6 Lakes in Hyderabad: Location, Timing, Entry Fee, Distance

Planning a trip to the city of Hyderabad? Well, there are a lot of things to see and do in this clean, beautiful city. From museums, forts and markets to parks, gardens and shopping malls, you will be spoilt for choices! If you are a food lover, then Biryani should be on the top of your list of things to do in Hyderabad. But if natural beauty is what you seek, then head to the scenic lakes in and around Hyderabad.

Lakes in and around Hyderabad:

Here is a list of 6 alluring lakes in and around the city that will blow your mind:

1. Hussain Sagar Lake

Hussain Sagar Lake | #1 of 6 Best Lake in Hyderabad

Hussain Sagar Lake, connecting the cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, is one of the top tourist attractions in Hyderabad. This man-made wonder was built in 1562 on a tributary of Musi River and until 1930, it catered to the water and irrigation needs of the city.

Today, it is bordered by Lumbini Park, Indira Park and Sanjeeviah Park and right in its center is the spectacular statue of Lord Buddha, making Hussain Sagar Lake a must-visit in the city. Water sports and boating services offered here have made it even more popular among young and adults.

The rates vary for boating and water sports, starting from as low as 35-55 INR for mechanized boating to 400 INR for parasailing per person.

• Location: Tank Bund Road, Hyderabad
• Timings: 8 am to 10 pm
• Entry Fee: No entry fee
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

2. Shamirpet Lake

Shamirpet Lake | #2 of 6 Best Lake near Hyderabad

Shamirpet Lake, also known as ‘Pedda Cheruvu’ locally, is a fantastic weekend picnic spot for families residing in Hyderabad as well as Secunderabad. The history of this artificial lake goes some 50 years back when it was commissioned by the then Jagirdar of Shamirpet.

The captivating beauty of the lake and its luxuriant surroundings draw nature enthusiasts and photographers in large numbers across the year, especially in monsoons and thereafter, at the time when a variety of birds — both local and migratory – are seen here.

When you visit this lake, do stop at the nearby Shamirpet Deer Park, spread across 80 acres, which is home to a large number of deer, snakes and various bird species.  

• Location: Shamirpet
• Distance from Hyderabad (by road):6 km (55 min)
• Best Time to Visit: November to March

3. Osman Sagar Lake

Osman Sagar Lake | #3 of 6 Best Lake near Hyderabad

Osman Sagar Lake, located west of the city, is a popular picnic spot in Hyderabad. This artificial lake was built in 1920 by constructing a dam across Isa, a tributary of River Musi. Named after Mir Osman Ali Khan, the then Nizam of Hyderabad, this lake serves as the main source of drinking water for the people of Secunderabad and Hyderabad.

Also known as Gandipet Lake, it is an ideal place for you if you are seeking some quality amidst natural beauty. Boating in this picturesque lake will definitely appeal to you. And if you are seeking adventure and thrill, then head to the nearby theme parks, namely Treasure Island and Ocean Park Hyderabad.

• Location: Ranga Reddy District
• Distance from Hyderabad (by road):3 km (50 min)
• Timings: 7 am to 7 pm
• Entry Fee: 5 INR per person
• Best Time to Visit: October to March

4. Himayat Sagar Lake

Himayat Sagar Lake | #4 of 6 Best Lake near Hyderabad

The twin lake of Osman Sagar, the Himayat Sagar Lake is another popular tourist attraction close to the city of Hyderabad. Built in 1927, this artificial lake was created for the purpose of saving the city of Hyderabad from the major floods caused by the Musi River. Today, this lake serves as the primary source of drinking water for Secunderabad and Hyderabad and is also used for recharging the groundwater levels in the area.

Named after the son of the last Nizam of the city – Himayat Ali Khan, this beautiful lake boasts of lush green environs; a perfect match to the cool gentle breeze and clean air this area is known for. Come here to soak in the tranquility and stillness that this place offers! Read also – Places to Visit in Hyderabad

• Location: Ranga Reddy District
• Distance from Hyderabad (by road): 28 km (1 hour)
• Timings: Open at all hours
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
• Best Time to Visit: October to December

5. Durgam Cheruvu

Durgam Cheruvu | #5 of 6 Best Lake near Hyderabad

Durgam Cheruvu or Secret Lake, situated near Hi-tech City, is another popular tourist attraction in Hyderabad. Spread over an area of approximately 63 acres, this artificial lake is ideal for families to relax and enjoy scenic views. The lake is surrounded by wonderful various rock formations that are said to be 2500 million years old.

In recent years, several developments have been witnessed in the vicinity of this lake, especially the floating fountain and artificial waterfall. Besides, boating facility is also available here with options like water scooter, pedal boat and mechanized boat to choose from. Trekking and camping are other activities here if adventure and thrill are on your mind! 

• Location: CBI Colony, Jubilee Hills, Hyderabad
• Timings: 10 am to 6.30 pm (Sunday to Saturday)
• Entry Fee: No Entry Fee
• Best Time to Visit: October to December

6. Ameenpur Lake

Ameenpur Lake | #6 of 6 Best Lake near Hyderabad

Ameenpur Lake, which was declared as a Biodiversity Heritage Site in 2016, was built between 1550 and 1580 when the city used to be the kingdom of Golconda. Spread over 93 acres, this artificial lake is home to a large variety of local and migratory bird species. Know more about weekend getaways in Hyderabad

Due to the dumping of pollutants by the nearby industrial units, the lake was in a bad shape for few years but, after the declaration of it being a Biodiversity Heritage Site, major improvements have been made by the local authorities. If you are a birdwatcher, then definitely come here; you will not be disappointed!

• Location: Sangareddy District
• Distance from Hyderabad (by road):8 km (1 hour 7 min)
• Best Time to Visit: November to February