Manasbal Lake in Srinagar is one of the most important Tourist Attractions in Srinagar and is also known as the bird watcher’s paradise. Located about 30 kilometers to the north of Srinagar Mansabal Lake in Srinagar is surrounded by three villages Jarokbal, Kondabal and Gratbal overlooking this beautiful lake. The lake is the deepest lake of Kashmir valley and its beauty is further boosted by the presence of the beautiful lotuses which adorn this lake. The origin of this ancient lake is still a mystery but legendarily it is believed to be a bottomless lake.
From the Srinagar Overview we come to know that close to the northern shore of the Manasbal Lake in Srinagar are the remains of a fort which was built in 17th century by a Mughal ruler. On the south, hillock-Ahtung overlooks the lake which was earlier used for limestone extraction. In the north of the lake is an elevated plateau known as ‘Karewa’ consisting of fluviatile, lacustrine and loessic deposits while the eastern part of the lake is mainly hilly.
Mansabal Lake in Srinagar has rightly been considered as the ‘supreme gem of all Kashmir Lakes’ because of its stunning beauty which is beyond comparison and it is one of the most beautiful places of Sightseeing in Srinagar.
The local population uses the Manasbal Lake as a source of water, for fishing and for obtaining food and fodder plants. Many people are involved in harvesting and marketing of lotus rootstocks which are extensively eaten in the State. In recent years, tourism has caught up with the Manasbal Lake in a big way and as a consequence there are lots of pressure on the terrestrial ecosystem which is being exploited at many places.
How to reach Manasbal :
By Air: The easiest way of reaching Manasbal is by air. The nearest airport is at the Badgam District around 30 kms away from the village of Manasbal.
By Rail: The nearest railhead to Manasbal is at Jammu from where it takes an approximate time of around half an hour to reach Manasbal.
By Road: Manasbal is well-connected to a number of other regions of Jammu and Kashmir. There are a number of well maintained roads which lead to Manasbal.