Srinagar, Sept 26: The iconic Dal Lake in Srinagar, known for its serene beauty, has now become the stage for an exhilarating water-zorbing adventure, drawing crowds of both locals and tourists.
Water zorbing, a recreational sport that has been gaining popularity in the region, has found a new home on the tranquil waters of Dal Lake. The man behind this idea is a local entrepreneur who is supported by the tourism department.
This exciting addition to Dal Lake’s offerings is the brainchild of Taufiq Ahmed, an enterprising local who saw an opportunity to elevate the adventure quotient of the lake. Ahmed explained, “We have many other options for adventure sports like jet skis and pedal boats, but water zorbing was missing. Therefore, we took the initiative to start this sport in Dal Lake. We are seeing a good response from non-local visitors as well as locals.”
Water zorbing involves participants rolling inside a transparent, inflatable sphere on the water’s surface. The thrill of floating atop the pristine waters of Dal Lake while enclosed within a giant bubble is a unique experience that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Safety has been a top priority in launching this new adventure. “We have received permission from the tourism department and the Lakes Conservation and Management Authority (LCMA) to start this service. On the first day of service, we found many customers who were happy enjoying water zorbing,” Ahmed calmed.
Tourism players in the region are optimistic about the potential of this new attraction. “Water zorbing in Dal Lake will breathe new life into this iconic water body. It’s a win-win situation because tourists get to experience something extraordinary, and it benefits our local economy. This adventure is very common in other states, and we are sure tourists will love it,” expressed a travel agent.
Visitors, too, are thrilled with this novel addition to Dal Lake’s repertoire. Ashwariya, a tourist from Delhi, exclaimed, “This is something I have never experienced before. It is a unique mixture of peace and excitement. Clearwater, light air, and beautiful views—it’s a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.”
Notably, the Jammu and Kashmir administration had earlier this year invited expressions of interest for operating zorbing balls in Dal Lake, demonstrating their commitment to diversifying the tourist experience in the region.
As tourists continue to flock to Dal Lake to relish this newfound adventure, it is evident that this addition has not only enriched the lake’s offerings but has also created a ripple effect in the local economy.
