Dal Lake Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Dal Lake डल झील
Dal Lake and the shikaras
Location	Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India
Coordinates	34°07′N 74°52′E / 34.117°N 74.867°E / 34.117; 74.867
Lake type	Warm monomictic
Primary inflows	Inflow Channel Telbal from Jhelum River -291.9 million cubic metres
Primary outflows	Regulated, two channels (Dal Gate and Nalla Amir) - 275.6 million cubic metres
Catchment area	316 square kilometres (122 sq mi)
Basin countries	India

Max. length	7.44 km (4.62 mi)
Max. width	3.5 km (2.2 mi)
Surface area	18–22 square kilometres (6.9–8.5 sq mi)
Average depth	1.42 metres (4.7 ft)
Max. depth	6 m (20 ft)
Water volume	983 million cubic metres (34.7×10^⁹ cu ft)
Residence time	22.16 days
Shore length¹	15.5 km (9.6 mi)
Surface elevation	1,583 m (5,194 ft)

Frozen	During severe winter
Islands	Two (Sona Lank and Rupa Lank (or Char Chinari)
Settlements	Hazratbal, Srinagar
¹ Shore length is not a well-defined measure.

Dal Lake is a famous lake in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir, India. It is often called the "Jewel in the Crown of Kashmir" or "Srinagar's Jewel." The lake is very important for tourism and fishing. It is also a big part of daily life for many people in the area.

The lake is connected to other lakes in the Kashmir Valley. It is known for its many houseboats. These houseboats were first built a long time ago. They were used as vacation homes by British officials.

About Dal Lake
- Water Sources and Flow
- Islands in the Lake
Life on Dal Lake
- Houseboats
- Floating Gardens
Importance of Dal Lake
- Tourism and Economy
- Nature and Wildlife
Things to See Around the Lake
- Mughal Gardens
- Other Attractions
Images for kids
See also

About Dal Lake

Dal Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake. It is located in the city of Srinagar. The lake is quite large, covering about 18 to 22 square kilometers. Its deepest part is about 6 meters (20 feet) deep.

Water Sources and Flow

The lake gets its water mainly from the Telbal stream. This stream flows from the Jhelum River. Water also comes from other smaller streams and springs. The water leaves the lake through two channels. These channels help control the lake's water level.

Islands in the Lake

Dal Lake has two main islands. One is called Sona Lank. The other is Rupa Lank. Rupa Lank is also known as Char Chinari. These islands add to the lake's beauty.

Life on Dal Lake

Life on Dal Lake is unique. Many people live on or around the lake. They use special boats called shikaras to get around. Shikaras are small, colorful wooden boats. They are like taxis on the water.

Houseboats

The lake is famous for its houseboats. There are about 500 of them. These houseboats are like floating homes. They are made of wood and have beautiful carvings. Many tourists stay in these houseboats. They offer a special way to experience the lake.

Floating Gardens

Dal Lake also has floating gardens. These are patches of land that float on the water. Farmers grow vegetables and flowers on them. It is a clever way to use the lake's surface for farming.

Importance of Dal Lake

Dal Lake is very important for many reasons. It is a major tourist attraction. People come from all over the world to see its beauty.

Tourism and Economy

Tourism is a big part of the local economy. Shikara rides, houseboat stays, and visits to floating markets are popular. The lake also supports fishing. Many local people earn their living from the lake.

Nature and Wildlife

The lake is home to many kinds of plants and animals. It is a habitat for various fish and birds. The surrounding areas have beautiful gardens and trees. In winter, the lake can sometimes freeze over.

Things to See Around the Lake

Many famous places are near Dal Lake. These include beautiful Mughal gardens.

Mughal Gardens

Nishat Bagh: This is known as the "Garden of Joy." It is a terraced garden with fountains.
Shalimar Bagh: This garden is called the "Abode of Love." It was built by Emperor Jahangir.
Chashma Shahi: This garden is famous for its natural spring.

Other Attractions

Hazratbal Shrine: This is an important Muslim shrine. It is located on the lake's western bank.
Shankaracharya Hill: This hill offers amazing views of the lake and Srinagar city.