KASHMIR WATER BODIES

Water is in plenty in Kashmir valley. Mountains covered with snow round the year originate many lakes, rivers, springs and streams that traverse the length and breadth of the Vale of Kashmir. The water of these lakes and rivers is clear and beautiful. These waterbodies adorn the land of the region, adding to its unmatched beauty.

The major river that flows through the Valley of Kashmir is River Jhelum. The river traverses through major parts of the valley before entering Pakistan.

The major river that flows in to the valley is JHELUM. It is also known as Vitasta. Locally it is called Vyeth. The river is referred to as the lifeline of Kashmir. The river originates from the spring of Verinag in Anantnag district, at the foot of the PirPanjal Mountains. It originates and flows as a stream until Anantnag, where a number of tributaries, near Khanabal merge into it to form a river. The river flows into Wullar Lake, before emerging from it in Baramulla and finally flows into Pakistan, joining River Indus finally. In the course, the river runs over a distance of 177 km. Many tributaries join Jhelum in its calm navigable course. In Khanabal alone, five tributaries Vishav, Romushi, Doodhganga, Sukhnag, Lidder, Ferozpur Nallahand Sindh-contribute to its formation into the river. In Srinagar Tchoont Kol (literally Apple Lake), is its main tributary. River Jhelum thrives, on its banks, a lot of important towns and places. Much of the Old City, Srinagar is located on its banks. Many ancient and historic Sufi Shrines are located on its banks. A water trek through Jhelum is interesting to explore major part of valley.

Apart from Jhelum, Lidder, River Sindh, Kishan Ganga and a few other rivers make a short course in Kvalley. However the valley has a number of beautiful lakes, springs and streams.

DAL LAKE

The most famous and most beautiful of the lakes in entire state, Dal lake is jewel in the Crown. What makes the lake beautiful is its clear water, majestic ZabarwanMountains in the backdrop, Shikarasanda number of Houseboats. The lake is located centrally in Srinagar and is unique for the kind of life it survives in its vicinity. The Dal is a world in itself. The lake is important not only for the state tourism, but also for the vast number of people who derive their livelihood from it. The lake is spread over an area of 10 sq. km, with the dimensions of roughly 10 and 2.5 km. A shikara will take you into the interiors of the lake, which gives you a chance to capture the true essence of life in Kashmir valley. The shikara ride is probably the best experience of a Kashmir tour. Many islands, markets and other things in the Dal are simply fascinating.

MANASBAL LAKE

Another beautiful lake situated in Ganderbal district, Manasbal is the deepest lake of Jammu and Kashmir. The water of the lake is clear and beautiful. The lake is famous for its water lilies and Lotus flowers. Shikaras ply on this lake as well. Two gardens have been laid on its banks and it makes an excellent camping ground for the water trek.

NAGIN LAKE

The Lake is situated close to the Dal Lake and is very beautiful.

WULLAR LAKE

This is the largest fresh water lake of Asia.