Yearning for tranquillity away from the mad rush of city life? A trip to Hirekolale Lake, surrounded by the charming Western Ghats, can feel like therapy. It was originally built to provide drinking water to Chikmagalur. Though manmade, the expansive lake is a soothing sight, with a bridge projecting across it, so that tourists can walk up to the middle of the lake and click beautiful photos. The gazebo-like structure at the end of the bridge is an especially photogenic spot, from where you can enjoy sunsets and the sight of Mullayanagiri Hills.