Delhi, the heart of India, is widely renowned not only for the riches in its cultural heritage and historical monuments but also for the beautiful water lakes that resound with the rich culture of India. These lakes have peacefully amalgamated the busy lifestyles of the city and are an ideal place for nature lovers, photographers, and family alike. In this blog, we have taken you across the best water lakes in and around Delhi, mentioning all details including timings, locations, entry fees, history, key attractions nearby metro stations, and facilities available.
1 Hauz Khas Lake
Location: Hauz Khas Village, South Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Hauz Khas
Timings: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (all days)
Entry Fee: Free
Key Attractions:
- Hauz Khas Complex: Near water lakes, A historic monument complex that includes a fort, a mosque, a madrasa, and a tomb.
- Deer Park: A lush green park with a variety of deer species.
- Bird Sanctuary: A haven for birdwatchers, especially during the migratory season.
- Amphitheater: A popular venue for cultural events and performances.
Facilities: Walking trails, benches, restrooms, food stalls
2. Sanjay Lake
Location: Mayur Vihar Phase II
Nearest Metro Station: Mayur Vihar Phase 2 Metro Station (Blue Line)
Opening and Closing Time: Summer: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM & Winter: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Entry Fee: Free for visitors
History: Sanjay water lakes was built in the early 1970s while developing green spaces in Delhi. It was named after Sanjay Gandhi, one of the political leaders. Now, it is one of the biggest attractions in East Delhi with its peaceful surroundings and lush greens.
Key Attractions:
Boating Facility: You can boat in the calm waters of the lake. Both paddle boats and shikaras are available for boating.
Bird watching: The lake harbors a significant number of migratory and local birds. It is, therefore, a good place for serious bird watchers.
Children’s Park: The location has a children’s play area. That is why it’s an excellent place to bring your families along.
Walking and Running Tracks: One long walk path and jogging track along the lake provides an ideal opportunity for a morning walk and an evening jog.
3. Lodhi Gardens Lake
Address: Lodhi Gardens, South Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: JLN Stadium
Opening Time: 5:00 AM -9:00 PM (all days)
Entry Fee: Free
Key Attractions:
Lodhi Gardens: It is the large park that extends to the Mughal monuments that are there, including the Bara Gumbad and Shish Gumbad.
Biodiversity: This place has all the different types of flora and fauna.
Jogging and Cycling Tracks: Popular with exercise freaks.
4. Naini Lake
Address: Model Town, North Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Model Town Metro Station (Yellow Line)
Timings: Summer: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Winter: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Adults ₹30, Children ₹20
History: Modeled after the iconic Nainital lake, Naini Lake was created to bring that same experience in an equivalent manner to the people of Delhi without having to venture outside the confines of the city. It shares its walls with houses and provides people with a peaceful escape from the crowd of the city.
Key Attractions:
Boating: Rowboats and paddleboats for a stroll are available.
Photography: The scenic beauty of the lake, specially in monsoon rains, has earned it a place in photographer’s logs.
Greens and Open Spaces: The park around this lake is also well-kept for a quiet picnic.
5. Bhalswa Lake
Location: Jahangirpura, North West Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Jahangirpuri Metro Station (Yellow Line)
Opening and Closing Time: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (All days)
Entry Fee: Free for visitors
History: Bhalswa Lake is a natural lake that was once a vast water body, but due to encroachments and landfills its size has decreased over the years. Nevertheless, it is still a favourite boating and picnic spot.
Boating: The main activity at the lake is paddle boating and row boating to let visitors spend time at it.
Bhalswa Golf Course: Visitors can head out to the nearby Bhalswa Golf Course for enthusiasts.
Picnic Spot: It is the best place for families and friends to have a silent, quiet group picnic by the lakeside.
6. Prasad Nagar Lake
Location: Karol Bagh, Central Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Karol Bagh Metro Station (Blue Line)
Time: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
History: Prasad Nagar Lake was once a much-favored boating and picnic destination, but it has faced decades of neglect. It is being restored to regain its former glory through restoration works.
Walking Pathways: While boating is no more in the offing, pathways by this lake make it an excellent place for walkers and joggers .
Local Hangout: This is actually a popular place in town where most locals hang around during early morning hours and the evening.
7. Nehru Park Lake
Address: Nehru Park, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi
Nearest Metro Station: Race Course
Timing: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM (all days)
Entrance Fee: Free
Key Attractions:
Nehru Park: A clean park with aesthetic beauty and different varieties of tree species.
Children’s Play Area: A play area for kids.
Amphitheater: used for cultural activities
Facilities: Walking trails, benches, toilets, food vendors
8. Rajokri Lake
Address: Rajokri, South West Delhi
Metro Station Location: Near HUDA City Centre
Opening Time: 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, all days
Entry Free: Free
Key Attractions:
Rajokri Wetlands: Large wetland area supporting large diversity of flora and fauna.
Birdwatching Spot: The place is especially fine for birds during migratory seasons.
Picnic Spots: For family outing and picnic.
Facilities Provided: Walking trails, Benches, Restrooms, and food stalls.