Wular Lake, Freshwater lake in Bandipora, India

Wular Lake is a freshwater body in Bandipora district of Jammu and Kashmir, ranking among the largest natural waters of its kind in India. The basin changes its shape considerably with the seasons as mountain inflows determine water level and the extent of the open water surface.

The water formed thousands of years ago through tectonic activity in the Himalayan foothills, which created a natural depression. Sultan Zain-ul-Abidin had a small artificial island built in the 15th century, which today remains visible only when water levels are low.

Fishermen visit the water regularly in small boats and collect water plants that are sold in nearby markets. Communities around the shore also use parts of the banks for seasonal grazing when water levels drop after the monsoon.

The lake lies near Bandipora town in Bandipora district, reached by road from Srinagar. Its surface varies seasonally between roughly 30 and 189 square kilometres, and afternoon winds raise high waves, so boat trips are best arranged for the morning. Boating, water sports and water skiing were launched by India Tourism with Kerala Tourism and J&K Tourism, under a contract awarded in September 2011.

During monsoon season the water swells so much that it stores excess water from several rivers, protecting the valley below from floods. This natural regulation function makes it an important element in regional water balance without requiring any technical installations.