The capital city of India is a major sightseeing destination, attracting tourists from across the world. Amongst the many places to visit in New Delhi are a couple of lakes, which are a haven of peace and tranquillity. The landscape, the silence, the natural beauty – everything about these lakes in and around Delhi can impress you effortlessly. These lakes are probably your best bet if you are looking for places in Delhi for couples or want to spend a bit of me-time. So, try and squeeze in a few hours in your itinerary to visit these tranquil lakes. Hotels in Delhi make all the arrangements if you want to explore these and many more hidden gems in your surroundings.
1. Hauz Khas Tank, Delhi
Hauz Khas Tank | #1 of 7 Lakes in and around in Delhi
The name itself explains the identity of this popular tourist location in the historic Hauz Khas Complex in New Delhi. Literally, ‘hauz’ in the Urdu language refers to a lake or water tank and ‘khas’ refers to royal; thus, Hauz Khas collectively refers to the royal lake or tank.
This lake was constructed around the 13th century to supply water to the Siri Fort. Built during the reign of Alauddin Khilji, the lake was then called Hauz-i-Alai. However, it was re-excavated in the 14th century during Firoz Shah Tughlaq’s rule after being clogged and silted.
Many monumental structures including a mosque, madrasa, tomb and pavilion were built to overlook this water reservoir. At present, Hauz Khas Tank is a popular tourist attraction luring both domestic and international travellers, and thus is surrounded by many restaurants, cafes and budget hotels.
- Location: Hauz Khas, New Delhi
2. Naini Lake, Delhi
Naini Lake | #2 of 7 Lakes in and around in Delhi
One of the best places to relax not too far from the city is Naini Lake – not the one in Nainital! Located in northern Delhi, this lake is a beautiful natural escape from the city madness. It is a great place for family picnics during the weekend; you can relax on the banks of the lake while enjoying food with friends and family.
You can also go for a boat ride here. Hire a small boat or a shikara if travelling with six adults and a kid, or opt for a paddle boat which can accommodate four adults and a child. Besides, you can see several locals walking and jogging around the lake in the morning and evening.
- Location: Model Town Phase I, New Delhi
3. Sanjay Lake, Delhi
Sanjay Lake | #3 of 7 Lakes in and around in Delhi
Sanjay Lake is one’s best bet as a tranquil spot to rejuvenate amidst the hustle-bustle of city life. It is an artificial lake developed by the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) in East Delhi. The calm and peaceful environment around the lake is a pleasant surprise for city dwellers.
The 65-acre lake is surrounded by the city’s longest green belt, which you can admire while boating. You can also spot different birds, such as storks and egrets, swimming or quenching their thirst beside the lake.
Alongside this manmade lake, the popular E-O-D Adventure Park was developed a couple of years back. The park offers ample entertainment options, ranging from the treetop obstacle course, archery and beach volleyball to an encounter with nature at the Jungle House.
- Location: Mayur Vihar, New Delhi
4. Tilyar Lake, Haryana
Tilyar Lake | #4 of 7 Lakes in and around in Delhi
A beautiful green belt spread over 132 acres, Tilyar Lake complex is a hotspot for nature lovers. This weekend getaway from Delhi is often visited by migratory birds and even has a mini zoo which is home to tigers, panthers, deer, monkeys, etc. You can also enjoy boating, fishing, kayaking, angling and an enthralling multimedia laser show at the lake complex.
- Location: Rohtak district (via NH9)
- Distance from Delhi: 50 km from Delhi border
5. Sultanpur Lake, Gurgaon
Sultanpur Lake | #5 of 7 Lakes in and around in Delhi
Sultanpur Lake is one of the must-visit lakes within Delhi’s periphery. Nestled in the lush boundaries of Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, the lake is a heaven for bird-watchers as over 90 species of migratory birds can be spotted flying, swimming and wading here. Darter, shoveller, egret, kingfisher and cormorant are a common sight here. Visitors can not only capture these tiny marvels but also enjoy a relaxing picnic in the peaceful environs.
- Location: Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary
- Distance from Delhi: 45 km
- Timings: 7:00 am to 4:30 pm
6. Surajkund Lake, Faridabad
Surajkund Lake | #6 of 7 Lakes in and around in Delhi
Around 15 km from South Delhi, Surajkund Lake or Peacock Lake is another pearl on the list. This ancient water reservoir, built in the 10th century by King Surajpal of the Tomar dynasty, has an amphitheatre-shaped embankment – perfect for making reels and click fabulous pictures. The place is also widely known for hosting the Surajkund International Crafts Mela (held in February) thus calls visitors from near and far. It is close to the famous Badkhal Lake (approx. 2 km) and can be easily reached via Delhi Metro.
- Location: Faridabad
- Distance from Delhi: 15 km
7. Damdama Lake, Gurgaon
Damdama Lake | #7 of 7 Lakes in and around in Delhi
A popular weekend getaway from Delhi, Damdama Lake is around an hour’s drive away. A natural lake with the striking background of Aravalli Hills, it is an apt place for family day tours, corporate outings and fun camping with friends. The lake is surrounded by many pocket-friendly resorts that offer a range of adventure sports and activities to keep visitors entertained the entire day. You can try boating, trekking, zip-lining, commando net and Burma Bridge among other things to do near Damdama Lake. This picnic spot near Delhi is much-loved by people of all ages and tastes.
- Location: Gurugram district, Haryana
- Distance from Delhi: 48 km
- Timings: 9:30 am to 6:00 pm
Besides these, the beautifully landscaped Swarna Jayanti Park (or Japanese Park) also boasts of around five lakes. You can enjoy a boat ride with your loved ones on these lakes, and even come across a bunch of ducks swimming here. In addition, the renowned Old Fort or Purana Qila boasts of a beautiful lake complete with fountains, a promenade and a viewing gallery.
Delhi is also home to other lakes that are off the tourist radar, such as Sardar Patel Lake, Lodhi Gardens Lake, Prasad Nagar Lake and the infamous Khooni Khan Jheel on the Northern Ridge.
Once you finish exploring New Delhi lakes, just don’t take the weight off your feet as there are so many other things to do in Delhi!
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