Srinagar for centuries. Historical records suggest its existence since the Mughal era, when emperors like Jahangir were captivated by its beauty and built gardens along its shores. The lake played a vital role in the city's economy, supporting fishing and agriculture. Over time, the lake's area has fluctuated due to natural processes and human interventions. Today, efforts are underway to preserve and restore the lake's ecological balance and maintain its historical and cultural significance.

Other Places to Explore in Srinagar

9/10

Gulmarg Gondola

The Gulmarg Gondola is one of the highest cable cars in the world, offering breathtaking views of the Himalayas. It ferries passengers in two stages: Gulmarg to Kongdoori and Kongdoori to Apharwat Peak. The first stage offers stunning meadow views, while the second ascends further into the snowy peaks, popular for skiing and snowboarding. Visitors can enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, sledding, and photography. The gondola ride itself is an unforgettable experience, providing panoramic vistas of the surrounding valleys and peaks.

4 hours

Morning

₹2,000

Capture panoramic photographs

Enjoy sledding in the snow

8/10

Chashme Shahi Garden

Chashme Shahi, also known as Chashma i Shahi (Royal Spring), is a terraced Mughal garden built around a freshwater spring in Srinagar, Kashmir. Known for its natural spring, believed to have medicinal properties, the garden offers breathtaking views of the Dal Lake and surrounding mountains. The smallest of the Mughal gardens in Srinagar, it features cascading fountains, vibrant flowerbeds, and charming Mughal architecture. The cool, refreshing atmosphere and serene surroundings make it a perfect escape from the city's hustle and bustle.

2 hours

All-Day

₹500

Admire the cascading fountains

Capture the beauty of the flowers

9/10

Sonamarg

Sonamarg, meaning "Meadow of Gold," is a breathtaking hill station located in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir, India. Nestled at an altitude of 2,800 meters, it's renowned for its stunning natural beauty, including snow-capped mountains, glaciers, alpine meadows, and the Sindh River. The Thajiwas Glacier, a major attraction, offers opportunities for snow sledding and pony rides. Sonamarg is a popular base for treks to high-altitude lakes like Gangabal and Vishansar Lake, attracting adventure enthusiasts. The Zoji La pass, a vital link between Kashmir and Ladakh, is also accessible from Sonamarg, adding to its strategic importance. The valley is carpeted with colorful wildflowers during the summer months, creating a picturesque landscape.

Drive through Zoji La Pass

7/10

Floating Vegetable Market

The Floating Vegetable Market in Srinagar, a unique and vibrant spectacle on Dal Lake, offers a glimpse into local life. Vendors in shikaras (traditional wooden boats) gather at dawn to sell fresh produce, flowers, and spices directly from their boats. This bustling market creates a colourful and aromatic experience, with the backdrop of the serene lake and surrounding mountains. Witnessing the bargaining and trading between locals is a fascinating cultural immersion. It's a photographer's paradise, capturing the essence of Kashmir's beauty and tradition.

2 hours

Early Morning

₹500

Capture stunning photographs of the ...

Purchase fresh local produce and flo...

9/10

Nishat Bagh

Nishat Bagh, the 'Garden of Bliss,' is a terraced Mughal garden overlooking the stunning Dal Lake in Srinagar, Kashmir. Known for its exquisite beauty, the garden features twelve terraces representing the twelve zodiac signs, each adorned with vibrant flowerbeds, cascading fountains, and lush greenery. Chinar trees and cypress trees line the waterways, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. The central canal, fed by a fresh water spring, flows through the garden, adding to its charm.

2 hours

All-Day

₹500

Admire the Mughal architecture

Capture scenic views of Dal Lake