MANSAR LAKE

About Mansar Lake, Jammu

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Prime Day & Hours: Weekends from 7 AM- 5 PM

Suggested Duration: 1-2 Hours

Tickets: Free entry. 

Nearest Railway Station: Jammu Tawi Railway Station, 46 km away

Nearest Airport: Jammu Airport (IXJ), 51 km away

Nearest Bus Stop: Jammu Bus Stand, 45 km away

Mansar Lake, a stunning freshwater lake in Jammu and Kashmir, is a peaceful oasis amidst rolling green hills. Jammu and Kashmir tour packages often include Mansar Lake in their itinerary due to its great religious, cultural, and ecological importance. The lake is linked to Hindu mythology and boasts the sacred Sheshnag Temple, which draws pilgrims throughout the year. 

Mansar Lake is a heaven for nature enthusiasts and photographers, with stunning reflections of the sky and surrounding forests. Tourists can indulge in boating, fish feeding, bird watching, and visiting the nearby Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to varied flora and fauna. The lake is also a favourite picnic spot, particularly during winter. 

In addition to its natural beauty, Mansar Lake is also home to colourful festivals like the Lake Festival, Mansar Food and Craft Mela, and Baishakhi. Whether you're looking for spiritual peace, adventure, or relaxation, this lake offers a change of pace from urban life and is a must-see attraction in Jammu and Kashmir.

Must-Try Experiences 

• Enjoy a peaceful boating.

Boating on Mansar Lake is one experience you should never miss. You can opt for both pedal and row boating on the serene waters of the picturesque lake surrounded by a range of lush green hills. Exploring the lake on a boat allows you to catch a glimpse of the surrounding breathtaking scenery while also soaking in the tranquil ambiance of the lake.

• Birdwatching and Wildlife Spotting

Mansar Lake is the perfect dwelling place for migratory birds, fishes and turtles, making it a true paradise for wildlife lovers and bird watchers. Bring binoculars with you to spot the exotic wildlife and bird species in and around the lake which boasts a rich biodiversity. Some of the migratory birds that you can spot include cranes, kingfishers, herons and lapwings.

Mansar Lake, Jammu Highlights

• Enjoy the stunning views of the scenic Mansar Lake surrounded by hills and lush forests.
• Experience the joy of feeding the fishes at Mansar Lake known for its abundant fish population.
• Visit temples around the lake, such as the Narasimha temple, Umapati Mahadev temple and Durga temple to pay tribute to various Hindu deities. 
• Engage in row or paddle boating on the crystal-clear waters of Mansar Lake for a soothing experience.
• Explore the scenic trekking paths around the lake, such as the Surinsar lake trail, Surinsar-Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary trail and Barei Forest trail.

How To Reach Mansar Lake, Jammu

By Road: The Mansar Lake is located at a distance of around 45 km from the city centre of Jammu. It will take approximately 1 hour 20 minutes via Jammu-Surinsar-Mansar Road.

By Air: Take a flight to Jammu airport which is around 51 km away from Mansar Lake. You can reach the lake from the airport with an approximately 1 hour 26 minutes’ drive via Jammu-Surinsar-Mansar Road. Direct flights to Jammu are available from all major cities of India, such as Srinagar, New Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, etc. 

By Rail: Take a train to Jammu Tawi railway station which is around 46 km away from Mansar Lake. You can reach the lake from the train station with a drive of 1 hr 20 minutes.via Jammu-Surinsar-Mansar Road.

Best Time To Visit Mansar Lake, Jammu

Peak Season (October – March)

Weather Insights: Cool weather, pleasant temperatures, chilly nights

Things to Do: Sightseeing, boating, wildlife spotting

Moderate Season (July – September)

Weather Insights: moderate to heavy rainfall, occasional humidity

Things to Do: Scenic walks, photography

Low Season (April – June)

Weather Insights: Extremely hot weather, high temperatures, harsh midday heat

Things to Do: Early morning boating, evening time nature walks, indoor relaxation, shopping in the evening

Mansar Lake, Jammu Other Essential Information

Why Visit Mansar Lake? 

• The Mansar Lake is considered an equivalent of the most revered Lake Manasarovar (Tibet Autonomous Region, China) in terms of sanctity and mythological connections.
• The lake is surrounded by many ancient Hindu temples such as the temples of Sheshnag, Narasimha, Umapati Mahadeva, and Goddess Durga.
• The lake has been designated as the Ramsar Wetland Site, offering a suitable habitat for migratory birds and diverse aquatic animals.
• According to legends associated with Mahabharata, Babar Vahan, the son of Arjuna and Princess Ulpi had dug out this lake.

Know Before You Go 

• Carry comfortable clothing and a pair of good walking shoes to allow a peaceful, discomfort-free exploration of the place.
• Do not forget to try local delicacies like Kaladi Kulcha, Patisa, and Rajma Chawal.
• Dress in modest clothing and follow the local customs strictly while visiting the various temples around the lake.
• Carry enough snacks and drinking water with you because you may not find food courts just near the lake.
• Check the road conditions and the weather before travelling especially if you’re travelling during the monsoon season.
•  Be cautious while walking around the lake as the paths may be slippery.