There’s a Treasure of Lakes in Kashmir from World-Famous Dal Lake to Asia’s Largest Fresh Water Lake Wular and the likes of Beautiful Nigeen Lake, Manasbal, Nilnag and many more. A lake is an area of variable size filled with water, localized in a basin, that is surrounded by land, apart from any river or other outlet that serves to feed or drain the lake. Lakes lie on land and are a not part of the ocean, and therefore are distinct from lagoons, and are also larger and deeper than ponds, though there are no official or scientific definitions. Lakes can be contrasted with rivers or streams, which are usually flowing. Most lakes are fed and drained by rivers and streams.
Natural lakes in Kashmir are generally found in mountainous areas, rift zones, and areas with ongoing glaciation. Other lakes are found in endorheic basins or along the courses of mature rivers. In some parts of the world there are many lakes because of chaotic drainage patterns left over from the last Ice Age. All lakes are temporary over geologic time scales, as they will slowly fill in with sediments or spill out of the basin containing them.
There is considerable uncertainty about defining the difference between lakes and ponds, and no current internationally accepted definition of either term across scientific disciplines or political boundaries exists. For example, limnologists have defined lakes as water bodies which are simply a larger version of a pond, which can have wave action on the shoreline or where wind-induced turbulence plays a major role in mixing the water column.
None of these definitions completely excludes ponds and all are difficult to measure. For this reason, simple size-based definitions are increasingly used to separate ponds and lakes. One definition of lake is a body of water of 2 hectares or more in area; however, others have defined lakes as waterbodies of 5 hectares and above, or 8 hectares and above . Charles Elton, one of the founders of ecology, regarded lakes as waterbodies of 40 hectares or more.
The term lake is also used to describe a feature such as Lake Eyre, which is a dry basin most of the time but may become filled under seasonal conditions of heavy rainfall. In common usage, many lakes bear names ending with the word pond, and a lesser number of names ending with lake are in quasi-technical fact, ponds. One textbook illustrates this point with the following: “In Newfoundland, for example, almost every lake is called a pond, whereas in Wisconsin, almost every pond is called a lake.
Here’s a look at some of the most famous and lesser-known lakes in the region:
1. Dal Lake
- Location: Srinagar
- Famous For: Houseboats, Shikara rides, Floating markets
- Description: Perhaps the most iconic of Kashmir’s lakes, Dal Lake is often referred to as the “Jewel in the crown of Kashmir.” Its pristine waters, surrounded by the Himalayan mountains, are dotted with houseboats, shikaras, and floating gardens. The Mughal gardens along its banks add to its scenic charm.
2. Nigeen Lake
- Location: Srinagar (adjacent to Dal Lake)
- Famous For: Serene waters, houseboats
- Description: Sometimes considered an extension of Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake offers a quieter and more peaceful alternative to its busier neighbor. It’s known for its calm, clear waters and fewer tourists, making it perfect for a tranquil retreat.
3. Wular Lake
- Location: Bandipora district
- Famous For: Asia’s largest freshwater lake, birdwatching
- Description: Wular Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia and plays a crucial role in controlling the region’s flood waters. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, home to a variety of migratory birds, and offers spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.
4. Manasbal Lake
- Location: Ganderbal district
- Famous For: Scenic beauty, water lilies, ancient ruins
- Description: Often considered the deepest lake in Kashmir, Manasbal is surrounded by picturesque orchards and offers a peaceful atmosphere. The lake is famous for its lotus flowers and the ruins of ancient Mughal gardens nearby.
5. Gadsar Lake
- Location: Near Sonmarg
- Famous For: Trekking, alpine beauty, frozen winters
- Description: Known as the “Lake of Fishes,” Gadsar is a high-altitude alpine lake surrounded by snow-clad mountains. It’s accessible via trekking routes and is often frozen during the winter, adding to its mystic charm.
6. Vishansar Lake
- Location: Ganderbal district
- Famous For: Trekking, trout fishing
- Description: Vishansar Lake is a breathtaking alpine lake known for its crystal-clear waters and surrounding meadows. The lake, along with nearby Kishansar Lake, is a highlight for trekkers on the Great Lakes Trek in Kashmir.
7. Kishansar Lake
- Location: Ganderbal district (near Vishansar Lake)
- Famous For: Twin lake to Vishansar
- Description: Situated at a higher altitude than Vishansar, Kishansar Lake reflects the surrounding peaks in its calm waters, creating a mirror-like effect. It’s a popular camping spot for trekkers.
8. Tarsar and Marsar Lakes
- Location: Anantnag district
- Famous For: Trekking, twin alpine lakes
- Description: These twin lakes, nestled in the Aru Valley, are famous among trekkers for their emerald-green waters and surrounding mountain views. Tarsar and Marsar are often covered in mist, adding to their ethereal beauty.
9. Gangbal Lake
- Location: Near Harmukh Mountain
- Famous For: Trekking, camping, spiritual significance
- Description: Gangbal Lake is located at the foot of Mount Harmukh and is known for its serene beauty. It holds significant spiritual importance, especially for Kashmiri Pandits, who consider it sacred. The lake is also a popular stop on the Great Lakes Trek.
10. Satsar Lake
- Location: Ganderbal district
- Famous For: Chain of lakes
- Description: Satsar is a group of seven interconnected alpine lakes situated at high altitudes. They are part of the famous trekking routes and offer captivating views of the surrounding meadows and peaks.
11. Tso Moriri (Ladakh)
- Location: Ladakh (near the Kashmir border)
- Famous For: High-altitude beauty, migratory birds
- Description: Though technically in Ladakh, Tso Moriri is often included in lists of must-visit lakes near Kashmir. It’s known for its high-altitude beauty, crystal-clear waters, and surrounding wildlife.
Kashmir’s lakes are not only breathtaking in their beauty but also serve as a lifeline to the region’s ecology and economy, offering fishing, tourism, and water resources to the local population. Whether you’re interested in adventure, photography, or simply soaking in nature’s tranquility, the lakes of Kashmir provide a diverse and enchanting experience.