Manasbal Travel Guide – The Lake of Lotus and BirdsDuke Kashmir Travels
Manasbal is a lake in Ganderbal district, Kashmir, India, and the deepest lake in the valley. It lies about 30 km north of Srinagar and is known for its lotus bloom and its waterbirds.
A Mughal garden, Jaroka Bagh, was built above the water for Nur Jahan and still looks down on it. There is no tourist strip here, which is the point.
By Duke Kashmir Travels Team · Reviewed by Rayies Ahmad Zargar, Founder · Published · Updated
Key takeaways
- Distance: about 30 km from Srinagar, roughly an hour — the closest lake trip after Dal.
- What it is: the deepest lake in Kashmir, with a Mughal garden above it.
- Best time: July and August for the lotus; winter for migratory birds.
- Time needed: half a day, easily combined with Kheer Bhawani.
- Quiet: almost no crowds compared with Dal or Nigeen.
What is Manasbal known for?
Lotus in summer, birds in winter, and a Mughal garden on the ridge above. The lotus bloom covers much of the surface through July and August. In winter the lake takes grebes, coots and migratory duck, and it is one of the better birdwatching spots in the valley.
Jaroka Bagh, built for Nur Jahan, sits on the bank with a view over the water. Kheer Bhawani at Tulmulla is 10 km away, and Hokersar, the wetland reserve, is on the other side of Srinagar.
How do you visit Manasbal from Srinagar?
30 km north through Ganderbal, about an hour. It is the easiest half-day trip in this guide and pairs naturally with Kheer Bhawani. Shikaras are available on the lake, and the shoreline villages are worth a slow walk.
Book Manasbal with Duke Kashmir Travels
We are a J&K Tourism-registered agency (JKTA00003978) with our own vehicles and drivers. Manasbal works as a half day from Srinagar, often on an arrival or departure day. Tell us your dates.
Insider tip from our local team
Manasbal is a morning lake. The lotus opens early on July and August mornings and closes as the day heats up, and the light for photographs is gone by mid-afternoon. Combine it with Kheer Bhawani, 10 km away, and be back in Srinagar for lunch.