Manasbal Lake
Manasbal Lake is a freshwater lake located in Safapora area of Ganderbal District in Jammu and Kashmir, India. The name Manasbal is said to be a derivative of Manasarovar. The lake is encircled by four villages viz., Jarokbal, Kondabal, Nesbal (situated on the north-eastern side of the lake) and Gratbal. The large growth of lotus (Nelumbo nucifera) at the periphery of the lake (blooms during July and August) adds to the beauty of the clear waters of the lake. The Mughal garden, called the Jaroka Bagh, (meaning bay window) built by Nur Jahan overlooks the lake.
| Manasbal Lake | |
|---|---|
View of Manasbal Lake | |
Manasbal Lake | |
| Location | Ganderbal district, Jammu and Kashmir, India |
| Coordinates | 34°15′N 74°40′E |
| Lake type | Fresh water |
| Catchment area | 33 km2 (13 sq mi) |
| Basin countries | India |
| Max. length | 5 km (3.1 mi) |
| Max. width | 1 km (0.62 mi) |
| Surface area | 2.81 km2 (1.08 sq mi) |
| Average depth | 4.5 m (15 ft) |
| Max. depth | 13 m (43 ft) |
| Water volume | 0.0128 km3 (0.0031 cu mi) |
| Residence time | 1.2 years |
| Shore length1 | 10.2 km (6.3 mi) |
| Surface elevation | 1,583 m (5,194 ft) |
| Settlements | Kondabal |
| 1 Shore length is not a well-defined measure. | |
The lake is a good place for birdwatching as it is one of the largest natural stamping grounds of Aquatic birds in Kashmir and has the sobriquet of "supreme gem of all Kashmir Lakes". The rootstocks of lotus plant which grows extensively in the lake are harvested and marketed, and also eaten by the local people.