Dal Lake

Dal Lake is a shallow, urban lake in Srinagar, in the Kashmir Valley, long known for its houseboats, floating vegetable gardens and wooden shikara boats. It functions as both a residential area and a major local tourist attraction.

Activities on the lake include shikara rides, visits to floating markets and stays on converted houseboats. The shoreline features parks and Mughal-era terraced gardens that are key nearby attractions.

The lake has been integral to Srinagar’s local economy and culture for centuries, used for transport, fishing and agriculture on floating platforms. It has undergone periods of ecological stress and conservation efforts to manage water quality and invasive plants.

Dal Lake sits within the city of Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir, with major access points from the city centre and a number of landing sites for boats along its shores.

• Shikaras and houseboats: Famous for its wooden 'shikara' boats and houseboats which are used for transport, sightseeing and accommodation.
• Nearby gardens: Fringed by Mughal-era terraced gardens such as Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh on the lake's northern shores.