Discover the Iconic Beauty of Dal Lake, Srinagar
Dal Lake, Ghat Number 1 stands as a crown jewel of Srinagar, offering visitors an unforgettable experience amidst Kashmir’s stunning high-altitude scenery. Famous for its mirror-like waters and vibrant shikaras, the lake invites travelers to glide peacefully while taking in the surrounding Himalayas. Early mornings and late afternoons provide the most serene moments for shikara rides, with opportunities to explore floating gardens and quieter lake areas. The friendly boat operators enhance the experience by guiding visitors to the most picturesque spots. Dal Lake is also well-known for its historic houseboats, which add a unique cultural layer to the visit. This tranquil setting, perfectly combined with breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, makes Dal Lake a timeless attraction for those seeking natural splendor and rich local heritage in Srinagar.
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Amrit Das
a month agoBest time for a shikara ride here: early morning (7am–9am) or late afternoon golden hour (5pm–7pm) • Normal good price (for reference): Around ₹800–₹1200 per hour for a standard shikara (depending season & demand). Always settle price before you step on. • If you want photos without crowd, aim morning. • If you want houseboat viewing, ask the boatman to take you towards the quieter areas deeper inside, not only the main stretch.
LandLoper
8 months agoDal Lake is truly the heart of Srinagar and one of the most magical places I’ve ever visited. Surrounded by majestic mountains and charming houseboats, the lake offers a peaceful and breathtaking atmosphere that feels like a dream. A Shikara ride on Dal Lake is an unforgettable experience — gliding over the calm water, watching the sunset reflect on the lake, and seeing the floating markets, it’s like stepping into a postcard. The beauty, silence, and serenity here touch your soul. Whether you're staying in a houseboat or just visiting for a few hours, Dal Lake is a must-see destination in Kashmir that will stay in your heart forever. Pure peace, pure paradise.
Irfan Ansari
3 months agoWhen there in August 2025. BEAUTYFUL lake, clean boats, and friendly boat walas. They showed you around the lake. I felt that people of Kashmir a genuinly welcoming. There are many gates like gate no 1. Gate no 1, 7, 13 and 17 are very popular though I believe they all show you similar places
sahil yadav
4 months agoDal Lake, in Srinagar, Kashmir, is a stunning high-altitude lake known for its mirror-like waters, colorful shikaras (wooden boats), and floating gardens. Surrounded by the Himalayas, it offers breathtaking sunrise and sunset views and is famous for houseboat stays, making it a crown jewel of Kashmir’s tourism.
S Paul
7 months agoTaking the Shikara ride in the Dal Lake one can enjoy the breathtaking view of the lake, surrounded by scenic, far-reaching hills. The rides typically cost between ₹400 to ₹1000, and you can negotiate the price for a better deal. It's advisable to avoid shopping at the floating market, as many tourists have reported being overcharged.