With its history deeply rooted in historical and mythological references, Gujarat is a must visit for everyone, at least once in a lifetime. Gujarat is one of the most geographically rich states in India. It has the salt white marshes of the great Rann of Kutch, the only home of the endangered Asiatic Lions species in the world, one of the rarest marine national parks in India and so on. It is a treat for the curious soul and a source of wonderment for the others. Lakes of Gujarat are more than just water sources, they are a place where people visit to relax and unwind. Check out these top 15 lakes in Gujarat that will blow your mind away:
Kankaria Lake is probably one of the most famous lakes of Gujarat. Located in Ahmedabad near the Maninagar area, Kankaria Lake is a favourite among the locals. This 2nd largest lake in the state is a hotspot for every tourist as well as local Gujaratis. People can enjoy hot air balloon rides, toy train rides, water-based adventure activities and a zoo which is especially a treat for the kids! The lakefront is developed by the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation and it turns into a stage for various social and cultural events to take place. The lake was designed by one of the finest Mughal architects of that time and it also consists of a small island with a garden in the middle of it that was connected by a bridge to the shore. Make sure to visit this lake during some festive occasion in order to have the most memorable experience.
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Situated in the Gopipura locality of Surat, Gopi Talav is another one of the most important lakes of Gujarat. It is not a natural lake since it was built during the 15th century by Malik Gopi, who was an affluent merchant and governor of the Gujarat sultanate. After several years of laying in neglect, the lake was finally renovated in 2012 by the Surat municipal corporation and the surrounding area was redeveloped as a recreational centre. In 1573, Emperor Akbar had set up a military base camp close to this lake during the time of the Surat siege. The lake is also blessed on all sides by lush green trees and foliage that makes time spent here totally worth it. If you are looking for a place that offers a fun time in nature then Gopi Talav is just the place for you. This is the perfect place to watch the sun go down the horizon.
Named after the Jadeja Ruler, Rao Hamir, Hamirsar Lake is over 450 years old and a piece of Gujarati history. Situated in the centre of Bhuj, the lake was built by the erstwhile ruler not only as a way of honouring his late father but also as a way of providing an oasis in the saline and arid zone of Kutch. Over a period of several decades numerous canals and tunnel systems were developed to bring in the water from the 3 river systems and recharge the aquifer. This has helped in fulfilling Bhuj’s water related needs. The entire lake pans out over an area of about 28 acres and also consists of a mid-lake garden just like in the case of the Kankaria Lake in Ahmedabad. This central lake garden is known as Rajendra Park and is maintained as a very beautiful garden. The best part? People can go there for a swim and relax. Walking along the edges of the lake will lead you to the famous tourist destinations of Aina Mahal, Prag Mahal, and Kutch Museum etc.
The Nal Sarovar Lake is a part of the Nal Sarovar Bird Sanctuary which is located in the Ahmedabad region of Gujarat. The bird sanctuary pans out over an area of 120 sq km, and is home to over 200 types of birds including a massive number of migratory birds. The lake is a treat to visit during the winter months when migratory birds from all over flock here making it a sight to behold. Bird enthusiasts can spot pelicans, white storks, flamingos, grebes, crakes and so much more. The lake can be visited from 6 am to 5:30 pm with an entry fee for every visitor. People have the option of going for boating experiences in the lake, for which they would have to speak to the boat men here. With just 4 feet deep water in this lake one can be sure of their safety especially while visiting with kids.
Also known as Narayanpur, Narayan Sarovar is an important place Hindu pilgrimage. Located in Lakhpat Taluka of Kutch district, Narayan Sarovar is a must visit sightseeing destination in Kutch. As per various hindu scriptures and sources, there are 5 sacred lakes that are collectively known as Panch Sarovar that include – Mansarovar, Bindu Sarovar, Narayan Sarovar, Pampa Sarovar and Pushkar Sarovar. Saraswati River had an outlet into the sea very close to the present location of Narayan Sarovar. This, along with the fact that the lake is located at a mere distance of just 4 km from the famous Koteshwar temple. It is said that the famous rishi and sage, Vallabhacharya had paid this site a visit during his lifetime. Over the course of the year the lake turns into a site for 2 main fairs that take place in chaitras and the other on the 10th or 15th day of Kartik. The area around the lake has been notified as a wildlife sanctuary where red antelopes and Chinkaras have found their homes here.
Damodar Kund is one of the most sacred lakes of Gujarat. Located on the foothills of the Girnar Hills in Junagadh, it has its roots in the holy Hindu books, sources and mythological references. People come here to either perform the final rites of the departed souls here or take a holy dip here during some special occasion. It is said that the water has the power to grant the souls with moksha or complete liberation from the karmic cycle of birth and rebirth. This lake is just as important as the Triveni Sangam in Prayag or the Ganga River in Haridwar and Rishikesh. The lake of Damodar is surrounded on all sides by a very well-maintained Ghat which makes it easier for the visitors to perform their holy rituals. The lake along with the temple complex makes up for an area of 32 acres.
Locally referred to as Chand Talao, the Sursagar Lake is situated in the middle of the city of Vadodara. The lake is off limits for preservation and security reasons however the 120 feet tall Shiva statue is truly a sight to behold. The lake was rebuilt during the 18th century with the help of stone masonry. Many people can be seen enjoying the lake view by sitting on top of the boundary wall. Precautions have been taken inside the lake by attaching several underwater gates in order to drain it out seamlessly during the peak monsoon months, when the lake overflows. The Shiva Statue adorning the middle of the lake is incredibly beautiful to look at especially during the time of the holy eve of Maha Shivratri. This is one of the most highly touted lakes of Gujarat and a great place to go with your family and loved ones.
The artificial lake of Thol is located close to the Thol village in Kadi, Mehsana district of Gujarat. Constructed in 1912 with the intention of being used as an irrigation tank, this is a freshwater lake which is surrounded on all sides by marshes. In 1988 the importance of this one lake was recognised and it was granted the status of a bird sanctuary. It is the nesting and breeding ground for numerous migratory and exotic birds including flamingos and Sarus Cranes among a plethora of others. All the operation and management procedure of the lake is under the dual control of the forest and irrigation departments of the government of Gujarat, so you can expect a good time here. This place is a must visit for every nature lover visiting Gujarat.
Situated on the Dani Limda road of the Ahmedabad city in Gujarat, Chandola Lake covers an overall area of 1200 hectares. This circular reservoir is home to a host of colourful, exotic and migratory birds. The Lake turns into an entertainment centre for the locals during evening time when they flock here to go strolling and spend time in leisure with their family. The lake was established during the 15th or 16th century, by the wife of the Mughal sultan of Gujarat Taja Khanari Ali. The Chandola Lake also holds some historical value related to the salt march that was conducted by Mahatma Gandhi. On his way to the salt marshes from Sabarmati ashram, Chandola Lake had served as a short stopover point en route. The water from this lake is also used for various irrigation and industrial purposes. This makes Chandola Lake a wholesome lake that serves multiple purposes from industrial to offering an oasis for the birds.
The man-made lake of Lakhota is situated in the heart of Jamnagar district in Gujarat. Also known as Lakhota Talav or Ranmal Lake, and highlighted by the Lakhota Fort, which is situated on a small island on the lake, this is one of the largest water bodies in Jamnagar district. Both the lake and the fort of Lakhota was built during the 18th century by king Jam Ranmal which has currently turned into a tourist hub and a recreational spot for tourists as well as the locals. Other than being a natural spectacle for the sore eyes, the lake also offers a wonderful oasis for over 75 different types of exotic and migratory birds. The lake and the marvellous fort is situated 4 kms away from the Jamnagar railway station and is one of the most visited places in Jamnagar as it is also famous for being one of the oldest man-made structures in Jamnagar. Tourists can go there, stroll around the lake or just relax and make up a picnic with their loved ones.
Gracing the western end of Ahmedabad and officially named after Narsinh Mehta, ever since the lake’s beautification in 2022, the lake became an extremely popular tourist spot in the city for tourists as well as the locals. The lakefront has several sources for the entertainment of the visitors which includes an open air theatre and a children’s park. People can take a scenic walk along the boardwalk of the lake which is 600 metres long and many joggers and walkers can be seen covering the path early in the morning. The lake is also surrounded by lush green, well maintained lawns and gardens that turn into a stage for various cultural events and shows. On some occasions the water from the nearby Narmada River is also allowed to flow into the lake for more additional beauty. The lake is also adorned with a small statue dedicated to Narsinh Mehta, who was the builder of this lake.
Literally translated into ‘the abode of the serpents’, situated on the scenic and one of a kind hill station of Saputara in Gujarat, the Saputara lake is the magnetic force behind the tourism in Saputara hills. Situated in the district of Dang, the lake is just 1 km away from the main city centre of Saputara. The lake and the hill station here hold immense mythological value. It is said that Lord Ram had spent over 11 years in exile. The lake is manmade and is hugely popular for its local activities such as boating etc. The picturesque lake encompasses the lush green surroundings and hills, to offer one of the most picturesque and relaxing environments. This perfect picnic spot also offers a wonderfully panoramic view of the surrounding Sahyadri Hills that makes monsoon the best time to visit. You can go there to view the incredible sunrise and sunset while also enjoying the impeccable natural surroundings near the Lake.
Spread across an area of 572 acres, Gomti Lake is one of the biggest lakes in the district of Kheda in Gujarat. Named after the holy river of Gomti in Dwarka, Gujarat, the lake is also situated close to the temple of Lord Ranchhodrai. The temple complex also houses a range of Dharamshala, Havelis, Bhojanalaya and other such places to facilitate and make the pilgrims feel comfortable. As per the belief of the locals, the water of the Gomti River is considered to be as holy as the waters from Ganga River. One can check out the incredible lakefront dotted all over with local marketplaces and children’s park as well. People can go ahead and take a dip and a bath in the lake waters. People also have the option of going for a scenic boat ride on the lake and savour some amazing views of the nearby surroundings.
Originally named Durlabh Sarovar, the Sahasralinga Talav is an artificial water tank dating back to the mediaeval era. Situated in Patan, the lake building was commissioned by the Chalukya rulers of that era. The lake is so important that it has been included as a monument of national importance by the Archaeological survey of India. Although old, the lake was repaired, reconstructed and restored during the 11th century by king Siddharaj and it also earned the spot for being the largest tank during the Solanki era. One can witness many small and big shrines all over the surface and around the lake whose walls bear inscriptions about the construction of the lake. The Talao Water has been sourced from the Saraswati River which runs underground.
Situated 27 kms away from Patan, Bindu Sarovar is one of the most important sacred ponds located in Siddapur town. Gracing the banks of the holy Saraswati River, this place is one of the most visited ones among the famous tourist attractions in Patan. The term Bindu Sarovar means a lake of drops which is derived from the mythological account relating to Lord Vishnu. It is said that the tears of Lord Mahavishnu had fallen here and created this sacred pond. The Bindu Sarovar is one of the most important among the Panch Sarovar Yatra which also includes Mansarovar Lake, Pushkar Lake, Narayan Sarovar and Pampa Sarovar. The lake has also found its mention in various Vedic texts as well making it even more important.
Q. Which Is The Biggest Lake In Gujarat?
Ans. The Kankaria Lake is the biggest Lake in Gujarat. It is also the largest artificial lake in Gujarat.
Q. Which Is The Largest Lake In India?
Ans. The Vembanad Lake in Kerala is the largest Lake in India.
Q. How Many Lakes Are There In Gujarat Overall?
Ans. There are over 105 Lakes in Gujarat.
Q. How Many Lakes Are There In Ahmedabad?
Ans. There are 2 main Lakes in Ahmedabad namely: Chandola and Kankaria.
Q. Which Is The Deepest Lake In India?
Ans. Manasbal Lake is the deepest Lake in India.
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