Located around 24 km from Gurgaon, surrounded by rocky Aravali hills, the scenic Damdama lake is an oasis of serenity amidst the hustle bustle of city life. It a perfect spot for tourists who want to break away from everyday monotony. It is one of the biggest lakes in Haryana where you can spend a fun filled weekend amidst the magical Aravali Hills with your kids as you recharge yourself for the week ahead.
At Damdama Lake, channel the inner adventurer in you by participating in activities like rock climbing, camping, boating, parasailing , etc. At the same time, you’ll also get to explore the enriched local culture of Manesar through food and activities like pottery. The lake is home to numerous biodiversity hotspots known to hosts many migratory birds around the winter months.
Commissioned by the British in 1947, the purpose of the lake was to allow the harvesting of rainwater. However, over the years, it has turned into a lot more than just a place to store monsoon water. It is now home to 190 species of birds, both native and migratory. Apart from that, it has also turned into a major tourist attraction due to good connectivity and the break it provides from city life.
When you talk about Damdama lake, the first thing that draws your attention is the beautiful Aravalli backdrop. But the destination has a lot more to offer. You can explore various activities like parasailing, kayaking, angling, rowing, etc . You will get to experience all kinds of adventure sports and at the same time also get the space to have a peaceful break interspersed with activities like nature walks, fishing, cycling etc.
It is safe to say that the Damdama lake is a unique place which lets you get your fill of adventure without having to travel too far away if you live in the Delhi-NCR region. There are various adventure sports and services offered at the lake:
The lake is surrounded by the beautiful rocks of Aravali hills, and they are challenging enough to excite rock climbing enthusiasts.The rocks are the perfect level of challenging for the seasoned climbers but still comfortable enough for the beginners if your kids want to give it a shot. The beautiful scenery and the hills are enough to get your adrenaline rushing.
While you are at the Damdama lake with your family, make sure to try out the hot-air balloon ride for a fun and unique experience. Get ready to fly over the scenic lake for that adrenaline rush you crave on your trip to Manesar. Once you climb aboard the sturdy basket attached to the giant balloon, you will be elevated at a height of 5000 feet. The ride usually lasts for an hour during which you can enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Damdama lake and its enchanting surroundings.
The lake is about 70 ft deep in the monsoon season and is perfect for a beautiful boating experience for couples and families alike. Many travel and tour companies operating around the area will help you by arranging boating services. You can also find services for adventure sports like kayaking, parasailing, rowing and other such water related activities. Just imagine yourself boating in the middle of such a paradise. Isn’t it drool-worthy?
Damdama lake has the requisite arrangements for a comfortable yet eventful camping trip. All you have to do is to book a package at one of the camps there and experience the bliss of natural beauty and adventure.
You can spend your Sundays sitting on a boat with a fishing rod in the middle of a beautiful landscape. The lake authorities allow fishing and that has always been one of the major attractions for visitors at the lake.
Take a walk around the serene Damdama lake with your family and explore the beauty of undisturbed nature. Sitting in the valleys of the Aravali Mountain range, this quiet lake is the perfect destination to simply relax and replenish from the exhaustion of hectic city lives. Take your kids to explore the rich flora and fauna and let them connect with nature.
If you are not an adventure-person and your ideal type of vacation simply entails basking in peace and serenity then the lake has a lot to offer to you too. Who wouldn’t want to breathe in peace surrounded by such superb beauty! You can go bird-watching and enjoy the excellent array of wildlife around the place. Also, the lake boasts beautifully diverse flora too. Get ready to roll out a picnic mat and pack yourself some sandwiches and admire the hilly topography of the region . If you want to bring out the photographer in you, there will be a lot to capture from wildlife and lovely plants to the beautiful rocky hills and the enchanting lake! So roll up your sleeves, take your old camera out of the closet and get ready to click some awesome shots.
Located near the lake, the Sohna Hot Springs is a popular spot for tourism and also has great religious significance. According to folklore, Arjuna, one of the Pandava brothers had dug out the well to quench his thirst. At present, the place is visited by hordes of Hindus who come for a holy dip on solar and lunar eclipses. The hot water from the spring is believed to have therapeutic properties for various skin ailments as well as other diseases such as gout and rheumatism.
On your trip to Damdama Lake, visit the ancient Shiva temple located nearby. Believed to be built by the ruler of Gwalior, this temple holds great religious significance. You can find the locals of Sohna as well people from all parts of the country offering their prayers to Lord Shiva on the occasion of Shivratri.
If you have a deep love for shopping, the best malls aren’t far away from the lake. The place is very close to Gurgaon, which is a full-blown metro-city. You will find malls, shopping complexes and even local boutiques selling quality products. Buy yourself some memorabilia or go all out and take all the brands home – the choice is yours!
The lake entertains tourists from all over the country and naturally, this has caused a lot of restaurants to set up shop and flourish over the years. You will find eateries serving local Haryanvi food as well as amazing dishes from around the globe. While you are at the lake, do not miss on trying some of Haryana’s specialties such as the Singri Ki Sabzi, Besan Masala Roti, Bajra Khichdi and a lot more that will make you lick your fingers.
Haryana is one of the semi-arid states of the country, and hence the level of water in the lake usually ranges from 20 ft to 70 ft (during the monsoon). The state enjoys monsoon during August to February which is when you will find the water level to be somewhere between 50 to 70 ft deep.
Because of the popularity of Damdama lake, it is easily accessible by any means of travel you wish to opt for.
By Road: Just a few kilometres off the Gurgaon-Alwar highway, the lake is well connected via road to Delhi and other major cities of the country.
By Rail: Merely 21 km away from the Faridabad Train Station, it’s easy to reach the lake if you choose to travel by train. It is a very affordable option and will help you save a little on the trip.
By Air: The lake is situated 39 km away from the Indira Gandhi International Airport. It’s fairly accessible and catching a flight won’t be an issue.
Cameras and mobile phones are allowed at the Damdama lake without any restriction.
Damdama lake is the perfect destination for a fun-filled trip with your entire family. Whether your interests lie in adventure, nature or photography, this place won’t disappoint you at all. Go ahead and explore this paradise as you please. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready to escape the chaos of city life.
Noida, with its vibrant culinary scene, offers a plethora of options for dessert lovers craving…
Embarking on a journey? Make your travels more convenient and enjoyable with the latest accessories…
As the temperature drops and the chilly winds start to blow, staying warm and healthy…
Travel photography is not just about capturing moments; it's about immortalising experiences, landscapes, and the…
Embarking on a solo adventure can be exhilarating, offering the freedom to explore new destinations…
Business travel often entails tight schedules and hectic itineraries, leaving little room for packing mishaps…