Here Are 8 Gorgeous Lakes To Explore In Kashmir Besides The Dal Lake!

Kashmir isn’t called ‘heaven on earth’ for nothing! It's blessed with an untouched beauty that makes the whole world swoon. Verdant plains, dense forests, snow clad peaks & flowing lakes; it has a lot to offer! And so, we bring to you the best lakes to explore in Kashmir:

1. Nigeen Lake

The quiet sibling of Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake is THE place to go for those looking for some me time! It's located away from the tourist hub and gives a tranquil view of the hills. Book a houseboat at Nigeen Lake instead of Dal Lake for a better experience. It's quite close to Hari Parbat and Hazratbal and so you can even take a shikara to the shrine!

Where | Srinagar

2. Wular Lake

One of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, this is a gorgeous place for spending afternoon picnics or playing a game of cricket, perhaps. Enjoy skiing and boating or just sit back and watch the fishermen cast their nets into the water to earn their livelihood. The lake is sustained by water from the Jhelum river. From here you can even visit nearby towns like Soppore and Lolab Valley, both famed for their rustic beauty.

Where | Bandipora District

3. Kausar Nag

A pristine lake surrounded by colossal peaks on all sides; it may remind you of some random desktop wallpaper downloaded from the internet. But Kausar Nag is the real deal! Flanked by the Pir Panjal Range, the lake is located at an elevation of 13,000 feet above sea level. You can also plan a trek from the effervescent Aharbal Falls to the lake.

Where | Kulgam

4. Manasbal Lake

Manasbal Lake is believed to be the deepest lake in India. It's home to a large lotus population, radiant and in full bloom! The 17th century Mughal Garden, Jaroka, faces the lovely lake. The fort, built by Nur Jahan, is of great historical significance and attracts several tourists. A short distance from Srinagar, it falls on the road to Ganderbal.

Where | Safapora, Ganderbal

5. Gangabal Lake

A visit to this lake can be quite the adventure. From Naranag, it's a 15 km trek to the lake. You can even take a pony ride to the lake but stopping to take pictures and moving at your own pace to soak in the beauty is a much preferred option. Surrounded by Mount Harmukh on all sides, the view is fantastic. The lake ultimately merges with the Sindh River.

Where | Ganderbal

6. Gadsar Lake

Yet another high altitude lake in Ganderbal, it's home to several fish, especially trout. It's majorly fed by melting glaciers and is surrounded by lush green meadows and so is commonly known as ‘Valley of Flowers’ owing to the vibrant array of flowers all around. The lake remains frozen from December to April and is a wonderful sight to behold!

Where | Ganderbal

7. Satsar Lake

The Satsar Lake is a coming together of 7 small lakes. Tourists are allowed only during the summers since it's rendered inaccessible due to heavy snowfall in winters. It's a great camping site and several trekkers make a pit-stop here to take in the mesmerizing view. If you’re lucky, you might even get to see Nanga Parbat and the POK territory!

Where | Near Sonmarg, Ganderbal

8. Nundkol Lake

Close to the Gangabal Lake, Nundkol Lake is also located at the foothills of Mount Harmukh. It receives water from Gangabal and the melting glaciers of Mount Harmukh. The dreamy meadows of Bad Pathri welcome several trekkers and isn’t too far from the lake. It falls on the Naranag Trek that goes through Gadsar Lake & Vishansar Lake so do give it a visit!

Where | Ganderbal

So grab your cameras and head to these splendid lakes!