Manasbal Lake, J&K
Manasbal Lake is a very ancient lake and deepest lake which is known for its beauty. It is located about 30 km north in the Jhelum Valley, the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir State. The name of the Lake Manasbal is said to be derivative of the Lake Mansarovar. It is surrounded by three villages, Kindabal, Jarokbal, and Gratbal in the Kashmir valley. Manasbal Lake is considered as the "supreme gem of all Kashmir Lakes" as it is surrounded by Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) at the periphery of the Lake. It is the only lake that develops stable summer stratification and is classified as worm Monomictic Lake and circulates once in a year for a short time.
Manasbal Lake is good for birdwatching as it is the one of the largest natural stamping grounds of aquatic birds in Kashmir. Local people use the Manasbal Lake as the source of water, for fishing and for obtaining food and fodder plants. The rootstocks of lotus plant growing extensively in the lake are harvested and marketed and also eaten by the local residents.
The weather is pleasant in the months of May and August and the tourist can enjoy the water skiing sports which are becoming the most popular activity in many rivers and lakes in India. The Tourism Department of Jammu and Kashmir provides essential water skiing equipments and trained instructors to the adventure seekers. The lake can be reached from Srinagar via Shadipur or via Nasim and Gandarbal.
