Shikara Ride in Manasbal Lake
Manasbal Lake is another serene Lake in Kashmir located in district Ganderbal where you can enjoy a peaceful shikara ride. Manasbal Lake is known as the deepest lake in the Kashmir Valley located 30 km north of Srinagar and offers a peaceful environment. A shikara ride in Manasbal Lake is one of the most relaxing and picturesque experiences you can have in Kashmir. Unlike the famous shikara ride in Dal Lake, a ride in Manasbal lake provides a peaceful escape, allowing you to truly connect with nature.
Can I enjoy a shikara ride in Manasbal Lake
Yes, Shikara rides are available at Manasbal Lake. Located about 30 km from Srinagar, Manasbal Lake Shikara rides offer a quieter and less crowded alternative to the famous Dal Lake Shikara ride. This lake is known for its serene waters and lotus blooms, making it perfect for travelers seeking peace and natural beauty. You can easily hire a Shikara on the spot from the docks near the lake entrance and enjoy a calm ride with stunning views of the surrounding mountains and villages.
What makes a Manasbal shikara ride different
A shikara ride in Manasbal Lake is calm, scenic and far less crowded than Dal Lake. Known for its clear, deep waters, the lake is especially famous for its blooming lotus gardens in summer and rich birdlife.
Unlike the busy Dal Lake or the vast Wular Lake, Manasbal offers a more peaceful experience. You get peaceful surroundings, reflections of hills, lotus covered waters and views of the historic Jarokha Bagh along the shore.
If you want a quiet nature focused shikara ride in Kashmir then Manasbal Lake is a great choice.
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What to expect on a Manasbal shikara ride
Here are the top reasons that why you choose a shikara ride in Manasbal Lake instead of Dal lake Srinagar.
1. Less Crowded
Unlike the more popular Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake, Manasbal Lake is quieter and less commercialized. This means you can enjoy a more private and peaceful experience while gliding over crystal clear water. As it is known as one of the cleanest lakes in Kashmir.
2. Rich Birdlife and Scenic Beauty
Manasbal Lake is a paradise for birdwatchers. During a shikara ride, you can spot various species of birds, including kingfishers, herons and ducks. The surrounding hills and lush gardens reflect beautifully on the water, creating a postcard-perfect view.
3. Lotus Gardens and Floating Vegetation
The lake is known for its stunning lotus blooms, especially in the summer months. A shikara ride allows you to glide through these floating gardens, adding to the magical experience.
4. A visit to Jaroka bagh
You can also see the ruins of Jaroka Bagh, a Mughal era garden built by Empress Noor Jahan, which offers historical significance and beautiful views overlooking the lake
Who should go for a shikara ride in Manasbal Lake
Choose Manasbal if you want a calm, scenic, uncrowded ride with lotus gardens and birdlife as a relaxed half day escape from Srinagar. It’s ideal for couples, photographers and travellers who have done Dal and want something quieter without going as remote as Wular.
Best time for a shikara ride in Manasbal Lake
The best time to enjoy a shikara ride in Manasbal Lake is between April and October when the weather is pleasant, and the lotus flowers are in full bloom.
- Summer (May–August): Ideal for lotus blooms and birdwatching.
- Autumn (September–November): Golden foliage creates a magical backdrop.
- Spring (March–April): Pleasant weather and blooming almond trees.
- Avoid Winter: Manasbal lake can freeze in the winter, and snow can make access difficult.
For the wider seasonal picture, see the best time for a shikara ride in Kashmir.
How to Reach Manasbal Lake
Manasbal is about 30 km from Srinagar roughly a 1–1.5 hour drive making it an easy half day or day trip, often combined with nearby Ganderbal or on the way toward Sonamarg. Arrange a driver through our Kashmir cab service.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Shikara Ride
- Manasbal Mughal Garden: A terraced garden with panoramic lake views.
- Ganderbal Town: Explore local markets for handicrafts and spices.
- Wular Lake: A short drive away, perfect for extended adventures.
How to Book a Shikara Ride in Manasbal Lake
Manasbal has no fixed government shikara rate and rides are arranged with local boatmen at the lakeside and priced locally, so confirm before you set off. As it’s a day trip from the city it’s easiest to plan the boatman and transport together in advance our team can set both up.
To book a Shikara ride in Manasbal Lake, simply call or WhatsApp Travel My Kashmir at +91-9796466052 for pre-booking. Alternatively, you can opt for onsite or offline booking.
The price of a Shikara ride in Manasbal Lake starts at just Rs. 300 and can go up to Rs. 500. However, please note that these prices may vary depending on the season and the level of tourist activity.
Other places to enjoy shikara ride in Kashmir
Manasbal Lake Shikara ride contact number
A shikara ride in Manasbal lake can be reserved by contacted at +91-9796466052.
Tips for a Memorable Shikara Ride
- Wear comfortable clothes and carry a light jacket, as the weather can change quickly.
- Early morning rides offer the best views and fewer crowds.
- Don’t forget to carry a camera to capture the beautiful reflections and birdlife.
- Bring Binocular to enhance your birdwatching experience.
Frequently asked questions
Can I enjoy a shikara ride in Manasbal Lake?
Yes, Manasbal offers a calm, scenic ride among lotus gardens and birdlife on the deepest lake in Kashmir, quieter than Dal and easy to reach as a day trip.
When do the lotus flowers bloom in Manasbal Lake?
Roughly July to September when the surface fills with lotus blooms the highlight of a summer Manasbal ride.
How far is Manasbal Lake from Srinagar?
About 30 km, a 1–1.5 hour drive an easy half-day or day trip often combined with Ganderbal or a Sonamarg route.
What is the price of a shikara ride in Manasbal Lake?
There’s no fixed government rate and rides are arranged locally with boatmen and priced by negotiation. Confirm before starting and plan ahead as it’s a day trip from the city.
Is Manasbal Lake safe for a shikara ride for families?
Absolutely! Manasbal lake is safe for families as well as for other tourists.
Can I book a Shikara ride in advance in Manasbal Lake?
Yes, local tour operators like Travel My Kashmir offers advance booking of shikara ride in Manasbal Lake. Call or WhatsApp at +91-9796466052 for advance booking.
Is Manasbal Lake better than Dal Lake for a Shikara ride?
Yes, if you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, Manasbal Lake is a better choice. It is less crowded, more scenic and offers a serene atmosphere compared to the bustling Dal Lake.
Can I experience a sunset Shikara ride in Manasbal Lake?
Yes, The sunset Shikara ride is one of the most magical experiences at Manasbal Lake offering breathtaking reflections of the sky on the calm waters.
Is a Shikara ride safe for kids and elderly people?
Yes, Shikara rides are completely safe and comfortable for all age groups, including kids and elderly passengers. The boats are stable, slow-moving and provide a relaxing ride across the lake.