Serene Pools in The Middle of a Concrete Jungle, These Are The Unexplored Lakes of Delhi

Navigating our ways through the thoroughly cramped, crowded and pollution-infested city we call home, it's no wonder that our soul simply cries out for a calm oasis that'll help us recharge our batteries and luxuriate in the tranquility of nature! Just to explore some evidences of the unnoticed, unexplored breathtaking creations that nature has to offer, we set out on a trail, walking aside the hidden lakes of Delhi. Monsoon is on its way and it feels amazing to sit besides a lake, as the raindrops make a splatter over the serene water bodies.

So don’t wait, just pick one and head out!

Bhalswa Horseshoe Lake

Situated adjacent to the Bhalswa Golf Course, this one's a perfect example of a preserved lake in the capital. Bhalswa is a leftover horse-shoe shaped water loop of the holy river Yamuna, and though half of the water body has been acquired by a housing society, Delhi Govt. is making continuous efforts to transform the lake into a hub of watersports like kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and riding hovercrafts & water scooters. Providing a vast expanse of water in the middle of the city, the lake also hosts a large number of bird species.

Location | Bhalswa, Jahangirpuri

Okhla Bird Sanctuary Lake

Often confused with the river Yamuna is this magnificent water body which enjoys the privilege of hosting some of the most beautiful birds in India. The lake is a separated bayou providing a haven to over 300 species of waterbirds and is the best place to go on a date with nature! The lake is located amidst the bird sanctuary and is at the exact spot where the Yamuna enters Uttar Pradesh. The place looks gorgeous during monsoons, but make sure you reach here wearing hard crust boots to tackle the soggy land!

Location | Gautam Budh Nagar, Noida

Khooni Jheel

This stretch of water holds only a small amount of water, but Khooni Jheel swells right up during the monsoons. Due to its links with some historical tragedies, the lake is even touted as a 'cursed patch' *getting chills*! As a matter of fact, the revolt of 1857 sparked its effect in this area followed by mass murders of sepoys, British women and children. Years later, the lake is a favourite haunt for nature lovers and joggers. The greenery around the water body refreshes the mind and gives one a chance to revel in the lushness of nature.

Location | Kamla Nehru Ridge, Delhi University

Sanjay Lake

Attached with a well maintained park, Sanjay Lake is a perfect spot to unwind at after a long stressful day. With thousands of indigenous trees and jogging tracks for fitness enthusiasts, the lake provides a comparably better environment than an under-roof treadmill. The water body stretches up to 170 acres and is a bonus for the residents nearby. If luck’s on your side, you might be able to spot some of the migratory birds whose visits have been largely hampered due to the increased urbanisation in the area.

Location | Mayur Vihar Phase- 2

Naini Lake

Tucked between a posh residential area, there is a compact, beautiful lake to have a perfect morning walk around. Attached with a boating club under the Ministry of Tourism, this is a spectacular place to chill at. This will definitely fulfill your “sit in seclusion” goals by providing you a splendid view of nature’s beauty. Situated just next to the North Campus, the lake is an adda for the tired college bunkers who’d rather pedal down a boat than flip the pages of their textbooks. Additionally, the lake becomes a sight to behold whenever it rains; we’re going, are you?

Location | Model Town-1