About Mookaneri Lake
Mookaneri Lake, also known as Kannankurichi Lake, is an artificial urban lake located in Kannankurichi on the eastern outskirts of Salem, Tamil Nadu. Spread over about 23.5 hectares, it features a central island and surrounding parkland. Restored in 2010 from a degraded water body into an eco-tourism site, it is notable for birdwatching, boating and sunset views, serving as a key recreational and ecological attraction for Salem city.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a calm urban lake with a central island connected by a bridge, tree-lined bunds and walking paths, and open water views. The site offers pedal boating on the lake, birdwatching with migratory and resident birds, photography spots, a small park and children's play area, and seating areas to enjoy sunrise and sunset. The surroundings are semi-urban with green cover and views of nearby hills.
Key highlights
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23.5-hectare lake with central island accessible by bridge
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Eco-restoration project completed around 2010 transforming a degraded lake
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Boating facility with pedal boats
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Birdwatching spot for resident and migratory birds
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Scenic sunset and photography views with hill backdrop
History of Mookaneri Lake
Mookaneri Lake was originally developed as a water body to support irrigation and drinking water needs for Salem. After years of neglect, siltation and encroachment, it was rejuvenated around 2010 through a community-led initiative by the Salem Citizens Forum with support from the Salem Municipal Corporation and local administration, involving desilting, bund strengthening, island development and creation of eco-tourism facilities.
Culture & Context
The lake serves as an important recreational and ecological space for Salem residents and is cited as a model of community-led lake restoration in Tamil Nadu, promoting environmental awareness, bird conservation and sustainable urban tourism.
Route
| By air |
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