Bounded by Pir Panjal mountain ranges and enclosed by Mughal Gardens, Dal Lake is one of the most popular places in Srinagar. Reckoned to be the pride of Kashmir, this serene lake is nestled in the heart of Srinagar. The houseboats and Shikaras are the significant attractions of Dal Lake in Kashmir. Dal Lake is also famous for its floating market, which boasts incredible vistas and jaw-dropping beauty. The lake’s shoreline is almost 15.5 km and sprawling with numerous gardens and hotels. The colorful Shikaras and houseboats lined up on the shore of the lake.
With the backdrop of lofty Himalayas, Dal Lake looks mesmerizing during sunset and sunrise. Tourists can enjoy fascinating rides on traditional Kashmiri Houseboats and Shikaras.
The Shikara ride can be an hour-long sightseeing session of Dal Lake. They can also enjoy shopping during the Shikara expedition to handicraft shops within the lake area or a whole-day trip featuring visits to major landmarks in Srinagar.
Popularly known as the ‘Jewel of Crown,’ Dal Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Kashmir valley. It is renowned for its spectacular beauty and vivacity because, within its periphery, the lake sustains a remarkable life unmatched elsewhere. The shoreline of the lake is 6.4 km long and 4 km wide. The lake’s edge comprises four enormous expanses of water, including – Lokut Dal, Bod Dal, Gagribal, and Nageen. It is an intricate maze of waterways, making for a spectacular sight and an even more enchanting locale to explore. This is the second largest lake in Srinagar and a perfect tourist destination for families, couples, and friends.
Here are details things to know before visiting Dal Lake in Kashmir
- Location: Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir
- Type of destination: Sightseeing
- Opening Hours of Dal Lake: 24-hours
- Entry Fees of Dal Lake: Nil
- Duration: 3-4 hours
How to reach Dal Lake in Srinagar
Situated just 6 km from the city center in Srinagar, Dal Lake is easily accessible from the entire town. The nearest airport is Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport, which is well-connected with the country’s major cities. Tourists can quickly get a taxi from the airport and bus stand for Dal Lake.
Best time to visit Dal Lake
Tourists can visit the lake throughout the year. However, May to November is the best time to visit Dal Lake when the pleasant climatic conditions make the tour comfortable. During these months, tourists can explore the region at its best during Shikara rides and houseboat tours.
Major Highlights of Dal Lake
Houseboats and Shikaras are the significant attractions of Dal Lake, along with the floating markets. These are the cultural symbols of this enchanting city that can be seen only in Srinagar. These wooden boats are meticulously designed and allow people to get glimpses of the stunning beauty of the serene surroundings as well as the rich cultural heritage of the region. Dal Lake houses floating gardens with a maximum depth of 20 feet, and it blooms with innumerable lotus flowers. The lake is ecologically rich in floating macrophytes and phytoplankton. It is also known for fishing, the second largest industry in the region.
Places to visit near Dal Lake
There are many places to visit near Dal Lake during the Srinagar trip, which one should add to their itinerary to make their trip memorable. Some of the popular destinations near Dal Lake are:
- Char Chinar
- Nigeen Lake
- Hari Parbat
- Hazratbal Shrine
- Pari Mahal
- Nishat Bagh
- Shalimar Bagh
- Shankaracharya Temple
Hotels to Stay near Dal Lake
Situated in the heart of Srinagar, Dal Lake is a popular tourist place among honeymooners, families, and solo travelers. There are numerous places near Dal Lake where tourists can stay and enjoy their Srinagar trip. Houseboats are among the best accommodation options near Dal Lake, which offer a unique experience. Some of the best places to stay near Dal Lake are:
- Impex Hill Resort
- Hotel Zaryab
- JKTDC Huts
- The Heritage Group of Houseboats
- Lake Palace Group of Houseboats
- Vivanta Dal View
- Hotel Himalayan Resort
- Royal Spring Golf Course Cottages
- The Grand Mamta
Enjoying the Shikara Ride in Dal lake is one of the best things to do while enjoying the Srinagar holiday. You can have the best of this city through our Srinagar tour packages, enjoy a vacation, and get a smooth travel experience.
