Lakes In Bengaluru: Best Nature Escapes In The City

Bengaluru was the ‘City of 1000 Lakes’ due to the numerous water bodies that supported lush vegetation and a variety of wildlife species. Urbanization has led to the disappearance of many lakes in Bengaluru; however, several water bodies still exist as tranquil retreats within the bustling city environment. These lakes serve as essential habitats for birds and aquatic creatures while also offering serene spaces for relaxation, jogging, and boating activities. Below is a list of ten remarkable lakes that enhance Bengaluru’s natural beauty and ecological balance, providing peaceful surroundings and recreational opportunities.

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10 Beautiful Lakes In Bengaluru

If you’re looking for a break from the city’s fast-paced life, these lakes are perfect for you. Here are the 10 beautiful lakes in Bengaluru:

1. Ulsoor Lake

Island in the middle of Ulsoor lake, reflecting the green trees on the still waterbody

Photo: Swaminathan / Wikimedia Commons

Ulsoor Lake, one of the largest and oldest lakes in Bengaluru, is a beautiful and peaceful place which has been a big tourist attraction for locals as well as tourists. The lake is interspersed with tiny islands, which contribute to its beauty and make it the perfect spot for boating and picnics. The jogging tracks surrounding the lake and the greenery provide a peaceful refuge for morning strollers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts alike. Apart from its recreational use, the lake is also a site for cultural celebrations, particularly during the big celebrations of the annual Ganesha Festival.

Location: Ulsoor, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: MG Road, Commercial Street, Cubbon Park

2. Sankey Tank

Sankey Tank with still waters surrounded by trees, reflecting the warm colors of the sky

Photo: Ramakrishna Reddy y / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the upscale Sadashivanagar area, Sankey Tank is a beautifully maintained man-made lake that spans 37.5 acres. Constructed as an artificial water reservoir, it is now a cherished place for city dwellers wanting to unwind and relax. A well-laid walking path rings the lake, making it the go-to morning and evening strolling spot. With boat rides on offer, tourists can spend a relaxing time on the tranquil waters and take in the picturesque beauty of the surroundings. The lake is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with glimpses of different species of birds that visit the location.

Location: Sadashivanagar, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: Early mornings and evenings
Nearby Attractions: ISKCON Temple, Orion Mall, Malleshwaram Market

3. Hebbal Lake

Hebbal lake with buildings at a distance from the shore and palm trees lined up

Photo: User533567 / Wikimedia Commons

Hebbal Lake, constructed by Kempe Gowda in 1537, is a historical water body that has become a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Covering a large expanse of area, the lake is famous for its clean surroundings and rich biodiversity. The spectacle of migratory birds such as pelicans, herons, and kingfishers makes it a photographer’s and bird lover’s paradise. Clean walking trails and sitting areas along the lake offer tourists a chance to bask in the peaceful environment while appreciating beautiful vistas of the water and trees. The lake also features a watchtower that offers panoramic views of the entire water body and its surroundings.

Location: Hebbal, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: November to March for birdwatching
Nearby Attractions: Lumbini Gardens, Manyata Tech Park

4. Agara Lake

Agara lake surrounded by green landscape with trees and distant apartment buildings

Photo: Dsuman17 / Wikimedia Commons

Agara Lake, situated close to HSR Layout, is a well-restored and well-maintained waterbody that has become a hotspot for outdoor fitness lovers. With its well-laid jogging track and green surroundings, it is the perfect place for morning and evening strolls. The lake is also an ecological hotspot, which harbors diverse plant and animal life. The peaceful environment, combined with the scenic landscape of the lake, provides an ideal location for visitors who wish to flee the activity of the city and relax in nature’s lap. Benches set along the walkway permit visitors to stop and appreciate the lake’s beauty.

Location: Agara, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Nearby Attractions: HSR Layout, Koramangala, Bellandur Lake

5. Madiwala Lake

People boating against the gentle waves of Madiwala lake with green trees in the front

Photo: Kandukuru Nagarjun / Wikimedia Commons

Madiwala Lake is among the largest and most important lakes in Bengaluru, spanning a huge 114 hectares. Famous for its high level of biodiversity, the lake supports a range of bird species, and thus, it is a hotspot for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Besides its natural significance, Madiwala Lake provides an opportunity for boating, which allows tourists to navigate the expansive water body. It even has a kids’ park with its name that adds to the popularity of this spot among people who want to spend time together in nature. The lake during the monsoons becomes one beautiful scene filled with green leaves along its fringes.

Location: BTM Layout, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: Bannerghatta National Park, Jayadeva Hospital

6. Lalbagh Lake

Charming lake with a walking pavement surrounded by palm trees and colorful flowers

Photo: SingaravelanG / Wikimedia Commons

Located inside the historic Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Lalbagh Lake is a tranquil body of water that enhances the beauty of this old garden. With lush flora and neatly maintained paths surrounding it, it provides a quiet refuge for tourists looking to unwind in nature. The lake is inhabited by a range of birds, which makes it a perfect destination for birdwatchers. The annual flower festival organized here in January and August draws thousands of tourists, infusing life into the scenic landscape. The view of the lake displaying the colourful seasonal blooms of Lalbagh serves to increase its scenic beauty.

Location: Lalbagh, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: January and August (during the flower shows)
Nearby Attractions: Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Basavanagudi, Bugle Rock

7. Varthur Lake

Big lake with magnificent and tiny water plants, faraway buildings, and a clear sky

Photo: Gaurav Vaidya / Wikimedia Commons

Varthur Lake, one of the largest lakes in Bengaluru, is part of the interconnected Bellandur-Varthur lake system. Despite facing ecological challenges due to urbanization, it remains a significant water body that holds both environmental and scenic value. Efforts are underway to restore its natural beauty, making it a promising spot for nature lovers. The lake is especially mesmerizing during sunrise and sunset, when mist hovers over the water, creating a breathtaking view. Despite environmental concerns, conservation efforts have led to the return of some native bird species.

Location: Varthur, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or late evening
Nearby Attractions: Whitefield, Phoenix Marketcity

8. Nagavara Lake

Nagavara lake with a tomb structure surrounded by greenery and distant buildings

Photo: leighklotz / Wikimedia Commons

Nagavara Lake is a popular recreational spot situated adjacent to the famous Lumbini Gardens. The lake provides a wonderful mix of nature and recreation, and it is a popular weekend destination for tourists and families. Tourists can indulge in boating, go for a walk along the lakefront, or have a meal at the floating restaurant while enjoying the serene waters. The well-maintained surroundings and kids’ play area add to its charm. The well-lit promenade of the lake is an ideal place for a night walk. Water fountains along the boating area add to the beauty of the lake, particularly at night.

Location: Nagavara, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: Evenings
Nearby Attractions: Lumbini Gardens, Elements Mall

9. Kaikondrahalli Lake

Lake full of different flora and fauna drinking water, with dry trees and green shores

Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons

Kaikondrahalli Lake is a shining example of urban lake conservation success. Formerly underutilized, it has been restored to a healthy ecological hotspot that attracts fitness enthusiasts, bird enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. A neat walk/jog path circumvents the lake, offering a rejuvenating atmosphere for a morning and evening walk. The lake also provides a rich habitat for various birds, and hence it is a great place for bird-watching and photography. The availability of educational signboards in the vicinity of the lake allows visitors to understand its biodiversity.

Location: Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: Morning and evening
Nearby Attractions: Bellandur, Electronic City

10. Hesaraghatta Lake

Hesaraghatta lake with some amount of water, grassy areas, and a pump house structure

Photo: L. Shyamal / Wikimedia Commons

Having been a large reservoir providing water to Bengaluru, Hesaraghatta Lake has dried up considerably over the years. Nevertheless, it remains picturesque as a photography spot, a birdwatcher’s paradise, and an outdoor recreation area. The extensive open grasslands that encircle the lake form a distinct landscape that is appealing to cyclists and nature lovers. The lake fills up at times during the post-monsoon period, giving one a glimpse of its erstwhile beauty. The adjacent Nrityagram Dance Village and Hesaraghatta Grasslands contribute to the region’s cultural and ecological importance. The expansive open skies over the lake create the ideal spot for stargazing on clear nights.

Location: Hesaraghatta, Bengaluru
Best Time To Visit: Post-monsoon
Nearby Attractions: Nrityagram Dance Village, Hesaraghatta Grasslands

The lakes in Bengaluru have the perfect combination of nature, recreation, and wildlife. Whatever you are craving for – an early morning stroll, a leisurely boating experience, or a scenic view of the setting sun – you will find all this and much more in these lakes. Organize your outing with TripXL to visit these lovely water bodies and relax amidst nature’s fold.

Cover Photo: Yercaud-elango / Wikimedia Commons

Lakes In Bengaluru: Serene Escapes Amidst The Urban Hustle