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India.com
13-07-2025
- India.com
Tired Of City Chaos? These 5 Lakes Near Ahmedabad Are Your Weekend Lifesaver
The city of Ahmedabad in Gujarat represents both traditional heritage elements and modern market commerce while serving gourmet food to its residents. A peaceful natural reserve exists outside Ahmedabad City's energetic metropolitan area. The surrounding areas of Ahmedabad feature various lakes which serve as ideal locations for boating activities together with picnicking and weekend recreation. These natural places away from towns supply visitors with relaxation and access to natural exploration. The list below includes selected top lakes around Ahmedabad that provide boating as well as picnicking and relaxing in peaceful settings. 1. Kankaria Lake Distance from Ahmedabad: Approximately 9 km. The Kankaria Lake in Ahmedabad stands as a prominent municipal landmark which attracts all community members from families to couples along with tourists. The artificial lake constructed by Sultan Qutbuddin in 1451 AD covers 76 acres of land and contains an island garden at its heart. People can enjoy paddle boating or rowing boats along with speed boats that the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) operates at the site. Visitors can find Kankaria Zoo as well as an amusement park alongside the toy train rides and numerous food stalls selling local treats at the lakefront. Businesses running from the shaded areas along the lake allow visitors to relax in welcoming picnic amenities. People from the local community and visiting tourists consider Kankaria Lake an essential place to see because of its exciting environment and properly cared-for amenities. 2. Vastrapur Lake Distance from Ahmedabad: About 8 km Ahmedabad residents who live in Vastrapur frequently enjoy activities at the recreational Vastrapur Lake. They renovated this artificial lake through recent years to establish it as an exemplary environmentally conscious water reservoir. Visitors can take paddle boats along the lake because the facility does not offer motorized boat services in its present configuration. Visitors can take pleasure in family outings at Vastrapur Lake due to its beautiful natural environment which includes walking tracks and gardens and playgrounds. One can experience joggers together with cyclists and people who enjoy leisure walks throughout every evening. People who enjoy picnicking will find clean conditions and sufficient seating spaces across the lake area. Science City provides an extra attraction for families who spend their time at Vastrapur Lake. 3. Thol Bird Sanctuary & Thol Lake Distance from Ahmedabad: Around 25 km Birdwatchers along with nature lovers can experience Thol Bird Sanctuary when traveling about 25 kilometers from Ahmedabad city. Thol Bird Sanctuary presents itself as a protected area that occupies a total area of 6 square kilometers and includes migratory bird-spawning Thol Lake. Wildlife photographers discover paradise when numerous observing species including flamingos and pelicans join cranes and kingfishers in visiting the location. Visitors can experience Thol Lake by taking advantage of the boating facilities that grant them access to the calm waters. A peaceful setting at this location proves ideal for picnics and provides peaceful seclusion to those who want to escape urban crowds. Basic facilities such as parking areas together with restrooms support day travelers who visit the site. Bringing your anti-shock optics and imaging tools will help you capture the exquisite nature of this bird sanctuary. 4. Nal Lake Distance from Ahmedabad: approximately 64 km Nalsarovar Lake, situated 64 kilometers from Ahmedabad in Gujarat, India, is a significant shallow wetland and bird sanctuary. This nationally important wetland and Important Bird Area (IBA) supports a diverse ecosystem, including over 250 bird species, 70 flowering plants, and a variety of aquatic life, making it a crucial habitat for migratory birds. A 15th-century check dam on the Sabarmati River created the lake, originally intended for irrigation and drinking water. Its ecological significance, particularly as a bird habitat, was later recognized by local residents. 5. Harni Lake Distance from Ahmedabad: Approximately 10 km Harni Lake delivers an enchanting setting for visitors seeking offbeat travel destinations since it stands close to Harni village. The lake establishes its rural appeal around its surroundings of agricultural fields and little hills. People enjoy multiple recreational activities including water sports and relaxation time with family or friends at this location. The lack of extensive infrastructure at Harni Lake makes it an appealing spot for adventurer and nature lover types. Families should carry their own meals and drinks when planning nature-oriented picnics at pristine locations. Basic facilities could be unavailable thus planning your trips effectively. Tips for Visiting These Lakes: Visitors should plan to arrive at Harni Lake either during the early hours or late in the afternoon to discover pleasant weather without excessive crowds. You need to carry items including sunscreen along with hats and sunglasses with comfortable shoes combined with reusable water bottles and trash bags which ensure cleanliness at the site. Before entering any boating activity or when children spend time near aquatic areas people should follow safety instructions and keep a close eye on their children. Maintain respect for Nature by following designated rules and avoiding the dumping of litter to preserve these destinations for upcoming generations. Wrapping Up The close location of these lakes to Ahmedabad allows city inhabitants and visitors an effortless access to outdoor experiences that do not require long-distance commute. Future visitors can discover individual experiences at these different lakes because boating and birdwatching along with picnic basket activities exist as separate opportunities. Two opposite energy types exist between Kankaria Lake and Thol Bird Sanctuary providing tourist attractions for different visitor interests. Visit these local natural wonders which exist near Ahmedabad after you gather your friends and family and essential items.
Time of India
28-06-2025
- Lifestyle
- Time of India
How Ahmedabad temple's gentle giant never let his mahaut down
Ahmedabad: For 35 years, Bholaprasad headed the rath yatra in Ahmedabad, commanding applause and awe with his majestic build and royal gait. At heart, he was a gentle, obedient giant who never let his mahaut, Jairamdas, down. Now, the pachyderm, who came to the temple as an eight-year-old and was an integral part of its rituals, is living out his retirement years under expert care at Vantara, having been relocated there on Oct 3, 2020. Bholaprasad's deep bond with Jairamdas was legendary. "He understood me and trusted me. In all our years together, there was only one minor incident where someone's thoughtless teasing disturbed his peaceful nature," said Jairamdas. "I don't remember the year, but the incident took place in Saraspur where Bhola was having his fodder when a person harassed him. Bhola was obedient and calmed down when I called out to him," recalls Jairamdas. Dr R K Sahu, director, Kankaria Zoo, too remembers the incident. "It was a decade before his retirement when Bholaprasad, who was teased by someone, got irritated and began running. I was about to tranquilise him when the mahaut requested me not to. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Giao dịch xu hướng AUD/USD? IC Markets Đăng ký Undo The elephant had barely gone 15 to 20 feet before Mahant Jairamdas brought him under control." You Can Also Check: Ahmedabad AQI | Weather in Ahmedabad | Bank Holidays in Ahmedabad | Public Holidays in Ahmedabad His advancing age, chronic medical conditions, and prolonged musth periods—lasting up to six months each year—required specialised care and a more adaptive environment to ensure his safety, comfort, and dignity, he said. Recognising this, the Shree Jagannathji Mandir Trust, in partnership with Vantara, worked out a long-term solution to retire Bholaprasad with specialised care. Here, under the supervision of specialist veterinarians, Bholaprasad began hydrotherapy sessions that eased swelling in his joints and gradually improved his mobility. A purpose-built, chain-free musth enclosure allowed him to navigate his hormonal cycles safely under expert supervision. "His days now unfold calmly — wandering through forested trails, dust-bathing at leisure, and interacting peacefully with fellow rescued elephants," said officials.
