Have you heard this beautiful Kannada song from the movie Nenapirali?
Koorak Kukkaralli Kere,
Telak Karanji Kere,
Lovvige… ee Lovvige
Chamundi betta ide, Kannambadi katte ide,
Lovvige… ee Lovvige…
It simply means, “We have Kukkarahalli Lake to sit, and Karanji Lake to float, when in love.” The song also mentions Chamundi Hills and the Kannambadi bridge (near KRS). All these are famous and old places of Mysuru, and they hold a special place in every Mysorean’s heart. Today, I am going to tell you about my visit to the same Karanji Kere – Karanji Lake.
Karanji Lake – A Peaceful Escape After Lockdown
During my 15 days stay near Devegowda Circle in Mysuru, I got a chance to visit Karanji Lake. It was just after the second lockdown, so the place was not very crowded. That made the experience even more special.
After months of staying indoors, walking inside such a peaceful and green place felt refreshing. The air was fresh, the surroundings were calm, and I could hear birds everywhere. There was no rush, no noise. Just nature and silence. I slowly wandered around the lake, enjoying every moment.
Karanji Lake, also called Karanji Kere by locals, is located close to Mysore Zoo, at the foothills of Chamundi Hills. The lake is spread over a large area with beautiful greenery all around. It is not just a lake, but a complete nature spot.
On-site Attractions of Karanji Lake
Karanji Lake was originally built around 100 years ago during the rule of the Mysore Kings as a percolation tank. In those days, it was mainly used to store water and help supply drinking water for the local residents. It also supported daily needs like washing and other household purposes.
Today, Karanji Kere is maintained as part of Sri Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens (Mysore Zoo). Since it is located right next to the zoo, both places are managed by the same authority.
A simple walk around Karanji Lake itself feels so refreshing. The greenery, the calm water, and the sound of birds make your mind feel light. I really enjoyed just wandering without any hurry. It is the kind of place where you can slow down and breathe peacefully.
Apart from the natural beauty, the lake area is well maintained. There is a small kids’ play area, so families with children can spend good time here. I saw many families sitting together, enjoying small picnics. There is also a coffee stall where you can sit for a while and relax.
India’s largest Aviary:
One of the main attractions here is the large walk-through aviary, which is said to be one of the biggest in India. It is huge — like a giant net structure rising as tall as big trees. Inside, it feels like stepping into a different world made especially for birds. There are plants, small ponds, and even an artificial waterfall that adds to the natural feel.
Visitors can walk inside the aviary and see around 40–50 species of birds. I spotted hornbills, peacocks, white peacocks, turkeys, and even black swans. Seeing birds flying freely inside such a large space is a lovely experience.
And of course, my favorite memory from the aviary is my twinning moment with a beautiful peacock. I was wearing a blue mixed top that day, and it almost matched the bright blue shade of the peacock. It felt like nature planned that moment for me.
Visitors can walk through the Aviary and witness the beauty of around 40–50 bird species. The species in this aviary include hornbills, peacocks, white peacocks, turkeys, and black swans. This aviary was temporarily closed to stop the spread of avian flu in the year 2006.
Bird-watching:
Karanji Lake is also a paradise for bird watchers. There is a watchtower from where you can quietly observe birds near the lake. It is said that more than 140 species of birds can be seen here, including migratory ones during winter. Painted storks, pelicans, ibis, egrets, cormorants, and many more birds can be spotted if you are patient.
Even if you are not a serious bird watcher, simply sitting near the lake and watching birds move around is calming. For me, it was less about counting species and more about enjoying the peaceful feeling the place gives.
Karanji Lake Boating:
Boating at Karanji Lake is a simple and refreshing experience. The boating point is located halfway inside the park. You can go around the calm lake and see small shady islands in between.
There are pedal boats, rowboats with a boatman, and motorboats. Pedal boats are the most common and easy to use. If you just want to sit and relax, you can choose a rowboat. Motorboats are a little faster.
The lake opens at 8:30 AM and is closed on Tuesdays. Boating is usually available till 5:30 PM. Charges are minimal and depend on the type of boat.
It is not a thrilling ride, but a peaceful one. While boating, you can enjoy the greenery around and even spot a few birds near the water. Simple, calm, and worth trying.
Inside Karanji Lake, there is a beautiful Butterfly Park built on a small island. It is home to many species of butterflies. You can see different stages of their life cycle — from tiny eggs to colorful butterflies flying around.
Many special plants are grown there to support butterflies. These plants are brought from different regions, including Malnad. If you love nature, this place feels very peaceful and interesting to explore.
Karanji Lake timings
Karanji Lake is open for visitors 6 days a week, all days, excluding Tuesdays. It is open from morning 8.30 AM to 5.30 PM in the evening.
Karanji Lake Entry Fee
They charge a minimal entry fee of Rs.10 for Adults and Rs.5 for children between the ages of 5 to 15. And if you carry a Camera, there is a separate fee of Rs.25 for the Video camera and Rs.10 for a still camera.
Best time to visit Karanji Lake Mysore:
Mysuru has pleasant weather most of the year. But winter is the best time to visit. The climate is cool and comfortable, which makes walking around the lake more enjoyable.
How to reach Karanji Lake:
Karanji Lake is well-connected and situated around 5 km from the Mysore railway station and city bus station. You can hire a cab or an auto at affordable costs to reach Karanji Lake. There is a good facility for city buses. Also, that has well communication with all the tourist attractions in Mysore. If planning to visit other places, the best option is to hire a daily Mysore Rounds bus, which takes tourists to some well-known places in Mysore.
Google Maps Location: Karanji Lake
Karanji Lake Distance from other Mysore tourist places:
- Karanji Lake to Mysore Palace – 3.1 Km
- Karanji Lake to Mysore Zoo( Zoological gardens) – 0.9 KM
- Karanji Lake to Chamundeshwari Temple/Hills – 10.5 Km
- Karanji Lake to Railway Museum – 5.5 KM
Had a good read Gayathri. White peacocks are rare. Lucky you could spot one here!
Indeed, It was feast to the eyes Sahana. Thank you.