MANASBAL LAKE
Average Depth: 12m
Significance: One Of The Largest Natural Haunts Of Aquatic Birds In Kashmir.
Best Time To Visit: June To August
Situated in the Jhelum valley on the route to the Wular
Lake via Safapur, the lake can be reached from
Srinagar via
Shadipur or via Nasim and Gandarbal. The secluded, crystal clear sheet of
green water was named after the sacred lake of Mansarowar that skirts the
equally sacred Mt. Kailash.
PLACES TO LOOK AROUND
In summer the lake, which averages 12 metres deep, is covered with lotus
flowers and in winter it is a bird watchers paradise as it is one of the
largest natural haunts of aquatic birds in Kashmir. The Baladar Mountain
overlooks the lake's eastern bank while on its northern bank are the ruins
of Darogabagh.
Mughal Garden
There is a Mughal (also spelt as Mohgul) garden, built by Nur Jahan, by
the lake. It's called Garoka, meaning bay window, due to its view out over
the lake.
Safapur
A grove of Chinar trees at the nearby village of Safapur is known as
Badshah Boni, royal Chinar, and was planted in imitation of the Nasim Bagh
in Srinagar . A
canal taken from the Sindh River, constructed by a Badshah in the 15th
century, irrigates Safapur. Nearby is a cave dug by a mystic, with his
grave lying next to a small shrine. Near this is situated a tourist hut.
A Campsite
Camping is possible at another lakeside Chinar grove known as Qoz Bagh.
There is also a government rest house by the lake.
