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.
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.
How To Reach Karanji Lake
By road- You can reach the Karanji Lake from the Mysore City Centre, which is a 4.5 km drive taking approximately 12 minutes via Trichy Rd/Vanivilasa Rd.
Best Time To Visit Karanji Lake
Peak Season (October to March)
- Weather Insights- Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging between 15°C and 27°C.
- Things to do- Enjoy sightseeing from the watchtower and engage in activities like boating.
Moderate Season (April to June)
- Weather Insights- Temperatures can be higher than usual, ranging between 24°C and 36°C, with a hot and humid climate.
- Things to do- Visit the Regional museum and the butterfly park.
Low Season (July to September)
- Weather Insights- Moderate rainfall with temperature ranging between 20°C and 25°C.
- Things to do- Stroll across the pathways and take a peaceful boat ride in the cool, misty weather.
Karanji Lake Other Essential Information
Know before you go-
- Carry some essential supplies, a medical kit, snacks, and water bottles, as facilities along the route are quite limited.
- It is advised to carry some water bottles and snacks with you, as there are very few facilities available.
- Don’t litter in the lake waters or around, and help maintain the cleanliness of the environment.
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
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.
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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.
Tourism Board Alliances
Karanji Lake FAQs
Is food allowed in Karanji Lake?
Yes, visitors are allowed to carry their own snacks, packet food, and water bottles to Kanaji Lake. It is recommended to carry such essentials with you, as there are fewer facilities for food and accommodation services available in the area.
What is Karanji Lake famous for?
Karanji Lake is famous for being a well-maintained and popular urban park with a variety of attractions. It is known for its rich biodiversity, including a diverse bird population, a butterfly park, and a boating area. The lake has been transformed from a dumping ground into a thriving wetland and a nature education centre.
Where is the Karanji Lake located?
Karanji Lake is located at the base of Chamundi Hills in Mysore (Mysuru), Karnataka. It’s part of a scenic nature park that includes a butterfly park and one of India’s largest walk-through aviaries. Known for its peaceful surroundings and variety of bird species, Karanji Lake is a popular spot for nature lovers and families visiting Mysore.
