About Manasbal Lake
Opening Hours: 8:30 am to 8:00 pm
Prime Day & Hours: Any day of the week; 08:00 am - 03:00 pm
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
Tickets: Rs 20 per head
Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi, approx. 290 km away
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport, approx. 43 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Srinagar bus stop, 30 kilometres away
The stunning Manasbal Lake is located in the Ganderbal District of Jammu and Kashmir. It is believed to be named after the sacred Lake Manasarovar. At roughly 13 meters (43 feet) deep, Manasbal Lake is seemingly the deepest lake in India. It is situated amidst the villages of Jarokbal, Kondabal, and Ganderbal.
If you’re looking to explore the beauty of this serene destination, there are many Kashmir tour packages that include a visit to Manasbal Lake, allowing you to experience its natural charm with ease
During the months of July and August, the lotus flowers that bloom along the shores of the lake, along with the clear waters of the lake, enhance its beauty. To add to the allure of the lake, Nur Jahan, the wife of Mughal Emperor Jahangir, constructed the Mughal Garden known as Jaroka, meaning ‘bay window’. The beautiful and colourful garden makes the lake appear all the more gorgeous.
The lake is a haven for bird enthusiasts, standing out as one of the biggest natural homes for waterfowl in Kashmir. Often called the "crown jewel of all Kashmir lakes," it draws in a wide variety of bird species.
Manasbal Lake Highlights
• Indulge in stunning vistas of the crystal-clear Manasbal Lake, set amidst verdant greenery and towering snow-clad Himalayan mountains.
• Enjoy a serene Shikara boat ride across the calm waters, basking in the quiet and scenic atmosphere of the pristine Manasbal Lake.
• Discover the ancient Jharokha Bagh, a beautiful Mughal Garden showcasing a rare fusion of history, architecture, and nature.
• Enjoy the mesmerizing views of sunrises and sunsets gleaming over the serene waters, making it an ideal photographic moment.
How To Reach Manasbal Lake
By Road: The Manasbal Lake is 30 km from Srinagar Bus Stop, it will take 48 min via Bandipora Srinagar Road.
Best Time To Visit Manasbal Lake
Peak Season (April-September)
- Weather Insights: pleasant weather, scenic lake
- Things to Do: Sightseeing, boating, photography, fishing
Moderate Season (October-November)
- Weather Insights: cooler temperatures but still comfortable
- Things to Do: sightseeing, photography
Low Season (December-March)
- Weather Insights: Extremely cold weather, possibilities of snowfall
- Things to Do: photography
Manasbal Lake Other Essential Information
Why Visit?
- Manasbal Lake, the "supreme gem of all Kashmir lakes," is a peaceful retreat in the vicinity of Srinagar.
- Decked with lotus flowers and rimmed with Mughal gardens, the lake showcases crystal-clear water and turns out to be a peaceful haven.
- Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy many adventurous activities at Manasbal Lake. Water skiing is one such activity that can be enjoyed during your trip to Manasbal Lake.
- The other activities you can enjoy here include Shikara rides and boating on the tranquil waters of the lake.
Know Before You Go
- Get the mandatory fishing permit from the Department of Fisheries, Jammu and Kashmir if you have plans to ship at the Manasbal Lake. Also, carry your own fishing gear like bait, reels, and rods.
- While boating or shipping stay within the designated areas and avoid the deep areas of the lake.
- Visit the lake during the post-monsoon periods to enjoy the beauty of the lake surrounded by lush greenery.
- Pack warm clothes because the nights may be pretty cold even in the summer.
- Carry the best camera with you to click some truly memorable pictures.
- Visit the lake around July and August to visualize lotus flowers blooming on the lake.
Enjoy Fishing at Manasbal Lake
Several fish species thrive in the picturesque Manasbal Lake, making this lake an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts. Carps and trout fishes abound in the lake letting you catch as many as you want. However, you must carry your fishing gear to enjoy fishing at Manasbal Lake.
Experience the thrill of bird-watching
Bird watching is another leisure activity you can enjoy at the Manasbal Lake. The lake offers a habitat for a variety of migratory birds that flock thickly at the lakeside. More than 50 species of aquatic birds may be seen here. The most common species include Himalayan Griffin, Eurasian Wigeon, Northern Shoveler.
Tourism Board Alliances
Manasbal Lake FAQs
Is it possible to take a day trip to Manasbal Lake from Srinagar?
Yes, Manasbal Lake is ideal for a day trip from Srinagar. The journey takes nearly an hour, and you can explore the beauty of the lake, enjoy boating, and have a picnic with your loved ones before returning.
What type of fauna and flora is found at the Manasbal Lake?
The lake abounds in various types of aquatic plants and Lotus flowers. It also functions as a habitat for a wide variety of fish species. Furthermore, the lake is home to various types of migratory birds such as grebes, herons, and kingfishers.
Does visiting Manasbal Lake require you to pay an entry fee?
No, you are not required to pay any entry fee to visit Manasbal Lake. However, you may have to pay charges for activities like water sports or boating.
What are the places to visit near Manasbal Lake?
The main places to visit near Manasbal Lake are Jaroka Bagh, Wular Lake, Sonamarg, and Kheer Bhawani Temple.
Is Manasbal Lake safe for travellers?
Yes, Manasbal Lake is safe for travellers. However, you must always follow the local rules and guidelines and stay updated with the latest travel advisories for a hazard free travel experience.
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