One of the largest freshwater lakes in Asia, the pristine beauty of Wular Lake is in Bandipora district in the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir. The majestic lake has a breathtaking view and attracts a huge number of visitors around the year. Wular Lake's basin was formed as a result of tectonic activity, due to which the area covered by the lake varies throughout the year, a phenomenon which is unique to this destination. The lake, calm in its appearance, is known for the fierce winds that sometimes blow heavy currents all through its way. However, when the waters are serene and collected, this destination plays host to a number of events such as boating, water sports and water ski.

A favourite picnic spot among locals and tourists alike, Wular Lake is replenished by the water of the mighty Jhelum river and is one of the 26 wetlands of India. This attraction is the perfect place to sit back and revel in the beauty of nature away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The beautiful landscape of the lake is one of the major for garnering huge amount tourists. A walk around the lake is very peaceful and uplifting, and when you've had enough of walking you can explore the place by hopping on a boat and peddle your way through the waters.

Etymology of Wular Lake

The name 'Wular Lake' has an interesting history attached to its name. Wular Lake finds a mention in ancient texts such as Nilamata Purana, where it was called Mahapadmasar. Owing to the stormy temperament the lake was also called Ullola in Sanskrit, which translated to leaping high rising waves. Over the course of time, the name got contorted to Bolor and was called so by Al-Biruni himself. The current name Wular is believed to have been originated from these contortions itself. The origin of the lake's name is also attributed to a Kashmiri word 'Wul', which means a gap, and is a reference to the origin of the lake.

Fauna at Wular Lake

The quaint waters of Wular Lake are home to a number of water creatures and is easily an animal lover's delight. Fish such as common carp, rosy barb, mosquito fish and snow trout can be spotted here frolicking away in the sun. Interestingly, the fish found here also form an important part of the local diet and a number of fishermen depend on the fish population for their livelihood.

Wular Lake is also a bird watcher's delight. A number of terrestrial birds such as black-eared kite, Eurasian sparrowhawk, short-toed eagle, Himalayan golden eagle, Himalayan Monal, chukar partridge, koklass pheasant, rock dove, common cuckoo, alpine swift, Indian roller, Himalayan woodpecker, hoopoe, barn swallow and golden oriole make the rounds of this attraction quite regularly.

How to Reach Wular Lake

Located in the Bandipore district the Wular Lake can be conveniently reached by a few minutes drive from the main city of Srinagar.