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Manasbal Lake

Manasbal Lake

Jammu & Kashmir

State
Jammu & Kashmir
Type
Other

Manasbal Lake, in Ganderbal district, is regarded as the deepest freshwater lake in the Safapora area of Kashmir, with a drainage basin of about 10 sq km fed by over 1,200 springs and draining into the Jhelum River.

Manasbal Lake is known for

deepest lake in Kashmirlotus cultivation8th-9th century temple ruinsMughal-era Jharokha Baghbird spawning ground

A short history

A 17th-century Mughal-era structure called Jharokha Bagh stands near the lake's northern shore. During 2007 restoration work, an ancient Hindu temple dating to 800-900 AD, built in traditional Kashmiri style with a pyramid-shaped roof, was unearthed on the eastern shore. [Source: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manasbal_Lake]

Why Manasbal Lake matters

Called the "supreme gem of all Kashmir lakes," Manasbal is one of the largest natural spawning grounds for aquatic birds in Kashmir, making it a significant site for birdwatching and lotus cultivation.

When to go

May and August, when lotus blooms and water skiing is available

How to reach

About 30 km from Srinagar via Shadipora, Nasim, and Ganderbal; also accessible from Sonmarg via Ganderbal.

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