Ayyanakere Lake
Karnataka's second-largest lake, a serene escape surrounded by hills, offering historical charm and breathtaking natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lush greenery, overflowing waters
Ayyanakere Lake
Best Time
Lush greenery, overflowing waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Karnataka's second-largest lake, a serene escape surrounded by hills, offering historical charm and breathtaking natural beauty.
"A scenic paradise and hidden gem, perfect for peace and photography lovers!"
🚗 Drive Slowly on Approach
The narrow, winding roads leading to the lake require slow and careful driving. Enjoy the scenic route!
💧 Respect Nature, Avoid Litter
Help keep Ayyanakere beautiful by carrying out all your trash. Let's preserve this gem.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Serene Lake Waters
Ayyanakere Lake
Karnataka's second-largest lake, reflecting surrounding hills and sky. A tranquil escape.
Shakuna Giri Hills Backdrop
Surrounding Ayyanakere Lake
Majestic hills framing the lake, offering breathtaking views and a sense of seclusion.
Sunrise/Sunset Views
Ayyanakere Lake
Witness magical sunrises and sunsets painting the sky and water in vibrant hues.
Shiva Temple
Facing the lake
An ancient temple where the Shivaling is said to shine golden during sunrise.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit Ayyanakere Lake
Responsible Tourism at Ayyanakere
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Drive Slowly on Approach
The narrow, winding roads leading to the lake require slow and careful driving. Enjoy the scenic route!
💧 Respect Nature, Avoid Litter
Help keep Ayyanakere beautiful by carrying out all your trash. Let's preserve this gem.
📸 Perfect for Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lake, hills, and serene atmosphere. Golden hour is magical! 
🚶♂️ Explore the Lake Banks
Walk along the banks or enjoy a dip in the overflowing waters if conditions permit.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Drive Slowly on Approach
The narrow, winding roads leading to the lake require slow and careful driving. Enjoy the scenic route!
💧 Respect Nature, Avoid Litter
Help keep Ayyanakere beautiful by carrying out all your trash. Let's preserve this gem.
📸 Perfect for Photography
Capture stunning shots of the lake, hills, and serene atmosphere. Golden hour is magical!
🚶♂️ Explore the Lake Banks
Walk along the banks or enjoy a dip in the overflowing waters if conditions permit.
⏳ Avoid Bridge During Maintenance
The metal bridge might be under maintenance; check locally before planning to walk on it.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Ayyanakere Lake is widely praised as a scenic paradise and a hidden gem, offering a tranquil escape with mesmerizing views of hills and water. Visitors love its serene atmosphere, perfect for photography and relaxation. However, some reviews mention concerns about litter, urging responsible tourism to preserve its natural beauty.
"Beautiful place, but the lake water is filled with bottle waste.. the people coming to visit must be responsible to save the nature for our next generation
There is some space for swimming and bathing in the side of the lake where water flows outside due to over flow ."
Vineeth Pataje
"Ayyanakere is a scenic paradise surrounded by hills — perfect for peace and photography lovers! Fantabulous spot to relax and connect with nature! 🌄✨📸"
Aniruddah Karthik
"A beautiful lake surrounding 7 hills. Very calm, quite and mesmerizing atmosphere. During weekends it attracts some crowd, otherwise it is totally deserted. There is Shiva Temple facing east. I saw a miracle in the morning when sin raises, the shivaling shines in golden colour. Sunrays directly falling on the Shivaling and it is quite existing."
Muniraju M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ayyanakere Lake is located about 18-30 kilometers from Chikmagalur city, near Sakharayapatna village. You can hire a taxi or drive your own vehicle. The drive takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour, and it's recommended to drive slowly on the narrow, winding roads leading to the lake. +1
While direct public transport might be limited, you can take a bus to Sakharayapatna and then arrange for local transport or a short taxi ride to the lake. It's best to check local bus schedules in advance.
Ayyanakere Lake is approximately a 4-hour drive from Bangalore, making it a feasible day trip or a stopover destination for those traveling through the region.
The roads leading to Ayyanakere Lake are described as narrow and winding. Travelers advise driving slowly and cautiously to navigate these routes safely.
The lake is near Sakharayapatna village. Keep an eye out for signs indicating the direction to Ayyanakere Lake as you approach the area.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Currently, there are no reports of an entry fee for Ayyanakere Lake. It is generally considered a natural attraction accessible to all visitors.
Ayyanakere Lake is a natural outdoor attraction, so it's typically accessible throughout the day. However, for the best experience and safety, visiting during daylight hours, especially for sunrise and sunset, is recommended.
No advance booking is required for Ayyanakere Lake as there is no entry fee. You can visit spontaneously.
While there are no specific entry restrictions, visitors are encouraged to be responsible tourists, avoid littering, and respect the natural environment.
Yes, Ayyanakere Lake is an outdoor natural site and is open year-round. However, the experience might vary significantly with the seasons, with monsoons offering a particularly lush and full lake.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire perimeter of the lake offers stunning photographic opportunities. Capture the reflections of the Shakuna Giri hills, the vast expanse of water, and the surrounding greenery. The Shiva Temple area during sunrise is particularly photogenic. +1
Drone photography might be possible, but it's always advisable to check local regulations and permissions before flying a drone in any natural or protected area. Some Instagram reels showcase drone shots, suggesting it's been done.
The golden hours – early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for sunset – offer the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. The calm waters during these times create stunning reflections.
Don't miss capturing the unique sight of the Shiva Lingam at the temple, which is said to glow golden during sunrise. The panoramic views of the lake surrounded by seven hills are also a must-capture.
Ayyanakere Lake is ideal for landscape photography, nature photography, and capturing serene, tranquil moments. It's also a great spot for portrait photography with the scenic backdrop.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can relax by the lake, enjoy the serene atmosphere, take photos, and connect with nature. Some visitors mention swimming and bathing in the overflow areas, but exercise caution.
During weekends, Ayyanakere Lake can attract some crowds. For a more peaceful experience, visiting on weekdays is recommended.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms or food stalls is limited. It's advisable to carry your own snacks and water, and plan accordingly.
Some reviews mention swimming and bathing in the side of the lake where water flows due to overflow. However, always prioritize safety and assess the conditions before entering the water.
The lake was built by Rukmangada Raya and renovated by Hoysala kings in 1156 AD. It's a significant water source for agriculture, feeding 1560 hectares of land.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting on a weekday to avoid larger crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for everyone. The drive itself, though winding, can be an adventure. The historical aspect of the lake, built centuries ago, might also spark curiosity in older children. Ensure you bring plenty of water and any necessary supplies, as facilities might be limited.
+1📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2Don't miss the unique opportunity to photograph the Shiva Lingam at sunrise, which is said to glow golden. Drone photography can offer breathtaking aerial perspectives, though it's wise to check local regulations. The serene and less crowded atmosphere on weekdays makes it ideal for extended photo sessions without feeling rushed.
🧘♀️ Peace Seekers & Nature Lovers
Visit on a weekday to truly immerse yourself in the serenity. The gentle lapping of water and the vast, open skies provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation. It's a place to recharge your batteries and appreciate the simple beauty of nature.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Engineering of Ayyanakere Lake
+1The lake's capacity is impressive, capable of feeding approximately 1560 hectares of land through its intricate canal system. It's noted that the lake has about 10 canals for water distribution, showcasing a sophisticated water management system from centuries ago. This makes Ayyanakere a significant historical and agricultural landmark in Karnataka.
+1Surrounded by the majestic Shakuna Giri hills, the lake's location is as strategic as its construction. This natural amphitheater not only enhances its scenic beauty but also likely played a role in its water catchment and management. The blend of historical engineering and natural landscape makes Ayyanakere a unique destination.
+1Experiencing Ayyanakere Lake: Beyond the Views
For photography enthusiasts, Ayyanakere is a dream. The golden hour – sunrise and sunset – transforms the lake into a canvas of vibrant colors, with the water reflecting the sky and surrounding hills. The ancient Shiva Temple, facing east, offers a unique spectacle where the Shivaling is said to shine with a golden hue as the sun's rays directly fall upon it.
Some visitors have also noted opportunities for swimming and bathing in the areas where the lake water overflows. However, it's crucial to exercise caution and assess the safety of such activities. The overall experience is one of quiet contemplation, natural beauty, and a touch of historical wonder.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit