Imagine a heart-shaped lake hidden amidst the bustling cityscape of Hyderabad, where history, serenity, and grandeur converge. Welcome to Hussain Sagar Lake, a timeless masterpiece crafted in 1563 by Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah. This enchanting lake boasts the world’s tallest monolithic Buddha statue, rising like a guardian from the middle of its waters. Join us on a journey to explore the rich history, captivating attractions, and tranquil beauty of this iconic destination.
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Hussain Sagar Lake Overview
Hussain Sagar Lake lies in the heart of Hyderabad, India. The lake was named after Hussain Shah Wali, the state’s master architect. Tank Bund is another name for it. It covers 5.7 square kilometers and is 32 feet deep. The Musi River feeds Hussain Sagar Lake. Hussain Sagar Lake was originally developed to meet the city’s irrigation and other water demands and was used for the same purpose up until 1930.
Buddha Statue
Nestled on Gibraltar Rock within the expanse of Hussain Sagar Lake is the world’s tallest monolithic Buddha statue, soaring to an impressive height of 58 feet (18 meters). This colossal masterpiece was meticulously crafted from a colossal 450-ton block of white granite. NT Rama Rao commissioned and dedicated this statue in 1985.
Visitors can explore this awe-inspiring creation from 10:30 am until 8 pm. What’s more, there’s no separate entry fee to admire this iconic piece of art except for boat ride charges. Besides that, the boat ride from Lumbini Park Bank to the statue lasts approximately 15 minutes.
Lumbini Park
Lumbini Park, often referred to as the lakeside park, serves as the gateway to Hussain Sagar Lake. This sprawling 7.5-acre park, nestled in close proximity to the lake, offers a diverse range of attractions. Visitors can marvel at a prominent Buddha statue, enjoy a mesmerizing laser exhibit, become enraptured by musical fountains, explore a play area designed for both children and adults and even go on a boat ride.
Within Lumbini Garden, a dedicated children’s park features swings, slides, see-saws, and a plethora of activities. For adults seeking adventure, a trampoline jump, a bull ride, and a giant rotating wheel are available, albeit at an additional cost. The park also boasts lush lawns and comfortable benches, providing idyllic spots for relaxation. Between the play area and the lake, you’ll also discover several shops catering to various needs.
Water Sports
Hussain Sagar Lake offers an array of water sports, including Speed boats, Rajahamsa, Cruises, Jet Skis, Bhagmathi rides, and Mechanized boats. It’s worth noting that, except for mechanized boats, these rides offer an immersive experience on the lake without allowing passengers to disembark at the Buddha statue. Each of these rides incurs a varying fee depending on whether you opt for a two-person or four-person ride.
For those keen to explore the Buddha statue up close, the mechanized boat ride offers an excellent opportunity. Priced at just 60 rupees per person, it allows visitors to disembark at the statue. You can then board another boat for your return journey, providing the flexibility to choose your time and experience.
Fountain Show
At the heart of the park is a captivating fountain complete with a laser display. After witnessing the sunset at the Buddha statue, you can immerse yourself in the magic of the laser show at the park’s fountain. Outside of the show timings, you can capture photographs while relishing the cool waters beneath the fountain. The facility hosts a spectacular laser show daily at 7:15 pm, with additional shows on weekends at 7:15 pm and 8:30 pm. This show marks India’s pioneering multimedia fountain spectacle, boasting a seating capacity of 2,000 spectators. Expect dazzling laser animations, live video, amazing sound quality, rhythmic musical fountains, and fascinating beam effects shown on water screens to captivate you.
Other Nearby Attractions
NTR Gardens
Adjacent to Hussain Sagar Lake, NTR Gardens spans an impressive 55 acres. This vast park serves as a tribute to NT Rama Rao, a former Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, who left an indelible mark on the region. The park welcomes visitors daily, from 2:30 pm to 9 pm, with extended hours from 12:30 pm on Sundays and holidays. The entrance fee is a mere 20 rupees for adults and 10 rupees for children.
NTR Gardens offers a multitude of recreational opportunities, including a serene Japanese garden, vibrant fruit and flower gardens, a captivating desert garden, charming fountains, exhilarating water rides, a dedicated children’s play area, and much more. Moreover, the artistry on display in the fruit, cactus, moss, mushroom, and plant gardens is truly exceptional. Given the garden’s substantial size, be prepared to embark on an exploratory journey. Besides, for an added touch of fun, a miniature train traverses the park, offering an exciting ride. However, note that the train ceases operations after nightfall.
The park is an ideal location for a family picnic. However, do keep in mind that outside food is not permitted within the park. Thankfully, there are restaurants and shops on-site where you can have food. Moreover, this multi-story restaurant within the garden mimics a tree, adding to the aesthetic setting.
Birla Temple
The Birla Temple, located on the Naubath Pahad mountain in Hyderabad, is a collection of temples built by the Birla Foundation. The primary deity within the temple complex is Lord Venkateshwara. To experience the temple’s serene ambiance, consider visiting early in the morning. Alternatively, in the evening admire the city’s luminous night view from the mountain’s summit. The temple is located approximately 1 km from the lake. If you opt for shared auto transport, the fare is approximately 10 rupees per person.
You can also read more details about the Birla temple of Hyderabad here.
How To Reach Hussain Sagar Lake
Travel Tips To Visit Hussain Sagar Lake
- Hussain Sagar Lake welcomes visitors daily from 9 am to 9 pm.
- The entrance cost to Lumbini Park is 20 rupees per person. However, it’s important to note that food and bags are not welcome indoors. There is an additional charge of 20 rupees to keep the items in the rack. But note that there is no official cloakroom or storage facility available, so it’s advisable not to leave valuables behind. You may, however, carry a small purse while exploring the park.
- For a truly enchanting experience, consider planning your visit to the park in the evening to witness a breathtaking sunset and the illumination of the Buddha statue.
- Hussain Sagar Lake is conveniently located near Lakdi-Ka-Pul, Khairatabad, and Assembly Air bus stops, as well as metro stations. So you have the option of utilizing public transportation or hiring an auto for travel.
- A bustling food street awaits you in front of Lumbini Park, offering the opportunity to savor delightful Hyderabad-style chat foods.
- Additionally, the Lakdikapul area and its surroundings feature several vegetarian dining options as well.
In summary, a visit to Lumbini Park and NTR Gardens promises a delightful experience amidst picturesque landscapes, thrilling activities, and serene boating. To fully appreciate the luminous beauty that envelops the lake, Buddha statue, and mesmerizing laser show, consider beginning your journey at NTR Gardens and concluding it at Lumbini Park as dusk descends.
