About Hirekolale Lake
Hirekolale Lake is a scenic man-made lake located about 10 km from Chikkamagaluru town in Karnataka, set against the backdrop of the Mullayanagiri range of the Western Ghats. Built to supply drinking water to the town, it has become a popular tourist viewpoint known for its calm waters, surrounding hills and sunset views. The lake offers an open, tranquil landscape with clear reflections of the hills.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a large, calm lake surrounded by low hills and views of Mullayanagiri peak in the distance. The site has an open lakeside area and a small bund/embankment where visitors can walk, sit and view the water and sunset. There are no major built structures, with natural surroundings of grassy banks and hill slopes. It is primarily a sightseeing and photography spot with peaceful, uncrowded surroundings.
Key highlights
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Panoramic views of Mullayanagiri and Baba Budangiri hill ranges reflected in the lake
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Popular sunset viewpoint over the Western Ghats
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Calm, scenic waters ideal for photography and nature viewing
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Peaceful, less-commercialized lakeside setting near Chikkamagaluru town
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Easy access as a short stop en route to Mullayanagiri
History of Hirekolale Lake
Hirekolale Lake is an artificial reservoir constructed to provide drinking water supply to Chikkamagaluru town and surrounding villages. It was developed as a water storage lake with an earthen bund and has since become a recognized scenic spot in the district's tourism circuit.
Route
| By air | Nearest airport is Mangaluru International Airport, about 150-170 km away; Bengaluru Kempegowda International Airport is about 250 km away |
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| By train |