Kashmir, the paradise on earth, is one of the most beautiful destinations in India. And, when it comes to lakes, Dal Lake in Srinagar is undoubtedly the most famous of them all. This picturesque lake is a popular tourist attraction and a must-visit destination in the valley. In this travel guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Dal Lake, including its history, attractions, activities, and more.
1. Introduction
Dal Lake is a stunning water body that covers an area of about 18 square kilometers in Srinagar. It’s a natural lake that’s also the second-largest in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The lake is surrounded by majestic mountains, which makes it a visual treat for the tourists. The scenic beauty of this lake has attracted visitors from all over the world.
2. History of Dal Lake
Dal Lake has a rich history that dates back to the Mughal era. It is believed that the Mughal Emperor Jahangir was so captivated by the beauty of the lake that he built a pleasure garden, known as Shalimar Bagh, on its banks. The lake was once a lot larger than it is now, but due to urbanization and encroachment, it has shrunk in size over the years.
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3. The Beauty of Dal Lake
Dal Lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and its pristine waters reflect the blue skies above. The lake is adorned with beautiful lotus and water lilies, which add to its charm. The floating gardens on the lake are another unique feature of Dal Lake. These gardens are built on a base of floating weeds and are used to grow vegetables and flowers.
4. Attractions of Dal Lake
There are several attractions around Dal Lake that are worth visiting. One of the most popular ones is the Hazratbal Shrine, which is located on the western shore of the lake. The shrine is a revered Muslim shrine and attracts thousands of devotees every year. Another popular attraction is the Nishat Bagh, which is a beautiful terraced garden that’s built on the eastern side of the lake. The Shalimar Bagh, another Mughal garden built by Emperor Jahangir, is also located on the eastern side of the lake.
5. Houseboats on Dal Lake
Staying on a houseboat on Dal Lake is an experience that you should not miss. These houseboats are intricately designed and decorated and provide all the modern amenities that one would expect in a hotel. They are an excellent way to experience the beauty of Dal Lake up close and personal.
6. Activities on Dal Lake
There are several activities that you can indulge in while visiting Dal Lake. You can take a stroll around the lake and soak in its beauty, or you can go for a swim in its pristine waters. Boating is another popular activity, and you can rent a shikara or a motorboat to explore the lake. Fishing is also permitted on the lake, and you can try your luck at catching some trout.
7. Shikara Rides on Dal Lake
One of the most popular activities on Dal Lake is taking a shikara ride. Shikaras are traditional wooden boats that are unique to the Kashmir valley. They are brightly painted and decorated with intricate designs and patterns. Taking a shikara ride on Dal Lake is an experience that you will cherish forever.
As you glide along the lake, you’ll be able to see the floating gardens and the lotus and water lilies up close. You can also witness the daily life of the locals who live on the lake. The shikara rides can be customized as per your preference. You can opt for a short ride or a longer one, and you can even ask the boatman to take you to specific locations around the lake.
8. Floating Markets of Dal Lake
The floating markets on Dal Lake are another unique feature of this beautiful destination. These markets are set up on boats that are filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, handicrafts, and souvenirs. The vendors paddle their boats from one location to another, and you can buy whatever catches your fancy.
The floating markets are a great place to interact with the locals and get a glimpse of their way of life. The markets are also a photographer’s paradise, and you can capture some stunning shots of the colorful boats and the goods on display.
9. Hazratbal Shrine
Hazratbal Shrine is a revered Muslim shrine that’s located on the western shore of Dal Lake. It’s a beautiful white marble structure that’s dedicated to Prophet Muhammad. The shrine houses a relic, which is believed to be a hair from the prophet’s beard. The relic is displayed to the public on certain occasions and is considered to be very sacred.
The shrine is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims and attracts devotees from all over the world. The beautiful architecture of the shrine and the serene surroundings make it a must-visit destination for tourists as well.
10. Nishat Bagh
Nishat Bagh is a beautiful terraced garden that’s located on the eastern side of Dal Lake. It was built in the 16th century by Emperor Jahangir and is considered to be one of the most beautiful Mughal gardens in India. The garden is spread over an area of about 12 hectares and has several terraces that offer stunning views of the lake.
The garden is adorned with fountains, water channels, and colorful flower beds. The architecture of the garden is a fine example of Persian and Mughal styles. Nishat Bagh is a great place to relax and unwind amidst the beauty of nature.
11. Shalimar Bagh
Shalimar Bagh is another Mughal garden that’s located on the eastern side of Dal Lake. It was also built by Emperor Jahangir in the 16th century and is spread over an area of about 31 acres. The garden has several terraces, pavilions, and fountains that are built in the traditional Mughal style.
The garden is also adorned with several varieties of trees and flowers, and the fragrance of the blooms fills the air. Shalimar Bagh is a great place to spend a peaceful evening amidst the natural beauty of Kashmir.
12. Char Chinar
Char Chinar is a small island that’s located in the middle of Dal Lake. The island is named after the four chinar trees that are believed to be over 400 years old. Legend has it that the Mughal emperor Jahangir used to visit this island to relax and enjoy the beauty of the lake.
The island is a great place to enjoy the serenity of the lake and witness the beauty of the chinar trees. You can also take a shikara ride to the island and spend some time admiring the trees, which are considered to be a symbol of Kashmir. The chinar trees are known for their majestic size, with a crown that can spread up to 80 feet wide. Their leaves turn golden yellow in autumn, adding to the beauty of the island and the lake.
Char Chinar is also a popular spot for birdwatching, as it attracts a variety of local and migratory birds. You can spot birds such as kingfishers, herons, and cormorants among others. Many visitors also come to the island for picnics and to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Apart from the natural beauty, Char Chinar is also steeped in history. It is believed that the island was once used as a marketplace by traders who came from Central Asia. The island has also witnessed many political events over the years, including a speech by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.
Visiting Char Chinar is a must-do activity when in Dal Lake. It offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and serenity that is hard to find anywhere else. The island is a great place to relax and unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
13. Best Time to Visit Dal Lake
The best time to visit Dal Lake is during the summer months from April to June when the weather is pleasant, and the flowers are in full bloom. The temperature during this time ranges from 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
If you want to witness the winter beauty of Dal Lake, you can plan your visit between November and February. The temperature during this time ranges from -2°C to 12°C, and the lake is frozen, giving it a magical look. However, be prepared for the chilly weather and carry warm clothing.
14. How to Reach Dal Lake
The nearest airport to Dal Lake is Srinagar International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Dal Lake.
The nearest railway station is Jammu Tawi, which is about 290 km away from Dal Lake. From the station, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the lake.
Conclusion
Dal Lake is a paradise on earth that’s worth visiting at least once in a lifetime. Its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality will leave you mesmerized. From shikara rides to floating markets, Mughal gardens to religious shrines, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful destination.
FAQs
- Is it safe to visit Dal Lake? Yes, it’s safe to visit Dal Lake. However, it’s always advisable to take precautions and stay alert.
- Can I go for swimming in Dal Lake? No, swimming is not allowed in Dal Lake as it’s a source of drinking water.
- What are the famous dishes of Kashmir? Some of the famous dishes of Kashmir are Rogan Josh, Gushtaba, Yakhni, and Kashmiri Pulao.
- What are the popular activities to do in Dal Lake? Some of the popular activities to do in Dal Lake are shikara rides, visiting Mughal gardens, exploring floating markets, and visiting religious shrines.
- What’s the best time to visit Dal Lake? The best time to visit Dal Lake is during the summer months from April to June and between November and February to witness its winter beauty.