About Wular Lake, Srinagar
Prime Day & Hours: Monday to Friday, Early Morning or Late Evening
Suggested Duration: 2-3 hours
Tickets: Free Entry
Nearest Railway Station: Srinagar Railway Station, 75 km away
Nearest Airport: Srinagar International Airport (SXR), 72 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: Srinagar Bus Stop 75 km away
Wular Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake and is considered among the best places to visit near Srinagar. Spread across 200 square kilometres, it is considered one of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia and makes for a great addition to Kashmir luxury tour packages. Surrounded by the scenic Himalayan mountains, the lake is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and bird watchers.
It offers a unique opportunity for travellers across the globe to experience the natural beauty of the Kashmir Valley. Wular Lake also carries the status of a conservation site, as it’s home to diverse flora and fauna. It welcomes a wide range of migratory birds that visit the region every year from Northern Europe, Siberia, and Central Asia.
Wular Lake, Srinagar Highlights
• Visit Wular Lake, one of Asia's largest freshwater lakes, and enjoy the serene beauty of its expansive waters.
• Explore the rich biodiversity around the lake, and enjoy spotting various exotic bird species.
• Take a boat ride on the Dal lake and immerse yourself in the peaceful surroundings, perfect for relaxation.
• Pay a visit to the Wular Vintage Park, which connects the lively city of Bandipora with the calm of nature.
• Attend the Wular Sports Festival, which features exciting races and cultural performances promoting sports and tourism.
How To Reach Wular Lake, Srinagar
By Road: Wular Lake is located at a distance of around 60 kilometres, from the city centre of Srinagar, and it takes around 2 hours to reach. You can hire a taxi or rent a vehicle to drive along the scenic roads leading to the lake.
By Train: There are no direct train services available for tourists who wish to visit Wular Lake. The nearest railway station is in Jammu, from where you can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Srinagar. From Srinagar, a road journey to Wular Lake is the best option.
Best Time To Visit Wular Lake, Srinagar
Peak Season: April to September
- Weather Insights: Mild and pleasant, warm days and cool nights
- Things to do: Boat rides, scenic nature walks, birdwatching, attending the Wular Sports festival in July.
Shoulder Season: October to November
- Weather Insights: Cool and crisp air, light snowfall.
- Things to do: photography, floating garden tours.
Waning Season: December to March
- Weather Insights: Cold winds, and heavy snowfall.
- Things to do: quiet walks in the snow, winter photography..
Wular Lake, Srinagar Other Essential Information
Why Visit Wular Lake?
- Wular Lake is a Ramsar Site, recognized globally for its importance as a wetland.
- The lake is an important habitat for fish, and over 8,000 fishermen depend on Wular Lake for their livelihood.
- The lake houses endangered species like the Northern Pintail, Common Teal, and Pallas's Fish Eagle.
- Geologically, the lake was formed thousands of years ago when tectonic movements in the Jhelum River's course created a large depression
- Wular Lake has historically been crucial for the region, providing water for irrigation, supporting fishing, and offering a habitat for migratory birds.
Know Before You Go to Wular Lake:
- Dress in layers to stay comfortable, as the weather in the region can change quickly.
- Prefer to book your boat ride on the lake in advance, especially during peak season.
- Remember to dispose of your waste responsibly, as Wular Lake is an ecologically sensitive area.
- Check the weather before travelling, especially in the winter months when snow might block roads around Razdan Pass.
- Be mindful of the local customs and traditions, and avoid making loud noises to preserve the peaceful atmosphere of the area.
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Experience Birdwatching
Srinagar in winter offers plenty of opportunities for travellers who love birdwatching. The lake is home to a variety of bird species, including the endangered Pallas’s Fish Eagle. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching by the lake's shores or while on a boat ride, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts.
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Enjoy A Boat Ride
The peaceful waters of Wular Lake offer a perfect setting for boat rides. Similar to the Shikara Ride in Dal Lake, travellers can experience shikara rides in Wular Lake and admire the peaceful surroundings that showcase the views of the mountains.
Visit the Floating Gardens
Wular Lake is known for its floating gardens, where aquatic plants grow on the surface of the water. Learn about the traditional agricultural practices of the region and try your hand at harvesting water chestnuts.
Visit the Wular Vantage Park
Take a walk along the Wular Vantage Park, offering panoramic views of Wular Lake and the surrounding landscapes. It’s considered an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
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Witness the Wular Sports Festival
Experience the excitement of the Wular Sports Festival, hosted in the town over 3 days in July. Enjoy watching thrilling Kistie races, the Jashn-e-Wular Run, and several live performances by the locals, showcasing the rich heritage of Kashmir.
Tourism Board Alliances
Wular Lake FAQs
What is special about Wular Lake?
Wular Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in Jammu and Kashmir. It’s considered special because it helps control floods, supports local fishing, and is home to many exotic species of birds. The lake is also important for the local community and the environment as it also holds agricultural importance.
Which is India’s largest freshwater lake?
Vembanad Lake, in Kerala, is India’s known to be the largest freshwater lake in India. It covers over 189 square kilometres and is famous for its beautiful vegetation and migratory birds. It’s also known for houseboats and the popular boat races that are held every year.
Which river feeds Wular Lake?
The Jhelum River feeds Wular Lake. The river, which flows through Jammu and Kashmir, brings water to the lake, especially during the rainy season, helping the lake stay filled.
Where is Wular Lake situated?
Wular Lake is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, in northern India. It’s about 30 kilometres from Srinagar, surrounded by hills, and is a key part of the region’s natural beauty and wildlife.
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