Surinsar Lake - History, Timings & Entry Fee

At a distance of 32 km from Jammu, Surinsar Lake is a freshwater lake situated at Blahad village near Jammu. It is one of the most beautiful lakes in Kashmir and among the must-visit tourist places in Jammu.

Surrounded by thickly wooded mountain ranges, Surinsar Lake is known for its natural bounty that can be compared with the magnificence of Dal Lake and Nagin Lake of Srinagar. Surinsar Lake is one of the twin lakes in Jammu, the other being Mansar Lake located around 15 km away from it. The Surinsar Mansar Wildlife Sanctuary is nestled amid both the lakes and supports 3 mammalian species and 15 avifauna species including crane.

According to Hindu mythology, the origin of the lake is closely associated with the legendary warrior of Mahabharat, Arjun. According to the mythology, the Pandavas performed the Ashwamedh Yagna to show their superiority post the Kurukshetra war. The horse, which was the symbol of the power of the Yagna, was captured by the erstwhile ruler of the area Babru Vahan. Along with capturing the horse, he killed Arjun and shared his success with his mother by presenting the head of Arjuna to her. She revealed to Babruvahan that he had mistakenly killed his father. After knowing that, he wanted to get Arjuna back for which he had to procure Mani from Sheshnag. It was then that Babar Vahan made a tunnel with his arrow, which was called the 'Surangsar' which is now named Surinsar. After defeating Sheshnag and capturing the Mani, he came out at Manisar which is known as Mansar now, which was the other end of the tunnel. Later, a spring of water forms the lakes.

The perimeter of this lake is surrounded by thick mangroves, looming pine trees, and beautiful hills. An island situated in the middle of this land is home to thousands of bats. A bird sanctuary around the lake is a favorite among bird watchers. Religious taboos do not permit swimming or boating in the lake. In the vicinity of the lake, there is an adventure park having a giant swing, trampoline, artificial wall, etc. Excellent accommodation units with all the facilities near the lake are being provided by the Tourism Department.

Timings: 7 AM - 5 PM

Entry: Free