Dal Lake is among the must-visit tourist attractions of Srinagar and known as the jewel in the crown of Kashmir. There are some unmissable things to do and see at the Dal Lake and some unique places to visit nearby. A houseboat stay, a shikara ride, shopping at the floating market, a visit to the gardens around the lake, and visiting the newly introduced floating theatre are some activities that have to be on your itinerary when you set out to explore Dal. Here are 10 amazing things to do at the Dal Lake.
When in Srinagar, you must visit the Dal Lake and when at Dal, you cannot miss a shikara ride. Riding on a shikara is an experience worth taking for thrill seekers and nature lovers alike, as it gives you mesmerizing views of the Zabarwan range and the vast expanse of the lake.
Shopping at the floating markets on the Dal Lake is a unique experience. Local traders row in boats across the lake, selling vegetables, mostly harvested from the floating gardens of Dal. As dawn strikes, sellers gather in the middle of the lake in boats loaded with vegetables. It’s best to visit this bustling market in the early morning. You will also find vendors selling other Kashmiri products like shawls, flowers, and saffron.
From economy to luxury, there are different types of houseboats you can opt to stay in, when at the Dal Lake. The hotel-like facilities in the houseboat provide you with a comfortable stay, and you can enjoy scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains from the deck, while you drink and dine.
Hazratbal Shrine, regarded as Kashmir’s holiest Muslim shrine, which is located on the left bank of Dal Lake, is worth a visit. It is built in white marble and displays beautiful architecture.
Char Chinar is an island on Dal, known for the presence of four Chinar trees at its four corners. It is among the famous landmarks of Srinagar and a must-visit place when you travel to the Dal Lake.
When at Dal, engage in water sports. Among the best things to do at the Dal Lake is going for water sports such as rowing, swimming, and water skiing, among others. Closed during the pandemic, water activities at Dal have recently resumed.
A visit to the Mughal Gardens should be on your list of top 10 things to do at the Dal Lake. Surrounding the lake are the Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and Chashme Shahi. Nishat Bagh, meaning ‘Garden of Joy’ is a terraced Mughal Garden located to the east of Dal Lake and the second-largest garden in the Kashmir Valley. Shalimar Garden, known as the crown of Srinagar, is located to the northeast of the lake. Chashme Shahi, which means ‘Royal Spring’ is a freshwater spring and garden worth seeing, on your visit to the Dal.
Walk down the Boulevard Road, as it provides some impressive panoramic views of the Dal Lake. You could also visit some shops that sell local goods, while you might also like to savour local delicacies at some of the eateries on this road.
Take a stroll along the shore of the lake. The shore length of Dal Lake is about 15 kms and a walk along the shore is a great way to explore the lake. You will find tea and food stalls on the way, so while snacking, you can watch the shikaras and houseboats or enjoy serene views of the lake water.
Don’t miss going to the newly introduced open-air floating theatre, the latest addition to the tourist attractions of Kashmir and among the best places to visit on the Dal Lake.
Visiting the Shankaracharya temple, the Pari Mahal, Hari Parbat, Mazar-e-Shura, and Nigeen lake are among the other best things to do near Dal Lake. A trip to this splendid lake is surely a one-of-a-kind experience that will be etched in your memory forever.
