Have you ever imagined standing beside a calm, blue lake, surrounded by tall snow-covered mountains and cool, fresh air brushing against your face? The view feels almost unreal as the clear water mirrors the bright sky above. Manasbal lake is the place to visit for you. It is one of the deepest lake in jammu and kashmir, a place that combines peace, beauty and a touch of mystery. The sound of gentle waves and the stillness of the valley make it one of the most peaceful places you can ever visit.
In this guide, you'll discover everything about this amazing lake, one of the best lakes in Jammu and Kashmir. From its weather and the best time to visit to how to reach it and the exciting things you can do nearby, this blog covers it all. If you love calm landscapes and natural beauty, this lake deserves a special place on your travel list.
Overview of Manasbal Lake, The Deepest Lake in India
In northern India, you will get to see Manasbal lake that is said to be the deepest lake in India, which is in Jammu & Kashmir. Manasbal lake depth is 13 metres (43 ft). The lake is located at an altitude higher than 1,583 metres above sea level. It is surrounded by the villages, green slopes, and springs that fill its clear water. This lake is special because it is beautiful with stunning scenery, rich wildlife and calm water that reflects the mountains. It is known as the "supreme gem of all Kashmir lakes." If you want a real nature experience, then this lake is a great option.
Best Time to Visit Manasbal Lake
The best time to visit Kashmir is from March to October. However, the best time to visit Manasbal Lake depends upon your preference. Let’s know which time is the best for you.
Late spring to early autumn (May to October) offers nice weather, clear skies and green scenery.
If you want to see lotus flowers, then July and August are good.
Winter brings snow lovers to the hills, pretty but more difficult to get through the weather.
Early morning visits reveal mist-covered water and mirror-like reflections, perfect for taking photographs.
Choose a season accordingly, depending on whether you would rather have green summer landscapes or a cold winter scenery.
How to Reach Manasbal Lake
Getting to Manasbal Lake is easy, as it is near a large city. Here’s how to plan.
By Air: The nearest big airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport, Sumbi. From there you can take a taxi or a bus towards the lake.
By Road: The distance is about 30 km from Srinagar to Manasbal. You can take regular buses & taxis, which are available there.
By Train: The nearest major train station is further away, and most of the travellers opt for the air or road route from Srinagar.
Local Access: Once you are in the area, there are local roads that will take you to the lake shore, where you can walk, relax, and ride in a boat.
Top 5 Places To Visit Near Manasbal Lake
While you are visiting Manasbal Lake, several places in and around it are a must-visit. Here are the five best locations that you must visit in order to complete your trip.
1. Wular Lake
This big freshwater lake is close to Manasbal and provides a serene environment and beautiful views. It is renowned for its size and the birdlife. It is really close, which makes it a good add-on to the Manasbal Lake.
Distance: It is about 35-50 km away from the Manasbal area.
Famous for: Large water body, sanctuary for migratory birds, and peace cruises.
2. Kheer Bhawani Temple
This is a sacred place, and it is near the lake area. A temple surrounded by chinar trees and a tranquil pond gives it a cultural flavour to your nature excursion to the Manasbal Lake.
Distance: It is about 20 km away from Manasbal
Famous for: Spiritual atmosphere, pond in various shades of pink, and pilgrimage.
3. Nishat Bagh (Mughal Garden)
Visit this beautiful Mughal-era-built terraced garden. It is a mix of good landscape, old heritage and a relaxing green space on your trip to the Manasbal Lake.
Distance: 25-30 km from Manasbal.
Famous for: Persian-style Garden, water channels, and mountain backdrop.
4. Experience of Srinagar City and Houseboats
Stay on a houseboat on the nearby lakes in Srinagar. From here, you can go to visit the Manasbal Lake and relax in a city-style lakeside setting.
Distance: Manasbal is some 30 km away from Srinagar.
Famous for: Traditional houseboats, shikara ride, and Kashmiri culture.
5. Jarokha Bagh /Villages on Lakeshore
The lakeshore villages around Manasbal (like Kondabal, Jarokbal) allow one to experience rural life by the deepest lake in India. They are known for lotus patches and tranquil lanes, making it a great option for a leisurely walk.
Distance: Right at the edge of the lake; in a few km.
Famous for: Lotus growth, village life, and scenic calmness.
Things to Do at Manasbal Lake
Here are the five best things to do in Jammu and Kashmir that you can do at this beautiful destination to make your trip even more memorable.
1. Boating and Shikara Ride
Go on a smooth ride over the crystal-clear waters of the Manasbal Lake by boat/ shikara and enjoy the tranquil environment. The best time is early in the morning when the water is still. The tiny boat resembles a local gondola and provides you with a sense of the peaceful power of the lake that surrounds you.
Highlights: Mountains reflected in the water, lotus flowers by the edge, and gentle waves.
Tip: Take the ride at sunrise for better light and fewer numbers of people on the ride.
2. Nature Walks and Bird Watching
If you are a nature lover, the lake will be a paradise because of the enormous number of resident and visiting birds and the clean springs. Walking along the bank and being able to see KingFishers, herons, and other birds will make you feel a connection to the ecosystem of the lake.
Highlights: Water bird, lotus-beds, clear spring water.
Tip: Visit early in the morning to witness the beautiful birds, and don’t forget to bring binoculars.
3. Enjoy Photography, Sunrise, and Sunset
The place around the Manasbal Lake is perfect for shots, still water, surrounding hills and enchanting lightning at night. Capture reflections, bunches of lotus, mountains and boats.
Highlights: Mirror reflections, golden hour light, lotuses.
Tip: Stay till sunset on the far side of the lake so that you will get the best view.
4. Visit at Lotus Gardens and Lakeside Villages
One special thing about the Mansabal Lake is that it has huge number of lotus flowers that grow around the water during some months. A slow walk close to the villages that surround the lake allows you to experience daily life, have peace and feel close to nature.
Highlights: Lotus flowers, village lanes, and craft shops of the locals.
Tip: Visit the place in the months of July and August to witness the beauty of the lotus.
5. Take a lakeside stay
Sometimes the best thing to do at Manasbal Lake is to just relax. Stay in a cottage or resort by the lake and breathe the mountain air, drink the hot tea, and watch the water change with clouds moving in. The peace of the place is its main attraction.
Highlights: Quiet mornings, few visitors, and nice starry nights
Tip: Find a place that offers you views of the lake and try going to bed early so that you can wake up to some water mist.
Tips While Visiting Manasbal Lake
Look at these tips before visiting Manasbal Lake for a smooth trip without any hassle.
Book your lakeside stay early; the best spots fill up fast.
Go early in the morning, as you will get clear reflections in the water and active birds.
Carry a light jacket even in the summer; the mountain air by the lake is sometimes cool.
Respect nature and do not litter or walk on restricted paths.
Bring a camera or smartphone, as it is a very photogenic place.
If you travel in monsoon (July - August), you have to expect rain, but also lush green views and the lotus flowers.
Hire a local guide or boatman. He or she knows the best spots and can tell you stories about the lake.
Don't hurry. Spend at least a whole day to experience the peace on the lake.
Conclusion
Visiting the Manasbal Lake is beyond its height or depth. It is about getting into a quieter rhythm of nature, feeling the quietness of the water, smelling the lotus flowers, listening to the birds, and breathing in the mountain air. Whether you ride on the wave of the lake in a boat, wander around the surrounding villages, visit sacred temples or simply sit by the shore watching the clouds moving, this experience of one of the best placses to visit in Kashmir leaves an impression on you. If you are willing to make this journey, then don’t just sit and think, but pack your bags and start planning.
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