Introduction

The 150-acre Hebbal Lake in north Bangalore, along Bellary Road, was one of the three lakes founded in 1537 by Kempe Gowda. It’s not the city’s best lake. But if you are a bird-watcher, you won’t mind it at all. Though of course, you will be sorry when you hear that the number of migratory birds visiting here has fallen over the years.

Though there was a time when its water was used for drinking, environmentalists blame the decline in the number of birds on pollution -- untreated sewage and effluents entering the lake from the catchment area and vehicular pollution on the Bangalore-Hyderabad highway. These, in turn, support the growth of dangerous weeds like water hyacinth.

But despite that, the lake is home to over 70 species of water birds including 40 from the Himalayan and Central Asian regions. Here you’ll find the spot-billed pelican, Eurasian spoonbill, shoveller, pintail, garganey, little grebe, coot and spot-billed duck as well as moorhens and herons. It also has a variety of aquatic vegetation.

Special Attributes

The lake is not in the best of conditions but if you're an avid bird watcher, it's the place to be in Bangalore.

Nuisance

The site is peaceful, and free of irritants.

Dressing restrictions

Dress in whatever you find comfortable.

Connectivity

Traveling to Bangalore International Airport in Devanahalli from the heart of the city, say M G Road, involves commuting through Hebbal. As a result, getting to the lake is not too difficult. Options include buses, autos and private taxis.

Enjoyed by

All, especially nature lovers.

Exposure

If you are going bird-watching, it's best to do it in the morning. In which case, it may be chilly, so do carry something warm.

Avoidable Season

The summer since that's when the lake is known to dry up.

Facilities

Basic, plan accordingly

Things Not Allowed

No such restriction

Tip

An early morning visit is recommended as you can spot birds easily, and the place is less cluttered.

Type of site

Activity, nature