{"id":5122,"date":"2023-12-18T09:41:29","date_gmt":"2023-12-18T09:41:29","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kashmironline.com\/blog\/?p=5122"},"modified":"2024-10-14T12:34:56","modified_gmt":"2024-10-14T07:04:56","slug":"dal-lake-the-beauty-of-srinagar","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kashmironline.com\/blog\/dal-lake-the-beauty-of-srinagar\/","title":{"rendered":"Dal Lake: The Beauty of Srinagar"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Dal Lake one of the symbols representing the beauty of Kashmir, spreads over an area of 22 square kilometres. This freshwater lake is majestic in being large and having clear waters. The lake is located at the foothills of the Zabarwan hills which add to the beauty of the lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Dal Lake is the second largest lake in Kashmir. Having a rich aquatic flora and fauna, the lake serves as a major spot for fishing and aquaculture. Have a look at some important details of Dal Lake below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

History of Dal Lake<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dal Lake, believed by some to have taken its origin from tectonic activity in the area, finds its source in the Marsar Lake which flows down to form the Telbal Nallah and pur into the lake. Another source is the Jhelum River which pours some water into the lake. The lake hosts historic houseboats from many centuries and makes an important heritage of the Valley.<\/p>\n\n\n

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A view of Dal Lake from the newly constructed Foreshore Road. Source: Hindustan Times<\/a><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Attractions in Dal Lake<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dal Lake is home to many attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the highlights:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Houseboats:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The wooden houseboats are a dwelling place for the fishermen community of the Dal Lake. It has remained an object of historical importance. Houseboats serve as a special staying place for travellers that visit the valley, with lavish interiors and comfortable rooms, having every facility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shikara Rides: <\/h2>\n\n\n\n

A Shikara is a wooden boat used to navigate in the waters of Dal Lake. The soothing experience of a Shikara ride lists among the most beautiful ones in Kashmir. A Shikara is comfortable and provides a 360-degree view to enjoy in the lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Floating Gardens and Markets:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are few islands or floating gardens in Dal Lake. These serve as amazing spots for spending quality time in the lake. When moving to the insides of the lake, you will find many markets, operating on boats, like the famous vegetable market in Dal Lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mughal Gardens:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Located on the banks of Dal Lake, below the Zabarwan hills, rest some architectural marvels of the Mughal Era. These gardens are constructed on the slopes of Zabarwan hills in multiple terraces. Most of these gardens have water systems that bring water up to the highest terrace. The water flows then through canals, forming waterfalls and adding to the beauty.<\/p>\n\n\n

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A vista of the Char Chinari Island, located in the middle of the Dal Lake. Source: Kashmir Reader<\/a><\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n

Best Time to Visit Dal Lake<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The best time to visit Dal Lake is during the months of May to September. At this time the weather is mostly sunny and temperatures are in control. You may also visit in the wintertime to witness the freezing of the lake.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tips for Visiting Dal Lake<\/h2>\n\n\n\n