Karanji Lake, <em>Mysore</em>
Mysore

Karanji Lake, Mysore

About Karanji Lake

Opening hours- 8:30 am to 5:30 pm | Tuesday closed

Prime days and hours- Weekends, Mornings and Evenings 

Suggested Duration- 1-2 hours

Tickets- Available both Online and Offline

Nearest Railway Station- Mysuru Junction, about 4 km away

Nearest Bus Stand- Mysore City Bus Stand, about 2.3 km away

Nearest Airport- Mysore Airport, about 9.8 km away

Karanji Lake, also known as Fountain Lake, was originally built by the King of Mysore as a percolation tank to supply drinking water and support daily chores. In 1976, it became a part of the Mysore Zoo, and since then, it has been maintained by the zoo authorities. Spread across 90 hectares, the lake is listed among the must-visit places in the Mysore Tour Packages. It offers a blend of natural beauty and biodiversity, with 55 hectares covered by water and 35 hectares of lush greenery.

The lake is widely known as a bird sanctuary, home to over 147 species, including grey pelicans, Asian openbill storks, and herons. It also features a butterfly park housing over 45 species of vibrant butterflies like the Chestnut-streaked Sailer and Pea Blue Lampides boeticus. Karanji Lake is a serene escape for nature lovers, ideal for sightseeing, boating, photography, and leisurely walks. Visitors can enjoy packed food within the premises and relax at the on-site coffee booth, making it a wholesome spot for families, solo travellers, and wildlife enthusiasts.

Day Wise Timings

Burj Khalifa opening hours through the week.

Open 6 days a week
Paid entry
Monday08:30 – 17:30
TuesdayClosed
Wednesday08:30 – 17:30
Thursday08:30 – 17:30
Friday08:30 – 17:30
Saturday08:30 – 17:30
Sunday08:30 – 17:30
Hours are seasonal — confirm your date at checkout. Special events may extend closing time.

Karanji Lake Highlights

• Visit Karanji Lake, located at the foothills of Chamundi in Mysore, spreading over 90 hectares of lush greenery, calm surroundings, and a rich variety of fauna.
• Spot over 147 bird species, including the rare and exotic ones such as Sandpipers, Asian open-billed storks, and rose ringed parakeets. 
• Step into the Butterfly Park, beautifully set on a small island within the lake, where you can admire over 45 species of butterflies.
• Enjoy the various activities like paddle boating and row boating as you glide across the calm waters and soak in the lake’s tranquil charm.

Thrillophilia

Why Choose Thrillophilia?

3 Million+

Happy customers from 70+ countries all around.

4.8/5

Rated across Trip Advisor and Google reviews.

Curated With Love

Special curated Indian itineraries built for Indians.

24/7 Assistance

Always there to help before and during trips.

Point of Interest for Karanji Lake

Enjoy the Views from the Watch tower

Enjoy the Views from the Watch tower

Climb up the 10-metre-high observation tower at Karanji Lake for a breathtaking panoramic view of the surroundings. From here, you can spot some of the rarest bird species that call this lake home, including sandpipers, Asian open-billed storks, herons, and red-whiskered bulbuls. It’s a peaceful spot to pause, observe, and feel more connected to the serene beauty of nature.

Visit the Regional Museum of Natural History

Visit the Regional Museum of Natural History

Located right on the banks of the Karanji lake is the Regional Museum of Natural History, which was established in 1995. It highlights the rich natural heritage of South India, covering everything from local wildlife and plants to geography and conservation. With engaging exhibits and educational displays, the museum offers a deeper understanding of the region’s environment and inspires visitors to care more about nature and its protection.

Take a Stroll Through the Butterfly Park

Take a Stroll Through the Butterfly Park

Step into a world of fluttering colours at the Butterfly Park, set on a small island within Karanji Lake. With over 45 species of butterflies dancing around nectar-rich and host plants, this area is a delight for nature lovers. Take a slow walk, spot different butterflies up close, and enjoy the peaceful environment designed to support their breeding and natural life cycle.

Karanji Lake FAQs

Popular Related Attractions