Kankaria Lake is one of the major attractions of Ahmedabad and is located in the southeastern part of the city. This lake is so big that there is a huge walking path around it where people come for a walk in the morning and evening. Kankaria Lake was formed in the 15th century and is one of the oldest and largest reservoirs in the city.
A variety of recreational facilities are available around Kankaria Lake. There is a large zoo, a children’s park, a play area, boating facilities, and even a large eating area where you can enjoy a variety of local cuisine. Apart from this, there is also a huge open theater and a musical fountain, which is especially worth seeing at night.
Every year in December, Kankaria Carnival is organized, lasting for a week. During this time, a variety of artistic and cultural activities take place around the lake. This carnival is a big celebration occasion for the residents of Ahmedabad, and a large crowd of tourists also gather here.
History of Kankaria Lake
Kankaria Lake, one of the major tourist destinations in Ahmedabad, was built by Sultan Qutbuddin in the 15th century. The lake was originally known as ‘Qutub-e-Sindha’ and was named after the Sultan. It is located on the southeastern edge of the city and is one of the largest reservoirs in the city.
Historically, Kankaria Lake was used by the Sultans of the state for hunting and recreation. A beautiful garden, ‘Nagina Wadi’, was also built on the banks of this lake, which even today adds to the lake’s attraction.
The area around Kankaria Lake has been extensively developed, and today, it is home to various recreational activities, such as zoos, children’s gardens, theme parks, and water parks. In addition, the ‘Kankaria Carnival’ is organized here every December, and it is quite popular among local residents and tourists.
Thus, Kankaria Lake is known for its beauty and rich history and is an important part of Ahmedabad’s historical heritage.
Timings and Entry Fees at Kankaria Lake
Kankaria Lake welcomes visitors all week, but keep in mind it’s closed on Mondays for upkeep. Here’s when you can visit:
- Lakefront: Open from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Attractions: Available from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
- Activities: Ready for fun from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
When it comes to entry fees, here’s what you need to know:
- Lakefront: It will cost Rs. 25 for adults and Rs. 10 for kids under 12. You can enter for free if you’re a senior citizen over 60 or differently-abled.
- Attractions: Prices range from Rs. 10 to Rs. 100 per person, depending on what you choose to do.
- Activities: Costs vary between Rs. 50 to Rs. 300 per person, based on the activity.
Plan your visit according to these timings and fees to make the most of your trip to Kankaria Lake!
Attractions and Activities at Kankaria Lake
1. Nagina Wadi:
Nagina Wadi is situated on an island in the middle of Kankaria Lake and is the main center of attraction. The place is blessed with natural beauty and allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the lake. This is an excellent place for a romantic walk in Nagina Wadi and also has a small garden and a beautiful fountain.
In Nagina Wadi, a colorful laser show tells stories about Gujarat’s history and culture every evening from 7:00 to 7:30 PM. Entry to Nagina Wadi costs Rs. 10 per person, and it’s open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
2. Kankaria Zoo:
Kankaria Zoo, also known as Kamla Nehru Zoo, is home to diverse species of animals. Kankaria Zoo, which started in 1951, is one of India’s oldest and biggest zoos. It has more than 450 animals from over 70 different kinds of species Here, both children and adults can see animals closely and understand their behavior. The main attractions include white tigers, elephants, lions, and birds. The zoo also has special areas like an aquarium for fish, a house for reptiles, a place for active animals at night, and a park full of butterflies.
The entry ticket to Kankaria Zoo is Rs. 20 for adults, Rs. 10 for kids under 12, and free for senior citizens and differently-abled persons. The zoo is open from 9:00 AM to 6:15 PM.
3. Butterfly Park:
The Butterfly Park is located in a corner of Kankaria Lake and is a place to see a variety of butterflies. The park has a specially designed environment for butterflies in which they thrive. Visitors can see butterflies flying and hovering over flowers in a natural setting here.
4. Mini Train:
A village around Kankaria Lake Mini trains run, providing an exciting experience for children and adults. This train passes through the banks of the lake and provides a good view of the beauty of the lake to the passengers. It is an ideal way to view the expansive landscape of the lake.
This tethered balloon lifts you 120 meters high, offering a breathtaking panoramic view. Up to 30 people can ride at once for about 10 minutes in Mini/Toy Train. Toy Train at kankariya lake costs Rs. 300 per person and operates from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.
5. Boating:
Boating facilities, including pedal boats and motor boats, are available at Kankaria Lake. This activity is a great way to relax in the lake’s calm waters and enjoy its natural beauty.
6. Musical Fountain Show:
The musical fountain show held in the evening is a major feature of Kankaria Lake. In this show, streams of water dance with colorful lights and music, providing an entertaining and attractive sight for the spectators. The show is very popular especially among children and families.
