Surinsar Lake, a picturesque freshwater lake located at a distance of 42 km from the Jammu City is a tranquil retreat bordered by dense forests, mangroves and rolling hills. It is one of the twin lakes in Jammu, the other one being the Mansar Lake, 9 km away.
A fascinating history of several centuries complements the beauty of the enchanting Surinsar Lake, which is also mythologically and spiritually significant. The lake, along with Mansar Lake, is regarded as a crucial Ramsar Site. If you're planning to visit, exploring Kashmir tour packages can help you experience the region's beauty to the fullest.
Local legends say that this stunning lake was created when Babhruvahana, the son of Arjuna, shot an arrow to dig a tunnel into the ground. As a result, the lake has a deep connection with the Hindu epic Mahabharata. In ancient times, it was called Surangsar, which later became Surinsar. Today, the lake is a significant tourist attraction, a popular picnic spot, and a revered pilgrimage destination visited by many daily. Its serene charm also makes it a romantic stop often featured in Kashmir honeymoon packages.
1. Prime Day & Hours: Any day of the week, 07:00 AM - 06:00 PM)
2. Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours
3. Tickets: Free Entry
4. Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi, 46.5 km away)
5. Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (IXJ), 50 km away
6. Nearest Bus Stop: Jammu Bus Stop, 42 km
• Enjoy the spectacular natural allure of the beautiful Surinsar Lake surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and a tranquil ambiance.
• Visit the adventure park ‘Tawi Adventure’ located near Surinsar Lake to enjoy various activities like trampolines, giant swings, etc.
• Explore the surrounding forests rich in fauna and flora discovering many exotic plants and animals unique to that region.
• Visit the nearby shrines and temples such as the Sheshnag shrine, Umapati Mahadev Temple, Narasimha Temple, etc.
• Immerse yourself in the beauty of the lake at sunrise and sunset. Photograph the panoramic views and create great memories.
By Road: The Surinsar Lake is 42 km from Jammu, it will take 1 hour and 15 minutes via the Jammu-Surinsar-Mansar Road
1. Peak Season (October – March)
2. Moderate Season (July – September)
3. Low Season (April – June)
Know Before You Go
This sprawling wildlife sanctuary is located between the two lakes- Surinsar and Mansar. The sanctuary is home to 15 species of avifauna and 3 important mammalian species. It covers an area of about 98 square kilometres. Catch glimpses of diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty by visiting this wildlife sanctuary.
Enjoying the breathtaking sights of the Lotus flowers growing in the waters of the lake is indeed a memorable sight. Innumerable Lotus blossoms cover the surface of the lake in the summer months. Any passionate photographer will perhaps be waiting for this!
The oval-shaped Surinsar Lake has a maximum depth of 24.04 meters. It has a little island 40 km away with a maximum length of 888 m by 444 m with alkaline water (pH 7.2 to 8.9).
The lake is said to be nearly 12000 years old. Its actual depth is still unknown. The waters of the lake are considered to be holy with healing powers.
During the era of the Mahabharata, it is believed that Arjun's son (a renowned warrior in the Mahabharata) launched a mystical arrow into the earth at Surinsar.
The sacred Surinsar Lake drains into the Tawi River flowing nearby.
The two main festivals celebrated near the Surinsar Lake are the Surinsar Lake festival and the Surinsar Bird Festival. Musical programs, cultural events, adventurous activities, and laser shows are organized during the Surinsar Lake Festival. Lake walks, bird walks and speeches on the importance of protecting birds are organized during the bird festival.