Sukhna Lake - History, Timings & Entry Fee

Lake / Backwaters

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Chandigarh Bus Terminus): 5.5 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1-2 Hours

Transportation Options: Cab / Auto

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 5.5 km from Chandigarh Bus Station, Sukhna Lake is a beautiful manmade lake situated at the foothills of Shivalik range in the city of Chandigarh. This is one of the most picturesque man-made lakes in India and also one of the top tourist places in Chandigarh.

Sukhna Lake is created by Le Corbusier in 1958 by damming the Sukhna Choe, a seasonal stream flowing down from the Shivalik hills. It had a depth of 18 feet originally and was spread across 3 sq. km. The name Sukhna means a wish - fulfilled, the lake is a perfect destination for solitude seekers. At the entrance, there is a Corbusier proclamation 'The creator of this beautiful city of Chandigarh has also created this eye-catching man made Sukhna Lake and also a dam that makes this city even more beautiful. The area around this lake is very calm and peaceful'.

The lake is enclosed by a golf course on the south and the famous Rock Garden on its western end. The Sukhna Lake is also the habitat of a number of fishes and migratory birds like cranes and Siberian ducks. It has also been declared as a reserved national wetland by the Government of India. The promenade on the shores of the lake is often crowded by a stream of joggers and walkers. The scenic beauty of the lake serves as a true delight for the photographers and artists who love to capture the mesmerizing view. It is the best place to view both Sunrise and the Sunset.

Chandigarh Sukhna Lake serves as a great picnic spot and an apt place for pursuing water sport activities like boating, yachting and water skiing etc. The Sukhna Lake has the longest channel for rowing and yachting in Asia. The lake in the evening sees number of visitors who come to spend some enjoyable time with their families and loved ones.

The lake is also venue for many festive celebrations too. The favorites among the various festivals are the Mango festival where a large variety of Mangoes are exhibited.

Timings: 5 AM to 9 PM

Boating Fee: Rs. 100 per Person for four & Rs. 50 per Person for two