Hyderabad Lakes

Aside from the historical monuments found in Hyderabad, there are also several lakes that are considered must-visits for tourists who go there. Some of these lakes also have historical values attached to them, while most are just beautiful bodies of water where people can unwind away from the hustle and stressful day at work. During weekends, the lakes are a favourite spot for families to hold their picnics and outdoor activities.

The lakes are man-made, built primarily for the function of storing water for when it is required. It has become more than that, however, as they have also become nesting grounds for the migratory birds that pass by Hyderabad every winter. This natural event has become a common treat to everyone who frequently hangs out by there. The lakes are also frequently used for recreational purposes such as parasailing and boating, although these activities need to be approved by the authorities first.

The most famous lakes in Hyderabad are:

1. Hussain Sagar Lake. Hussain Sagar is arguably Hyderabad’s most famous and historic lake. It was built in 1562 by the revered sufi saint Hazrat Hussain Shah Wali to meet the water and irrigation needs of Hyderabad. In 1992, a large monolithic statue of Gautama Buddha was erected in the middle of the lake, and is widely considered to be one of the largest statues in the world.

The lake holds the distinction of connecting the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad to each other, by virtue of the Tank Bund. The bund as it stands today is a complex of temples, statues, and parks and has become the capital’s administrative hub. Parallel to the Tank Bund is the Lower Tank Bund road that was primarily built to ease traffic congestion. Now, it has also become the axis of print media activity.

The best time to visit the lake is from October to March.

2. Osman Sagar Lake. Affectionately known as Gandipet, the Osman Sagar lake is located about 20 kilometers from Hyderabad. It was created in 1920 by damming the Musi River, both to provide water for the twin cities as well as to save them from floods. The lake was named after the last Nizram of Hyderabad, Osman Ali Khan, who also had it built.

It is a popular tourist destination due to its wonderful and scenic view, especially after the rainy season, when the reservoir is full. Visitors who decide to stay overnight can also stay in the Sagar Mahal, a princely guest house that used to be last Nizram’s summer resort. Other attractions within the lake include Treasure Island, Elless World, and Occean Park.

3. Shamirpet. Built during the Nizram dynasty, Shamirpet is located 24 kilometers north of Hyderabad. Aside from being known for its beautiful rocky terrain and grand sunsets, there is also a deer park where visitors can see different deer species in their natural habitat. The lake is one of the better ones for picnics as the shady groves around it keep the are cool and pleasant, and the distance from the city means that the hustle and bustle of city life will never be a disturbance. Bird watchers will also get a treat as Shamirpet lake attracts a lot species of birds.

4. Durgam Cheruvu. Also known as Secret Lake, Durgam Cheruvu is located close to two other tourist attractions of Hyderabad, namely HITEC City and Shilparamam village. They say that the reason for the name was because for many years, there were no roads leading to the lake, thus keeping it secret. Secret or not, the lake is endowed with a scenic beauty that is captured amidst hillocks that rise on every side. The lake has been developed as a major tourist attraction by the AP Tourism Department and it deserves every praise that it gets. Activities one can do in the lake include boating, camping, and trekking the hills that surround it.

5. Gandipet Lake

Gandipet is one of Hyderabad’s more popular lakes, located about 20 kilometers away from the city. The lake has become a tourist attraction, mostly due to the pleasant landscapes around it as well as prime picnic spots along the shores. The lake also has a guesthouse for tourists who want to stay the night at the lake. The added bonus is that the guesthouse happens to be the summer resort of the last Nizam, back when Hyderabad was under their rule, so it is guaranteed to be a very splendid place to stay. Find out more.