Hesaraghatta Lake: The Perfect Retreat for a Day of Relaxation and Fun

Last Updated on July 5, 2024 by Tariq

The Hesaraghatta Lake is a man-made freshwater reservoir 21 kilometers from Bangalore City Railway Station.

The lake spans an area of 1620 hectares and is one of the best places in Bangalore to go birdwatching.

The lake was built over the Arkavathy River, which has been a source of Bangalore’s drinking water since 1896.

Designed by Mysore’s then-chief engineer, MC Hutchins, and Dewan Sir K Seshadri, the lake supplies drinking water to the city.

The place is renowned for its research and development farms for horticulture, agriculture, animal husbandry, and poultry.

There have been reports of kingfishers, magpie robins, little egrets, common mynas, Brahminy kites, black drongos, bulbuls, greater coucals, purple sunbirds, and other birds in and around the lake’s perimeter.

The lake’s primary charms are boating and windsurfing.

The Hesaraghatta lake covers 1224.21 acres and has over 184 tanks upstream.

Moreover, it has repaired the canals linking other lakes to Hesaraghatta Lake and de-silted and restored other lakes.

Hesaraghatta Lake is around 35 kilometers northwest of Bangalore.

The lake has a surface size of 1628 square meters and has supplied fresh water to Bangalore for the past 100 years.

M.C. Hutchins, Chief Engineer of Mysore, developed this man-made lake, one of the largest artificially engineered freshwater reservoirs.

The Arkavathi River, which originates in the Kolar District’s Nandi Hills, feeds the lake.

Salient Features of the Lake

• Capacity of the lake: 1,100 Mcft
• Water spread area 1,224 acres 21 guntas
• Average rainfall received: 600 mm
• Catchment area: 221 sq miles
• Length of the reservoir bund: 5,200 feet

History of Hesaraghatta Lake

The legend of this magnificent lake begins in 1894, when Sir K Seshadri Iyer, the Dewan of Mysore, envisioned a reservoir capable of storing enough water to suit the city’s demands for three years at a time.

As a consequence, a reservoir of little more than 1,000 acres (4.5 sq km) was created.

For nearly a century, this body of water served as Bengaluru’s sole water source until the 1990s, when growing development overwhelmed the massive lake.

(Source: Wikipedia)

Hesaraghatta has only been full a handful of times in the last three decades, indicating that it is well past its prime for satisfying the demands of a metropolis with an insatiable appetite for development.

Yet, the magnificent lake today provides a variety of other amenities to the city and its citizens.

The lake was designed by Mysore‘s then-chief engineer, MC Hutchins, and Dewan Sir K Seshadri to supply drinking water to the city.

The area is also recognized for poultry, animal husbandry, agricultural, and horticulture research and development farms.

Birds such as kingfishers, magpie robins, little egrets, common mynas, Brahminy kites, black drongos, bulbuls, greater coucals, purple sunbirds, and others have been spotted on the lake’s rim.

The lake’s major attractions are boating and windsurfing.

The Dewan of Mysore, K Seshadri Iyer, developed this freshwater, man-made lake.

Supposedly, roughly 29 bird species have been identified and documented here.

This is close to the Nrityagram dance school and may make for a pleasant day outing (with a lunch stop at Earth Kitchen and an overnight stay at the Taj Kuteeram).

By the way, there is no admission cost to the lake.

Don’t forget to stop by the adjacent Byalkere Peacock Sanctuary while you’re there.

Activities at Hesaraghatta Lake

(Source: FabHotels)

Hesaraghatta lake is the perfect destination for recreational activities.

You can go to this place with friends and family and refresh your mood. It has been a tourist place for people who love places near water.

Here is a list of activities that you can perform while on a trip to the Hesaraghatta lake:

Boating

(Source: Bangalore Tourism)

The Hesaraghatta Lake is the ideal location for a short boating experience.

This area also has a specific boating club, and you may rent a pedal or rowboat to go on an expedition around Ulsoor Lake‘s waters.

You may pause at any of the several islands in this area to take in the lake’s vista.

It costs approximately INR 35 and is a reasonably priced way to unwind with loved ones and friends.

Fishing

(Source: Bangalore Mirror)

Often on Sundays when fish is harvested and auctioned/sold, crowds of people throng the dam.

To rid the lake of its final few inhabitants, fishermen thrashed the water and dragged their nets.

The local fisherman may be seen anxiously anticipating the capture of the prey in their nets as fishing activity has also begun.

Birdwatching

(Source: Wikipedia)

Hesaraghatta Lake should be on your list of places to visit while seeking birding locations close to Bangalore.

Hesaraghatta Lake’s lush surroundings contribute to its charm. Even the journey to the lake is enjoyable.

The few remaining grasslands are located near Bangalore, where the lake is.

Many birds may be observed jumping close to the lake’s beaches or playing in the water, adding to the scene’s tranquility.

The lake’s water mostly dries up in the summer, making the body of water desolate.

Throughout the Summer, a few adventure groups partake in parasailing.

The nice aspect is that different types of birds continue to flock to the lake during that time.

The area surrounding the lake is ideal for taking a drive or going on a nature stroll.

More than 2000 water birds have been spotted near the Hesaraghatta Lake, according to reports.

More than 29 different kinds of birds are known to visit the area.

Several migrating birds that go to the city throughout winter choose it as their preferred stopover.

The following species of birds are among those that may be seen at the lake:

• Kingfishers
• Pond Heron
• Wagtails
• Brahminy Kite
• Magpie Robin
• Black Kite
• Drongos
• Paddy Field Pipits
• Purple Sunbirds
• Bushlarks
• Cormorants
• Pale Billed Flowerpecker
• Egret
• Mayna
• Bulbul

And many more.

In the lake during the winter, migrant species like harriers and spotted eagles can be seen.

Picnicking

(Source: Wandering Bong)

Visit the Hesaraghatta Lake if you are a water baby and want to have fun while seeing Bangalore.

Peace seekers and environment enthusiasts will find heaven in this lovely, crystal-clear lake.

You will like this Bangalore half-day excursion because of the lake’s famed boating and leisure opportunities.

You may enjoy a picnic there as you observe the passing of the day.

You would want to return frequently since the air is so pure and enticing.

In Hesaraghatta Lake, be sure to enjoy the tranquil boat trip across the lake to experience the true essence of nature.

Also, the lake offers a lovely setting for a picnic or stroll.

Hesaraghatta Lake Park

This park is typical of all neighborhood parks.

Its location surrounding the renowned Hesaraghatta Lake clearly distinguishes it from other areas.

You may maintain your energy levels while running by listening to the relaxing rippling of the lake and birds chirping.

Families and teams frequently picnic at the location.

You can see the sunrise and sunset and take beautiful pictures if you go early or late in the evening.

After your tour, you may refuel at the outside stalls providing sizzling hot chai and munchies.

Things to do Near Hesaraghatta Lake

But, while there, we urge that you visit the dancing town of Nithyagram, a gurukul for Odissi dance enthusiasts.

They charge admission and are open from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

A day package is also available at Our Native Village, an eco-friendly lodge 10 kilometers from the lake.

The resort, which has a traditional village layout, provides activities such as riding bullock carts, kite flying, pottery, and even cow milking.

The picture-perfect vistas and calm of Taj Kuteeram should do the trick for a taste of luxury with a rustic twist.

Other Attractions near Hesaraghatta Lake:

• (0.96 km) Ramaneeya Museum
• (11.93 km) Adventuresome
• (14.88 km) Fever Pitch Basecamp
• (14.49 km) Sohum Spa
• (14.33 km) Nandi Hills

Shopping

Shops/ Stores near Hesaraghatta Lake	Distance FromThe Lake
Phoenix Marketcity Bangalore	28 km
LuLu Hypermarket, Bengaluru	18 km
Lulu Mall Bangalore	23 km
Orion Mall	17 km
Lulu Mall Bengaluru	23 km

These places are best for gift & specialty shops near Hesaraghatta Lake:

• (7.56 km) Favourite Book Store
• (9.81 km) VIP Super Bazaar
• (10.35 km) Balaji Mini Bazaar
• (11.75 km) Mythri Bazaar
• (12.62 km) Madansons

Restaurants

There are a lot of restaurants near Hesaraghatta lake.

Check the following table to visit any nearby restaurant:

Restaurants Near Hesaraghatta Lake	Distance From The Lake
Earth Kitchen	2.9 km
Palette	11.3 km
Maa Da Dhaba	10.9 km
Sammaan Restaurant	5.6 km
Chai Point	9.8 km
HP Dhaba	5.5 km
Lahari Restaurant	5.6 km
Legends of Rock	9.8 km
Kasipu	7.1 km
Cafe Coffee Day	8 km

Nature Walks and Sightseeing

Wonderful site to watch the sunrise and sunset.

There will be a good throng during these times, therefore it’s safe to go in the evening around sunset.

A large stretch of grasslands where you may sit and have a picnic with your friends and family.

Unlike within the city, the sky is clear.

You may relax and unwind here.

Not far from Bangalore.

Morning and evening strolls.

Facilities at Hesaraghatta Lake

(Source: Wikimedia Commons)

Hesaraghatta is one of the city’s quickly rising residential areas, known for its lovely lake, Hesaraghatta Lake.

Hesaraghatta is surrounded by residential areas such as Dasenahalli, Aivarkhandpur, Silvepura, Hosahalli Palya, and Silvepura.

The primary factors for Hesaraghatta’s residential expansion are improved infrastructure and strong connectivity to the rest of the city.

Additionally, Hesaraghatta is dominated by residential flats and residential plots and is home to some well-known residential developments such as Venkata Rami Shivakote Plot, Salarpuria Sattva Laurel Heights, and Samaya Sonata.

There are government vegetable farms, fruit farms, and fisheries.

Hesaraghatta Lake Timings and Entry Fees

The lake is accessible at all times, but early in the morning is the ideal time to go since it gives a beautiful view of nature and a chance to see a variety of birds of all sizes, colors, and species.

Monday through Sunday, from 6 am to 6 pm.

• Time needed: 1 to 2 hours
• The lake has no entrance fee
• No boating facilities exist
• 6 am to 6 pm is the visiting hours. Yet the greatest views are in the early morning

Places to Visit Near Hesaraghatta Lake

There are several fascinating locations around.

You may schedule a trip to the Government Aquarium and the well-known town of Nrityagram while visiting Hesaraghatta Lake.

If you’re interested, you may also stop by the nearby Indo-Danish Poultry and Dairy Farms and the Horticulture Research Institute.

Tips for Visiting Hesaraghatta Lake

The months of October through March are ideal for a visit.

Several bird photographers will be driving around the lake, capturing rare sightings of Montague harriers, Eurasian Wryneck, Brown Shrikes, Northern Pin-Tail ducks, Bush Larks, and Paddy Pip.

The lake is open all year.

Still, the perfect time to come is in the early morning hours when the water body provides a magnificent natural view and an opportunity to observe many birds of all types, sizes, and colors.

But, while there, we recommend visiting the dancing village of Nithyagram, a gurukul for Odissi dance enthusiasts.

Location of Hesaraghatta Lake

Hesaraghatta Lake is a man-made reservoir located 18 kilometers northwest of Bengaluru in the Indian state of Karnataka.

A private taxi or cab may take you to the lake.

To go to Hesaraghatta Lake from Bangalore, use NH-4 until Vidyanagar and then turn right on Hesaraghatta Main Road.

The lake is located on the left side of the Central Bank.

Depending on traffic, it might take up to an hour to get to the lake.

Other Lakes Near Bangalore

Madiwala Lake

Madiwala Lake is one of Bangalore’s largest lakes, covering an area of 114.3 hectares. The Karnataka State Forest Department looks after the lake, which is blessed with magnificent beauty.

Ulsoor Lake

Ulsoor Lake, which covers 50 acres, is another wonderful location where people appreciate getting near nature. Ulsoor Lake in Bangalore, one of the largest and oldest lakes in the region, is surrounded by beautiful greenery, including islands and trees. Tourists may participate in a variety of activities, with boating being the most popular.

Hebbal Lake

Hebbal Lake, commissioned in 1537 by Kempe Gowda, is another magnificent destination that welcomes many people and allows them to enjoy total refreshment by beholding its gorgeous surroundings.

Lal Bagh Lake

It is one of the must-see attractions for travelers and is located within the Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, considered the greatest lake in Bangalore, is surrounded by lush green trees and flowers, making it a beautiful and pleasant setting.

Agara Lake

The colorful surroundings and sight of the panoramic view of Agara Lake are enough to captivate tourists’ attention.

Vartur Lake

The only reasons for Varthur Lake’s existence are to preserve environmental balance and meet agricultural demands.

Kengeri Lake

Create wonderful memories with your family by spending quality time together that you may cherish forever. Kengeri Lake spans 25 acres and is the trendiest location for boating and relaxing in a beautiful setting.

Nagavara Lake

Nagavara Lake, which has a total size of 44 hectares and is situated near the Outer Ring Road, is one of the interesting and alluring locations that attract people’s attention to a greater level.

Kaikondrahalli Lake

Kaikondrahalli Lake is an urban lake formerly a dump yard with a surface area of 48 acres. It is a lake that resembles a spoon, and houses encircle it.

Bellandur Lake

It is situated in a beautiful environment and is home to several animals and birds. Wood pigeons, cobras, monitor lizards, parakeets, kingfishers, and other birds can all be seen here.

Location

FAQs

(Feature image source: Wikipedia)