Madiwala Lake: A Serene Escape from the Bustling City Life

Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Tariq

Madiwala Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake in the southern part of Bangalore, India.

The lake is spread over 114 hectares and surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists.

The lake serves as a water source for the local village and has a long history dating back to the 16th century.

Over the years, the lake has been used for various purposes, including fishing and agriculture.

In recent years, the lake has undergone a major restoration project to improve its condition and make it a more attractive tourist destination.

Today, Madiwala Lake offers visitors a peaceful and serene environment to relax and unwind amidst nature.

The lake is great for boating, fishing, birdwatching, picnicking, and other recreational activities.

The lake is also home to several fish and bird species, making it a popular spot for fishing and birdwatching enthusiasts.

Additionally, the Madiwala Lake Park, located near the lake, offers visitors walking trails, gardens, and playgrounds for children.

History of Madiwala Lake

(Source: Wikipedia)

Madiwala Lake has a long history that dates back to the 16th century when it was originally built to serve as a water source for the local village.

The lake was constructed by the founder of Bangalore, Kempegowda, and was named after his wife, Kempambudhi.

The lake was initially used for agriculture and fishing, with several local communities relying on it for their livelihoods.

Over the years, the lake underwent several changes and saw several developments, including dam construction in the 19th century.

However, with the rapid urbanization of Bangalore in the 20th century, the lake faced severe pollution issues, with industrial waste and sewage finding their way into the lake, leading to its degradation.

In 2012, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) initiated a major restoration project for the lake to improve its condition and make it a more attractive tourist destination.

The restoration project involved the removal of encroachments, the construction of a sewage treatment plant, and the creation of a wetland park, among other measures.

Today, the lake is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, with its scenic beauty and serene environment attracting visitors from all over the city.

The lake remains an important water source for the local communities and continues to play an essential role in the city’s ecosystem.

Activities at Madiwala Lake

There are several activities that visitors can enjoy at Madiwala Lake, making it an ideal destination for a day out with family and friends.

Here are some of the most popular activities to do at the lake:

(Source: Whats hot)

Boating

One of the most popular activities to do at Madiwala Lake is boating.

Visitors can rent pedal and row boats from the lake’s boating club and enjoy a leisurely ride around the lake.

Boating is a popular activity at the lake, with pedal and row boats available for rent.

The price for a 30-minute ride in a pedal boat is around INR 100-150, while a row boat can be rented for about INR 200-250 for the same duration.

The boats are available for rent at reasonable prices, and visitors can enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake while boating.

(Source: The Indian Express)

Fishing

Fishing is another popular activity, with several species of fish available in the lake.

Visitors can bring their fishing gear or rent it from the boating club and try fishing.

Fishing enthusiasts can catch fish such as catfish, tilapia, and carp.

Visitors can bring their fishing gear or rent it from the boating club at Madiwala Lake to try their hand at fishing.

The price for renting fishing gear is around 200 INR per day.

Birdwatching

The lake is home to several species of birds, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.

Visitors can spot a variety of birds, including kingfishers, storks, herons, and egrets, among others.

Birdwatching is a peaceful and relaxing activity that can be enjoyed by all ages.

Picnicking

Madiwala Lake is an excellent spot for a picnic with family and friends.

Visitors can bring their food and enjoy a picnic on the lake’s banks, surrounded by lush greenery and scenic views.

The lake also has several benches and tables where visitors can sit and relax.

Madiwala Lake Park

(Source: Wikipedia)

Madiwala Lake Park is a beautiful green space located adjacent to Madiwala Lake.

The park offers a serene and peaceful environment, with walking trails, gardens, and playgrounds for children.

Here are some of the features of Madiwala Lake Park:

Walking trails: The park has well-maintained walking trails that offer visitors a chance to take a leisurely stroll while enjoying the natural beauty of the surroundings.

The trails are suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

Gardens: The park is home to several gardens, including a rose garden and a medicinal plant garden.

The gardens are well-maintained and offer a variety of plants and flowers for visitors to enjoy.

Playground: The park has a playground that is perfect for children.

The playground has swings, slides, and other play equipment that provide children with a safe and fun place to play.

Seating areas: The park has several benches and seating areas that provide visitors with a place to sit and relax.

The seating areas are located in shaded areas and offer a great view of the lake.

Fitness equipment: The park has outdoor fitness equipment suitable for all ages.

Visitors can use the equipment to work out and stay fit while enjoying the park’s surroundings.

Overall, Madiwala Lake Park is an excellent destination for visitors who want to spend a relaxing day in nature.

The park’s features cater to different age groups and interests, making it an ideal spot for families and groups of friends.

Best of all, entering and exploring the park is free.

Things to Do Near Madiwala Lake

Here are some things to do near Madiwala Lake:

Shopping

There are several shopping destinations near Madiwala Lake.

Some famous shops and markets in the area include:

Forum Mall: Located about 2 km from Madiwala Lake, Forum Mall is a popular shopping destination in Bangalore.

The mall houses several international and domestic brands, restaurants, and a movie theater.

(Source: Karnataka.com)

BTM Layout: BTM Layout is a residential and commercial area located about 3 km away from Madiwala Lake.

The area is known for its street markets, where visitors can buy various items, including clothes, accessories, and electronics.

Restaurants

Madiwala and the surrounding areas offer several dining options, from street food to fine dining.

Some of the famous restaurants in the area include:

Empire Restaurant: Located near Madiwala Lake, Empire is a popular chain of restaurants that serves a variety of dishes, including North Indian, Chinese, and Arabian cuisines.

Meghana Foods: Meghana Foods is a famous chain of restaurants in Bangalore that serves Andhra-style cuisine.

The restaurant is located in Koramangala, which is about 4 km away from Madiwala Lake.

Nature Walks and Sightseeing

Bangalore is known for its scenic spots and green spaces.

Some places near Madiwala Lake offer visitors a chance to explore nature and enjoy sightseeing:

Lalbagh Botanical Garden: Located about 7 km from Madiwala Lake, Lalbagh Botanical Garden is a popular destination for nature lovers.

The garden houses several species of plants and trees, including a 300-year-old tree.

Bannerghatta National Park: Bannerghatta National Park is a wildlife sanctuary located about 20 km away from Madiwala Lake.

The park is home to several species of animals, including tigers, lions, and elephants.

Cubbon Park: Cubbon Park is a popular green space located in the heart of Bangalore.

The park is home to several species of plants and trees, as well as several statues and monuments.

Visitors to Madiwala Lake can enjoy a variety of activities, including shopping, dining, and sightseeing, making it an ideal destination for a day out with family and friends.

Facilities at Madiwala Lake

The lake offers a variety of amenities, some of which are as follows:

Parking: Ample parking is available near the lake for visitors to park their vehicles.

Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are available near the lake for visitors to use.

Boating facilities: Boating facilities are available at the lake, with different types of boats for visitors to choose from.

Fishing: Visitors can enjoy fishing at the lake, but they must bring their own fishing equipment.

Birdwatching: Madiwala Lake is a popular spot for birdwatching, with several species of birds to be spotted.

(Source: Karnataka.com)

Picnic areas: There are several designated picnic areas around the lake where visitors can enjoy a picnic with family and friends.

Children’s play area: There is a small area near the lake where kids can play and have fun.

Food stalls: There are several food stalls near the lake where visitors can enjoy some local snacks and drinks.

Seating areas: Visitors can sit and relax in several seating areas around the lake, enjoying the scenic views.

These facilities make Madiwala Lake a popular destination among locals and tourists alike, providing a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Madiwala Lake Timings and Entry Fees

The lake’s hours are flexible for those who wish to work out or go for early or evening walks.

Timings: Madiwala Lake is open to visitors from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm every day.

Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit Madiwala Lake. However, visitors may have to pay for the activities they wish to engage in, such as boating and fishing.

Boating Fees: The boating fees at Madiwala Lake are INR 30 per person for a paddle boat and INR 60 per person for a rowboat. The boat ride lasts for about 20 minutes.

Fishing Fees: The fishing fees at Madiwala Lake are INR 200 per person for a day. Visitors can bring their own fishing equipment or rent it from the vendors at the lake.

Other Charges: Visitors may have to pay additional charges for parking, camera, and binoculars.

Note: The fees mentioned above may be subject to change without prior notice, so it’s best to confirm the fees before planning a visit.

Also, it’s advisable to carry cash as there may not be any card payment options available.

Places to Visit Near Madiwala Lake

There are numerous locations around Madiwala Lake, some of which are listed here:

Bannerghatta National Park: Bannerghatta National Park is a wildlife park about 15 km from Madiwala Lake. It is home to various animals, such as tigers, lions, elephants, and bears, as well as a butterfly park and a zoo.

Lalbagh Botanical Gardens: Lalbagh Botanical Gardens is a popular tourist destination about 10 km from Madiwala Lake. The gardens are spread over 240 acres and feature a variety of plants and trees, a lake, a glass house, and a statue of Sri Kempegowda, the founder of Bangalore.

Cubbon Park: Cubbon Park is a large park located in the heart of Bangalore, about 10 km from Madiwala Lake. It features a variety of trees, plants, and sculptures, as well as a toy train and a library.

Bangalore Palace: Bangalore Palace is about 8 km from Madiwala Lake. It was built in the Tudor style in the 19th century and featured a variety of architectural styles.

Forum Mall: Forum Mall is a popular shopping destination located about 3 km from Madiwala Lake. It features a variety of stores, restaurants, and a movie theater.

Note: The distance mentioned above is approximate and may vary based on the mode of transportation and the route taken.

Tips for Visiting Madiwala Lake

Visit during the morning hours: The best time to visit Madiwala Lake is during the morning hours when the weather is pleasant, and the lake is less crowded.

Carry insect repellent: As trees and plants surround Madiwala Lake, mosquitos and other insects may be around. It’s best to carry insect repellent to avoid mosquito bites.

Carry cash: While there are no entry fees to visit Madiwala Lake, visitors may have to pay for the activities they wish to engage in, such as boating and fishing. It’s best to carry cash as there may not be any card payment options available.

Follow the rules and regulations: Visitors are advised to follow the rules and regulations set by the authorities at Madiwala Lake. This includes not littering, disturbing wildlife, or engaging in activities that may harm the environment.

Be cautious while boating: If you plan to go boating at Madiwala Lake, it’s important to be careful and follow the safety instructions the boat operator gives. Always wear a life jacket and avoid standing in the boat.

Carry water and snacks: While there are a few food stalls at Madiwala Lake, it’s best to carry water and snacks to avoid dehydration and hunger.

Following these tips, visitors can have an enjoyable and safe experience at Madiwala Lake.

Location of Madiwala Lake

Other Lakes Near Bangalore

Ulsoor Lake: Ulsoor Lake is located in the heart of Bangalore and is about 10 km from Madiwala Lake. It’s a popular spot for boating and has several food stalls and restaurants nearby.

Hebbal Lake: Hebbal Lake is located in the northern part of Bangalore and is about 15 km from Madiwala Lake. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise and is home to several migratory birds during the winter season.

Yelahanka Lake: Yelahanka Lake is located in the northern part of Bangalore and is about 20 km from Madiwala Lake. It’s a popular spot for birdwatching and is home to several species of birds.

Sankey Tank: Sankey Tank is located in the western part of Bangalore and is about 12 km from Madiwala Lake. It’s a popular spot for jogging and walking and has a playground and a small garden.

Agara Lake: Agara Lake is located in the southeastern part of Bangalore and is about 12 km from Madiwala Lake. It’s a popular spot for picnics and has several food stalls and restaurants nearby.

Each of these lakes offers a unique experience to visitors and is worth a visit.

The distance mentioned above is approximate and may vary based on the mode of transportation and the route taken.

FAQs

(Feature image source: The Hindu)