Alok Prakash 
Srinagar is considered as the Lake City of India for its many beautiful lakes like Dal Lake, Nagin Lake and the beautiful Boat houses. The main attraction lies on the Hill resorts and house boats for a perfect holiday for peace and relaxation. Srinagar has also got the Asia’s biggest Golf Course with a span of 300 acres (area wise).
Dal Lake in Srinagar, stretching across 5 X 2.5 miles is the largest lake in Kashmir and one of the most beautiful lakes in the country. This lake is surrounded by mountains on three sides and initially was thought to cover the entire area of Kashmir valley. The shores of this lake have ample Mughal gardens and orchards making it a perfect spot for relaxation. Dal Lake has 4 basins, two of which have an island floating on the waters – Lokut Dal and Bod Dal. The sight of University of Kashmir, Monuments of Mughal Empire, Shakaracharya Temple and Hari Parbat Temple is splendid from Dal Lake.
The lake has about 500 house boats built during Victorian Era that was used by Kings and Queens for spending a pleasant summer. These boats are now available for stay at different rates depending on the size and luxury. More interesting is that, these fully furnished house boats with all amenities float on the waters of Dal Lake calmly. Shikhara rides (ferries resembling Gondolas of Venice) are available to lead to house boats. It is also possible to visit tourist attractions like Nehru Park, Charchinari, Kanutur, Nishat Bagh, Shalimar Bagh and floating islands. Dal Lake is the first in the world to have secured a Wi-Fi connection.
Best Time To Visit Dal Lake : May to November is the best time to visit Dal Lake as the climate is pleasant. During winter, it gets extremely cold.
Also See: Best Places to Visit in Kashmir – The Paradise on Earth
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