After lunch, we started searching for some place to visit before returning back to Bangalore. I type, tourist attractions in Mysore and waited for Google to come to my rescue. Instantly Karanji lake came up and it was just 2 km from Mysore center. It looked quite interesting and we planned to spend our afternoon here.
Mysore Palace
It was built by the Mysore king as a percolation tank for serving drinking water to the residents and now it has grown to become the largest walk through aviary in India. Spread over an area of 90 hectares, the area is enriched with lush greenery and fauna. Around 55 hectares is water spread while 35 hectares is foreshore area. It is a natural paradise for birds and bird lovers alike. Also referred to as the fountain lake, it has a butterfly park, kids play area and a bird watch tower.
Side View
The park is well maintained by the authorities. It is an ideal place to spend the day with your family. You can pack picnic lunches and relax in the green surroundings. There are small tea coffee shops which serve refreshments and snacks. But if you intend to spend the day it's better to bring your own food. Battery operated cycles are available for rent. This is a pretty useful bicycle as you can run it on battery if you are not in a mood to pedal.
Side View
We were unaware of the facts of the park and we expected it to be like any other park but we were welcomed by different varieties of rare birds. I wondered where did these pelicans come from. You don't bump into birds like these in a city. This area has different varieties of trees and a board nearby listed out the specialties of this place. After all coming to this park was worth it. Just about 500 m from the entrance pedal boating was arranged in the pristine waters. It was a 20 min ride and we can pedal around the bushy islands. They have clearly marked the danger areas where you are not supposed to go. I stared in wonder as painted storks, grey pelicans waded by as we pedaled away. It was as if I was watching some show on animal planet.
Side View
More than 147 species of birds are present in the park. We chased some birds and shot some great pictures. This was a rare opportunity and we made a good use of it. Compared to daily doses of pigeons, crows and mynahs the booted warbler, sarus cranes made my day. We were not avid bird watchers still the sight of these rare birds enthralled us. I cannot imagine the enthusiasm of a bird lover. The walk-through aviary is the largest in the country and you can observe many species up close. Butterfly park is on an island and takes about 15 to 20 min to reach. Home to about 4 dozen butterfly species, colors of the butterfly can captivate your senses. Kids area can keep children occupied giving the adults plenty of personal time. The serenity and tranquility of this exquisite lake is something to be experienced and words are not enough to describe it.
Side View
When to Visit
Except Tuesday all other days the park is open. The timings are from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Entrance fees:
Adult - Rs 10
Children (btw 5 to 15) - Rs 5
Camera - Rs 10
Video camera - Rs 25
What to do
Pedal boating is available for Rs 25 per head.
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