Nestled at the foot of the famous Chamundi Hills, Karanji Lake is a picturesque man-made body of water located in the heritage city of Mysuru (formerly known as Mysore), Karnataka, India. Spanning over an area of 90 hectares, it is among the largest and most beautiful lakes in the state. The lake is also known as Karanjikere by the locals. The history of tourism around Karanji Lake is as fascinating as the lake itself.
Karanji Lake was originally created as a percolation tank by the rulers of Mysore for the purpose of providing water to the city. Over time, it has turned into a popular recreational spot, attracting both tourists and locals who come to enjoy the serene environment and the rich biodiversity that surrounds it. In the early 2000s, the area around Karanji Lake underwent a significant transformation, making it a strong contender in Mysuru tourism.
The lake's vicinity was developed into a nature park which includes a Butterfly Park and a walk-through aviary, the biggest 'walk-through aviary' in India at the time of its establishment. This redevelopment was a major turning point in the tourism history of Karanji Lake and has consequently increased the influx of nature lovers and bird watchers.
Karanji Lake holds a place of pride among Mysuru's many tourist attractions. Its rich avian fauna makes it an important spot for bird-watching, with more than 90 recorded species of birds, including some rare migratory ones. The lake also offers boating services, providing tourists with a unique perspective of the surrounding flora and fauna and the breathtaking Chamundi Hills.
The lake is also complemented by the beauty of the adjacent Regional Museum of Natural History which is situated on its banks, thereby combining leisure with learning and conservation education.
Recent tourism trends in Karanji Lake include focusing on sustainable and responsible tourism practices. Efforts have been made to preserve the natural habitat while still allowing visitors to enjoy the beauty of the lake. Eco-friendly electric boats have been introduced to minimize water pollution and maintain the ecological balance.
Wellness and leisure activities are also becoming popular, with many tourists seeking a peaceful escape from urban life. The lake's lush green surroundings provide the perfect setting for yoga, meditation, and photography.
Educational tourism is on the rise as well, with students and researchers flocking to the lake to study its diverse ecosystem and bird species.
In terms of connectivity, improvements in transport links have made Karanji Lake more accessible to tourists. The lake has established itself not just as a stand-alone destination but also as part of the wider cultural and natural heritage narrative of Mysuru.
In conclusion, Karanji Lake stands as a testament to Mysuru's commitment to blending tourism with ecological conservation and education. The evolution of the lake into a tourism hotspot has significantly contributed to the city's overall appeal as a destination that values its natural treasures. With its serene beauty and rich biodiversity, Karanji Lake continues to enchant visitors and is likely to remain a cherished spot in the heart of Karnataka's cultural capital.
