KARANJI LAKE

Karanji Lake, one of the must-visits in your Mysore trip, is located in the footsteps of the majestic hills of Chamundi. Spread over 90 acres of land, the lake of Karanji is regarded as one of the biggest lakes in Karnataka. The lake, fed by a 2.5-kilometre-long channel, originates from the nearby Chamundi hills. Karanji Lake, home to over 100 species of birds, is adjoined by a Butterfly Park that houses a large variety of plant species to attract butterflies.

HISTORY

Around a century ago, the King of Mysore constructed Karanji Lake to create a percolation tank. The residents then used the lake for drinking, washing, bathing, etc. Later, this lake was handed over to the Mysore Zoo authority in 1976. Since then, the Committee of Mysore Zoo has overseen the lake’s maintenance.

THINGS TO KNOW

AVIARY AT THE LAKE

• The aviary in Karanji Lake is one of India’s most giant walk-through aviaries, hosting some rare beauties, including painted storks, pelicans, darters, wildfowls, geese etc.
• A large enclosure is dedicated to housing the Sarus Cranes, the tallest flying birds in the world.
• In addition, there is a distinct Orchid Park located at this site, exhibiting a variety of stunning orchids.

A PERFECT SPOT FOR A PICNIC

• The lake provides boating facilities, including pedal boats and row boats. Motorboats are unavailable due to birds having an aversion to their sound.
•  A park is available for children of age 1-10 years.
• A watch tower has been installed to enjoy the scenic greenery stretching.
• A nursery for medicinal plants is set up for visitors to purchase rare and exotic varieties of plants and trees.
• A Regional Museum of National History is set up on the banks of the lake that provides information about the natural environment of South India and the methods used to maintain it.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

The best months to visit Karanji Lake are between September to January. You can treat your eyes to the maximum number of species of butterflies as they migrate from the Eastern Ghats to the Western Ghats during winter months. The most recommended time to visit the lake is at sunrise or sunset, as it appears enchanting during these times.

TOURIST ATTRACTIONS NEARBY

• Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Garden(0.9km): one of the largest zoos covering 160 acres and housing some of the rarest and endangered species on the planet. 
• Mysore Sand Museum(2.7km)The museum displays almost 200 sculptures of sand in different themes.
• Mysore Palace(3km): A magnificent palace of the Wadiyar dynasty, built in an Indo-Saracenic style of architecture.
• Chamundi Hills(11 km): Chamundi Hills is a sacred landmark in Mysore, topped by a historic temple dedicated to the goddess of Chamundi