Dal Lake
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Kashmir - “Paradise on Earth,” is
obviously not possible without Dal Lake. Crystal clear water, striking landscape and serene surrounding represent the delightful Dal Lake the grace of Jammu and Kashmir. The largest lake of the city is indeed the icon and focal point of Srinagar. The lake is 6 by 3 Kms and this lovely lake is divided by causeway into four parts - Gangribal, Lokutdal, Boddal and Nagin. A Both Lokutdal and Boddal have an island in the centre - called as Rup Lank or Char Chinari and Sona Lank respectively. A Nagin Lake at the foot of Shidhara (Zabarwan) mountain is the smallest and the most beautiful part of the Dal. It flows past the lush Mughal gardens and monuments, plummeted orchards, the University of Kashmir and what not, to meet the river Jhelum. Moreover overlooking the lake are two hillocks that houses the famous temples of Shankaracharya and Hari Parbat.
A prominent journey of the Jammu and Kashmir tourism gives a golden chance to visitor to see the nature closely. Far from the crowded cities, the calm and serene surrounding of Dal Lake fills your heart with great pleasure and satisfaction. Mountains covered with snow and the pleasant weather are a perfect combination of Dal Lake. The world famous water body has been described as
'Lake Par-Excellence' by Sir Walter Lawrence. It is the Jewel in the crown of the Kashmir and is eulogized by poets and praised abundantly by the tourists.
The picturesque landscape of Dal Lake captures the imagination of poets and casts a magical spell on the visitors. The captivating beauty of Dal Lake imparts a heavenly feeling and an aesthetic appeal to the entire region. Surrounded by attractive gardens, Dal lake of Srinagar is a delight for the tourists. The Dal Lake is host to world famous Shikaras and Houseboats. Besides Shikara riding we can also do some other activities like Kayaking and canoeing, Water surfing and Skiing, Angling (a license is required) or you can just laze a top the decks of Houseboats. Trek up to Shankaracharya through city forest area make this journey more enjoyable. And the most attractive and different thing is when salesmen paddle from boat to boat, selling every thinkable ware like fresh flowers and fruit from the valley, nuts, Kashmiri handicraft, handmade carpets and many more items that can be either carried back home as souvenirs or spice yourself or your rooms with an enviable Kashmiri flavor. Dal Lake changes its moods and scenery through the day and after every few kilometers. It is lined with world famous Boulevard road. Shopping can be undertaken on the shopping mall at the Boulevard road. This road is lined with Hotels and Restaurants suiting every budget. Alternatively you can stay at Houseboats which is altogether a new experience. The accommodations are available for every budget.
