Dal Lake: The Jewel in the Crown of Srinagar

^{A shikara moving through Dal lake and a sun reflection of the lake}

Dal Lake, located in the heart of Srinagar, or we can say in the central part of our division, is often considered the jewel in the crown of Srinagar city. It is a lake situated right before the Zabarwan Hills in the background and is spread over an area of about 20 km². The lake is one of the top tourist destinations in Srinagar city, apart from the Mughal Gardens that are mainly located on its banks. It is the main tourist attraction that actually makes Srinagar famous, as tourists who visit our valley witness the most beautiful part of the city here.

The most iconic features of Dal Lake are wooden houseboats and shikaras. Houseboats are not only places where people live but also serve as rest houses to accommodate tourists and visitors. Shikaras are famous as they are small boats covered with a canopy in a very typical style, which makes them one of the most iconic features of this lake. Most people who visit the lake enjoy shikara rides because the lake, surrounded by beautiful hills, remains calm, and riding over such serene waters is always a treat. Most shikara rides are usually enjoyed early in the morning, as the lake remains especially calm at that time.

^{Reflection scenes of the lake}

The beauty of this lake is enhanced by these houseboats and shikaras, with houseboats being one of the most iconic elements associated with it. These houseboats are wooden, most famously made of deodar wood, which has a long life even after prolonged exposure to water. Some of these houseboats are hundreds of years old. Some people find their place of living on Dal Lake in these houseboats and practice gardening in floating gardens, which is another major attraction. They grow different types of vegetables and flowers in these floating gardens, and then sell their produce within the lake itself, while some of it is taken to the terrestrial areas as well.

^{A beautiful hill in the backdrop of the lake}

As already mentioned, many families live on the lake and run shops and markets. There is even a floating post office, which is the first of its kind in the world, located on the lake. The beautiful flowers that bloom on the lake’s surface make it even more attractive, adding charm to its appearance. The most famous flowers that grow here are lotuses. The reflection of the surrounding mountains in the crystal-clear waters of the lake, especially when these mountains are covered with snow, makes it quite unique. Anyone who witnesses it during such times would never forget the sight.

^{scenes from the road all along its banks}

The lake does not present beauty only in summer; during winter, it freezes, and many times people have even been seen playing cricket on its frozen surface. It is a complete package for people to witness how beautiful nature can be. Nowadays, as people have realized its importance and how vital it has been for the economy of Srinagar and our division, they have become more conscious about its preservation and safety. While earlier there may have been ignorance, now people are much more considerate, and even the authorities are actively putting efforts into maintaining, preserving, and enhancing the lake.

^{the beautiful sky view over the lake}

The walk along the banks of this lake is another attraction. Especially at sunset, a large number of people can be seen sitting, walking, and spending time along its banks. Cyclists can also be seen enjoying the views, and such scenes are truly unforgettable. I have been there numerous times as it is in our vicinity. Whenever my friends and I get some free time, we often go there to sit and spend some moments together. Enjoying such time on the banks of such a beautiful water body is always a treat and creates lifelong memories.

^{Moving around the lake enjoying its cool atmosphere}

I think Srinagar is best known for this lake. Anyone who has not witnessed it must visit to see its beauty. The lake has huge biodiversity, which makes it a treasure. Apart from visiting this place, we must ensure that we preserve it for future generations, not just for its visual appeal but also for the biodiversity it supports. This lake also has beautiful gardens on its banks, the most famous being the Mughal Gardens, constructed by the Mughal kings in the early 17th century. A large number of people can be seen enjoying their time in these Mughal Gardens, and for all these reasons, this lake is worth a place to be located on Steem-Atlas.

Detail	Information
Location	Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Distance from Airport	10–15 km
Google Maps Location	https://maps.app.goo.gl/Sey5wFoRgkSQEzJk6?g_st=ic
Plus Code	8J6P4V69+68
Steem-Atlas	[//]:# (!steematlas 34.1105625 lat 74.8683125 long Dal Lake: The Jewel in the Crown of Srinagar d3scr)
Opening Hours	24×7
My Visiting Date	18-07-2023

Thank you for going through my post. Have a great time ahead.