India is famous for its numerous beautiful lakes, rivers and other inland water-bodies that are to be found all over the country. From Kashmir in the north to Kerala in the south and from Assam in the east to Rajasthan in the west, the country is home to various water bodies and attracts nature-lovers from all around the world. Take a look at the top five lakes in India.
Wular Lake
Wular Lake, the largest freshwater lake in India and one of the largest in Asia, is located in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Nestled amidst beautiful mountains, Wular Lake boasts jaw dropping natural beauty. Besides scenic beauty, the lake plays a significant role in maintaining the natural habitat for avian, aquatic, and overall wildlife. A large number of people living around the shores of the lake earn their livelihood by fishing in the lake.
Loktak Lake
Loktak Lake, located in Manipur, is known as the largest freshwater lake in the north-eastern part of India. It is called the floating lake because of a series of floating phumdis (islands) in the lake. The whole lake looks surreal and attracts many tourists from all around the world. The lake is an important part of Manipur as it is used for various important activities such as generation of hydro-power, drinking, irrigation, and maintenance of the natural habitat. It is also a refuge to the highly endangered Sangai, the state animal of Manipur.
Dal Lake
Kashmir Valley, known throughout the world as the most beautiful place on earth, is home to the Dal Lake. It is counted amongst the most famous lakes in India and is one of the most important attractions.
From the shikaras and houseboats to the floating gardens, Dal Lake has a distinct essence of the native culture and traditions. The lake is situated in Srinagar, known as the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir.
Gurudongmar Lake
Gurudongmar Lake is one of the highest lakes in the world. Situated in the north-eastern part of the Kanchenjunga region in Sikkim, it is said to be one of the most beautiful lakes on earth. There are many other lakes here but this one is the biggest and the most striking one. Many of these lakes, apart from being thriving tourist destinations, are also used as places of worship by the locals. The other lakes worth visiting include Khecheopalri Lake also known as the wishing lake and the Tsomgo Lake or frozen Lake.
Chilka Lake
Chilka Lake, the largest coastal lake in India, is a saltwater lake situated in Orissa. It is Asia’s largest inland salt water lagoon. The brackish waters of the lake are more saline than freshwater but lesser than seawater.
Chilka is labelled as the queen of natural scenery in the state. People can enjoy ferry rides on the lake and also view Irrawaddy dolphins and various species of migratory birds. Because of its beauty and appeal, it is also known as the Swiss-lake of Asia.
