Haryana is known for its rich history and cultural heritage and is dotted with stunning lakes. Lakes in Haryana are characterized by their scenic beauty and tranquil ambience, making them suitable spots for birdwatchers and boating activities. Relax, find adventure, or engage in a spiritual retreat- these are possibilities for these famous lakes. From Tilyar Lake to Karna Lake, these lakes entice Nature lovers and travellers alike. Explore these important lakes of Haryana, where nature mingles with peace and tranquillity to create lasting memories.
Top 10 Lakes in Haryana
Here are the top 10 lakes in Haryana which offer adventure, or engage in a spiritual retreat.
1. Tilyar Lake
Photo: Anna Tsareva / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tilyar Lake is noted for its scenic beauty and recreational activities. It spans over 132 acres and is surrounded by green vegetation in Rohtak. It is an ideal outing for families and nature lovers who prefer quiet refuge from the city’s noise. The lake is home to migratory birds; hence, this is a haven for birdwatchers. Boating facilities make the site even more enjoyable, offering a peaceful ride on the still waters. Located close by is the Tilyar Mini Zoo, which hosts a variety of animals and attracts wildlife lovers.
Location: Rohtak, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
2. Karna Lake
Photo: Aniket / Wikimedia Commons
Karna Lake’s mythological connection with the Mahabharata has given it celebrity value. According to folklore, Karna, the warrior of the Mahabharata, was a regular bather in this lake; hence, it is known by his name. It is a quaint and frequented place of halts for flora and fauna lovers from Delhi to Chandigarh. The lake provides boating facilities for visitors to sail through its calm waters, surrounded by lush greenery.
Location: Karnal, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
3. Damdama Lake
Photo: Ekabhishek / Wikimedia Commons
Damdama Lake, situated close to Gurugram, is one of the main lakes, known for its adventure and natural surroundings. It covers an area of 3000 acres and is the state’s largest lake, surrounded by the majestic Aravalli ranges. A lake has adventure activities such as kayaking, boating, rock climbing, and zip-line rides. Damdama Lake remains a priority venue for people planning corporate outings or family picnics, catered by several resorts and adventure camps around the lake. Obstacle courses and nature walks are some of the most fun-packed activities.
Location: Gurugram, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
4. Brahma Sarovar
Photo: Ratnadeep Chaskar / Wikimedia Commons
The lake is situated in Kurukshetra, one of the most famous lakes of Haryana, owing to its religious aspect. It is considered one of India’s largest artificial water reservoirs and an important religious site for Hindus. Devotees believe they’d be cleansed of their sins and blessed with spiritual merits if they had a holy dip in the lake on sacred days, more so if it coincides with a solar eclipse. With beautifully constructed ghats and temples lining the lake, it is a perfect meditative ambience and the Gita Jayanti festival, which attracts thousands of pilgrims and tourists every year to witness the illuminating sight of the lake at night during festivals.
Location: Kurukshetra, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
5. Surajkund Lake
Photo: Anupamg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Surajkund Lake is a historical reservoir situated in Faridabad. This is where the world-renowned Surajkund International Crafts Mela is held. This is one of the lakes and is very popularly visited by culture and art lovers from all around the globe. Surajkund Lake was constructed as a water reservoir in the 10th century A.D. by the Tomar rulers. It has dried up with time but is still a heritage site. The adjoining Surajkund Mela is conducted in February, and the exposition of traditional handicrafts with music and dance performances from various Indian states takes place there.
Location: Faridabad, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
6. Sannihit Sarovar
Photo: Cssambala / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sannihit Sarovar, located in Kurukshetra, is one of the most important lakes because of its deep religious significance. It is the meeting point of seven sacred Saraswati rivers, and legends state that the dip in its holy waters on an Amavasya (new moon) earns one salvation and washes away sins. Huddled with ancient temples, including the famous Lakshmi Narayan Temple, this Sarovar attracts thousands of pilgrims, especially during festivals like Amavasya and Gita Jayanti. Many devotees do Pind Daan here, making this one of the important places of pilgrimage in Haryana.
Location: Kurukshetra, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
7. Blue Bird Lake
Photo: chretie17 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Blue Bird Lake is located in Hisar and is one of the well-known sites in Haryana for bird-watching and nature lovers. This lake is part of the Blue Bird Tourism Complex and is known for its migratory avian species, making it a veritable paradise for ornithologists and wildlife photographers. The lake shore is covered with greenery, providing a refreshing way to escape from city life. There, one can find a boating facility allowing visitors to sail leisurely while appreciating nature’s view.
Location: Hisar, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
8. Karan Tal
Photo: Chirag Purohit / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Karan Tal, located in Karnal, is one of the significant Haryana lakes related to historical events. It is regarded as where Karna, one of the principal personalities in the Mahabharata, was supposed to have offered gold to help people experiencing poverty. The lake is located very close to the famous Karan Park, which is an added attraction for recreation. The lake is splendidly peaceful, with well-paved paths for visitors to walk peacefully. The waters of Karan Tal reflect the majestic temples almost perfectly, adding to their scenic beauty.
Location: Karnal, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 7 PM
9. Brahmsarovar Lake (Thanesar)
Photo: shogun / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Brahmsarovar Lake, located in Thanesar, is believed that Lord Brahma performed the first yajna (a sort of sacrificial ritual) here, making it a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus. The lake gets the biggest Gita Jayanti festival when thousands of devotees congregate to observe a holy dip. The ghats lining the lake provide a serene atmosphere for meditation and spiritual reflection. The whole lake is illuminated at night, presenting a fabulous sight for photographers and tourists.
Location: Thanesar, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 24*7
10. Kos Minar Lake
Photo: jplenio / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Kos Minar Lake is in the Panipat district has a lot of historical significance. The lake lies adjacent to Kos Minars, medieval milestones constructed in the Mughal period to indicate distances along the Grand Trunk Road. The lake is known for this unique fusion of natural glamourism with historical allure. Its proximity to Mughal architecture makes it one extra reason for a history-lover to visit. After this, the visitors can enjoy some peaceful hours lazily floating on the surface of the untroubled lake.
Location: Panipat, Haryana
Entry Fees: N/A
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
From embarking on thrilling adventures in Damdama Lake to spiritual solace at Brahma Sarovar, such lakes in Haryana have something for everyone! While taking a tour to such places will allow you to explore these natural assets and enjoy their beauty in its entirety, anyone who has within them a love of nature, history, or spirituality will capture memories that are going to be cherished for a lifetime. So pack your bags and set out to discover the hidden gems of Haryana today!
Cover Photo: आशीष_भटनागर / Wikimedia Commons