14 Top Lakes to Visit in Bangalore: Picnic & Boating Spots

Whenever someone asks me “How many lakes in Bangalore are actually worth visiting?” I always laugh, because honestly… I’m still discovering new ones every few months. The city may look all tech-parks-and-traffic from the outside, but the moment you step near a lake, everything slows down. From big iconic ones like Hebbal Lake (one of the biggest lake in Bangalore) to hidden gems like Horamavu Agara Lake, each spot has its own vibe. Joggers, birds, couples, uncles feeding ducks… the usual Bangalore mix.

If you’re hunting for lakes to visit in Bangalore in 2025 especially the peaceful, green, “I-need-a-break-from-life” ones this list will help you find your perfect memory spot.

1. Jakkur Lake

Jakkur Lake feels like that quiet cousin in the family who doesn’t talk much but somehow steals all the attention. Spread across nearly 160 acres, it’s honestly one of the most peaceful lakes I’ve been to in Bangalore. It was originally built just to support the local Jakkur village, but now… it’s full-on a bird paradise.

If you go early morning, you’ll literally see pelicans doing their royal “I own this place” walk. And during migratory season, the whole vibe changes. 

And the best part? No tickets. Just show up, breathe, walk, and forget Bangalore traffic for a while.

• Location: Agrahara, Bengaluru
• Timings: Not fixed, but early mornings are the best
• Boating: Nope

2. Puttenahalli Lake

Puttenahalli Lake is one of those comeback stories Bangalore should be proud of. It’s just 13 acres, but honestly, the vibe is so soothing. This lake had almost vanished once… literally on the edge of disappearing. But now? It’s a complete little paradise, especially if you love birds.

Around 80 bird species show up here. purple herons, kingfishers, spot-billed ducks… sometimes you feel like they’re posing just for you. I’ve seen birdwatchers standing here with their giant cameras like it’s mini-Masai Mara.

No tickets, no boating, no chaos. Just a clean, quiet lake that somehow feels like a small escape inside JP Nagar.

• Location: Arekere, JP Nagar 7th Phase
• Timings: Not fixed

3. Bellandur Lake

Bellandur Lake is huge literally the largest lake in Bangalore and it sits in one of the most scenic pockets of the city. You’ll find everything from parakeets to kingfishers, and even the occasional monitor lizard minding its own business. It’s the kind of place where you just slow down for a bit… especially around sunset. Trust me, that golden hour here hits different.

Perfect spot for an evening walk, some quiet time, or just letting your mind breathe after a long Bangalore day.

• Location: Bellandur, Bengaluru
• Fees: Free

• Timings: 10 am – 6 pm
• Boating: No

4. Kaikondrahalli Lake

Kaikondrahalli Lake is one of those glow-ups Bangalore should actually brag about. Once a dump yard, now a peaceful 48-acre urban lake where you’ll find herons chilling, frogs doing their thing, and kingfishers showing off like they own the place.

Surrounded by quiet residential lanes, it’s become a favourite for morning walkers and birdwatchers. Honestly, it’s the kind of spot that makes you forget you’re in the middle of the city chaos.

• Location: Kaikondrahalli Lake Trail, Bengaluru
• Fees: Free

• Timings: NA
• Boating: No

5. Nagavara Lake

Nagavara Lake spreads across a huge 44 hectares and sits right along the Outer Ring Road. So yes, it’s hard to miss and even harder not to admire. What makes it extra special is the whole vibe around it: Lumbini Gardens, a neat leisure park, and that calm, open-water feel that instantly slows down your mind.

It’s one of those places where you just stand, breathe, and think, “Ahh… Bangalore still has its peaceful corners.” Perfect for a quiet walk or simply soaking in nature without doing anything fancy.

• Location: Nagavara, Hebbal, Bangalore
• Timing: 6 IN THE Morning To 7 PM

6. Sankey Tank

Tucked away in Malleswaram West, Sankey Tank is one of those classic Bangalore spots that just feels comforting the moment you walk in. Families come here for a relaxed day out, couples love the sunset vibe, and honestly—nature lovers can spend hours just birdwatching without even realizing it. It’s calm, soothing, and very “old Bangalore” in the best way.

• Location: Kodandarampura, Malleshwaram, Bangalore
• Visit Timing: 6:00 in the Morning to 8:00 PM
• Boating: 6:00–10:00 AM & 12:00 Noon–5:00 PM
• Entry Fees: ₹10 per adult, ₹5 per child
• Boating Fees: ₹20 per person

7. Kengeri Lake

Kengeri Lake is that calm, family-friendly spot where you can just slow down for a bit. Spread across 25 acres, it’s known for its peaceful boating vibes and a super relaxed atmosphere. Kids get their own play zone, there’s a small islet, and the whole area feels perfect for an easy weekend outing. Simple, quiet, and genuinely refreshing.

• Location: Kengeri Satellite Town, Bangalore
• Entry Fees: Free
• Timing: Anytime

8. Hesaraghatta Lake

Hesaraghatta Lake is huge spread across nearly 1,000 acres and feels like walking straight into nature’s quiet corner. It’s known for its birdlife, so you’ll spot everything from bulbuls to bush larks just doing their thing. If you love peaceful mornings, this place is a total win. Calm views, open landscapes, and that soft early-morning breeze—perfect stress-buster.

• Location: 18 km northwest of Bangalore
• Visit Timing: Early mornings

9. Varthur Lake

Varthur Lake might be man-made, but it’s got that natural charm you can’t ignore. It plays a big role in supporting the local ecosystem and farming, but for most visitors, it’s the sunrise and sunset views that steal the show. If you’re someone who loves moody skies, still water, and that perfect golden-hour shot this one’s your spot. Photographers especially swear by it.

10. Agara Lake

Agara Lake is one of those spots that just makes you stop and stare. It’s spread across 98 acres and honestly, the views are something else perfect for a morning walk or just chilling by the water. There’s even a cute statue called Children-Globe-Rooster, and the nearby Joggers Park makes it super lively, especially if you’re up for some activity. Definitely a spot to relax and soak in nature right in the city.

• Location: Agara Village, 1st Sector, HSR Layout, Bangalore
• Entry Fees: Free
• Visit Timing: 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM, 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM (Mon–Sat), 5:30 AM – 6:30 PM (Sun)

11. Lal Bagh Lake

If you ask me, Lal Bagh Lake is just magical. Nestled inside the Lal Bagh Botanical Garden, it’s surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers honestly, perfect for clicking some dreamy pictures. I went there early morning once and the calm vibe, with birds flying around, was just so relaxing. It’s great for families, couples, or even solo nature walks you really can’t go wrong.

• Location: Mavalli, Bangalore
• Flower Show Fees: INR 40 per person
• Visit Timing: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (public), 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM & 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM (pedestrians)
• Entry Fees: INR 10 per person, free for kids below 12

12. Hebbal Lake

Hebbal Lake is one of those spots I love visiting when I just want a little calm away from the city buzz. Spread over 150 acres, it’s perfect for birdwatching especially during migratory season. I once tried photographing the birds at sunrise, and honestly, it was so peaceful and energizing at the same time. The sunsets here are also something you don’t want to miss.

• Entry Fees: INR 10 per person
• Visit Timing: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM, any day
• Location: 13 km from Kempe Gowda Bus Stand, Bangalore

13. Ulsoor Lake

Ulsoor Lake is one of my go-to spots when I want a quick dose of greenery in the city. It spreads across 50 acres and has these lovely little islands that make the view so peaceful. I usually take a stroll around, and if you’re up for it, boating here is super relaxing. There’s also a kids’ play area, so it’s great if you’re visiting with family. Plus, being close to MG Road means you can easily grab a bite or do a little shopping after.

• Visit Timing: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM (closed on Wednesday)
• Location: Near MG Road, Bangalore

14. Madiwala Lake

Madiwala Lake is huge spanning over 114 hectares and honestly, it feels like a little escape from the city chaos. I love going there for a relaxed stroll or just to click some photos. The bird-watching is surprisingly good too. If you have kids, they’ll have a blast with all the activities around, while adults can just soak in the calm vibes. Boating is also an option, and it’s super affordable.

• Visit Timing: 5:00 AM – 9:30 PM, all days
• Boating: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM, all days

• Location: Bannerghatta Main Road, BTM 2nd Stage, Bangalore
• Fees: INR 5 per adult, INR 2 per kid

Wrapping It Up

Bangalore’s lakes are honestly little gems scattered across the city. Perfect for a morning jog, a lazy evening stroll, or just escaping the city buzz for a while. Each lake has its own vibe and story. Visiting them makes you realize how water bodies can instantly lift your mood and connect you with nature, even in a bustling city like Bangalore.

And you know, while exploring these lakes, I couldn’t help but think about how well-planned man-made lakes can really transform a space. 

So, whether it’s for bird-watching, photography, or just some peaceful alone time, these lakes in Bangalore are definitely worth a visit. Just remember your camera… and maybe some snacks!

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