Generally, when people hear the name of the city Ahmedabad, all they can think about is a fast-growing metropolis city, with a rich heritage and wide industrial setup. But apart from all of these fascinating museums, chic markets, there are also several lakes in Ahmedabad that you enjoy during your stay in the city.
Surprisingly, According to revenue department and urban development department records, currently, there are 60 lakes in the city. But hardly anyone could think of Ahmedabad as a city of lakes. There are several lakes in Ahmedabad that are in good condition and are a major attraction for people in the city.
Ahmedabad is a city where you’ll find several lakes that will help you rejuvenate from the hustle and bustle all day. All of these lakes have breathtaking views and are also quite fascinating to the visitors. Be it the sound of calmness or the chirping birds, you could hear all of it in the middle of the city or a bit far from the city.
To help you spot them, here we bring you a list of the top lakes in Ahmedabad that you cannot afford to miss.
Top Lakes In Ahmedabad
Table of Contents
Kankaria Lake
There is no better way to start this list with none other than Kankaria Lake. It is a whopping 500-year-old and covers almost an area of almost 76 acres. To your surprise, it is also considered to be one of the largest manmade lakes in Ahmedabad.
Kankaria Lake is one of the best places to enjoy in Ahmedabad both your morning and evening walks in the tranquility of nature. For the past few years, this place has become an awesome amusement hub with several attractions. One of the most loved attractions of this place is none other than the famously called Kankaria Zoo or the Kamla Nehru Zoological Garden. This zoo is home to over 450 mammals, 2000 bird species, and 140 reptiles.
Here, you’ll also be able to get the much needed thrill of a roller coaster ride in the mini amusement park. If you’re not alone and accompanied by your kids, then you must visit kids city and also try hopping on the famous toy train.
At the center of the lake, you’ll find an island that is also known as Nagina Wadi. Apart from this, there are several other attractions such as tethered balloon rides, food stalls, Bal Vatika, butterfly park, etc. The best time to visit this place is in December and enjoy the Kankaria Carnival.
Location: Maninagar, Ahmedabad
Lake Timings: 4:00 am to 8:00 am and 9:00 am to 10:00 pm (closed on Mondays)
Entry Fee: 25 for adults, 10 for kids
(Free entry for kids below 3 years, senior citizens, and morning walkers)
Best Time To Visit:
Chandola Lake
Chandola lake situated on Dani Limda Road is one of the oldest lakes in Ahmedabad. It has a great history as it was built during the Mughal period. Not only that, but it was also one of the stops of Gandhiji during his Salt March. This lake has an area of total 1200 hectares and is home to several bird species such as cormorants, painted storks, and spoonbill birds. Apart from that, it is also home to some of the migratory birds from all around the world.
If you’re someone who loves to see birds and hear them chirping in the morning, then you must visit this place. It is also a great place for people who practice meditation as here you’ll be able to get much-needed peace and harmony. If you’re someone who is fascinated by historical landmarks, then you should add the tomb of Shah-e-Alam to your list. It is quite a near Chandola lake and is known for its elegant gateways, holy tank, and arch and dome-dominated building design.
Location: Dani Limda Road
Lake Timings: Daytime is recommended
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: Anytime
Vastrapur Lake
Vastrapur Lake is considered to be one of the most beautiful spots in the city. Back in 2013, this lake was renamed as Bhakt Kavi Narsinh Mehta Sarovar. It is a great spot for escaping from the busyness of the city and catching some me time. One of the major attractions of this place is the open-air theater which is a great option for families and friends. There is a children’s park here where children can have fun and also play.
This is an amazing place for just sitting back and relaxing among some chirping birds. If you’re into boating then you can also enjoy it here. This lake in Ahmedabad is most loved by health enthusiasts who prefer jogging or having a walk both in the morning and evening time.
Location: Vastrapur, Ahmedabad
Lake Timings: 8:00 am to 10:00 pm
Entry Fee: Free
Best Time To Visit: Anytime
Nal Sarovar Lake and Sanctuary
Nal Sarovar Lake and Sanctuary is one of the most loved and popular lakes near Ahmedabad. There is also a bird sanctuary around the lake that is considered a treat for all nature lovers. This place is also home to a whopping 210 migratory birds in winters. Apart from that, it is also one of the largest wetland bird sanctuaries in the country. Here you can spot various species of animals such as the wild ass and blackbuck to flamingos and rosy pelicans.
While you’re at this lake, you can also consider having a boating session to Drabala Island. If you wish to have the best view of the lake, then you must go to the watchtower. It is also great to have finger-licking food that is served by the locals. As a weekend getaway, this place is the best one near Ahmedabad. If you need more information on the birds, head over to the information center in the sanctuary.
Location: Badodara Nalsarovar Link Road
Distance from Ahmedabad: 65 km
Lake Timing: 6:00 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: 75 on weekdays; ₹ 85 on weekdays
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Thol Lake and Sanctuary
Thol Lake is one of the oldest man-made lakes in Ahmedabad. It is believed to be almost 100 years old or even more than that. It is a perfect place to have some peace in this busy-moving city. This lake is located near a village called Thol which is situated in the Mehsana district of Gujarat.
This place is quite famous for its migratory birds such as flamingoes, cranes, and saura. Generally, these birds can be spotted in the winter season. In 1998, this place was given the status of a sanctuary and was renamed as the “Thol Bird Sanctuary”. It is heaven for bird watchers as one can spot over 150 species in a small area.
Location: Thol Village, Mehsana, 40 km from Ahmedabad
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:30 pm
Entry Fee: INR 20 on Monday to Saturday and INR 25 on Sundays
Best Time To Visit: October to February
Naroda Lake
Naroda Lake is a natural water body situated in Naroda Gam. This place is mostly known as “Mini Kankaria.” The reason behind this is that they have adopted the same development concept as Kankaria. This particular place has been developed by Karia builders who built several amenities here such as a fun amusement park for kids, train ride, and boating facility.
If you’re planning to visit here with your family, then it’s a great choice altogether as there is plenty of space to hangout with friends and family, indoor games, play snooker pool etc. This place is highly recommended for people who wish to have some peace and fun in the middle of the city. While you’re here, you must not miss the lip smacking snacks that are served in the food court here.
Location: Naroda, Ahmedabad
Timings: 6:00 am to 5:00 pm
Entry Fee: –
Best Time To Visit: Anytime
Rancharda Lake
Rancharda lake is situated near the Rancharda temple. It is considered to be one of the best places for a picnic or a photoshoot. It is an amazing place to just sit back and relax amidst nature. The lake is quite clean and beautiful in physicality. The major source of water in this lake is the rainwater which keeps the lake clean. Overall it is a nice place to visit as there are also several sitting areas where one can enjoy the lakeside.
Location: Rancharda, Ahmedabad
Lake Timings: During the daytime
Entry Fee: None
Best Time To Visit: November To March
Munsar Lake
Munsar lake situated at Viramgam, near Ahmedabad is a water body constructed by Minaldevi, mother of Jayasimha Siddharaja, of the Chalukya dynasty. Earlier, it was named Mansarovar but due to some indiscretion, it is now widely known as Munsar. To your surprise, this lake is almost 1000 years old and is surrounded by more than 300 mini temples.
Location: Viramgam, Ahmedabad
Lake Timings: None
Entry Fee: None
Best Time To Visit: November To April
FAQ’s
Which is the first largest lake in Ahmedabad?
The first largest lake in Ahmedabad is none other than Kankaria Lake. Earlier it was known as Hauz-E-Qutub. In the past, it was used as a bathing place by the Badshahs. But now, it is seen as the island garden in the center of the lake with a summer palace called Nagina Wadi.
How many lakes are in Ahmedabad?
There are a total of 60 lakes in Ahmedabad, but not all of them are in good condition.
