All The Good Reasons To Book Tickets To Dal Lake Srinagar
With a scenic backdrop that soothes both the mind and soul, Dal Lake Srinagar is a major attraction. Kashmir Valley, since its inception, has captivated every person’s mind that has been there.
Nestled on the banks of the Jhelum River, Kashmir boasts ample lakes, including Dal Lake, Anchar Lake, and Nagin Lake. While you might think that’s all, the magnificent snow-capped peaks await you!
So, what are you waiting for? By the end of this article, you’d want to book your tickets to Kashmir. Without further ado, let’s get started quickly!
An Overview Of Dal Lake and Kashmir
Srinagar, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir, is rated as the number #1 tourist spot in India. The urban lake is titled “Srinagar’s Jewel” and “the jewel in the crown of Kashmir” for obvious reasons.
The lake has a steep shoreline that expands for 15.5 kilometers and is adjoined by a boulevard. It will certainly remind you of the Mughal-era gardens, houseboats, and hotels.
If you feel bored by constantly viewing the lake scenery, take a leisurely stroll at Nishat and Shalimar Bagh. Both are Mughal gardens made during the rule of Mughal Emperor Jahangir.
Rest a bit in the colorful and flowery shikaras, passing through the Dal Lake. Unfortunately, the lake freezes during the winter season as the temperature falls below -10℃.
The floating gardens around Dal Lake are termed very fondly “Raad” by Kashmiris. The sight of lotus flowers blooming all over it is a sight worth watching.
Furthermore, the wetland is divided into four small basins- Lokut Dal, Nagin, Bod Dal and Gagribal. Later, Nagin Lake was declared as an independent lake.
Reasons Why Visiting Dal Lake Srinagar Is An Absolute Must
Jahangir was right when he said,
“Gar firdaus, ruhe zamin ast, hamin asto, hamin asto, hamin ast.”
It is loosely translated as- if there is heaven on earth, it is here, in Kashmir. From fascinating spots to an incredible culture, Kashmir, in general, ticks all the necessary boxes for a vacation.
1. Surreal Beauty
There is a reason why I used the adjective “surreal” to describe Srinagar’s beauty. I know there are ample words that could have been used here. But Kashmir has a few sights, including Dal Lake, that do not look real.
When I visited it in April, the blossoming trees, decorated shikaras, and migrating birds made the place look straight out of a painting. Whether it’s the saffron fields or apple orchards, your eyes will get hooked.
If you are around Dal Lake, do not forget to visit Pahalgam, Gulmarg, and Sonmarg. These destinations are equally mesmerizing, and you can never get enough of these sites.
2. Remarkable Weather
While the rest of the world experiences a cruel summer, Srinagar enjoys a calm and pleasant climate. The best time to visit it is from March to May when you will enjoy a sight full of beautiful flowers, maple trees, and green fields.
These months also let you enjoy the best of the Kashmir Valley because the weather is pleasurable. However, if you are a snow-lover, try visiting the valley during October-December.
Who doesn’t love to view the snow-capped mountains? But it is important to be careful because winters are also the time when major landslides happen in Kashmir.
3. Lots Of Adventure!
The Himalayas adjoined with Peer Panjar peaks won’t let you sit in peace. Dal Lake Srinagar is the best location for adventure enthusiasts as they get to participate in hiking and camping.
Wait, that’s not all!
You also get to paragliding, horseback riding, and skiing in places like Hari Perbat and Shankaracharya Hill. Spend some time with your significant other by taking part in heart-racing adventures.
Yousmarg Trel, Aru Valley, and Kolahoi Glacier also offer trekking options for adventurers. Lake Vishansar, Lake Gangabar, and Lake Kishansar are also loved by tourists. So, what’s stopping you from visiting this heavenly destination?
4. A Unique Chance Of Bringing Out Your Spiritual Side
Your religious side is most likely to thank you if you visit Srinagar. The place has shrines and spiritual sites for both Muslim and Hindu practitioners.
For Hindus, the best places to visit are the Kheer Bhawani Temple, Durga Nag Temple, Jyesththeshvara Temple, and Shankaracharya Temple. All these are in close proximity to the capital city, and one can get transport easily.
On the other hand, Muslim believers can visit Jamia Masjid, Charat-e-Sharif, and Akhund Mollah Masjid. But the list doesn’t end here.
There’s Hazratbal Masjid, which has great architecture, Shah e Hamdan R.H mosque, and Pathar Masjid. Sikhs can visit Chatti Padshahi Gurudwara and Makhdoom Sahib Shrine.
Accommodations Available In Srinagar, Kashmir
Now that we have covered so much about this mesmerizing destination, it’s time to have a look at the accommodations. After all, you need a roof over your head, even if the trip is just for a week or so. Check out some great accommodations in Dal Lake Srinagar.
1. Hotel Mirage
Prices: Starting at INR 10,089/day.
Hotel Style: Mid-range, quiet
Address: New Era, Road, Rajbagh, Srinagar, Kashmir.
Nestled in the city’s heart, Hotel Mirage is tourists’ favorite. The lavish stay blends convenience, comfort, and value together. This family-friendly hotel offers a range of amenities designed for tourists.
Perks:
- Free Parking
- Complimentary breakfast
- Close to the airport
- Free Wi-Fi
- Video game console
- Conference amenities
- Breakfast buffet
- Laundry, ironing, and dry cleaning services available.
2. Raddisson, Srinagar
Prices: Begins at INR 17,375/day.
Hotel Style: Modern, Centrally-located
Address: 11, MA Road, Kashmir Golf Course, Nohata, Srinagar.
Experience serenity away from chaos in the lap of the Himalayas. Book a restful suite or room at the most luxurious hotel in Srinagar. Put your famished soul at ease by visiting Hotel Radisson, Srinagar.
Perks:
- Pool
- Sauna
- Free Internet and high-speed Wi-Fi
- Business centre
- Outdoor pool
- Special diet menus
- Massage centre
- Non-smoking area
- Transport service
3. New Jacquline Heritage Houseboats
Prices: INR 20,473 onwards.
Hotel Style: Family, Romantic
Address: Opposite Nagin Club, Nagin Lake, Srinagar
Houseboats, a dream come true! Imagine waking up above water- a surreal feeling for sure! Located at a secluded destination, you will surely enjoy the serenity with your family or your partner.
Perks:
- Close proximity to the airport
- 24-hour check-in
- Concierge
- Public wi-fi
- Sun terrace
- Bridal suite available
- Non-smoking rooms
4. The Lalit Grand Palace
Prices: INR 35,000 onwards.
Hotel Style: Romantic, Family
Address: Gupkar Rd, Srinagar
While we discuss the most opulent stays in Dal Lake Srinagar, how can we not mention The Lalit Grand Palace? Established in 1901 in the memory of a royal Kashmiri family, the place has quickly garnered tourist attention.
Perks:
- Indoor pool
- Room breakfast available
- Children activities
- Car hire
- Breakfast buffet
- Steam room
- Facial treatments
- Gift shop
- Allergy-free rooms
5. Hotel Solar Residency
Prices: Starts at INR 10,266.
Hotel Style: Modern, Cost-effective
Address: 3R9J+M47 Palette – Solar Residency, Modern Hospital Road, Rajbagh.
Hotel Solar Residency is quite budget-friendly compared to other hotels in Srinagar. The rooms are not only filled with a modern touch but are equally clean and hygienic. Here are some other perks to enjoy:
Perks:
- Private check-in and check-out
- Doorperson available
- Lavish business centre
- Allergy-free rooms
- Dining area
- Rooms with mountains, landmarks, and city views
- Non-smoking area
- Suites
Floating Vegetable Market In Srinagar: An Unmissable Visit
You are definitely not going to sit idle in your hotel room when visiting the only heaven on Earth. So, here’s a small idea about the most talked-about attraction in Srinagar- the Floating Vegetable Market.
1. Whereabouts
Every morning on the weekdays, vegetable sellers gather together on the Dal Lake and sell fresh, juicy vegetables. The most intriguing part is the barter activity, which takes place on a water body.
If you want to see the bustling floating market, be sure to reach your destination early. It gets heavily crowded as the day begins. The market is a prime source of freshly cultivated vegetables.
2. Timings
The market commences at 5:00 am in the morning, so it’s the best time to have a perfect view. However, you can also reach by 6:30 at the latest because the market starts dissipating slowly after that.
Just like Dal Nagar Srinagar, the best months to visit this market are March to October. The weather during this time is pleasant, thus allowing the farmers to sell their production in peace.
3. Real Reviews
Miss Meena from Washington, DC, paid for her visit to Srinagar in April 2023. She has written on TripAdvisor.
“Such a cool and authentic Srinagar experience! Loved seeing this market. Dawn is so beautiful on the water.”
Another traveler, Ajith Sharma, visited Dal Lake in June 2022. Originally belonging to Thiruvananthapuram, India, he wrote:
“Market which is floating!!. All are in shikaras. You can bargain (though little) and buy. Though many things we will end up buying, which may not be required at all!”
Wrapping Up
So, that’s all about visiting the piece of paradise, Dal Lake Srinagar! I’m pretty sure the information mentioned above has started your quest to book your tickets right away!
Thus, what are you waiting for?
From pristine peaks to 5-star accommodations, I hope I was able to cover everything in detail. If you liked this article and gained the necessary insight, do share your comments below. Thank you for reading!
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