Kankaria Lake

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Kankaria Lake is the largest lake in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It is an artificial lake in the Maninagar area, filled by rainwater and water from the Narmada Canal. The lakefront is a big park with many attractions for visitors, including a zoo (Kamla Nehru Zoological Garden), a toy train that goes around the lake, Kids City, a tethered balloon ride, water rides, a water park, and food stalls. The lakefront was redesigned in 2007–2008.

In the middle of the lake there is Nagina Wadi, an island garden with a summer palace called Ghattamandal; it is connected to the shore by a bridge.

History and today: The lake’s construction began in the 15th century during the Gujarat Sultanate and was completed around 1451. It has been a popular leisure spot for rulers and people through the Sultanate and Mughal periods. European travelers visited in the 1600s, and the British restored parts of it in 1872. In 1928 it was declared a protected monument. The 2007–2008 renovation modernized the facilities, and the lake was officially reopened with the Kankaria Carnival in December 2008.

Kankaria is now a favorite place for families and visitors. The Kankaria Carnival is held every year in the last week of December, showcasing art, dance, music, games, and activities for children. Additional features include a musical fountain with lights (opened in 2009) and more rides and experiences around the lake.