Manasbal Lake

Overview

Manasbal Lake is a freshwater lake located in Safapora area of Ganderbal District in Jammu and Kashmir, India. The name Manasbal is said to be a derivative of Manasarovar. The lake is encircled by four villages viz., Jarokbal, Kondabal, Nesbal (situated on the north-eastern side of the lake) and Gratbal.The large growth of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) at the periphery of the lake (blooms during July and August) adds to the beauty of the clear waters of the lake. The Mughal garden, called the Jaroka Bagh, (meaning bay window) built by Nur Jahan overlooks the lake.

Weather

Spring (March to May)

Temperatures begin to rise, ranging from 10°C to 20°C. The weather is generally pleasant, making it an ideal time for visitors. The flora around the lake starts to bloom, enhancing its beauty.

Summer (June to August)

Summer temperatures can reach up to 30°C, but the area remains relatively cool due to the lake's presence. This is a popular time for tourists, with clear skies and lush greenery surrounding the lake.

Autumn (September to November)

Temperatures start to drop, averaging between 10°C and 20°C. The fall foliage adds vibrant colours to the landscape, making it a picturesque season for photography and sightseeing.

Winter (December to February)

Winters are cold, with temperatures often falling below freezing, around -2°C to 10°C. Snow may cover the surrounding mountains, and the lake can freeze over, offering a different scenic view. This season is quieter, with fewer visitors.

How to reach

By Car

The most convenient way is to hire a taxi or drive from Srinagar. The drive takes approximately 1 hour. You can take the National Highway 1A towards Ganderbal and then follow signs to Manasbal Lake.

By Bus

Public buses run from Srinagar to Ganderbal. From Ganderbal, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the lake, which is about 10 kilometres away.

By Bike

For adventure enthusiasts, renting a bike in Srinagar can be an exciting way to explore the scenic route to Manasbal Lake.

By Air

The nearest airport is Sheikh ul-Alam International Airport in Srinagar. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to Manasbal Lake.

Best time to visit 

The best time to visit Manasbal Lake is during the spring and summer months, from March to August. During this period, the weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 30°C. This allows visitors to enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and the surrounding landscapes, as the flora is in full bloom.

Spring (March to May): The temperatures are mild, and the flowers start to bloom, making it an ideal time for photography and outdoor activities.

Summer (June to August): The weather remains warm, making it perfect for picnics, boating, and exploring the nearby areas. However, be mindful of occasional rain in July and August.

The autumn months (September to November) can also be a good time to visit, especially for those interested in photography, as the changing colours of the leaves provide stunning scenery.