Spread across an area of 5.7 sq. km, Hussain Sagar Lake is one of the most alluring sightseeing spots in Hyderabad. This man-made lake has a depth of 32 feet and resides across the tributary of River Musi. The lake also contributes to the separation of Hyderabad from Secunderabad. Beyond the stunning views of the lake and sunset, the main attraction of Hussain Sagar Lake is the gigantic statue of Lord Buddha that’s right in the middle of the lake. It is a hand-carved monolithic statue that’s set atop a Gibraltar Rock. With an extensive history dating back to the 1500s, a visit to Hussain Sagar Lake in Hyderabad is an absolute must the next time you visit the city.
About Hussain Sagar Lake Hyderabad
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Hussain Sagar Lake is a manmade lake that’s spread across an area of 5.7 sq. km. The highlight of this spot is that it’s the largest manmade lake in Asia. Beyond the beauty and serenity of the lake, it also connects the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. However, above all, Hussain Sagar Lake is known for the monolithic statue of Gautam Buddha that sits at the lake’s centre.
The lake was constructed on a tributary of the Musi River, creating a crucial water resource and a scenic landmark. At present, boating and ferry rides are available from the banks to the middle of the lake where the statue resides.
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Important Details About Hussain Sagar Lake
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Location: Ibrahim Bagh, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500008
Timings: 08:00 AM to 05:30 PM
Entry Fees:: INR 15 for Indians, INR 200 for foreigners and INR 130 for light and sound show.
History Of Hussain Sagar Lake
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Although the beauty of Hussain Sagar Lake has been popularised in the last few decades, the origin of this lake dates back to the 1500s. It was built in 1563 by Hazrat Hussain Shah Wali during the reign of Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah, the ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty. Back in the day, the main purpose behind the construction of this manmade lake was for two reasons – Irrigation and Drinking water. With time, the vision and purpose behind this man-made lake have become a lot more commercialised.
The lake was named after its builder, Hussain Shah Wali, and has played a crucial role in the city’s history. If you are curious about the centrally located Lord Buddha statue, it was installed in the 20th century in the middle of the lake. This 18-metre-tall monolith, weighing 450 tons, was carved out of a piece of white granite and is one of the world’s tallest monolithic statues of Gautama Buddha.
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Things To Do
Hussain Sagar Lake is much more than a bustling sightseeing spot. There are quite a few unique activities that explain why visiting this man-made lake would be worth the time.
1. Boating
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The most popular activity on Hussain Sagar Lake is boating. There are multiple different options for you to pay attention to. There are mechanised boats, paddle boats and speedboats available to explore the expanse and surroundings of the lake. Also, scheduled boat rides take you to the centre of the lake where the statue of Gautam Buddha resides. Getting a close-up view of the imposing statue so up close is truly a rewarding experience.
2. Water Sports
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To indulge in some fun and adventure at Hussain Sagar Lake, water sports is an activity you wouldn’t regret indulging in. Beyond boating, some other water sports available in the area include sailing and yachting. These activities are exhilarating and safe, with proper safety measures in place. You can take your time to explore which one of the Hussain Sagar Lake activities you’d want to indulge in.
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3. Laser Show At Lumbini Park
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Light and sound shows are a pretty unique experience to enjoy. One such option is the laser show conducted daily at Lumbini Park. This spectacular event combines water, lights, and sound to narrate the history of Hyderabad. For maximum visibility and ease of understanding, the show occurs during evening time and is a treat to witness. Not just for adults, the show’s interactivity makes it a popular experience among kids too.
4. Evening Walks
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Strolling along Necklace Road or Tank Bund Road is a delightful experience, especially in the evening. This is one of those innate experiences that most locals indulge in. The pathways that surround the lake are well-maintained and offer stunning views of the lake. So, while you are mesmerised by the beauty of the natural surroundings, you can explore the roads around the lake to indulge in the historical exploration.
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5. Cycling
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Like strolling along the lake’s perimeter, cycling is popular. This is especially popular around the adjacent road from Hussain Sagar Lake, which is cycling on Necklace Road. Depending on accessibility, you can rent a cycle to explore the area to its fullest. Cycling in late afternoon or early morning is ideal due to the pleasant weather.
6. Try Local Restaurants
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As a tourist visiting Hyderabad’s Hussain Sagar Lake, you can’t miss out on trying some local restaurants. For affordable yet good-quality food, explore the stretch of Eat Street, predominantly filled with affordable food joints around the side of Hussain Sagar Lake. From local Hyderabadi delicacies to international dishes, you can find a lot of varieties there. There are dedicated waterfront restaurants, too, where you get to dine by the lake for a unique experience.
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7. Relax
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Be it on the boat or the banks of the lake, Hussain Sagar Lake is renowned for offering peace. There are plenty of spots around the lake, including Tank Bund Road, a shaded spot in Sanjeevaiah Park, or a café overlooking the lake. How you relax depends on your preferences and the time at hand.
Best Time To Visit
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The main attraction of exploring Hussain Sagar Lake Hyderabad is hopping on a ferry to reach the centre of the lake, where the statue of Gautam Buddha resides. Given the outdoor nature of the exploration, you need to avoid the monsoon seasons from July to September. Beyond that, the ideal time to visit the Lake is during the winter months from October to March. During these months, the blend of clear skies and pleasant weather makes it a comfortable experience to explore the lake outdoors.
The weather usually ranges from 15°C to 25°C, making it ideal for boat rides, leisurely walks along the promenade, and exploring the nearby parks and attractions. In the evenings, you can choose to sit by the park, soaking in the views.
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How To Get To Hussain Sagar Lake?
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Due to its quite accessible and central location, reaching Hussain Sagar Lake is a breeze. If you are currently in the main city of Hyderabad, you can hire a taxi or take a public bus to Hussain Sagar Lake.
For those travelling via metro, get down at Secunderabad station and then hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw to reach the lake. If you are opting for taxis or auto-rickshaws, ensure to confirm the fare before you board the vehicle.
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The beauty of Hussain Sagar Lake stands out for its unique location across the Musi River and the heart-shaped structure of the lake. Learning about the lake’s history and details about the monolithic stone is truly enchanting to watch. As you plan your upcoming trip to Hyderabad, be sure to include this adventurous sightseeing spot, Hussain Sagar Lake in your travel plans.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Hussain Sagar Lake
What is the best time to visit Hussain Sagar Lake?
Hussain Sagar Lake's best time to visit is during the winter season from October to March. The weather is quite favourable.
What are the boating options available at Hussain Sagar Lake?
Boating options include mechanised boats, speedboats, and pedal boats. Fees vary based on the type and duration of the ride.
Can we visit the Buddha statue in the middle of the lake?
Yes, you can visit the Buddha statue by taking a boat ride from the jetty at Lumbini Park or Necklace Road.
How can I reach Hussain Sagar Lake from Hyderabad airport?
You can hire a taxi or use app-based cab services from Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, which is about 30 kilometres away.
Are there any water sports available at Hussain Sagar Lake?
Yes, water sports like jet skiing and kayaking are available and organised by the Telangana Tourism Department.
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