About Srinagar
Srinagar is one of the most iconic and popular places to visit in Jammu and Kashmir. Also known as the ‘Jewel of Kashmir’, it is famous for its dynamic beauty, houseboats, floating gardens and stunning Himalayan views. Include Srinagar in your Kashmir packages to enjoy a soothing shikara ride, glide past some floating gardens and admire the traditional wooden houseboats. You will also get to witness the floating market, in which vendors on different shikaras sell fresh produce, snacks, flowers and even handicrafts. You can interact with the locals, and enjoy shopping for some memorable souvenirs.
Mon-Fri, 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Free Entry
2-3 hours approximately
Srinagar Highlights
- Admire the scenic beauty of Dal Lake, ‘the crown jewel of Kashmir’, surrounded by lush greenery and snow-capped peaks.
- Glide across the lake in a traditional shikara boat, exploring the unique floating gardens, ‘Raad’, and the vibrant local life on the water.
- Shop from the iconic floating markets, selling fresh produce, handicrafts, spices and flowers.
- Spend the night in an intricately carved wooden houseboat and experience Kashmir’s warm hospitality.
- Visit the Mughal-era gardens surrounding the lake like Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh for rich cultural insights.
How To Reach
By Road: Dal Lake is located at a distance of around 14 km from the city centre of Srinagar. You can easily reach the attraction by car with a short 26-minute ride, via Boulevard Road.
- Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station, 22 km away
- Nearest Airport: Sheikh Ul Alam Airport, 24 km away
- Nearest Bus Stop: TRC Bus Stop, 10 km away
Best Time To Visit
Other Essential Information
- Dal is not a single lake, it comprises four smaller interconnected lakes- Gagribal, Lokut Dal, Bod Dal, and Nagin.
- It is believed that Dal Lake once used to be a glacial lake, while others believe that it is a result of the flooding of the Jhelum River.
- The lake is home to around 50,000 people and everything here floats, including shops, schools and ATMs.
- The lake’s floating post office, the only one in the world, has operated from a houseboat since British colonial times.
- Remember to carry warm clothes in all seasons as the temperature drops significantly at night.
- Book your houseboats in advance, especially during peak season, to ensure availability and better options.
- Feel free to negotiate for the shikara rides to ensure a good deal and avoid paying extra.
- Maintain the serenity of the environment and avoid littering in the lake.
Dal Lake Ticketing Option
Shikara Ride
Srinagar
Gondola Ride
Gulmarg
Jet Skiing
Dal Lake
