Lakes in Jammu and Kashmir – Jammu and Kashmir often referred to ‘Heaven on Earth’ due to its mesmerising natural beauty. Famously known for its breathtaking valleys, vast landscapes and snow-capped mountain peaks, it attracts tourists from all around the World. The beautiful state is also home to many picturesque lakes that also attracts lots of crowds here.

Further, by visiting all these lakes in Jammu and Kashmir considered as the best way to explore the rich natural beauty of the state. Set amidst snow-capped mountains and sweeping plains, these lakes create a peaceful environment that soothes every tourist’s eyes. In addition, the lakes also play an important role in the tourism sector of Jammu and Kashmir. So here is the list of some most fascinating lakes in Jammu and Kashmir that lure tourist with their mesmerising beauty.

Top 9 Most Magnificent Lakes in Jammu and Kashmir That Can’t be Missed –

1. Dal Lake –

Dal lake is an important landmark of Srinagar and also known as the ‘Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir’. The picturesque lake is also famous for its houseboats and Shikaras boat ride. Every year thousands of tourist came here to visit this lake thus it is considered to be one of the must-visit tourist attractions in Srinagar. Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan mountains and lush green gardens, the beauty of this lake make it a great sight to behold.

The lake offers an amazing experience of Shikara boat ride and houseboat homestay. Further, it is an ideal site for many water sports activities such as swimming, kayaking, canoeing, angling and water surfing. In addition, the beautiful lake also picturized in many Bollywood films as it attracts several filmmakers for its scenic beauty. Moreover, one of the most visited and second largest lakes in Kashmir that catch every tourist attention.

2. Pangong Lake –

Undoubtedly, Pangong Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in Jammu and Kashmir hence always remains on the top priority of tourist. Also known as Pangong Tso Lake, it is set an altitude of 4350 m above sea level. Set amidst beautiful golden plains and snow-capped peaks in the backdrop, it is a magical sight to watch.

Located in Ladakh about a distance of 140 km from Leh, the lake extends from India to China. Further, it is an ideal spot for the birdwatcher too as the lake attracts lots of migratory birds. Away from that, it is a perfect place for nature lovers and photographers as well as campers. The scenic lake gets huge popularity after a famous Bollywood movie 3 Idiots that was shot here in the year 2009. There are many other beautiful lakes in Ladakh which are mentioned below.

3. Wular Lake –

Listed as one of the largest freshwater lakes in India as well as in entire Asia, Wullar Lake is a worth visiting tourist place in Srinagar. Spread over an area of 150 sq km, the lake draws lots of tourists attention due to its surrounding natural beauty. The main source of water in this lake is the flood water of the River Jhelum and it also protects the entire Kashmir valley.

There is also a small island in the middle of the lake known as ‘Zaina Lank’ which was built by the king Zain-ul-Abidin. Further, the beautiful lake also inhabited by several species of fishes like a rosy barb, common carp and mosquito fish. The lake attracts birdwatcher enthusiast to as it is situated near the famous Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary. In conclusion, one of the best lakes of Jammu and Kashmir that must be checked out when you are in Kashmir.

4. Tso Moriri Lake –

Situated at an altitude of 4522 m above sea level, Tso Moriri Lakes is one of the highest altitude lakes in Jammu and Kashmir. Literally, translate to ‘Mountain Lake’, it is a glacial lake formed by the melting ice of mountains. Located at Changthang Plateau, the scenic lake also famous for its unique flora and fauna.

Located at Changthang Plateau, the scenic lake also famous for its unique flora and fauna as the luckiest one can get a chance to spot Black-necked crane, Snow leopard and Tibetan wolf. The lake is only accessible during the summer months as rest of months the entire area covered with heavy snow. Further, it is an ideal sight of night camping whereas one can get the mesmerising view of Rupso Valley on the way to this lake.

5. Nagin Lake –

Located in the backdrop of famous Dal Lake, Nagin Lake is widely known for its breathtaking views and peaceful atmosphere. Lies in the foothills of Zabarwan Mountain range, the lake offers an amazing experience of houseboat homestay and shikara boat ride. The lake also popular for its floating markets sailing different items such as fruit, nuts, fresh flowers, woollen shawls, silk carpets, leather goods etc. Flanked by beautiful willow and poplar trees, the lake offers you serene and peaceful holiday vacation in Jammu and Kashmir. So among all other Kashmir lakes, it is one of the most charming and serene ones and has a valid reason to visit it.

6. Mansar Lake –

For the nature lovers and peace seekers, Mansar Lake is a popular excursion destination in Jammu. Surrounded by forest-covered hills and breathtaking scenery, it is a popular picnic spot where one can indulge in various recreational activities. Boating facility also available at this lake which is organised by the tourism department of Jammu and Kashmir.

There is also a Sheshnag Temple on the shore of the lake and it houses a figure of a snake with six heads. So along with serene beauty, the site has great religious significance hence visited by lots of devotees. A famous Food and Crafts Festival also organised at this lake every year that attracts lots of local and tourist alike. By keeping all these facts in mind, we placed it in the list of all famous lakes in Jammu and Kashmir.

7. Tso Kar Lake –

Tso Kar Lake is another popular lake of Ladakh region which is located in Rupshu Valley at an elevation of 14,700 ft above sea level. Known as the white salt lake due to the presence of a heavy amount of salt in the water. Further, it is a picture-perfect location which offers the countless option to professional photographers. The wetland area of Tso Kar lake is also home to several wildlife species and bird species. So it is a paradise of nature lovers and wildlife lovers that makes it a worth visiting site in Ladakh. Unlike all other Jammu and Kashmir Lakes, it is a place to just sit back and relax in the lap of nature.

8. Tulian Lake –

Located at a distance of 12 km from Baisaran and 16 km from Pahalgam, Tulian Lake leaves every tourist mesmerized with its stunning beauty. Set an altitude of 3350 m above sea level, the lake can be accessed by taking a trekking route from Baisaran and Aru. Further, one can also take a pony ride to reach there and it will be an amazing experience in itself. Surrounded by snow-capped mountain on three sides, the beauty of this region makes you fall in love with this place. So with all these things together, it is a notable attraction in the list of beautiful lakes in Jammu and Kashmir. As the lake remains frozen for most of the year, so one can visit this lake in summer months.

9. Gangabal Lake –

Situated in the foothills of Haramukh Mountain, Gangabal lake is also known as the Haramukh Ganga. The scenic lake set an elevation of 3750 m above sea level, thus it offers many spectacular views. Nestled amidst snow-covered peaks and beautiful meadow, it is a nature lover paradise. Besides that, one can see the variety of fishes in the lake including brown trout and rainbow. Further, it can be accessed by taking a 15 km long trek route from Vishansar and Krishnasar Lake and Bandipore town. So along with scenic beauty, it is an adventure seeker paradise too as the site offers an unforgettable experience of trekking.

So these are the most beautiful lakes in Jammu and Kashmir which are mostly preferred by the tourist. Further, all these lakes serve as an important part of Jammu and Kashmir Tourism. In addition, these majestic lakes give you beautiful insight into the rich natural beauty of Kashmir Valley and also offers lots of adventure opportunity to tourists.

The post 9 Most Beautiful Lakes in Jammu and Kashmir That You Must Check Out appeared first on Travelnearby.com.