Anjanapura scenic lake getaway in Bengaluru

Nestled about 20 kilometers from the bustling city center of Bengaluru lies Anjanapura Lake, a tranquil expanse of water spread over 20 acres. This picturesque lake is not just a sight for sore eyes but also a haven for fitness enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

The lake’s perimeter, suitable for regular walks, is dotted with small rock islands that emerge from its depths, creating a unique landscape. These islands, along with a dedicated bird island, provide a sanctuary for various avian species. Visitors can enjoy the sight of majestic eagles, playful ducks, and elegant cranes, which are easily spotted against the backdrop of the serene lake.

However, not all that glitters is gold. During a recent visit by the ThinkBangalore team, it was noted that parts of the lake were marred by the leakage of drainage water, leading to contamination. This serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between nature and urban development, and the need for sustainable practices to preserve such natural treasures.

In an effort to enhance the lake’s environment, the Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has undertaken a commendable initiative by planting trees around the lake’s perimeter. This green belt not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the ecological health of the area.

 

 

The best times to visit Anjanapura Lake are in the morning and evening when the beauty of the lake is at its peak. The entry is free, and ample parking space is available for visitors. To complement the experience, local vendors offer a variety of snacks and savories, perfect for those who wish to enjoy a leisurely walk while savoring the cool breeze that sweeps across the lake.

Anjanapura Lake is more than just a body of water; it’s a community space that offers a slice of nature’s beauty amidst the urban environment. It’s a place where one can unwind, reflect, and reconnect with the natural world. As the city of Bengaluru continues to grow, it is places like Anjanapura Lake that remind us of the importance of preserving such natural havens for future generations to enjoy.

Paddle Boating at Historic Yediyur lake of Bengaluru

 In this post , we share our visit experience to one of the old lakes of Bengaluru with Historic importance. The Yediyur lake at Yediyur about 8 kms from city center. 

About Yediyur lake

• Stretches about 10 acres
• Paddle boating experience
• Scenic Park for walking and recreations
• Children's play area
• House for many unique birds 
  

It is said this lake has an history of more than 1400 years and was earlier up-to 20 acres  and as time passed by with developments around is now 10 acres.  During the reign of Hoysala kings it was ruled since the ages of King Vishnuvardhana .  As per available records , in the year 1107 queen Shanthala devi used to visit here and stay in the mantap donating food to the needy . Later it has seen the reign of Chola Kings , Viajayanagara kings . Yediyur during those times was known for cultivation of gauvas , Raagi and Rice.  Gemstones were available here during those periods.

 

The lake as it exists now is a very well maintained lake by Bengaluru palike . Entry to the lake is free . Paddle boating recreation activity is available here at Rs.50 per adult for 30 minutes ride. All boats come with a roof cover . The facilities provided are safe with safety jackets for paddle boating visitors.  There is a small bund island in the middle of lake.  A great way to enjoy boating around watching the birds and experience the relaxing nature. 

 

As per the records here , the lake is a house of many birds such as Western wagtail , Shikra , Oriental magpie robin , Common Kestrel , Greenshank , Weavers bird , Paddyfield pipit , Purple sunbird , Fantail flycatcher , Ashy crowned Sparrow lark , Common Sndpiper , Copper Smith Bar bet , White Ibis , Common Babbler , Stone chat , Black Ibis , White cheeked Barbet , Jungle Myna , Common Myna , Tailor Bird , Drongo , Laughing dove , Godwit , Little ring plover , Asian Paradise Flycatcher , Bush lark , Little cormorant , Orientel white eye , Darter , Grey bullied cuckoo etc . During our visit in the noon , we spotted few of these

 

Lake is open for visits from 9.30 AM to 5.30 PM.  Best time is to visit in the evening to enjoy the relaxing weather on lake waters amid the setting sun . Do visit this spot with your family and friends and share your experience.

Vaderahalli lake , a less explored weekend destination near Kanakapura road

In this post , we share our team visit experience and what they explored at Vaderahalli lake , at the outskirts of NICE ring road near Kanakapura.

Highlights of this spot

• Big lake spreading across more than 30 acres
• Mesmerizing scenic views
• Relaxing weekend destination
• Surrounded by resorts forest nature

ThinkBangalore Rating 

4 / 5  

 

After passing through NICE outer ring road towards Kanakapura for about 5 kms , we reached this spot following google maps which exactly took us to the destination. It was a cool evening bit cloudy , roads were pretty good. There was some road construction activity during our visit , it wasn't a easy ride . Just when reaching the lake , the roads get narrow and quite bumpy supporting for one way drive.

There was a gatekeeper who demanded Rs.75 per person as entrance fee , however there was no formal receipt or bill which seemed to not a correct way to manage tourists .  There was very less visitors during our visit time.  There is a small temple adjacent to the lake .

As we passed through the lake bund , it was a mesmerizing experience with forest view on one side and the beautiful lake on the other side. NICE road could be noticed at a distance . There were 2 view bridges across the lake . The lake water did not seem fully clean and we got info from locals its been polluted recently . We also noticed few visitors having hot drinks which may be restricted to preserve the beauty of this lake.  A cluster of crane birds were spotted at the lake banks , though earlier there were reports of crocodiles at this spot , we did not find any of their remains.   There were few coracles which seemed to be used by locals for fishing at the spot , although there are no boating facilities.

 

Overall a good spot to visit as a group with friends and family . Best time is to visit during the day time. Carry sufficient food supplies if plan is to stay for a longer time as there are very less access to hotels and other food stores nearby.  If developed properly and measures taken to avoid pollution , this lake will be an excellent hangout destination . Do visit this spot and share us your experience.

A relaxing weekend at Thathaguni Aagara lake Bangalore

In this post , we share our visit experience to Thathaguni Aagara lake near Kanakapura road about 40 km from Bangalore city center.

Highlights of this spot

• Clean water lake
• Spread over more than 30 to 40 acres
• Bird spotting especially Kingfishers , Sparrow family
  
• Mesmerizing views
• Relaxing Weekend destination  

ThinkBangalore Rating 

5 / 5

It was a Sunday noon on a cloudy day our team headed to this destination passing through the Kanakapura highway road . After taking a diversion at Aagara main road at Kanakapura road , we reached the spot within 10 min . The roads to this destination are very good , passing by few villages and few scenic views.

Lake offers an excellent view with clean water . There were two bridges providing access to get a good view and enjoy the natural scent of the lake. On the rear side of lake is the forest view making it a scenic beauty. The lake bund offers a walk way to pass across the lake to experience different views and also a path to each the lake banks .  There were coracle boats on the banks , however it was meant for any temporary use and not for visitors.  We noticed few youngsters swimming in the lake jumping from the bridges and enjoying their relaxing time.

We spotted two to three colorful kingfishers and sparrow nests on the trees chirping and cranes around the lake banks. The lake is quite near to the village and accessible to the main road within a kilometer making it a safer place.

A very good calm destination to relax with family and friends over a picnic to the spot.  We do recommend a cycle ride to this destination following good road access. Best time to visit this spot is during day time between 7 AM to 5 PM to enjoy the cool scenic views .

Hebbal Lake Park , Bangalore

 Highlights of this spot

• Spread over 192 acres 
• Well maintained beautiful park adjacent to the lake , good view of lake from the park
• Birds such as Koyal , Cranes , bulbul , Ducks , sparrows , parrots may be spotted
  
• Popular as Lovers spot , attracts many couples through its scenic views throughout the day
• Green lawn for visitors , for children outdoor play and programs
  
• Entrance fee of Rs.10 per visitor . Good paid Parking facilities.
• There are no recreation activities , food stalls at the spot . So visitors are recommended to carry food and water.
  

Hebbal Lake View

Green lawn

A very nice relaxing spot to visit with family and friends . Do visit this spot and share with us your experience.