Telangana state in the southern part of India is known for historical centers and artifacts. Its modern capital is Hyderabad, which is famous for its technology industry. The city’s Fort of Golconda and the 16th-century monument and mosque known as Charminar make it a popular destination for the religious and the history buffs. During the monsoon season, Osman Sagar Lake becomes an important travel destination in Hyderabad. Hyderabad was formerly known as City of Lakes but a number of these bodies of water had shrunk, been drained illegally, or disappeared due to encroachment of a growing population. Fortunately, the surviving lakes are being looked after. One of the man-made cheruvu to persist is Osman Sagar Lake. Originally intended to be a reservoir and a means of protection from flooding, the lake is both a center for leisure and main source of water supply for millions of people in Hyderabad and Secunderabad. It sits on an area of 46 square kilometers (11,366.8 acres) to offer visitors various amusement and recreation facilities. The lake, which is also known locally as Gandipet, is named after Mir Osman Ali Khan, the Nizam of Hyderabad who initiated the ambitious project. Read on for a guide to Osman Sagar, Hyderabad.
Things to do / Highlights
Lakeside recreational facilities
Osman Sagar solved two problems the Nizam wanted to work out for the benefit of his people– water shortage and monsoon floods. Once the issues had been handled effectively, the local population has been able to enjoy the lake for its beauty and its recreational facilities. Hundreds of families find their way to Osman Sagar lake year-round. A wide expanse of land has been developed and equipped with resorts and water fun activities that attract young and old. You will find tranquil spaces in landscaped gardens and patio nurseries. There are plenty of picnic spots for weekend excursionists, and a local cafeteria for those who didn’t have time to pack a basket. If you’re looking for adventures on the water then engage one of the boatmen who will gladly take you out for an enchanting boat ride.
Sagar Mahal
Sagar Mahal is a heritage building that serves as a guest house fitted as a princely dwelling. It was built on the banks of the lake. The building overlooking Osman Sagar was intended to be the summer resort house of the last Nizam of Hyderabad. The view from its windows is very scenic and the breeze blowing from the lake is quite refreshing.
Travel tips
Sunrise to sunset
At Osman Sagar Lake, every member of the family would find enough to do from sunrise to sunset. For starters, seeing the sun rise and paint the horizon while the lake’s surface glitters like stars is a great way to start the day. The ambience is enough reason to stay and spend the day but there is no shortage of diversions at Gandipet. You can bring games and food to share or explore the resorts on the lakeside. They have attractive offers for families, couples, and individuals. Sunsets are equally captivating so stay for a day. You will cherish the time spent outdoors and in serene surroundings.
Best time to visit
Hot summers may be too uncomfortable and the water level might be lower than desired. For a soothing and pleasant experience at Osman Sagar Lake, plot your outing anytime between October to May.
How to get there
By car
The road to Osman Sagar is a pleasant one so we recommend driving there. Make sure the car is tuned up and ready and set out early. You will feel the lure of the lake as soon as you arrive in Hyderabad. The lake is about 25 kilometres (15.5 miles) or an hour’s drive from Hyderabad.
By bus
For convenience, check online for bus routes that let you out at Osman Sagar Road bus stop. Bus routes and specific timings are readily accessible. Plan your trip so that you have ample time to enjoy the lake fully. Allot about six hours in Osman Sagar before taking the bus back home.
How to get tickets
You can purchase tickets on site. Take note of Osman Sagar timings and prepare 5 INR (0.067 USD) for each person.
Where to stay (from USD 192)
Golkonda Resorts & Spa is a solid accommodation option that leaves customers satisfied. If you want to experience how it’s like to stay in the summer house of a Nazim (military governor in India) and his family, then you’d want to book a few days at Golkonda Resorts & Spa. The rooms are nice and the service is commendable. We’re not even talking about the facilities yet. The nearest airport to the resort, Begumpet Airport (Hyderabad Old Airport), is 17.5 kilometres (10.87 miles) away.
Golkonda Resort & Spa
Address: Sagar Mahal Complex, Gandipet, Hyderabad, India, 500075
1.31 km (0.9 mi) from Ocean Park
Osman Sagar Information
Lone Bird - Barn Swallow
Posted by Saurabh Gautam on Saturday, 8 February 2020
Osman Sagar Lake / Gandipet Lake
Address: Gandipet, Manikonda, Hyderabad 500075, India
Opening hours: 9:30am - 5pm (daily)
Cost: 5 INR (0.067 USD)
Department of tourism: Visit Hyderabad, India
News & Updates for Osman Sagar: Migratory flamingoes make Osmansagar home
Private Day Tour of Hyderabad
Duration: 7 to 8 hours
History
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