Bangalore was once akin to Udaipur with its abundance of water bodies and known as the City of Lakes.
Sadly, over the years, Bangalore has lost many a lake to urban development, commercial encroachment, and careless dumping of garbage. Not too long ago, Bellandur Lake made headlines for being on fire due to all the effluents pouring out from the industries surrounding the lake. But, hearteningly, there are a few lakes still standing that act as a beautiful setting for many neighbourhoods. Here are our top five locations in Bangalore where you can buy a home by a lake.
Ulsoor Lake
Ulsoor is one of the oldest lakes in Bangalore, and at approximately 123 acres, it is also one of the biggest.
The lake dates back to the 16th century, to the time of Kempegowda, and is surrounded by history. Ulsoor Lake is surrounded by beautiful English-style buildings, a throwback to when Ulsoor used to be an English cantonment. It also is known for its beautiful avenues lined with thick Gulmohar trees and wire fences loaded with lush pink bougainvillaea, making it one of the prettiest neighbourhoods to own a home in.
Property rates at Ulsoor average at approximately Rs 15,960 per sq ft.
Hebbal Lake
Hebbal Lake also dates back to the 16th century and is one of the three big lakes created by Kempe Gowda.
Formed by constructing dams or bunds, Hebbal Lake is now a biodiversity spot that is visited by tons of migratory birds every year. The lake has deteriorated over the years due to industrial waste and lack of maintenance. But some hope remains as the BBMP is now undertaking efforts to revive and restore the lake to its erstwhile glory. Nevertheless, homes and apartments around the lake are still coveted as it offers a serene and soothing scene to wake up to.
Property prices at Hebbal in 2016 averaged between Rs 4,400 to Rs 7,745 per sq ft. Embassy Lake Terraces has apartments starting from Rs 4 crores onwards.
Agara Lake
Agara Lake is located in HSR Layout, which is an area built on the land that was reclaimed from the lake.
Spread over 95 acres, a reduction from its original 145 acres, Agara Lake dates back to the 8th century and is one of the rare, natural lakes of Bangalore. It used to be a rich natural habitat for birds and fish, but with the burgeoning industrial development, the condition of the lake has worsened. But in 2017, it was finally decided that Agara Lake will undergo de-silting processes, landscaping, a children’s play area and other small touches that will convert it into a beautiful spot. Although the view is not really a pretty one right now with just a dry riverbed, work is on to ensure that the lake is restored completely.
Find the latest properties in Agara here.
Kaikondrahalli Lake
Kaikondrahalli Lake is barely two kilometres in circumference but spread over 48 acres off Sarjapur main road. It is one of the prettiest lakes in Bangalore, and it is hard to believe that this spot was once a garbage dump yard.
The BBMP and the residents joined hands and now looks after the lake, which has a running trail and even a butterfly park inside. It has shady wooded areas and a small island in the middle adding to its beauty.
Diverse birds, from the Kingfisher to the Purple Heron, are its perennial visitors. Property prices range between Rs 4,845 and Rs 5,142 per sq ft in this area.
Abhee Lakeview has apartments with a lakeside jogging trail.
Sankey Tank
Sankey Tank is a manmade water body located in Malleshwaram, one of the oldest areas of Bangalore. Covering around 37 acres, the tank was built by Colonel Richard Sankey in the 19th century in response to the water supply demands of Bangalore.
Over the years, the lake had become a pretty setting for the many residents, who stay in close proximity, to walk or jog in the morning or just catch a bit of the gentle morning sun by sitting on one of its benches.
Situated near some of the poshest areas of Bangalore like Sadashivnagar and Vyalikaval, Sankey Tank is a favourite of Bangaloreans and newcomers to the city.
