A Complete Guide to Dal Lake

You can understand the beauty of Dal Lake from the fact that it is referred to as the Jewel in the crown of Kashmir. Located in Srinagar, this lake is popular for its breathtaking views, floating markets and impressive houseboats. When you visit this lake, you can expect a combination of engaging in adventure activities, exploring cultural heritage and enjoying the natural beauty of the surrounding hills. If you are planning a visit to this lake, this post will help you gain a lot of knowledge:

Dal Lake – An Introduction

Dal Lake, as mentioned earlier, is located in Srinagar. This city is the summer capital of the state of Jammu & Kashmir. This freshwater lake is located in the Indian-administered Kashmir region. It holds the pride of being the second-largest lake in Jammu and Kashmir. It is one of the most-visited places in Srinagar. Not only tourists but also locals visit this place in large numbers.

Dal Lake is an integral part of recreation and tourism in the Kashmir Valley. This lake is also referred to as the Lake of Flowers and Srinagar’s Jewel. In Srinagar, this lake functions as an important source of water plant harvesting and fishing.

How to Reach?

As you know, you can reach Srinagar where Dal Lake is located by different means of transportation. Read on to gain more knowledge in this regard:

By Bus

If you wish to travel by bus, you can find many JKSRTC Buses operated from different parts of Jammu that take you to Dal Lake. In particular, you can find buses from Srinagar to Dal Lake. If you are travelling from other parts of India, you can reach Srinagar by bus or any other convenient mode. Thereafter, you can take a bus to reach Dal Lake.

By Train

Do you wish to travel by train? If so, you will have to take a train to Jammu Tawi Railway Station. This is the nearest railway station to Dal Lake. It is located around 270 km away from the lake. However, this railway station is connected well to major cities across India. So, from this railway station, you can travel to the lake by bus or you can hire a taxi.

If you cannot find direct trains from your hometown to Jammu Tawi, you can book connecting trains from the IRCTC Website or app.

Check out my post on Sonmarg: The Golden Meadow of Kashmir.

By Flight

The nearest airport to Dal Lake is Sheikh Ul-Alam International Airport. This airport is located around 15 km from Dal Lake. So, travelling from this airport to Dal Lake is easy. You can find public buses, or you can also cover this distance by hiring a cab. Regular flights from major Indian cities like Bangalore, Mumbai and Delhi reach the Srinagar Airport.

By Car

If you are travelling from nearby cities, you can choose to drive your car to reach Dal Lake. The drive on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway will be a pleasant experience. However, the journey from Jammu will take around 8-10 hours. When you drive on the Jammu-Srinagar Highway, you will pass through tunnels and valleys.

Key Attractions and Things To Do

Before you begin your journey to Dal Lake, you will be interested in knowing about the key attractions and things to do. Here are some details in this regard:

Shikara Ride

Dal Lake is synonymous with Shikara Rides. People from different parts of India visit this lake mainly to enjoy these rides. Shikaras are traditional wooden boats. The boats gliding over serene waters enhance the beauty of the lake. When riding on this lake, you will get stunning views of the vibrant houseboats and snow-capped mountains.

Staying in Houseboats

Yet another experience to get when you visit Dal Lake is to book a stay in a houseboat. If you have stayed in a houseboat in Kerala, you will experience that a stay in a houseboat in Dal Lake is different. The houseboats in Dal Lake are decorated in traditional Kashmiri décor. They are provided with modern amenities. You are sure to get a peaceful retreat on the lake. This stay is ideal not only for honeymooners but also for families.

Explore the Floating Markets

Do you love to shop? If so, the floating markets of Dal Lake will provide you with an exceptional shopping experience. You will find local vendors selling fresh produce, souvenirs and handicrafts from their boats. Particularly, they begin their sales early in the morning.

Visit the Mughal Gardens

When you visit Dal Lake, make sure to dedicate time to visiting the popular Mughal Gardens near the lake. Yes, gardens like Chashme Shahi, Nishat Bagh and  Shalimar Bagh are located along the Dal Lake. These gardens are ideal for relaxing in the middle of fountains and attractive flowers.

Water Sports

Do you love adventure activities? Then, you should participate in adventure activities like:

• Water Zorbing
• Parasailing
• Speed Boat Riding
• Dunk Boating
• Aqua Cycle
• Banana Boat Ride
• Jet Ski

Visit the Hazratbal Shrine

This religious site is located near the lake. It is popular not only for its spiritual importance but also for its impressive white marble architecture.

Best Time & Season to Visit

Only when you choose the right time to visit Dal Lake, you can enjoy your trip completely, can’t you? So, here is what you should know about the best time to visit:

The ideal time to visit Dal Lake is between March and November. During this season, the weather will be pleasant. Also, the lake will look more attractive with lotus flowers.

• The summer season between March and June is the best time to visit. You can take Shikara rides and you can explore the gardens. This season is ideal for sightseeing.
• The autumn season in this region is between September and November. During this season, you can get spectacular views of clear skies and golden chinar trees.
• Tourists often avoid the winter season between December and February. However, if you love snow, you can choose to visit Dal Lake this season. During this season, the lake freezes, thereby creating a magical winter wonderland.

Duration To See

Naturally, you will be interested in knowing the number of days you can spend in Dal Lake. For your information, if you wish to see the lake alone, you need only 2 to 5 hours. However, for a more comprehensive experience, you can plan to stay overnight in a houseboat on this lake.

Best Restaurants & Cafes

Here are the names of a few restaurants near Dal Lake, where you can try out different dishes:

• Hotel Mughal Darbar & Restaurant
• Earthen Oven Restaurant
• Lhasa Restaurant
• Nathu Sweets
• Bistro Boulevard by Pincer Foods
• Kareem’s Restaurant

Where to Stay? Best Resorts

• Kashmir Mahal Resorts
• Triumph Houseboats
• Fortune Resort Heaven
• Hillscape Inn
• Jamal Resorts
• New Zamrood
• Hotel Mehtab Resorts Srinagar
• Hotel Grand Mahal

Entry Fee and Ticket Prices

There is no entry fee to gain access to the Dal Lake. However, activities like Shikara Rides, and houseboat stays will cost you somewhere between Rs.500 and Rs.15000. Also, you will have to pay a small entry fee for Mughal Garden visits.

FAQ

What Foods Should I Try Near Dal Lake?

Do not miss the traditional tea called Kahwa. Also, you can try other authentic dishes like Kashmiri Pulao, Dum Aloo and Rogan Josh.

Are There Any Restrictions To Tourists Visiting the Dal Lake?

There is no restriction as such. Nevertheless, tourists are expected to respect environmental guidelines and local customs. Avoid littering in the lake considering the atmosphere.

Is Dal Lake Very Deep?

The lake covers an area of 18 square km. The depth differs based on the season. However, the depth ranges between 1.5 metres and 6 metres.

Can I Plan My Visit To Dal Lake During Winter?

Yes, during the winter, you can see a different angle of Dal Lake. The reason is that during this season, the lake is partially frozen. The snowy landscape will be good to watch.

Is Dal Lake Safe for Tourists To Visit?

Yes, you can feel safe visiting the lake. Proper security measures are in place here. Nevertheless, before you plan your visit, do not forget to check the latest travel advisories. This will ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable journey.

Do Houseboats In Dal Lake Serve Food to Guests?

Yes, some houseboats are equipped with facilities like multiple bedrooms, a living room and also a kitchen. You will be served fresh meals every time during your stay in these houseboats.

Conclusion

Dal Lake is an ideal destination to visit in Srinagar. It offers an ideal combination of adventure activities, cultural exploration and natural beauty. You have the option to get a different experience staying in the houseboats. Exploring the surrounding regions is an experience that will relax you for sure. Most importantly, Shikara rides on this lake will take you to a different world.  So, using this guide plan your trip to the Dal Lake today. You can experience the enchanting beauty of the Crown Jewel of Kashmir.

Check out my other posts on Kashmir and Srinagar:

How Are Houseboats of Kerala and Kashmir Different?
Kashmir Itinerary – Trip to heaven in 7 Days
Gardens of Heaven – 6 more reasons to visit Srinagar
Drass Travel Guide – What to Expect from Drass
Gondola Gulmarg – Second Highest Cable Car in the World