Karanji Lake

Of many lakes, tanks and water bodies in Mysore, Karanji is the most well known and well preserved one. Now called Karanji Lake Nature Park, it was originally a percolation tank laid by the Mysore king for the daily needs of citizens. It fell into disuse but was restored by the Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens. It features landscaped gardens, a nature park, palm-lined walkways, picnic areas, a walk-through aviary and a butterfly park. The lake itself is a paradise of a different kind. Almost throughout the year, it is teeming with birds of different hues, shapes and sizes. The best way to look at them is through a lazy, silent boat ride. On view here are herons, painted storks and egrets, while on the trees rose-ringed parakeets, kingfishers and green bee-eaters can be seen. Observation platforms built along the perimeter of the lake are another way of viewing the lake and its inhabitants.