Diya Sar Lake awes tourists with its natural beauty and is one of the oft frequented sightseeing locations in Rajouri district of Jammu and Kashmir. This beautiful lake is tucked away in the western precincts of Chamar Sar and is easily accessible via Sarota Marg.

The unique shape of an earthen lamp gives this picturesque water body its name. Diya Sar Lake is a popular picnic spot for locals and tourists alike. Sprawling over a length of 1 km and standing at an elevation of 3600 m over sea level, this lake is prominently located on the tourist map of J& K and visited by domestic and international travelers alike.

Diya Sar Lake is flanked by beautiful hilly terrains of Rajouri. Rajouri is placed at a strategic location and holds importance from defense point of view. Diya Sar Lake is an integral part of this “Vale of Lakes”. Located at a distance of about 130 km from Srinagar, Rajouri district is well known for its scenic beauty, lush meadows and plentiful lakes.

Pir Panjal, which falls under the jurisdiction of Pooch-Rajouri districts, is located at an altitude of 10000 ft. to 14500 ft. Meadows and lakes dotting the region give it an interesting character and make the place worth visiting. There are over 27 lakes in this region between Nandan Sar and Simar Sar with Diya Sar Lake being one of the most prominent. Sukh Sar, Akal Dakshni, Chandan Sar, Katori Sar, Chamar Sar, Bhsg Sar, Nandan Sar, Raviwalli lakes and Katori Sar in Bela Marg are the other scenic lakes surrounding Diya Sar. These highland lakes are prone to freezing in the winter months when they become inaccessible to tourists.

Diya Sar Lake attracts people from far and beyond with its beautiful bounties, which stretch for miles. Green meadows and terraced hills of this region attract visitors along with zig zig paths and lush valleys. Diya Sar is one of the favorite haunts for nature enthusiasts and tourists alike.

A Nice Getaway

Tucked in the lap of nature, Diya Sar Lake is an excellent getaway for tourists looking for their own place—far from the maddening crowds of Srinagar and Jammu. Serene, placid and pure, waters of this lake pay rich tribute to snow clad peaks fringing the mountains beyond. There are practically no words to describe the charm and beauty of terrains surrounding Diya Sar Lake. Nature manifests itself in the most pristine form in the blue and cool waters of this lake.

Amusements

Originally a part of Poonch district, Diya Sar Lake is a vast expanse of water fringed by lush forests and mesmerizing hillsides. Visitors love to savor the delights of the low lying clouds kissing the surface of the lake—even as they take leisurely boat rides along the shores. The edges of Diya Sar Lake boast of delectable food fare, tea stalls selling treats and locally brewed tea along with a host of operators with brightly colored boats and avenues for water sports.

After enjoying cool breeze at the lake, visitors love to visit forts and mosques located in nearby areas of Rajouri district.

Reach

Tourists interested in reaching Rajouri district and experiencing its various lakes can access their destination by bus or private taxis. Regular bus services to Diya Sar Lake are available from Jammu Bus Stand. One can reach Jammu by air, train or road as the city is well connected to various important towns and cities of India.

Best Time to Visit

June to October are good months to visit Diya Sar Lake. Along with a pleasant climate and heightened natural beauty, this lake offers a lot of opportunities for photographers, bird watchers and those looking forward to interesting water sports and other aquatic activities like rafting and boating.

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