About Surinsar-Mansar Lakes
Surinsar-Mansar Lakes
Surinsar-Mansar Lakes is a paired wetland complex on the lower foothills east of Jammu, in the Samba district of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The two lakes, set within a forested, hill-fringed landscape, are an integral part of the regional geography and hold both ecological and cultural significance.
Ecologically, the lakes are recognized for their value to migratory waterfowl and freshwater biodiversity. They were formally designated as a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in November 2005, drawing attention to their role as breeding, nursery, and wintering habitat for ducks, coots, moorhens, and grebes, as well as their importance for native turtle species such as Lissemys punctuata and Aspideretes gangeticus.
Culturally, the lakes are deeply rooted in local Hindu tradition and Mahabharata-era legend, with ancient temples of Shiva, Narasimha, and Durga on the shores of Mansar and a prominent shrine to Shesha on the eastern bank. Pilgrims come for ritual bathing and circumambulation, while visitors more broadly use the lakes as a scenic, easily accessible retreat from Jammu city, supported by forest walks, boating, and a nearby wildlife sanctuary.