Chandigarh – The City Beautiful. The name says a lot. Chandigarh is the first well-planned city in India. Thanks to the French architect Le Corbusier, it is one of India’s cleanest and most important tourist destinations. The capital city of Punjab and Haryana is famous for its quality lifestyle, world-class architecture, and plenty of beautiful attractions, including heritage sites, gardens, and lakes.
Among these, the lakes of Chandigarh are among the most scenic and beautiful. In this post, we will talk about the famous lakes in or near Chandigarh that are the main attraction of tourism. If you are planning to take a trip to Chandigarh, you should definitely visit these lakes.
Lakes in Chandigarh-
1. Sukhna Lake:
Location: Sector 1, Chandigarh
Sukhna Lake is a serene and picturesque man-made reservoir situated at the foothills of the majestic Shivalik range in Chandigarh, India. Spanning an area of approximately 3 square kilometers, the lake’s creation resulted from damming the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream that flows from the Shivalik Hills.
At a distance of almost 7 km from Chandigarh Bus Station and Railway Station and 25 km from Chandigarh International Airport. Established in 1958, Sukhna Lake has become one of the city’s most cherished landmarks and recreational spots.
The lake’s tranquil waters, fringed with lush greenery and walking paths, provide an inviting ambiance for residents and tourists alike. It serves as a refuge from bustling urban life and offers respite for those seeking moments of peace and solitude. The iconic silhouette of the Shivalik range provides a stunning backdrop, enhancing the lake’s ethereal charm.
Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh offers a myriad of activities to its visitors. Boating is a popular attraction, with paddleboats, rowboats, and Shikaras available for hire, allowing people to cruise leisurely across the placid waters.
Besides the CITCO Cafeteria, Sukhna Lake has souvenir shops, games and amusement rides for children, a jogging track, and boating opportunities.
The lake has mesmerizing scenic beauty, accompanied by a golf course in the southern part and Nek Chand’s Rock Garden in the western part.
This is the best place for morning walkers, photographers, and everyone who wants to relax away from the city crowd. Here you will enjoy the mesmerizing view of the sunrise and take a short boat ride to spend some quality time with your loved ones.
At the end of the Sukhna Lake, you will find a place called “Garden of Silence,” which is a meditation point for Chandigarhians.
Sukhna Lake boating prices start at only 200 INR. You can either pay online or in cash; both options are available.
Dhanas Lake:
Location: Dhanas Village. (Near Sector 38, Chandigarh).
I give a name to this lake ” Hidden Beauty Of Chandigarh” Yes this is the perfect name for this beautiful Dhanas lake Chandigarh. Because of its natural beauty and surrounding greenery.
It is situated in village Dhanas (Near Sector 38, Chandigarh) which is the second most populated village in Chandigarh and famous for its picturesque beauty. It is 26 km away from Chandigarh International Airport and almost 12 km from the railway station.
It’s not as popular as Sukhna Lake, but here you can enjoy a picnic with your family and friends. And the monsoon is the best time to visit this beautiful lake.
Although Dhanas Lake has no jogging tracks or boating facilities, it has a beautiful view and peaceful surroundings. On the other side of the lake, you can see birds and flowers, making it a great place for bird photographers.
There is a floating solar plant on Dhanas Lake.
Here you can watch my Dhanas Lake video for information:
New Lake:
Location: Sector 42
This is another lake in Chandigarh located in Sector 42, in between the city. Travelers can easily reach New Lake by taking a taxi or cab, which is situated almost 6KM from ISBT Chandigarh Sector 17.
This is the best place to take a morning or evening walk for sports lovers because it is a smaller lake compared to Dhanas Lake and Sukhna Lake. In recent years, the new lake has become a favorite spot among students and young people.
Unlike many other crowded spots in the city, this new lake offers a calm and secluded place for couples to spend quality time together. Additionally, the lake has been officially designated by the administration as a site for religious worship and activities, particularly during festivals like Chhat Puja and Ganesh Puja. Thousands of residents from the southern sectors of Chandigarh utilize this serene setting to perform their religious ceremonies and rituals.
These are some beautiful lakes in Chandigarh that you must consider while visiting Chandigarh.
Lake Near Chandigarh
Tikkar Taal
Location: Morni Hills (50 km from Chandigarh)
Tikkar Taal is a captivating lake nestled amidst the picturesque Morni Hills, located a short distance from Chandigarh. This scenic water body is surrounded by lush greenery, dense forests, and rolling hills, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
The serene ambiance and tranquil waters of Tikkar Taal offer a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Tourists can indulge in boating and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The lake also attracts a variety of bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers and photographers.
Apart from the natural beauty, Tikkar Taal also offers opportunities for adventure activities like trekking and hiking in the surrounding hills. The quaint nearby village of Morni adds to the charm of the place with its rustic charm and warm hospitality. Tikkar Taal in Morni Hills stands as a hidden gem, providing a delightful escape for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty near Chandigarh.
Renuka Lake
Location: Sirmaur district, Himachal Pradesh (125 km from Chandigarh)
Renuka Lake is a picturesque and revered water body located around 125 kilometers from Chandigarh, in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India. Nestled amidst the lush hills and surrounded by dense forests, the lake offers a serene and tranquil ambiance, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists alike.
The lake holds great religious significance as it is associated with the legend of Goddess Renuka, making it a sacred site for devotees. Additionally, the surrounding area offers various opportunities for outdoor activities and adventure, attracting visitors seeking trekking, boating, and wildlife exploration.
With its natural beauty, religious importance, and recreational possibilities, Renuka Lake serves as a delightful getaway from the hustle and bustle of Chandigarh and neighboring areas, offering a refreshing and enriching experience for all who visit.
Karna Lake
Location: Karnal, Haryana (120 km from Chandigarh)
Karna Lake is a scenic and serene water body located approximately 120 kilometers from Chandigarh, near the town of Karnal in the state of Haryana, India. Named after the legendary Mahabharata character, Karna, the lake holds historical and mythological significance, adding to its charm.
Surrounded by lush greenery and landscaped gardens, Karna Lake offers a peaceful and refreshing retreat for visitors seeking a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Boating facilities are available, allowing tourists to enjoy a leisurely ride on the tranquil waters of the lake.
The picturesque surroundings and the tranquil ambiance make Karna Lake an ideal destination for picnics, family outings, and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions such as the Karna Lake Monuments and the Kalander Shah’s Tomb, which add to the cultural and historical appeal of the area.
Conclusion
The region of Chandigarh is blessed with a captivating array of beautiful lakes, each offering its unique charm and appeal. From the iconic Sukhna Lake, renowned for its breathtaking sunsets and recreational activities, to the serene Dhanas Lake, providing a natural habitat for migratory birds, these water bodies enrich the city’s landscape and add to its allure.
Beyond the boundaries of Chandigarh, nearby lakes like the rejuvenating Karna Lake and the Renuka Lake in Himachal Pradesh beckon travelers with their spiritual and historical significance. Additionally, the lesser-known yet enchanting Sector 42 Lake proves to be a hidden gem, offering tranquility and seclusion to its visitors.
These lakes in or near Chandigarh not only serve as picturesque destinations for leisure and recreation but also hold cultural and ecological importance, nurturing biodiversity and fostering a sense of peace and connection with nature.
Whether for a peaceful escape, a romantic rendezvous, or a spiritual retreat, the lakes in and around Chandigarh offer a diverse range of experiences, making them a true treasure for residents and travelers alike.
