Whitefield, once a quiet Bengaluru suburb, has now become an IT and residential enclave. Few of the lakes in this urban sprawl of Whitefield contribute to groundwater recharge, conserving biodiversity and containing floods. These lakes in Whitefield were the lifeline of local agriculture once upon a time. They have been severely affected due to pollution, encroachments, sewage inflow, etc. Although, due to community-led conservation efforts and government intervention, many of these lakes have been revived. Today, they are urban biodiversity hotspots, providing green space for recreation, birdwatching and ecological restoration.
Top 10 Lakes In Whitefield
Here are the best lakes in Whitefield that are preserved and determine the climate change, water scarcity and heat in urban areas of the state:
1. Varthur Lake
Photo: Gaurav Vaidya / Wikimedia Commons
Varthur Lake is one of Bengaluru’s largest lakes with an area of around 445 hectares. Traditionally, it acted as an important irrigation source for the surrounding villages, supporting farming for centuries. Its water quality has diminished due to the rapid urbanisation and industrialisation of Whitefield. Yet several citizen-led and government-backed efforts are underway to revive it. It helps with flood control during torrential rains, preventing waterlogging in Whitefield. Varthur Lake is also a crucial habitat for birds such as painted storks, spot-billed pelicans and cormorants.
Size: 445 hectares
Location: Near Varthur, Whitefield
Nearby Landmarks: Varthur Main Road, Whitefield ITPL
2. Nallurahalli Lake
Photo: Gpkp / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Nallurahalli Lake, one of the prominent lakes in Whitefield, is a beautiful, serene place in the centre. The lake was once the most polluted waterbody, encroached upon and battling pollution. Tree-planting, trash-cleaning and sewage-treatment efforts by local environmental associations and citizen volunteers have been key to restoring the lake. A well-maintained walking track has made it a favourite among early-morning walkers and joggers. Different species of birds, such as kingfishers and herons, also come here, reflecting a healing ecosystem. Dense vegetation and small islands in the lake have certainly diversified the flora and fauna, attracting many nature lovers.
Size: 20 acres
Location: Nallurahalli, Whitefield
Nearby Landmarks: Nallurahalli Junction, Whitefield Forum Mall
3. Seetharampalya Lake
Photo: Amol.Gaitonde / Wikimedia Commons
Seetharampalya Lake, in the IT corridor of Whitefield, provides an essential green space in a build-up-heavy area. Now the lake has a fenced perimeter, better footpaths around it, and more aquatic vegetation to help filter pollutants naturally. Asian openbill storks and purple herons are among many migratory bird species that can be found here. Seetharampalya Lake is also unique as it serves a dual purpose, helping recharge groundwater in the surrounding areas. Environmentalists are advocating for more extensive sewage diversion systems and ecological buffer zones for the shores of the lake.
Size: 25 acres
Location: Seetharampalya, near ITPL
Nearby Landmarks: ITPL Tech Park, Vydehi Hospital
4. Kannamangala Lake
Photo: Gpkp / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Kannamangala Lake is a crucial water body, providing a lifeline for the nearby villages of Kannamangala, Seegehalli and Doddabhanahalli. This lake was used as a prime source of irrigation in ancient times. The lake’s ecosystem supports native fish, amphibians and wetland birds. A walking path encircling the lake draws fitness seekers, and tree-lined embankments offer a peaceful setting for meditation and repose. In the middle of the lake is a small island, a safe nesting ground for birds like pond herons and little cormorants. Plans include establishing a butterfly park and a wetland area.
Size: 18 acres
Location: Kannamangala, near Whitefield-Hoskote Road
Nearby Landmarks: Kannamangala Park, Prestige Tranquility Apartments
5. Kundalahalli Lake
Photo: SlowPhoton / Wikimedia Commons
With the conservation efforts by resident groups and NGOs, Kundalahalli Lake is one of the fastest-reviving lakes in Whitefield. In the last few years, large clean-up operations have led to the return of its water levels, aquatic vegetation and reduced pollution. Today, it remains an important rainwater catchment area, saving nearby neighbourhoods from flooding. The lake is surrounded by a 2 km walking track, with many people visiting it for a workout. The lake has also become a hotspot for birds, including regular sightings of Indian pond herons, jacanas and Brahminy kites. The next stage of revitalisation includes bionic floating islands to help naturally purify the water.
Size: 18 acres
Location: Kundalahalli, Whitefield
Nearby Landmarks: Kundalahalli Gate, Brookefield Mall
6. Seegehalli Lake
Photo: Gpkp / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Seegehalli Lake is a well-maintained and actively rejuvenated lake in Whitefield, serving as a model for sustainable urban water conservation. Seegehalli Lake has escaped heavy doses of encroachments and pollutants due to early intervention measures. There is a huge wetland area, which makes it one of the best places in Whitefield for birdwatching. Here you can find migratory birds, glossy ibises, openbill storks and pheasant-tailed jacanas. The lake also provides long-term groundwater recharge as well as urban temperature regulation. The lake has been improved ecologically by expanding aquatic plant life, filtering pollutants, and limiting access to sensitive wildlife areas.
Size: 26 acres
Location: Seegehalli, Whitefield Extension
Nearby Landmarks: Seegehalli Government School, Kadugodi Metro Station
7. Sheelavanthakere Lake
Photo: Amol.Gaitonde / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Sheelavanthakere Lake is one of Whitefield’s most scenic water bodies, surrounded by lush greenery and well-paved walking tracks. At one point, this lake almost vanished due to unregulated discharge of sewage plus land encroachments. Now it’s a biodiversity hotspot, home to egrets, herons and migratory ducks. The lake’s surrounding wetland ecosystem aids in natural filtration of pollutants, gradually improving water quality. Residents regularly use the neighbouring pathways for morning walks, jogging, and recreational activities. Sheelavanthakere Lake has a unique stepped embankment restored to safeguard against soil erosion.
Size: 25 acres
Location: Near Sheelavanthakere, Whitefield
Nearby Landmarks: Sheelavanthakere Park, Borewell Road
8. ITPL Back Lake
Photo: anandrr / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bengaluru has many lakes and ITPL Back Lake or Vydehi Lake is one of the less well-known lakes. It is a natural rainwater catchment that plays an important role for groundwater recharge. Corporate-supported environmental efforts in recent years have targeted restoring the lake’s ecosystem. Being close to IT hubs, it is the most favourable audience for eco-friendly rejuvenation initiatives. Local birdwatchers can see birds like cattle egrets and black-crowned night herons in the area. In the future, it aims to reduce entry of untreated waste, preserve buffer zones and encourage natural filtration systems.
Size: 15 acres
Location: Behind ITPL, near Vydehi Hospital
Nearby Landmarks: ITPL Tech Park, Vydehi Institute of Medical Sciences
9. ECC Centre Community Hall Lake
Photo: Gpkp / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
ECC Centre Community Hall Lake in Whitefield is a small urban waterbody but is well-maintained by the ECC community. This small but important rainwater harvesting reservoir serves the surrounding area of residents. Due to community-led strict maintenance, it has so far been protected from major pollution threats. Native fish species, dragonflies, and amphibians call it home and play a role in the site’s ecological balance. Residents regularly clean the park with clean-up campaigns, plant trees and raise awareness about littering. Similar to its counterpart in Featherdale, the ECC walking track around the lake is shaded by large native trees, offering an opportunity for leisurely walks.
Size: 10 acres
Location: Within the ECC Community, Whitefield
Nearby Landmarks: ECC Road, Whitefield Inner Circle
10. Skylark Greens Lake
Photo: Leimenide / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Skylark Greens Lake, one of the lakes in Whitefield, close to the Skylark Greens gated community, is a hidden oasis in the residential landscape. Resident welfare associations (RWAs) have made considerable efforts to revive and preserve their waters, bio-remediation, aeration systems and native tree plantations. Morning walkers and nature lovers come for the lake’s clean and scenic setting. In winter, it serves as a temporary home for migratory birds like northern shovellers and whistling ducks. The lake is not open for commercial recreation and acts as a rainwater catchment system for the homes and apartments close to the lake.
Size: 12 acres
Location: Near Skylark Greens, Whitefield
Nearby Landmarks: Skylark Greens Villas, Channasandra Main Road
These lakes in Whitefield are preserved to improve urban biodiversity, groundwater recharge, and ecological balance. The long-term health of these wetlands is ensured by sustainable conservation methods such as wetland restoration, aeration systems, and bioremediation techniques. It requires the teamwork of residents and authorities to safeguard these natural assets for generations to come. Plan your visit with TripXL and witness the initiatives and recreational benefits to society and the community.
Cover Photo: Nagarjun Kandukuru / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only