Hesaraghatta Lake

Hesaraghatta Lake is a historic artificial reservoir built in 1894 across the Arkavathy River at Hesaraghatta, about 18 km northwest of central Bengaluru, Karnataka. Created to supply drinking water to Bangalore city, it is now known for its expansive water spread, surrounding grasslands and seasonal bird habitat. The lake and its catchment support diverse avifauna and offer open landscapes popular for nature walks, birdwatching and photography on the city's outskirts.

Visitors can expect a large open reservoir with shallow water spread, mudflats and extensive grasslands on the outskirts of Bengaluru. The setting is rural and open with unpaved bunds and trails around the lake. Birdwatching is the main draw, especially in winter when migratory birds visit. There are no formal boating facilities or developed promenades; the experience is primarily nature observation, photography, walking and cycling along the lake bund and grassland edges.

Hesaraghatta Lake was constructed in 1894 under Sir K. Seshadri Iyer, Diwan of Mysore, by damming the Arkavathy River to create a reservoir to supply drinking water to Bangalore city. It served as a major water source for the city for several decades before alternative sources were developed.