15 Of The Best Lakes In Bangalore To Visit

Bangalore’s magnificent lakes, both natural and man-made, are the city’s lifelines. They come as a much-needed respite for residents when they need some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Spread across different areas of the city, each of the lakes in Bangalore has something unique to offer to all its visitors. Their stunning landscapes guarantee gorgeous views and tranquil surroundings. Since Bangalore does not have any rivers flowing through it, the lakes, several of them man-made from many centuries ago, have been lifelines for the people. Lakes are also an extremely essential part of any landscape. Proper lake function helps ease the impact of floods by storing water and releasing it during shortages. Lakes are also integral in replenishing groundwater and helping boost the economy by promoting tourism.

Lakes in Bangalore make for the perfect weekend getaway where you can spend time with your friends and family doing a bunch of fun activities! Right from boating to birdwatching, there is so much you can do at the lakes of Bangalore. Bangalore is fondly called ‘The City Of Lakes’ because of the variety of lakes it has. Most of the lakes are well-maintained and see a lot of visitors throughout the year. We’ve listed out some of the best lakes in Bangalore that you can visit and leave all your worries behind!

Also Read: How Citizen Initiatives Have Revolutionized Lake Conservation In Bengaluru And Why It’s Important

15 Of The Best Lakes In Bangalore You Can Explore

1. Madiwala Lake

Madiwala Lake is one of the largest lakes in Banglore. The lake is spread over a sprawling area of 114 hectares. This picturesque lake is maintained by the Karnataka State Forest Department and is an absolute delight to visit. Madiwala Lake is a great place to engage in photography, take a leisurely stroll around the lake or simply sit down and observe the beautiful birds all around. Families can take their children to Madiwala Lake where there is lots to do to keep them entertained. 

Location: Bannerghatta Main Road, BTM 2nd stage, Bangalore

Timings: 05.00 AM to 09.30 PM, all days.

Boating: 10.00 AM to 06.30 PM, all days.

Fees: INR 5 per person (for Adults) & INR 2 per kid (for Kids).

2. Ulsoor Lake

This Lake is perhaps Bangalore’s most famous lake known for its tranquillity and is also one of the biggest lakes in the city. Ulsoor Lake has beautiful islands in the middle of the vast water body, is surrounded by dense trees and is one of the oldest lakes in the city. You can choose to go boating on the Ulsoor Lake or walk the path that surrounds the lake which is an incredibly peaceful experience. It has a designated children’s play area as well. What’s perfect about Ulsoor Lake is that it’s close to the popular places in Bangalore. This lake is only a stone’s throw away from famous shopping destinations like Church Street and Commercial Street. Once you’re done lounging by the Ulsoor Lake you can always go shopping right after!

Location: Near MG Road, Bangalore

Timings: 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Wednesday closed)

Boating: NA

Fees: Free

3. Hebbal Lake

One of the most popular lakes, Hebbal Lake was commissioned in 1537 by Kempe Gowda and is spread across 150 acres. The lake is the ideal place for anyone who enjoys observing different species of migratory birds like purple moorhens, Brahminy kites, darters, cormorants, grey herons, pond herons and much more. Hebbal Lake is an exceptional place to witness magnificent sunrises and sunsets. This lake is a seasonal lake that dries up during the summer but comes to life in the monsoon when it is surrounded by lush greenery all around. Hebbal Lake is also one of the largest in the city.

Location: 13 km away from the Kempe Gowda Bus Stand, Bangalore

Timings: 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, any day

Boating: NA

Fees: INR 10 per person

4. Lalbagh Lake

Close to the city centre, the Lal Bagh Botanical Garden is renowned for its stunning flora. Nestled inside it is the quaint Lal Bagh Lake that is absolutely unmissable. This lake and the surrounding areas are one of the most picturesque places in Bangalore. The Lalbagh Botanical Gardens was established in the year 1760 by Hyder Ali. Rumour has it that the lake was one of the main reasons for Hyder Ali to set up the park. The lake is a paradise for photographers and a great place to soak in nature. There are lush green trees and colourful flowers for as far as the eye can see. The lake is spread across an area of about 40 acres and has a maximum depth of 3.5 metres. 

Location: Mavalli, Bangalore

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM every day (for the public), from 6:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM (for pedestrians).

Entry Fees: INR 10 per person and free for children below 12 years of age.

Flower Shows’ Fees: INR 40 per person.

5. Kaikondrahalli Lake

As we know, some of the lakes in Bangalore have faced severe damage and degradation. Fortunately, there have been several cases of revival and conservation of such lakes in Bangalore. The Kaikondrahalli Lake is one of the lakes that has transformed from a dump yard into a beautiful lake thanks to the administrative bodies. This lake is a biodiverse ecosystem in itself and houses reptiles, amphibians and birds.

The lake is bordered by a range of trees and in the heart of the lake lies a small island. There are jogging and cycling tracks around the lake along with play areas and parks. The bird population at the lake is remarkable – each month brings its own set of migratory birds and makes it an excellent place for bird watching. While it is a breathtaking location to visit throughout the year, this lake is particularly beautiful to witness during the month of July. 

Location: Kaikondrahalli Lake Trail, Harlur

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: Closes at 6:30 PM

6. Hesaraghatta Lake

This freshwater lake was created in the year 1894 across the Arkavathy River to meet the city’s drinking water needs. Today it has grown to accommodate diverse birdlife and flora. Birds like harries, quails, flycatchers and robins frequent this lake which is why it is extremely popular among photographers and for bird watching. The best time to visit this lake is during the monsoon or after it. 

Location: Hesaraghatta

Entry Fee: Free

7. Agara Lake

Agara Lake is a natural lake that is a favourite among morning walkers and joggers. Across its 98 acres, there are scenic views of the entire lake along with a vibrant avian population. Agara Lake is the ideal location for a workout session in the morning as you take in the panoramic landscape all around. Agara Lake also features a statue named Children-Globe-Rooster.

Location: Agara Village, 1st Sector, HSR Layout (just off the outer ring road)

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 5:30 AM to 11 AM, 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM

Also Read: Take A Trip To These 8 Mesmerizing Lake Islands Around The World!

8. Hennur Lake

Hennur Lake and Biodiversity Park are akin to a small, quaint forest right in the midst of Bangalore. With a walking track of 1.2 km and a children’s play area, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is a wonderful place to spend a leisurely evening with your family. There is also a garden you can stroll through that is home to medicinal plants and nearly 1800 local trees.

Location: Service Rd, 5th Block, Nagawara

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: 5:30 AM to 9 AM, 4:00 PM to 6:30 PM

9. Rachenahalli Lake

Rachenahalli Lake has had quite a metamorphosis in the last couple of years. After being neglected for years, it was revived in 2019 thanks to the efforts of a citizen’s group. Several bird species like the Brahminy kite, spot-billed pelican and intermediate egret have made the lake their home, making it a great place for bird watching. The tracks around the lake along with gorgeous views make it a great place to watch the sunset during dusk or simply take a walk in the evening. 

Location: Thanisandra

Timings: 5:30 AM – 9 AM and 4 PM – 7 PM on all days of the week.

10. Allalasandra Lake

Allalasandra Lake is in the satellite town of Yelahanka and is a favourite among morning walkers around the area. The large water body welcomes many species of birds like cranes, swans, pigeons, and a few other migratory birds. Facilities include an open-air gym and a children’s park adjoining the lake. Since Yelahanka is away from Bangalore City, it’s one of the lesser-explored lakes of Bangalore, which is what makes it all the more interesting. 

Location: Yelahanka

Entry Fee: Free

Timings: Sunrise – Sunset

11. Nagavara Lake

Covering an area of 44 hectares, Nagavara Lake is located on the Outer Ring Road and is known for its enthralling landscape. Surrounding it are Lumbini Gardens and a Leisure Park, places you can visit to unwind and enjoy nature. It has been developed by the lake authority of India.

Location: Nagavara, Hebbal, Bangalore

Timing: 6 AM – 7 PM

Fees: Free entry

Boating: NA

12. Puttenahalli Lake

Puttenahalli Lake covers 13 acres of area and the main sources of water for this lake are water and rain. This lake is a haven for nature lovers and is one of the places to witness 80 species of birds including purple heron, Indian pond heron, common kingfisher, and spot-billed duck. Puttenahalli Lake was a pristine lake for a long time in Bangalore until pollution and garbage caused its damage much like several other lakes in the city. However, a continued effort has been made by citizens to revive the lake and it is now a favourite among citizens of the area. There’s another lake by the same name in Yelahanka.

Location: Arekere MICO Layout Main Rd, Puttenahalli, JP Nagar 7th Phase, near MLR Convention Hall, Bangalore, Karnataka 560076

Visit Timing: NA

Boating: NA

Fees: Free

13. Kengeri Lake

Kengeri Lake is along Mysore Road and has been rejuvenated by the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation. There are mini green islands on the lake making it ideal to go boating with your friends and family. The lake is spread over 25 acres and local authorities are working on laying out a walking path, kids’ play zone, recreational area, islet and much more. 

Location: Kengeri Satellite Town

Entry Fee:  Free Entry

Timings: 24×7; every day

14. Yediyur Lake

Yediyur Lake is one of the oldest lakes in Bangalore and its origins date back to the Hoysala period. It has a convenient walkway built for joggers and walkers and the surrounding park allows you to go on a picnic and take boat rides. A major plus is that there is no entry fee at Yediyur Lake.

Location: Jaynagar

15. Varthur Lake

This lake is man-made and was built around 100 years ago to maintain the ecological balance of the city’s natural system and to support the agricultural needs of farmers in the area. Over time, Varthur Lake has gathered a lot of toxic waste over the years and is also infamous for froth. Many plans are underway to restore the lake to its past glory but there is still a lot to be done. It is still appreciated for the beautiful views it offers of the sunset and the sunrise and is frequented by nature lovers and photographers.

Location: Varthur Kere, Varthur, Bangalore

Also Read: Visit These 6 Stunning Pink Lakes Around The World

The Lakes In Bangalore Continue To Attract Citizens And Tourists

All of the lakes in Bangalore are an important reminder to all of us, teaching us the importance of sustainability and how industrialisation can harm water bodies. Many lakes in Bangalore have been restored over the years because of all the damage caused by human activity. As we go forward, citizens and tourists need to be more mindful when they visit lakes and ensure they don’t litter and keep their surroundings clean. Protecting the biodiversity around the lake should be just as important to citizens as it is to the government authorities.

FAQs