Beyond Dal: Discovering Kashmir’s Hidden Lakes for Families & Adventure Seekers

Kashmir is more than its postcard‑perfect Dal Lake. Far from the usual tourist spots, sprawling wetlands and alpine pools shimmer like mirrors amid the Himalayan peaks. In this guide we explore Wular and Manasbal – two jewels that remain off most travellers’ radar – and offer ideas for those craving high‑altitude adventures. Whether you’re planning a lazy shikara ride with kids or trekking to alpine lakes, this blog has you covered.

Why explore Kashmir’s lesser‑known lakes?

While Dal and Nigeen draw the crowds, Wular and Manasbal offer quieter, more authentic experiences. Wular Lake is one of Asia’s largest freshwater lakes, once covering more than 200 square kilometres. Its marshes support traditional fishing communities and absorb floodwaters from the Jhelum River, preventing catastrophic flooding in Srinagar. Manasbal Lake, about 13 metres deep, is considered the deepest lake in Kashmir and is ringed by lotus gardens and a historic Mughal garden built by Nur Jahan. Both lakes attract a rich variety of migratory birds and provide peaceful settings for boating and picnics.

For adventure lovers, the alpine Great Lakes trek offers a string of crystal‑clear lakes – Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar, Satsar, Gangabal and Nundkol. The 68 km trail starts near Sonamarg and climbs to Gadsar Pass (4,190 m), rewarding trekkers with views of snow‑capped peaks and meadows. Families with children can still enjoy day trips to Wular or Manasbal without strenuous hiking, making Kashmir’s lake circuit appealing to all kinds of travellers.

Sample itinerary – 4 days around Wular & Manasbal

Day 1 – Srinagar → Wular Lake (Bandipora)

• Drive from Srinagar (1.5–2 hrs) through saffron fields and apple orchards. Hire a private taxi so you can stop at viewpoints along the way.
• Watlab Hill & Baba Shukurddin shrine: Climb the hill for panoramic views of Wular Lake and visit the Sufi shrine that overlooks the water.
• Boat ride & village visit: Explore floating lotus gardens and meet fishermen who harvest nadru (lotus stems) and snow‑trout. Buy fresh fish from local vendors.
• Overnight: Stay in Bandipora or return to Srinagar.

Day 2 – Wular wetlands & birdwatching

• Early‑morning birdwatching: Winter brings greylag geese, pintails and rare raptors like the Pallas’s fish eagle. Carry binoculars and go out between 7 – 10 AM.
• Picnic at Wular Eco Park: Enjoy local snacks while kids play in the park. Try fried fish, nadru monje (lotus stem fritters) and Kashmiri kahwa – a warming green tea with saffron and cardamom.
• Return to Srinagar in the afternoon.

Day 3 – Srinagar → Manasbal Lake

• Drive 30 km (≈ 48 mins) north via the Bandipora–Srinagar road. Manasbal is ideal for a day trip – there’s no entry fee and parking is available.
• Shikara & water‑sport fun: Hire a colourful shikara or small motorboat; water skiing is popular in peak season. You can also fish with a permit; carry your own rods and follow safety guidelines.
• Jaroka Bagh garden: This Mughal garden, built by Nur Jahan, frames the lake like a balcony. Stroll among chinar trees and lotus ponds, especially in July–August when the flowers bloom.
• Birdwatching: Over 50 species of aquatic birds visit Manasbal, including Himalayan griffon vultures and Eurasian wigeons. Bring a camera to capture sunset over the lake.

Day 4 – Optional adventure: Alpine lakes trek

For avid hikers and travel agents designing adventure packages, the Kashmir Great Lakes trek is a must. The 6‑7 day trek covers 68 km, passes through high meadows, and reveals turquoise lakes like Vishansar, Krishansar, Gadsar and Gangabal. June – September is the best season. Hire a local guide, acclimatize properly and carry tents and supplies. Families may opt for pony rides to Thajiwas Glacier in Sonamarg instead.

Travel tips

• Choose the right season: Spring (April–June) offers wildflowers and pleasant weather, while autumn (September–October) shows Wular’s flood‑control role. Winters are harsh; lakes may freeze and roads can close.
• Pack wisely: Carry warm layers even in summer as lake areas can be breezy. Use sun protection at higher altitudes. Bring binoculars for birdwatching and waterproof bags for electronics.
• Respect local culture: Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering shrines. Avoid political discussions – Kashmir is a sensitive region. Always ask before photographing people, and never photograph security personnel.
• Avoid scams: Agree on boat or taxi prices beforehand. Government boards display tariff lists at major spots – refer to them to avoid overcharging.
• Connectivity & permits: Only Indian post‑paid mobile numbers work in Kashmir, though many guesthouses offer Wi‑Fi. Obtain fishing permits from the Fisheries Department. Hire union cabs at Pahalgam, Sonamarg or Gulmarg if you plan further excursions.
• Support conservation: Wular Lake is a Ramsar‑listed wetland. Avoid littering, don’t pluck lotus flowers and follow your guide’s instructions.

Cultural highlights & food

• Sufi shrines: Visit the serene Baba Shukurddin shrine overlooking Wular Lake. Many travellers also stop at the Kheer Bhawani Temple near Manasbal – a sacred Hindu temple surrounded by chinar trees.
• Mughal heritage: The Jaroka Bagh at Manasbal was commissioned by Nur Jahan. Nearby, the ruins of a Mughal fort and caravanserai testify to the valley’s rich history.
• Fishing villages: Wular’s shoreline is dotted with traditional villages where locals harvest lotus stems, water chestnuts and snow trout. Chat with fisherfolk and try nadru yakhni (lotus stem in yogurt gravy).
• Kashmiri cuisine: Don’t leave without sampling:
• Rogan Josh: Aromatic lamb curry with yogurt and Kashmiri chillies.
• Gushtaba: Meatballs simmered in a creamy yogurt gravy.
• Dum Aloo: Potatoes cooked in spicy tomato‑yogurt gravy (great vegetarian option).
• Yakhni: Yogurt‑based lamb or chicken stew.
• Kahwa: Green tea with saffron and cardamom – perfect on chilly mornings.
• Seekh Kebabs & Shufta: Grilled skewers of spiced meat and a rich dessert of dry fruits.

Must‑visit spots near Wular & Manasbal

Get in touch & plan your trip

At Travel Execute, we specialise in custom Kashmir packages for families, honeymooners, travel agents and adventure seekers. From quiet boat rides on Wular to multi‑day treks in the high Himalayas, our local team will craft an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.

• WhatsApp us: Click to chat on WhatsApp or call +91 95419 55509
• Email: info@travelexecute.com
• Visit us: Srinagar, Kashmir

Ready to explore the hidden lakes of Kashmir? Contact us today and let’s start planning your unforgettable journey!