Ditch day plans, unwind by Delhi's lakes on summer evenings
Want to hang out with family and friends, but the sweltering heat is stopping you? Step out when the sun goes down and head to one of Delhi's many lakes, where the vibes are cool, the skies turn gold, and there's a lot to do – or not – as you unwind amid nature.
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From taking a walk with your doggo and listening to the birds sing to enjoying a boat ride – the city's water bodies offer a relatively cool and pretty chill way to spend summer evenings.
We take you through the scenic lakeside spots in the city that you can visit over the weekend.
Naini Lake
A North Delhi gem, Naini Lake is perfect for paddle boating and evening strolls. 'The lake is visited by many residents and college-goers in the evening.
A 30-minute paddle boat ride costs Rs130 for four people. The motorboat ride costs Rs250 for six people,' shares a Delhi Tourism employee.
Naini Lake
'Good time to spot resident birds'
While migratory birds have departed, resident birds can be spotted in and around the lakes of Delhi during late summer afternoons. Kavi Nanda, a member of Delhi Bird Foundation, shares, 'During this time, most lakes in Delhi are home only to resident species.
One may spot egrets, spot-billed ducks and herons. There's a good chance of spotting spot-billed ducks with chicks or coming across active heronries, egrets, cormorants, storks and ibises.
The green patches around these water bodies are also ideal for spotting summer birds like the Indian golden oriole, Asian koel and common hawk-cuckoo.'
'Good time to spot resident birds'
Sunder Nursery Lake
With floral blooms on both sides of the walkway, the lake at Sunder Nursery offers a picture-perfect pause amid the heritage gardens
Sunder Nursery Lake
"For centuries, water bodies – baolis, temple tanks – have served as places of social congregation for people. At Sunder Nursery, the five-acre lake is a favourite among families and groups of young friends. Here, screaming wild ducks, red-vented ibis, screeching owls and squaking mynas turn the evenings into a therapeutic retreat," says Ratish Nanda, CEO, Aga Khan Trust for Culture
Bhalswa Lake
Tucked away in Northwest Delhi, Bhalswa is a vast lake popular for its water sports and peaceful birding spots
Bhalswa Lake
Purana Qila Lake
Adjacent to Delhi's historic fort, this lake is known for its view of the centuries-old fort
Purana Qila Lake
Hauz Khas
Set against the backdrop of medieval ruins, Hauz Khas lake draws crowds for evening walks, jam sessions, photography and chilled-out evenings
Hauz Khas
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