With soft waves lapping against the shoreline and rising mountains soaring in the distance, Sukhna Lake is a peaceful and picturesque getaway. This lovely, man-made lake in Chandigarh, India, is nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas and creates a magnificent backdrop for outdoor activities. From birding to boating, Sukhna Lake is ideal for tranquil relaxation and family recreation alike. Rent a kayak or rowboat and paddle out onto the placid depths of the lake or try a thrilling water sport like water skiing or sculling. Along the shoreline, enjoy a serene stroll or energizing run along the jogging path, watch migratory birds dip and dive in the shallows, or cast your fishing rod off from the lake’s banks. Sukhna Lake is also the site to many cultural celebrations, including the Mango Festival and Holi festivities. With so much to see and do, the lake is a terrific destination year-round. Read below for more things to do and a comprehensive guide to Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh.
Things to do
Whether you prefer a day of rest or recreation, there are plenty of wonderful things to see and do at Sukhna Lake.
Water sports and boating
Sukhna Lake is a brilliant destination for exciting water sports. Stretching over nearly 2 miles (3 km), the placid surface of the lake is perfect for trying out an exhilarating new adventure. Skim the lake’s cool surface while water skiing or try rowing or sculling across instead! Boating is also a popular pursuit, with paddle boat, kayak, and sail boat rentals available from the shore. The Sukhna Lake Club also offers a gym, a swimming pool, tennis courts, and indoor games to its members.
Bird watching
With its calm waters and lush plant life, Sukhna Lake is a lovely environment to watch for migratory birds. During the winter months, Sukhna Lake becomes the home to species like Siberian ducks, storks, and cranes. This special environment has even been designated as a protected national wetland by the Indian government.
Walking and jogging
A jogging path loops around the shoreline, and many people come here as part of their exercise regime. The path is also great for enjoying a scenic stroll.
Photography and art
With its serene scenery and abundance of wildlife, Sukhna Lake is also a perfect place to practice photography. Whether you visit on a mist-shrouded morning, under a swirling monsoon sky, or during a sunset-stained twilight, Sukhna Lake will take your breath away with its beauty. In addition to photography, the area is popular with painters, and many artists like to sit along the shoreline.
Nearby attractions
The fantastic Chandigarh Golf Club sits to the south of the lake. Spanning over 7,202 yards (6,586 m), this beautifully landscaped golf course offers 18 holes with 9 floodlit holes for pre-dawn and post-dusk games. While the Chandigarh Golf Club is a members-only club, the facilities are also open on a green fee basis, along with cart and caddy rentals. In addition to the brilliant course, the Chandigarh Golf Club offers two bars, a multi-cuisine restaurant, a heated swimming pool, and a gymnasium with a sauna.
What to eat
Concession stands
There are several food options located near Sukhna Lake. Along the lake’s shore are several small food stands where visitors can pick up light snacks and bottled drinks.
Chandigarh Golf Club dining room
The nearby Chandigarh Golf Club also has an on-site restaurant that serves a multitude of cuisines for its members and their guests. The Chandigarh Golf Club dining room is family-friendly and offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner service.
Traveler tips
Lake facilities
While Sukhna Lake may be small, there are several convenient facilities located around the lakeside, including food stands and a souvenir shop.
When to visit
Sukhna Lake is beautiful year-round, but high levels of silt tend to occur in the summer months. During this time, it is typical to see many men, women, and children voluntarily desilting the lake. Sukhna Lake is as popular throughout the day as it is beautiful. The morning is popular among joggers, runners, and walkers who visit the lake for exercise, while the afternoon tends to see more people enjoying water sports and family activities. The beautiful twilight also draws people for a scenic stroll or a round of golf at Chandigarh Golf Club. Sukhna Lake is busiest during the weekends and on public holidays.
How to get there
By car
There are several parking lots available near Sukhna Lake, including the Sukhna Lake Midway parking lot which is free and open 24 hours.
By bus
Sukhna Lake is accessible by public bus. From the town of Chandigarh, visitors can take bus 206 towards the lake.
Sukhna Lake information
Sukhna Lake
Address: Sukhna Lake, Sector 1, Chandigarh, 160001
Opening hours: Open 24 hours (daily)
Price: Free
Website: Department of tourism
News & updates for Attraction Name: Chandigarh set to get a new party boat at Sukhna Lake soon | Migratory birds see 48 percent rise at Sukhna Lake: Census
History
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