Lake
Dal Lake
Dal Lake in Srinagar is famous for its houseboats, shikaras and floating gardens.
Early in the morning on Dal Lake, shikaras glide past the houseboats loaded with flowers, vegetables and saffron for the floating market, while the Zabarwan mountains are reflected in the still water. Dal is the jewel of Srinagar and one of the most photographed landscapes in India.
The lake is divided by causeways into several basins and dotted with floating gardens – mats of vegetation where lotus, vegetables and flowers are grown. Along its eastern shore lie the Mughal gardens of Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh, terraced in the 17th century with fountains and chinar trees, while the Hazratbal shrine stands on the western side.
Staying on a carved wooden houseboat is one of the classic experiences of Kashmir. Conservation work focuses on reducing pollution, weed growth and encroachment to protect this fragile urban wetland.