The gateway to Northeast India, Guwahati, is all about its temples, cultural heritage and refreshing lakes which are spectacular to look at. Deepor Beel is among the primary lakes in Guwahati. It is a spectacle with picturesque beauty and a natural paradise for migratory birds. Apart from this, Guwahati houses numerous other important lakes, each having its charisma and ecological blob. Be it a nature lover, a crazy photographer or a person seeking solace, explore the famous lakes in Guwahati, an inevitable experience.
Location
Photo: Gitartha.bordoloi / Wikimedia Commons
Deepor Beel is the most famous lake in Guwahati, which lies on the southwestern end of the city. This Ramsar Wetland site is of great importance for the conservation of biodiversity. The city is also dotted with other significant lakes, such as Dighalipukhuri and Borsola Beel, which provide scenic beauty and recreational spots to visitors. Being easily accessible by public transport, these famous lakes in Guwahati are connected by road, making them perfect vacations for locals and tourists.
Best Lakes In Guwahati
Guwahati is home to several lakes that contribute to the natural beauty of the city. Here are the most popular lakes in Guwahati to explore:
1. Dipor Bil
Photo: Gitartha.bordoloi / Wikimedia Commons
Dipor Bil is the largest and among the most popular lakes in Guwahati, Assam, due to its beauty and richness in biodiversity. This freshwater lake is a designated wetland of International Importance (Ramsar site), an ecologically important wetland. For bird lovers, this place is a paradise. It is home to a variety of migratory birds, including most rare species, such as the spot-billed pelican and the greater adjutant stork. It acts as a natural drainage basin in helping to maintain the ecological balance of the region. This also contains a great diversity of aquatic flora and fauna.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: Southwest Guwahati, near Garchuk
Best Time To Visit: October to March for birdwatching
Facilities: Birdwatching towers, picnic spots, local tea stalls
2. Digholi Pukhuri
Photo: অজয় দাস / Wikimedia Commons
Digholi Pukhuri is one of the most important lakes in Guwahati. It is located in the heart of the city, having historical significance associated with the Ahom dynasty. This man-made lake was carved out of this part of the Brahmaputra River. This was once part of the Brahmaputra River, which was used as a naval dockyard for the Ahom kings. With time, it became a serene water body, and now they are used as a recreational spot for both residents and visitors.
Entry Fees: Free, boat rides are chargeable
Location: Uzan Bazar, Guwahati
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Facilities: Boating, parks, nearby cafes
3. Borsola Beel
Photo: Anutosh Deb / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
An important lake in Guwahati, Borsola Beel offers a natural break away from the urban rush. It is such a large wetland and plays a very important role in the city’s water management system. It acts as a reservoir and, therefore, prevents flooding when it rains. This lake is a peaceful retreat filled with lush greenery surrounded by visitors who come for solitude and connection with nature. The aquatic plants and small fish that live in the lake are all a part of the lake’s ecosystem, attracting various species of birds.
Entry Fees: Free
Location: Near Paltan Bazar, Guwahati
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Facilities: Walking trails, benches, scenic viewpoints
Things To Do
Here are the best things to do at the prominent lakes in Guwahati for the best of your unmatchable experiences:
1. Do Birdwatching At Deepor Beel
Photo: Fazlul1983 / Wikimedia Commons
Guwahati is a mix of nature, history and relaxation, giving you a chance to explore the lakes. One of them is Deepor Beel, which serves well as a refuge of nature. The lake is a Ramsar Wetland also with over 200 species of birds, including pelicans, storks and kingfishers. The tranquil atmosphere helps it attract visitors to enjoy the peacefulness, watch the birds flying across the lake, and capture its incredible beauty.
2. Enjoy Boating At Dighalipukhuri
Photo: Tridib Sarma / Wikimedia Commons
Dighalipukhuri, a man-made historic lake, is situated in the heart of the city of Guwahati. Here one gets to experience boating in its calm waters while glimpsing Guwahati’s past in several buildings. Initially, the lake was joined to the Brahmaputra River and was used by the Ahom dynasty. Now surrounded by lush greenery, it is a perfect spot for relaxation, surrounded by a bustling city.
3. Relax With Nature Walks At Borsola Beel
Photo: Harvinder Chandigarh / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Borsola Beel is a great place for walking around nature for those who love it. With its lesser-known lake, this is a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle. The lake is surrounded by pathways for them to jog or walk in the morning and enjoy the fresh air and sounds of nature. In terms of scenery, the lake is perfectly situated for finding an escape and settling back to a relaxing afternoon.
Where To Stay
Photo: shankar s. / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
For people interested in staying near the popular lakes of Guwahati, there is a wide variety of hotels. This will vary depending on your budget, from luxury hotels and lodges. Some of the excellent choices close to these scenic locations are Radisson Blu, Vivanta Guwahati and Hotel Prag Continental.
Where To Eat
Photo: অজয় দাস / Wikimedia Commons
Some restaurants like Paradise, Khorikaa or Naga Kitchen will serve you Assamese traditional cuisine. These are the best ones you can get in the city for a great dining experience. Small eateries near the lakes also offer delicious local snacks like pithas and tea.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Gitartha.bordoloi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Guwahati is the best place to explore lakes during the winter season or from October to March. The weather is cool and pleasant and makes boating, bird watching and nature walks appealing. This is a period when Guwahati’s most important lake, Deepor Beel, is a paradise for bird watchers as it attracts thousands of migratory birds from across the world.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: ch_15march / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip:
You can expect a budget of ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 for a weekend trip to visit the prominent lakes in Guwahati.
Tips For Travellers:
- Carry binoculars while visiting Deepor Beel for birdwatching.
- Visit early morning or evening for the best experience.
- Avoid littering to help preserve the beauty of the lakes.
Lakes in Guwahati are a combination of nature and history, with plenty of recreational activities. These water bodies not only serve as beautification for the city but also are vital ecological zones supporting diverse flora and faunal diversity. These lakes offer a unique and refreshing experience to visitors for relaxing or sightseeing. So, pack your bags and plan a visit to Guwahati with TripXL to experience these lakes in all their tranquillity.
Cover Photo: Timothy A. Gonsalves / Wikimedia Commons