Kankaria Lake is a man-made lake in the Maninagar area, in the south-eastern part of Ahmedabad. It is the second largest lake in the city and was built in the 15th century. A promenade runs around the water, with a toy train, a tethered balloon ride, boats, a zoo, children's areas and food stalls on the lakeside. Go in the evening, when the lakefront lights up after sunset and the walk around the water is at its most pleasant. Leave time for Nagina Wadi, the island garden with its old summer palace in the middle of the lake.
From Hauz-e-Qutub to today
The lake was built in the 15th century and was first known as Hauz-e-Qutub. Royalty used it as a bathing place, and it had a built-in water purification system to keep the water fit for that use.
The lake is linked to Sultan Qutb-ud-Din, and its completion is dated to 1451, in the reign of Ahmad Shah II. The lakefront was renovated in 2008, and the public attractions around the water date from that work.
The lake and its island
The lake has a polygonal outline with 34 sides, and it covers about 76 acres. In places, steps lead down into the water.
A walkway runs around the edge, and another walkway leads out to Nagina Wadi, an island garden in the middle of the lake. The garden holds a summer palace, which gives the island its name. Some accounts also mention a garden called One Tree Hill, near the lake, with Dutch tombs from the colonial period.
Rides, activities and the zoo
The toy train is one of the most popular activities, and its route follows the lakeside. Other options include a tethered balloon ride, boating, paddle boating, water rides and amusement rides. Children can visit Balvatika, a park for play, and Kids City, an interactive learning area. A natural history museum is also on the grounds.
The Kamla Nehru Zoological Park is inside the lake complex. Founded in 1951, it covers about 31 acres and keeps animals, birds and reptiles. Reuben David, the founder of the Ahmedabad Zoo, was awarded the Padma Shri in 1974 for his work on the zoo.
Most rides and activities are paid separately, and each has its own charge.
Evenings and the Kankaria Carnival
After dark, the lakefront is lit with coloured lights, and their reflections on the water are the main draw. A laser show begins around 7:30 PM, and musical fountain shows take place along the lake in the evening.
Each year, the Kankaria Carnival runs for about a week in the last week of December. It is a cultural and social festival with performances and activities for children and adults. Couples also use the lakefront for pre-wedding photo sessions, which are common here.
Food, entry and getting there
Food stalls along the lake sell snacks and local street food, and there is an indoor food court for quick bites. The lakefront is kept clean, with security and crowd management during busy times.
Entry is low, around 10 rupees for adults and 5 rupees for children. Early-morning walkers can enter free during early hours. Paid activities have their own charges, so check the operating hours of the ones you want before you go.
The Metro and BRTS are good options for avoiding parking problems on busy days. Rickshaws and cabs can also take you to the lake.
FAQ
Is there an entry fee?
Yes. Entry is low, around 10 rupees for adults and 5 rupees for children. Rides and activities such as the toy train and boating are charged separately.
How long do you need at Kankaria Lake?
Plan about 2 to 3 hours to walk the lakefront and try a few activities.
When is the best time to visit?
The evening is best, from around 5:00 PM into the night, when the lakefront lights up and the laser show runs.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. The toy train, the tethered balloon ride, Balvatika and Kids City are aimed at younger visitors.
