Delhi is the capital of India, with a rich and colourful history and culture. However, Delhi has more to it than its busy streets and modern lifestyle. It also has a few serene lakes nearby, which allow you to escape from the city’s approaching liveliness. These lakes in Delhi are included in Delhi’s natural heritage. All of these are both historical and recreationally important. These popular lakes in Delhi make for a truly unmissable experience.
Popular Lakes In Delhi
Here are the most popular lakes in Delhi, making for a great spot to relax and unwind your day with your best company:
1. Siri Fort Lake
Photo: BohunkaNika / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Among the popular lakes in Delhi, Siri Fort Lake is one of those lakes situated near Siri Fort Complex. It is known for its serene surroundings and is a good place to relax and enjoy. Boating facilities are available at the lake, which fits in as a good spot for leisure walks and bird watching for residents of the area. Standing in its lush greenery and ancient ruins, Siri Fort Lake makes a welcome refuge from the city bustle.
Distance: 10 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: ₹20 – ₹50 for entry
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Hauz Khas Lake
Photo: Vis M / Wikimedia Commons
One other famous lake in Delhi is Hauz Khas Lake, situated near Hauz Khas Complex. Besides being a haven of natural beauty, the lake is flanked by beautiful historical monuments, including the tombs of Mughal rulers. Thus, it is a mix of a blend of history and nature. Picnics, boating, and casual walks are all popular ways to occupy oneself at the lake. It also has a lot of photographers who love to see the blend of heritage and nature at the site.
Distance: 7 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: ₹20
Best Time To Visit: November to February
3. Yamuna Biodiversity Park Lake
Photo: Ali Arsh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Yamuna Biodiversity Park Lake in the northeast of Delhi is a site of numerous flora and fauna. In the first place, it is one of the important lakes in Delhi and is particularly important for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Yamuna Biodiversity Park is a protected area designed to conserve habitats of birds, reptiles, and aquatic life, and as a part of it, the lake is present. This park provides walking trails, bird-watching opportunities, and peaceful surroundings, which make it perfect for eco-tourism.
Distance: 15 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: ₹20 – ₹40 for entry
Best Time To Visit: November to March
4. Bhalswa Lake
Photo: Ashishkumar1310 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There is yet another tranquil spot to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and that is Bhalswa Lake, located in northern Delhi. The natural beauty of the lake makes it an often visited place for bird watching, especially during migratory season. Bhalswa Lake might not be as popular as other lakes in Delhi. Although, it is an ideal place to go for some nature love with calm environs.
Distance: 18 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
5. Naini Lake
Photo: Pallav.journo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the lesser-known popular lakes in Delhi is Naini Lake, a lake in Model Town. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing day out and has a lot of opportunities for them to enjoy a few hours around the lake in a paddle boat or to stop and have a picnic there. It is one such place located in the middle, surrounded by greenery, ideal for families and friends gathering to spend some quality time in this serene atmosphere.
Distance: 12 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: ₹20 – ₹50 for boating
Best Time To Visit: March to June
6. Sanjay Lake
Photo: Sumitmpsd / Wikimedia Commons
Sanjay Lake, situated in the heart of East Delhi, is indeed a hidden place suitable for those looking to spend a tranquil day in the arms of nature. Nested in the middle of a vast park, this scenic lake provides an excellent getaway from the hectic city life of this metropolitan. Clean walking trails, cycling paths and serene view of the water are to be found around the lake. It is a favourite place for early morning jogs, bird watching, and leisurely walks. The lake is suitable for people who desire to have a quiet day without the city’s noise.
Distance: 10 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
More Lakes In Delhi & Around
Here are some more lakes in Delhi and around, counting for amazing serenity spots in the Delhi NCR area:
1. Surajpur Wetland & Lake
Photo: Moheen Reeyad / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Surajpur Wetland and Lake in Greater Noida is a fantastic out-of-the-beaten-track destination to escape the chaos of the city. While this lake is a bit further from the centre of town, it is a good choice for those who want to enjoy a peaceful, natural retreat. It is a protected wetland which offers a good habitat for many kinds of birds, including migratory and resident. There is ample nature to explore here for nature lovers, starting from flora to full aquatic life around the lake.
Distance: 35 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: November to March
2. Damdama Lake
Photo: Shaz.syed13 / Wikimedia Commons
Damdama Lake, near Gurugram, is one of the largest lakes of Haryana and is a perfect weekend getaway from Delhi. This lake nested in beautiful Aravalli hills is suitable for adventure lovers with their activities like rock climbing, hot air ballooning and trekking. One of the most popular things to do here is boat on the water with the option of rowing, paddle boating or powering it with a motor.
Distance: 50 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: Free (boating and adventure activities have separate charges)
Best Time To Visit: October to March
3. Sultanpur Lake
Photo: Slyronit / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sultanpur National Park is a part of the city headquarters in Gurugram, nestling the Sultanpur Lake. It is a haven for birdwatchers and people who love nature. During the winter season, the lake is part of a protected sanctuary that attracts hundreds of migratory birds from Siberia, Europe and Central Asia. It is a dream destination for wildlife photographers as one can easily spot things like pelicans, flamingos, storks and various species of ducks here.
Distance: 40 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: ₹5 for Indian citizens, ₹40 for foreigners
Best Time To Visit: October to March (peak birdwatching season)
4. Ballabgarh Lake
Photo: Kprateek88 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
This lesser known lake is located near Ballabgarh in Haryana and is a great destination for those who love to spend a quiet day by the water. Its lush greenery surrounds the lake, providing a nice getaway not only for the visitors. The location can be a site for picnics to have a stroll in nature and watch birds. It’s certainly not as developed as some of the other lakes, but it has a raw, untouched natural beauty that is quite rewarding to visit.
Distance: 50 km from the city centre
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: October to March
The main lakes in Delhi are more than just scenic lakes of nature; they are also important historical and recreational landmarks. These lakes are the perfect place to get away from the city, whether you’re looking for a tranquil retreat, an opportunity for bird watching, or a day of boating. Delhi’s lakes are worth exploring due to the rich history they hold, the natural beauty they provide, and the accessibility they have. Go ahead and plan with TripXL to set out on an experience of a lifetime across these popular lakes in Delhi!
Cover Photo: Abhii007ii / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only