These Are The 10 Most Beautiful Lakes In South India

Dreaming of a vacation by a crystal-clear lake amidst lush mountains and breathtaking landscapes in South India? There are plenty of serene lakes in South India that offer rejuvenating experiences. Everyone who visits these lakes takes home cherished memories of serenity, deep blue waters, refreshing ambiance, and breathtaking views.

India is a land of stunning natural scenery, a vibrant culture, mouthwatering cuisine, and charming festivals. While some of these reasons to visit India are highly popular, others are hidden gems that promise exciting experiences. And certainly, South India is particularly serene, with hidden gems, gorgeous lakes, and lush surroundings that add to its overall appeal. So, for anyone planning a vacation near South Indian lakes, these ten are the most beautiful and offer memorable experiences.

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Craft of a hydropower project and supported by a magnificent dam, the Berijam Lake is a sight of wonders. Nestled within the undue beauty of tropical forests, the lake is a gorgeous destination to explore flora and fauna. Housing some exotic giants like bison, Indian elephants, Nilgiri langurs, and deer, the lake offers a variety of tourism activities. Cover the expanse of the location with hiking, jeep safaris, personalized tours, and birdwatching, and leave mesmerized with experiences to cherish forever.

• Where: Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India
• What to do: Boating, Birdwatching, Nature Photography, Picnicking, Trekking, Jeep Safari
• Where to stay: Holiday Home Resort

Pykara Lake

nRaghavan G, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Pykara Lake, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India

Blooming among the captivating lushness of the Shola Forests is the Pykara Lake, reflecting some of the most amazing blues in the world. Born of the Pykara River and a hydropower project, the lake is surrounded by a waterfall as well, making it a perfect outdoor experience. Adjoined with Mukurthi Peak, it allows visitors to enjoy boating, forest expeditions, and hill treks. Adding to the immense beauty of Ooty, the lake also has some great eateries to munch on some authentic snacks.

• Where: Mysore Ooty Road, Ooty, Tamil Nadu, India
• What to do: Boating, Picnicking, Wildlife Watching, Photography, Nature Walks
• Where to stay: Kstdc Hotel Mayura Sudarshan, Ooty

Hussain Sagar Lake

nTarunsamanta, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Hussain Sagar Lake, Hyderabad, Telangana, India

The largest artificial lake in Asia, Hussain Sagar Lake is located only 2km away from the heart of an enchanting city, Hyderabad. Derived out of a tranquil river Musi, the lake also connects two famous ports of Secunderabad and Hyderabad. An amazing standing statue of Lord Buddha further enhances the beauty of the lake. It is a delight for adventure enthusiasts as it offers a variety of cruises, boating packages, and thrilling parasailing activities. Offering its exquisite natural heritage to its tourists, it is also a recreational and historical hub.

• Where: Hyderabad, Telangana, India
• What to do: Boating, Visit the Buddha Statue, Parasailing, Dine at Lakeside Restaurants, Explore Lumbini Park, Enjoy Sunset Views
• Where to stay: Hyderabad Marriott Hotel & Convention Centre

Kolleru Lake

Balaji kumar kolipaka, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Sunset view at Kolleru Lake, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India

Enhancing the beauty of the Godavari and Krishna deltas, Kolleru Lake is another breathtaking destination in Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh. Renowned for its fascinating season of migratory birds, the lake is also a bird sanctuary. As an enthusiastic birdwatcher, one gets to watch majestic birds like painted storks, open-billed storks, white ibises, glossy ibises, teals, pintails, and whatnot! Visitors can also go boating and enjoy the rejuvenating weather. Connected with the commercial capital of Andhra Pradesh, they can also enjoy the heritage of Vijayawada.

• Where: Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India
• What to do: Bird watching, Boating, Photography, Nature walks, Fishing
• Where to stay: Hotel N Square

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Vembanad Lake

n© Vyacheslav Argenberg / http://www.vascoplanet.com/, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Vembanad Lake, Kerala, India

Reflecting the beauty of God’s own country, Vembanad Lake is one of the exquisite beauties India offers to its tourists. Adorned with majestic coconut trees and palms at its banks, it spreads vivid sapphire colors with its water. This lake is the longest in India and is renowned as the Heart of Kerala Backwaters, which offers one of the best boat cruises in Kerala, India. Exploring the place can be more thrilling during the exciting snake race of Onam, for boating and some fun-loving strolls to enjoy with the family and friends.

• Where: Kerala
• What to do: Houseboat Cruise, Bird Watching, Kayaking, Fishing, Visit Kumarakom Bird Sanctuary
• Where to stay: Abad Whispering Palms

Kodaikanal Lake

Sneha jayaraman, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Boating in Kodaikanal Lake, Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India

The pride of Kodaikanal, Kodaikanal Lake, offers scenic views that are unbelievably breathtaking. Also a favorite destination of filmmakers and Bollywood, this place is famous for photography. Shaped like a star, the artificial lake leaves visitors rejuvenated and relaxed. Visitors can enjoy boating, rowing, and pedaling across the lake and even spot the rarest flora, called the Kurinji and Strobilanthes Cynthiana, which bloom here once every 12 years. One can also go on thrilling horseback rides and enjoy the flower shows. A creative shop is also near the lake to satisfy the needs of all shopaholics.

• Where: Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, India
• What to do: Boating, Cycling, Nature Walks, Picnicking, Horse Riding, Shopping
• Where to stay: Fabhotel Abirami Grand Inn

Pulicat Lake

P Jeganathan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Boating in Pulicat Lake, India

Placed between verdant natural hues and a competitive technological hub in India, the Pulicat Lake is a renowned tourist hotspot on the border of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh states. The country’s second-largest lagoon is also the home of migratory birds like flamingos and is a tranquil place to enjoy one’s time. The hub of the cottage industry, the region also offers a promenade of delicate handmade and authentic jewelry and fashion wear for all tourists. Here, visitors get the chance to enjoy boating and picnicking, as well as capture some amazing snapshots of the surrounding beauty.

• Where: On the borders of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, India
• What to do: Bird watching, Boating, Fishing, Wildlife photography, Visit Pulicat Lighthouse
• Where to stay: Hide Out At Medur, Pulicat Highway

Ashtamudi Lake

Raviz Hotels and Resorts, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Ashtamudi Lake, Kollam, Kerala, India

The Gateway to Kerala’s Backwaters, Ashtamudi Lake, as its name suggests, is a lake in the shape of an octopus. Offering serene views and a fascinating diversity of flora and fauna, this destination is a top choice for all tourists. The lake is home to more than 50 birds and 97 aquatic animals. The most popular tourist destination in Kerala, this lake is comprised of tiny islets. As an exciting activity, visitors can tour across the eight beautiful islands in traditional houseboats and stamp the wonderful memories in their hearts.

• Where: Kollam, Kerala, India
• What to do: Houseboat Cruise, Birdwatching, Kayaking, Visit Munroe Island, Relax on the Lakeside Beach
• Where to stay: The Raviz Ashtamudi

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Chembra Peak Lake

nRavi Dwivedi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Chembra Peak Heart Lake, Wayanad, Kerala

Situated in the heavenly abode of lush mountains in Wayanad, Chembra Peak Lake is the perfect location for travel and adventure enthusiasts. Floating calmly at 2100m above sea level, the lake is placed between scenic hills and magnificent, lush, and mesmerizing tea plantations, making it a truly romantic destination that Kerala is known for. Preserved by the forest department, the place holds its mythical authenticity, as it is said Goddess Sita took a bath here. Visitors can also enjoy thrilling forest walks while taking in the panoramic views, and they may also feel like walking among the clouds here.

• Where: Wayanad, Kerala, India
• What to do: Trekking, Picnicking, Photography, Birdwatching, Nature Exploration
• Where to stay: 900 Woods Eco Resort

Pookode Lake

nIngo Mehling, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons””>

Pookode Lake, Vythiri, Wayanad, Kerala

The highest-altitude freshwater lake in Kerala, the Pookode Lake, is another beguiling destination to explore. Placed around the Western Ghats, the lake offers some beautiful views of the surrounding mountain chain. Home to some enchanting and rare lotus and water lilies, the place is also an abode of splendid flora and fauna. With an aquarium, it is a family destination with a children’s park as well. One of the favorite Wayanad destinations of tourists, Pookode Lake, is a full-fledged pack of thrills in Kerala, one of the best solo trip destinations in India.

• Where: Vythiri, Wayanad, Kerala, India
• What to do: Boating, Nature Walks, Bird Watching, Picnicking, Photography
• Where to stay: Vythiri Valley Resort