Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad Telangana
Hussain Sagar Lake is a historic and iconic water body located in the heart of Hyderabad, Telangana, India. Spanning an area of approximately 5.7 square kilometers, it is one of the largest man-made lakes in Asia. Named after Hussain Shah Wali, who was responsible for constructing it during the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah in 1562, the lake has become a prominent landmark and a popular tourist attraction in the city.
Geographical Features:
Hussain Sagar Lake is situated between the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad, and it acts as a link between the two. The lake lies at a latitude of 17°25′ N and a longitude of 78°28′ E. It is fed by the Musi River, a tributary of the Krishna River. The maximum depth of the lake is around 32 feet (9.75 meters), and it has a storage capacity of about 3.5 million cubic meters of water. The lake is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and is fringed by several parks and recreational areas.
Buddha Statue:
One of the most notable features of Hussain Sagar Lake is the giant monolithic statue of Lord Buddha, situated on a small island called the “Rock of Gibraltar” in the middle of the lake. The statue, known as the “Buddha of the Lake,” stands at a height of approximately 58 feet (18 meters) and weighs around 350 tons. It was installed in 1992, as a symbol of peace and unity, and has since become an iconic symbol of Hyderabad.
Connectivity:
Hussain Sagar Lake is well-connected to various parts of the city. Several major roads and highways pass by its shores, including Necklace Road, which encircles the lake and offers a scenic drive along its banks. The Tank Bund Road, a prominent boulevard that runs alongside the lake, is lined with statues of famous personalities and offers panoramic views of the water body.
Tourist Attractions:
The lake and its surroundings are home to several attractions that draw visitors throughout the year. Some of the prominent tourist spots include:
Lumbini Park: Located adjacent to Hussain Sagar Lake, Lumbini Park is a popular recreational area. It features lush green lawns, musical fountains, boating facilities, and a laser show in the evenings.
NTR Gardens: Situated on the other side of the lake, NTR Gardens is a sprawling park named after the former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N.T. Rama Rao. The park offers a tranquil environment, with landscaped gardens, a children’s play area, and various entertainment options.
Birla Mandir: Located atop a hill overlooking the lake, the Birla Mandir is a stunning temple dedicated to Lord Venkateswara. It is built with white marble and showcases intricate architectural designs. The temple complex also includes a museum showcasing Hindu scriptures and artifacts.
Eat Street: Situated on Necklace Road, Eat Street is a popular food court that offers a wide range of culinary delights. Visitors can savor local delicacies, street food, and international cuisines while enjoying the scenic views of the lake.
Boating: Hussain Sagar Lake provides boating facilities, allowing visitors to explore the lake and enjoy leisurely rides. Various types of boats, including motorboats and pedal boats, are available for hire.
Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad Telangana
Importance and Historical Significance:
Hussain Sagar Lake holds immense historical and cultural significance for Hyderabad. It served as a major source of drinking water for the city during the Qutb Shahi and Nizam eras. The lake also played a vital role in irrigation and served as a defense mechanism for the city.
Over the years, the lake has witnessed numerous historical events, including the signing of the “Gentlemen’s Agreement” between the leaders of Telangana and Andhra regions in 1956, which led to the formation of Andhra Pradesh state. The lake has also been a venue for various cultural and recreational activities, such as boat races, regattas, and festivals.
Environmental Concerns and Conservation Efforts:
Despite its significance, Hussain Sagar Lake has faced environmental challenges due to pollution and encroachments. Industrial and domestic sewage discharge, along with the dumping of solid waste, have contributed to the degradation of the lake’s water quality. Efforts have been made by the government and environmental organizations to address these issues and restore the lake’s ecological balance.
Several initiatives have been undertaken, including the implementation of sewage treatment plants, the ban on the immersion of idols during festivals, and the establishment of a comprehensive lake conservation plan. The Telangana government has also collaborated with various stakeholders to raise awareness about the lake’s conservation and promote sustainable practices.
How To reach Hussain Sagar Lake
To reach Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad, India, you can follow these directions:
By Air: The nearest airport is Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a cab to the lake. The journey takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
By Train: Hyderabad is well-connected by rail. The nearest major railway station is Secunderabad Junction. From there, you can take an auto-rickshaw, taxi, or a local bus to reach Hussain Sagar Lake, which is located around 6 kilometers away.
By Road: If you are traveling by car, you can use GPS or navigation apps to reach the lake. The lake is located in the heart of the city, and multiple roads lead to it. You can park your vehicle at designated parking areas near the lake.
Public Transportation: Hyderabad has a well-developed public transportation system. You can use buses, auto-rickshaws, or taxis to reach Hussain Sagar Lake. Various buses and shared autos are available from different parts of the city that pass by or have stops near the lake.
Remember to check the local traffic conditions and plan your journey accordingly, especially during peak hours.
Timings:-
All days of the week
8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Where to eat:-
There are many restaurants, eateries, ice cream parlors, fast food joints, etc., in the vicinity of Hussain Sagar Lake in all directions, particularly People’s Plaza.
Emergency:-
Nizams Institute Of Medical Science
Mumbai Highway, Punjagutta, Hyderabad, Telangana 500082
040 2348 9000
Niloufer Hospital
Door No. 11-4-721, Red Hills, Lakdikapul, Lakdikapul, Hyderabad, Telangana 500004
040 2331 4095
Hyderabad Hussain Sagar Lake Entry Fee
- 0 No-Entry Fee
- 55 per Adult for Mechanised Boat
- 35 per Adult for Mechanised Boat
- 250 per Person for Jet Ski Boat
- 300 per Couple for Jet Ski Boat
- 100 per Person for Rajahamsa Boat (min 5 persons)
- 400 per Person for Para Sailing
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