5 Lakes to Visit in Bangalore (2023)

The city of Bangalore was once known as ‘City of lakes’. It is believed that the city had more than 280 lakes. Unfortunately, most of these lakes were a victim of over construction and urbanisation. Urban development caused 19 lakes to be converted into bus stops, golf courses, apartment complexes and others.

Now the government, the local councils and the residents together have started to prioritise in saving these lakes by giving them the importance they deserve. Some of these lakes (17 to be precise) are slowly being revived and are transformed into these amazing parks and cityscapes where one can spot migratory and local birds. This post lists the 5 lakes to visit in Bangalore.

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5 lakes to visit in Bangalore

As I mentioned Bangalore has many more lakes and each lake is as beautiful as the other. In this post, I am listing only 5 of those amazing lakes.

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Note:

• There are plenty of flora and fauna at the lakes. Do not harm them.
• Snakes have been spotted at these lakes. So know where you are stepping. Stick to the walking path or trails.
• These lakes are very popular among joggers and walkers.
• The prices of the entrance fee are at the time of publication. So, make sure to check with the ticket counters at the lakes to get the updated pricing.
• Cameras cost extra. At Lalbagh, cameras are not allowed.

Hebbal lake

Commissioned by the founder of Bangalore, Kempe Gowda I, in the mid 15th century, Hebbal lake is one of the three lakes created. Located on the north of Bangalore, Hebbal lake is a perfect place for photographers and bird watchers. Spread across 150 acres, Hebbal lake also has an artificial island that is home to many birds.

• The lake is open between 6:45 AM and 6:45 PM everyday.
• There is an entrance fee of INR 20 per person.
• There are plenty of paid parking (INR 20) spaces available at the lake.
• Cameras cost extra.

Ulsoor lake

Ulsoor or Halasuru lake is one of the biggest lakes in Bangalore spreading for over 123 acres. The man made lake has several islands within it and was created by Sir Lewin Bentham Bowring.

• The lake is open between 6 AM and 8 PM everyday.
• There is no entrance fee to visit the lake.

Jakkur lake

Spreading over 86 acres, Jakkur lake is one of the well maintained and beautiful lakes in Bangalore. Located on the north eastern side of Bangalore, the Jakkur lake is perfect for a morning jog or a stroll. It is also famous among the photographers as there are plenty of birds to spot on the islands within the lake. The lake also has a stunning background of city scrappers.

• The lake is open between 5 AM and 9 AM, and between 4 PM and 7 PM everyday.
• There is no entrance fee to visit the lake.

Sankey tank

Constructed in 1882, Sankey tank was built to meet the fresh water supply to all the neighbourhood. The artificial lake is home to many swans, ducks and fishes. Covering an area of 37 acres, Sankey tank was built by Col. Richard Hieram Sankey. Situated in Malleshwaram, Sadashivnagar and Vyallikaval areas of Bangalore, Sankey tank is also known as Gandhadhakotikere.

• Sankey tank is open everyday between 5 AM and 10 AM, and between 4 PM and 8 PM.
• There is no entrance fee to visit the lake.
• At the moment, there is a lot of construction happening at the lake.

Lalbagh lake

Situated inside Lalbagh botanical garden, the Lalbagh lake is splendid lake within the heart of the city of Bangalore. It is covered around with amazing flora and fauna, and has a loop walk of 2 kilometres. The lake has two islands which are home to many variety of birds.

• The Lalbagh botanical garden is open everyday between 6 AM and 7 PM.
• There is an entrance fee of INR 30 per person.

Safety for solo female travelers

Usually, Bangalore as a city is very safe for solo female travelers. I travel alone all the time to many different places. However, like any city in India, I suggest knowing your surroundings at all times. Also, be careful, especially when it is dark.

• Note: The lakes have a lot of snakes so be careful as to where you step. I have spotted snakes at Sankey tank. But other lakes also have boards everywhere stating there are many snakes around.

Closing Notes

Bangalore has many more lakes and each one of them is breathtaking. These are great places to hang out with friends or for getting regular exercises during the weekend. I have visited all five of them and cannot decide which one is better than the other. The listed 5 lakes are surely the lakes to visit in Bangalore, especially at sunrise or sunset.

Which of these lakes have you visited so far? Or which of the other lakes to visit in Bangalore that you have visited and liked? Do let me know in the comments below.

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