Dal Lake – Shikara Land
The fascinating Dal Lake in Srinagar has the length of 8 Km long and a width of 4 Km. Spread over a total of 26 Sq. Km. It is divided into two smaller ones the Lokut (small) and Bod (big) Dal. The Lake at its south western part has a maximum depth of approximately 12 M. The Dal Lake gets some of its water from spring but is also supplemented by water from the mountain lake, Mar Sar. Its shores are very fertile and surrounded by willows. There are a few islands in the western part of the Lake, some bigger and some smaller.
One can see most of the vegetables being grown here, Potato, tomato, pumpkin, cucumber, radish and lots of other vegetables. Also, cultivation of the floating gardens is another interesting feature in this part of the lake. These gardens consist of reed rafts of different lengths and a width of approximately one and a half by three meters and are covered by 1020 cm thick layer of earth and mud. On these artificial floating islands vegetables and melons are grown in plenty.
The lake is located about 10 km from Srinagar and is easily reachable by taxis within 20 mins. Besides, it is also a hub for many water sports including water surfing, swimming, Shikara rides, kayaking, houseboat stays, angling and canoeing. Some other attractions here include Nehru Park, Char Chinar, Nishat Bagh and Shalimar Bagh. Srinagar has only two climates, pleasant summers and very chilly, freezing winters. Rainfalls are very scanty here. The best time to visit Srinagar is from April to October.
Dal Lake is famous for its Houseboats. The houseboats of Kashmir, unlike their counterparts in Kerala are usually moored at the edges of the Dal Lake. Some of the houseboats were built in the early 1900s, and are still being rented out to tourists. These houseboats are basically made from wood, and usually have intricately and carved wood paneling. These houseboats come in different sizes, some having up to three bedrooms apart from a living room and kitchen. You can find Luxury Houseboats, Deluxe Houseboats and Standard Houseboats available at different rates.
The Kashmir houseboats are associated closely with the valley’s culture and traditions. Dating back to the British rule, houseboats became home to these people after they were denied land grants in the state. These houseboats are all made of the finest cedar wood that follows with intricate walnut wood carvings, paneled walls and tiled baths. These small paddle boats can take you out into the open lake or take you across on your way for any sightseeing. We definitely know that once you visit and experience us, you would always feel yourself back in your second home.
For More Info: Place To Visit in Dal Lake and Places to visit in Srinagar
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