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Each lake in Hampi is a flawless water body set in the ruins of the Vijayanagara Empire.The lakes offer a tranquil relief from the rat race of city life. These are pristine water bodies that mesmerize nature lovers with unmatched landscapes, historical sites, and rock-strewn areas. The cultural heritage of Hampi is beautifully paired with the grace of nature in the lakes. Each lake boasts irresistible beauty, making them popular goals for travellers visiting this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Top 7 Best Lakes In Hampi To Visit
These lakes in Hampi deserve a spot on your travel list. You can find peace and beauty in each one.
1. Sanapur Lake
Photo: Christopher Soghoian / Wikimedia Commons
Sanapur Lake is one of the most splendid lakes in Hampi. This artificial lake was formed by blocking a small stream and has emerged as an idyllic place for relaxation. The combination of rocks, clear blue water, and eye-catching panorama makes it exceptional for photography. The lake is also a great place for watching spectacular sunsets. The cliffs look stunning as they create a silhouette against the evening sky.
Best Time To Visit: October – March
Nearby Attractions: Anjaneya Hill, Hanuman Temple
2. Pampa Sarovar
Photo: iMahesh / Wikimedia Commons
A sacred lake in Hampi, Pampa Sarovar, holds mythological value. According to Hindu mythology, this is the place where Goddess Parvati waited for Lord Shiva. A small temple rests on its bank accompanied by stonesteps which descend into the water. In contrast to the recreational Sanapur, Pampa Sarovar has a serene spiritual vibe with pilgrims performing ritualistic baths. The region is rich in greenery; a stark contrast to the rocky nature of Pampa Sarovar.
Best Time To Visit: Throughout the year
Nearby Attractions: Virupaksha Temple, Achyutaraya Temple
3. Tungabhadra Dam Reservoir
Photo: Ashwin Kumar / Wikimedia Commons
The Tungabhadra Dam Reservoir is a large water body created by damming the Tungabhadra River. The reservoir is an engineering marvel that serves for irrigation and provides stunning views and water-based activities. You can enjoy motorboat rides around the reservoir, getting views of the surrounding landscape. Adding to the attraction of the dam are its garden and musical fountains, especially in the evening.
Best Time To Visit: November – February
Nearby Attractions: Tungabhadra Gardens, Monkey Temple
4. Pushkarani
Photo: Dey.sandip / Wikimedia Commons
Pushkarani is a historic step well and ritual bathing tank in Hampi. It is an example of the amazing engineering of the Vijayanagara Empire. The geometric tank is surrounded by steps that are perfectly symmetrical and descend from all four sides. Pushkarani still holds water and stands as a testament to ancient water conservation techniques as it was used for royal ceremonies and religious rituals. The pond is made of black schist stone with underground channels that were once part of complex waterworks.
Best Time To Visit: October – March
Nearby Attractions: Vittala Temple, King’s Balance
5. Chakra Tirtha
Photo: Pranet / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Chakra Tirtha is a holy bathing place located along the southern bank of the Tungabhadra River, which forms a natural lake. It is near the Kodanda Rama Temple and one of the most sacred of bathing places in the river. Here, it is believed that the Lord Vishnu’s Chakra fell, making the place sacred. The circular pool-like formation with stone steps offers a unique bathing experience during pilgrimages. While this place does not receive many casual tourists, religious pilgrims highly value it. The peaceful surroundings and calm waters are perfect for meditation and other spiritually reflective activities.
Best Time To Visit: November – February
Nearby Attractions: Kodanda Rama Temple, Chakra Ghat
6. Hampi Falls
Photo: Noé Lecocq / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The charming yet modest Hampi Falls is a short distance away from the river. It is beautifully surrounded by trees and rocks. It is best to visit during monsoon months as the waterfall flows best during this time. It has a natural pool and waterfall for swimming and cliff diving. The falls are difficult to reach, requiring some boulder-hopping and stone-walking, and are rarely crowded, a place for adventure enthusiasts instead. So a guide is required to locate these waterfalls because it is not possible for visitors to find these waterfalls easily.
Best Time To Visit: July – September
Nearby Attractions: Malyavanta Raghunatha Temple, Sunset Point
7. Kamalapura Lake
Photo: Deepak TL / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kamalapura Lake is a man-made tank that was part of the water management system of the Vijayanagara Empire. Located near the Archaeological Museum, this historic lake in Hampi reflects the engineering skills of ancient times. The lake helped promote agriculture in the rugged terrain of Hampi. In modern days, it is a historical site and a serene area for an evening walk. The lake is loved by historians as it contributes to the complex medieval urban water system.
Best Time To Visit: October – March
Nearby Attractions: Archaeological Museum, Queen’s Bath
3 Must Visit Lakes Near Hampi
Beyond the central Hampi region, there are more beautiful lakes worth exploring during your visit:
1. Anegundi Lake
Photo: Japleenpasricha / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Anegundi Lake is located in the old village of Anegundi, which is on the other side of the Tungabhadra River from Hampi. It is a calm water body surrounded by paddy fields and plantations of bananas, depicting some rural Karnataka. It serves local agriculture and is a calm place, away from tourist waters. There is a local tale that this area used to be part of the kingdom of monkeys described in the Ramayana. The calm waters of the lake perfectly reflect the coconut trees and village life, which are ideal for picturesque sceneries.
Best Time To Visit: October – March
Nearby Attractions: Anegundi Fort, Navabrindavanam
2. Unkal Lake
Photo: Mohammed aquib / Wikimedia Commons
Located near Hubli, 160 km from Hampi, Unkal Lake is a peaceful water body. It offers boating facilities, as well as a large garden and a musical fountain. While it is most popular among locals for day trips, it is somewhat lesser known to tourists. It is especially popular among locals during evenings when the musical fountain comes to life. The beautiful central island further adds to the charm of the lake.
Best Time To Visit: October – February
Nearby Attractions: Unkal Children’s Park, Nrupatunga Hill
3. Agastya Lake
Photo: Vinayaraj / Wikimedia Commons
Agastya Lake has great religious significance in Hindu mythology. Named after sage Agastya, this small sacred pond is located near the Vidyaranya Temple complex. The lake is known for its supposed healing properties and is a popular site for ritual bathing. The stone steps that surround the water accentuate the symmetrical nature of the lake. Though smaller than many other lakes in Hampi, its architectural beauty and religious importance make it worth visiting. The surroundings around the lakes are amazing.
Best Time To Visit: October – February
Nearby Attractions: Vidyaranya Temple, Monolithic Bull
The lakes in Hampi offer a refreshing change to the ancient ruins and the rugged landscapes that the region is famous for. Each lake in Hampi is a charm on its own and allows its visitors to get in touch with nature. Relive the moments in this historic paradise by planning your holidays with TripXL which will do the most perfect trip planning for you.
Cover Photo: Sarah Zezulka / Wikimedia Commons
