Last Updated on June 18, 2025 by admin

Kankaria Lake, a beautiful yet stunning body of water located just in the downtown of Ahmedabad. This place can be said to be the amalgamation of the perfect combination of fun and traditions to be performed. Enfolding a pretty stupendous area of 76 acres, the lake weaves its magic through countless attractions, enthralling locals, families, and tourists alike—from adrenaline-pumping carnival rides to ancient monuments to theaters and calming boat rides.

A History of Kankaria Lake

The lake was originally called “Hauz-e-Qutub” and used as a royal bathing pool of the rulers of the Gujarat Sultanate. It was lavishly constructed and very likely with an ace engineer who designed an island in the center—now called Nagina Wadi—which could be entered by a walkway. There is a legend about the lake being the site where the Karnasagar tank was built by the Chalukya ruler Karna and was later extended and beautified during Sultanate times.

The very word “Kankaria” is a distortion of “Kankar,” the Gujarati appellation for limestone, which is scattered aplenty across this vicinity. Having observed many phases of development over the centuries, the last was mostly in 2008, when the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation gave the lake a facelift into a vibrant kids’ play area-cum-family recreation zone. Today, it stands as not only one of the most popular tourist destinations in Ahmedabad but also one of Gujarat’s greatest prides.

Top 5 Things to Do at Kankaria Lake, Ahmedabad

Kankaria Lake promises to entertain you for a whole day to fulfill every wish. For people who love nature, wild adventure, or family fun, here are 5 activities that one must not miss at this significant landmark:

1. The Kankaria Zoo (Kamla Nehru Zoological Garden)
 The zoo is a haven for all animals, particularly endangered species, since 1951, ranging of 450 animals, with at least 2000 birds, including Asiatic Lions, White Tigers, Crocodiles, etc.

A giant land of greenery is bathed in well-manicured lawns leading to the south side of the zoo, where learning opportunities abound for children as well as for adults. The wholly shaded pathways, supplemented by prominent boards emblazoned with informative marks, make a very relaxing as well as educational experience.

One word: Early morning or late afternoon hours would be the best time for keepers and the weather to be just perfect.

1.1 Toy Train Ride (Atal Express)
 A ride on the cheerful Atal Express toy train around the whole stretch of the Kankaria Lake will surely be enjoyable. It is a ride for kids and adults alike! The views, of course, are the essentials: the journey lake, amusement park, gardens, and food stalls.

Every coach is painted in a vibrant tone, and the train itself kind of gives a general overview tour that serves as a visual treat in hardly 15 minutes.

Tip: Come in the evening when the lake glows in festive colors!

1.2. Kankaria Adventure Park
 In case anything remotely related to adrenaline makes its way into one’s wish list, Kankaria Adventure Park is probably the best spot for such activities. Some of these include:

  • Zip lining
  • Rock climbing
  • Bungee jumping
  • Trampolining arenas
  • Obstacle courses

The adventurers can rest assured of their safety in pursuit of unlimited fun, thanks to the safety gear and trained staff at the park. This is an ideal outing with the whole family or just for groups of teenagers or friends.

Pro-Tip: Anything involving adventure activities: go for gym clothes and sneakers, and do not bother carrying heavy bags and such!

1.3. Boat Rides
 A visit to Kankaria Lake remains incomplete without a serene boat ride, as different options like the following are available:

  • Paddle boats for couples and families
  • Speedboats for the thrill seekers
  • Pontoon boats for groups

The calm water provides tranquility away from noise and chaos outside. Catching the sunset view, sailing around the lake, makes a magnificent photo opportunity.

Tip: Try to book your appointment during golden hour (right before sunset) for breathtaking views and fewer crowds.

1.4. Amusement Park (Balvatika and Kids City)
 Those that supply Balvatika with all the charm of an amusement park established on colorful hues are wins with classical rides such as swings, slides, and a miniature train. Next door in Kids City is a one-of-a-kind miniature city wherein kids can learn the ropes of mock trades like firefighting, medicine, police work, and more.

This experiential setup is highly interactive and helps children learn life skills in a playful way.

Tip: Give 2 to 3 hours if traveling with kids; this park is large and immersive enough to constitute the whole mini-adventure.

Other Trips in Local:

2. Historical and Cultural Sights Around Kankaria
 In addition to providing thrills and amusement, Kankaria is culturally rich. Here are a few nearby highlights:

2.1. Nagina Wadi
 An island garden in the midst of a lake, it is an undiscovered jewel. A beautiful causeway leads you into a garden with fountains and flowering beds. In the evening, the Musical Fountain Show acts as a prelude, where light, music, and water come together in hypnotic harmony.

Fun Fact: Nagina means jewel, and the island does live up to its name once it sparkles under the night sky.

2.2. Balloon Ride
 Imagine drifting 300 feet above the ground, with d view of the panoramic lake and city skyline. One of its eldritch set of features is the tethered helium balloon at Kankaria. It is safe, slow, and gives away memories for a lifetime.

Tip: It gets very crowded over the weekends and evenings, so skip the bustle and go on a weekday morning.

2.3. Mirror Maze and Butterfly Park
 The Sooty Butterfly Park, a refuge for bright butterflies and flowering vegetation, sits on the other side of the Mirror Maze.

Both these attractions offer a serious escape from the usual humdrum, fantastic for kids and adults who enjoy nature and engaging activities.

Food and Dining Near Kankaria
 Having good or local food available at Kankaria Lake is the best activity to do. The promenade has food stalls and cafes that serve from Gujarati snacks to continental cuisine.

Some essential local dishes to name just a few are:

  • Dabeli
  • Fafda-Jalebi
  • Ice gola
  • Bhajiya
  • Pav Bhaji

Alongside these eating spots, you will also find air-conditioned cafes and restaurants within the complex. You would also get ice cream parlors, fruit stalls, and juice vendors walking around.

Tip: Prioritize stalls with long lines. They serve dishes that are all-time favorites, along with freshness.

Best Time to Visit Kankaria Lake
 The lake stays open throughout the year, but the experience varies with the seasons.

Ideal Season: November to February
 The best time to visit is in the winter season if you wish to enjoy a subtropical climate that will help you rejuvenate. While it is now and then a little warm with temperatures touching as high as 28°C during the day, it is comfortable enough to enjoy any outdoor attraction.

  • Cultural programs for school kids and local artists
  • Street food
  • Art exhibitions and live painting
  • Dance, drama, and musical competitions
  • Fireworks and laser shows

Why in the Carnival?
 The lake areas are gorgeous with decorations, with various events happening every day, while sometimes offering big discounts on entry fees. Well indeed, this will provide for one real cultural rendition, truly immersive in this final extravaganza.

Avoiding the Summer Heat
 Ahmedabad regularly experiences temperatures above 40 degrees Celsius in March and June. Though the lake remains open, going in midday is sure to leave one exhausted.

  • Start the day early with a 7 AM visit or sometime after 6 PM.
  • You can sit on the covered benches outside the promenade.

Monsoon Mood
 Monsoons turn the lake orange-green (July–September). Some days will see showers, but the misty surroundings will create amazing memories for a stroll and a float. The water shows might be stopped, though, for safety reasons, for some duration.

Duration and Planning Tips for Visiting
 At least 5 to 7 hours are recommended for a visit if you want to fully enjoy everything that Kankaria Lake has to offer. Travelers with kids or those interested in seeing every attraction at ease should consider a full day.

Tip: Light cotton clothes are the chosen kind of fabric in the hot summer, so keep a change of clothes for the kids, just in case. Do keep lockers in mind if you have to store bags somewhere.

Getting to Kankaria Lake in Ahmedabad
 It’s in Maninagar, Ahmedabad.

  • About 5 km from the Ahmedabad Railway Station
  • About 4 km from CG Road and Paldi (main commercial area)

By Taxi (Recommended: Bharat Taxi)
 Getting to the lake by hailing a taxi would be best for any traveler; if traveling with family or elders, it would be best to book taxi in Ahmedabad, as tourists hardly enter the city.

  • Well-maintained vehicles
  • Experienced local chauffeurs
  • Flexible pick-up and drop-off points
  • Doorstep pick-ups and prompt arrivals

Even if you are staying somewhere around Navrangpura or Gandhinagar or even farther out, you will be accompanied by Bharat Taxi Ahmedabad till the entrance of the lake in a comfortable AC ride.

By Public Transport
 Ahmedabad has great BRTS and AMTS bus systems, but these buses can get very crowded, confusing for first-timers, and mostly, they don’t even stop near the lake.

By Private Vehicle
 One can visit the lake using his or her private vehicle. Parking might be difficult, especially on the weekends and holidays!

Why Choose Bharat Taxi for Your Trip to Kankaria Lake
 From parking to Kankaria Lake, the focus is on comfortable and stress-free journeys. Here’s why Bharat Taxi Ahmedabad stands tall as the local transport company in Ahmedabad:

  1. Online Booking Made Easy
     Booking a vehicle is only a click or two away on their official site. The number to call for bookings is +91-9696000999. One can arrange a rickshaw on the fly or simply plan for a weekend eve; Bharat Taxi Ahmedabad lends you instant confirmations and real-time updates.
  2. Experienced Chauffeurs with Local Knowledge
     Their chauffeurs are far more than mere drivers—they are living lore. They help one skip the ticket line to Kankaria and recommend the stray food joints next door. A trip turns fun because of their suggestions.
  3. Cheap and Clear Pricing
     Affordable taxi service Ahmedabad offers inexpensive rides with no hidden fares. Depending on your size and budget, you can choose from sedentary vehicles, hatchbacks, sedans, or SUVs.

Planning for a group trip? You could also hire a tempo traveller or a mini-bus, suited for larger parties.

  1. Flexible Trip Plan
     Want to see more than just Kankaria Lake? Visit:
  • Sabarmati Ashram
  • Adalaj Stepwell
  • Akshardham Temple
  • Law Garden Night Market
  • Manek Chowk for midnight food cravings

…and many more within the same booking!

  1. Safety and Cleanliness
     Passenger safety is what Bharat Taxi Ahmedabad considers first. Sanitation of vehicles is done regularly, and the drivers follow government norms and laws governing travel. The cars in this fleet are well-maintained and air-conditioned, with baby seats and Wi-Fi available on request.

For Tourists & Photography Enthusiasts
 Do you want to send a photo timing for the best sunset from Nagina Wadi or the glimmering lights from a balloon ride? A driver of Bharat Taxi Ahmedabad shall help you on time with any suggestions for the best camera angles!

Local Tip: Beyond the Lake!
 Since you have been to Kankaria already, why not take some time out to explore some of these delights nearby?

  • Maninagar Market: A mere 5 minutes is all it will take to reach this local market filled with traditional clothes, handicrafts, and street food.
  • Tagore Hall & Sanskar Kendra: The very delight for the eyes of an art lover and architect, these venues put on exhibitions and cultural performances quite often and are located less than 6 km from Kankaria.
  • Victoria Garden: An old colonial garden, now restored, is a peaceful place to sit and read or chill out after your lake visit.

Local Shopping and Street Food Experiences Near Kankaria Lake
 Local shopping and street food experiences would complete your trip to Kankaria Lake. From local snacks to native souvenirs, there is a bit of everything to take back home for any traveler.

Street Shopping Treats
 Near the lake’s entrance and exit points, stalls and vendors have sprung up.

What to Buy:

  • Bandhani Dupattas & Kurtas: Well-known tie and dye artworks from Gujarat
  • Wooden Toys & Handicrafts: Suitable for children as well as souvenirs
  • Bead Jewelry & Embroidered Bags: Thin, cheaper, and local

Tip: Bargaining is in vogue, so kindly bargain with street vendors.

Street Food Popularity
 There would be little food to the delight of any food lover at the lakefront, with all the in-between stages of traditional Gujarati snacks and some fusion fast food.

Some Must-Try Foods Are:

  • Dabeli: A spicy and sweet potato-filled bun, typical of Gujarat
  • Fafda-Jalebi: A crunchy breakfast turned street snack
  • Khaman: Soft steamed savory cakes made of gram flour
  • Masala Corn & Bhel: Light snacks to eat on the go
  • Ice Gola & Kulfi: Highly recommended in the hot months

Tip: Most of the stalls may accept UPI payments, but keeping some cash handy for quick purchases is a good idea.

Travel Safety Tips for Visitors
 Whether you are a lone traveler or with family, a little planning and awareness will help keep your trip smooth and memorable.

General Safety

  • Keep Valuables Safe: Use a sling or cross-body bag for better security
  • Avoid Crowds at Night Alone: While the lake is in general safe, always stick to well-lit areas only
  • Drink Enough Water, especially in summer months
  • Follow Signs & Rules: Especially in areas such as zoos and amusement parks

With Kids or the Elderly

  • Carry a small medical kit
  • Prefer shaded rest zones every 1–2 hours
  • Use the toy train to move around if someone is tired

Parking and Facilities
 Outside the main gate, fee-based parking is available.

Washrooms and baby care facilities are well-kept, but you may want to check for their availability before making plans.

Water fountains and dustbins are placed well around the lake complex.

Aside from the major ones, there are a handful of smaller and lovely spots that many tourists neglect.

Dutch & Armenian Tombs
 Located near the southern boundary of the lake, these lesser-known tombs serve as an architectural reminder of colonial influences that once shaped the city. A calm and informative pause from the bustling activity.

The Aquarium (Jaldhara)
 Less advertised than the zoo, the Jaldhara Aquarium, though small, is well-maintained and proud to present an array of local and exotic fish species.

Wall Art & Murals
 Several walls inside the lake complex are creatively painted with murals communicating Gujarati folk art, festivals, and wildlife. Snap some pics for your Instagram and bring artistic curiosity to the ambiance.

Eco-friendly Practices at Kankaria
 After its redevelopment in 2008, Kankaria Lake finds itself among the few places in India to have garnered a fair bit of recognition and fame for green initiatives.

What Is Being Done:

  • Solar-Powered Lighting
  • Plastic-Free Zones
  • Recycling Bins Placed across the Lake
  • Green Gardens & Landscaping for carbon absorption

Being responsible travelers, visitors are asked to:

  • Not littering
  • Carry reusable water bottles
  • Respect animal enclosures and stay quiet inside the zoo

Final Thoughts: Why Kankaria Lake Is a Must-Visit
 A place where known history meets modern entertainment makes for a wholesome outing.

Maybe to:

  • Glimpse through history at Nagina Wadi
  • Cruise in the romantic moonlight
  • Keep kids entertained at the Balvatika
  • Or simply devour Gujarat cuisine

Kankaria Lake has something for all moods and generations.

Travel smart, travel with Bharat Taxi!
 If there is a factor that determines the pleasure of your visit to Kankaria Lake, combining with how you opt to travel, that is when Bharat Taxi takes over to make the whole experience free of pain.

Why Should You Go With Bharat Taxi?

  • Cheap fares for the solo traveler or families and groups alike
  • Customizable tour packages not only for Kankaria but also for other places nearby
  • Sanitized vehicles with A/C and the best drivers
  • 24/7 customer service support for any changes or extension requirements for your trip

Being more than just a cab, Bharat Taxi is your local travel companion willing to wrap up your Ahmedabad exploration on a high note.

Plan Your Visit Today!
 Whether it is your first time in Ahmedabad or you are a local trying to rediscover the city’s many jewels, Kankaria Lake should rank at the top of your list. However, restrict your options as far as fun, food, history, and adventure are concerned; an excuse shall be there for something else for you to experience in the city.

More fun to the journey with Bharat Taxi as your travel partner.

Hence, grab the cab, pack your bags, and let Kankaria Lake show off in a way that it deserves to be the heart of Ahmedabad.

Need a ride? Call Bharat Taxi at +91-9696000999 or book online through the official website.