Uttar Pradesh, one of India’s most populous and historically rich states, is not only known for its vibrant culture and heritage but also for its diverse natural landscapes. Among these natural treasures are its numerous lakes, each with its own unique charm and significance. From serene bodies of water nestled amidst lush greenery to expansive reservoirs offering breathtaking views, Uttar Pradesh’s lakes are a haven for nature lovers and travelers alike. Let’s embark on a journey to explore the stunning lakes that adorn the landscape of Uttar Pradesh.
What is a Lake?
A lake is a large body of water, typically freshwater, surrounded by land. Formed through various natural processes such as glaciation, volcanic activity, or tectonic movements, lakes vary in size, shape, and depth. They play essential roles in ecosystems, providing habitats for diverse plant and animal species, as well as serving as sources of drinking water, recreation, and irrigation for human communities.
Lakes of Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh boasts numerous lakes, each offering its own unique charm. From the historic Upper Lake in Lucknow to the serene Ramgarh Tal in Gorakhpur, these water bodies provide picturesque settings for leisure activities and relaxation. Whether it’s the sacred Sursarovar in Mathura or the hidden gem Renuka Lake in Sonbhadra, Uttar Pradesh’s lakes beckon visitors with their tranquil beauty.
List of Lakes in Uttar Pradesh
Some notable lakes in Uttar Pradesh include Ramgarh Tal in Gorakhpur, Upper Lake (Bada Talab) in Lucknow, Moti Jheel in Bareilly, Barua Sagar Lake near Jhansi, and Sursarovar (Kusum Sarovar) in Mathura.
Here is the complete list of lakes in Uttar Pradesh:
Lakes of Uttar Pradesh | ||
S. No. | Lakes | City |
1. | Ramgarhtaal and Chiluataal | Gorakhpur |
2. | Bakhira Jheel | Sant Kabir Nagar |
3. | Karela and Etauja Jheel | Lucknow |
4. | Nawabgunj Jheel, Kundra Samundra | Unnao |
5. | Badataal (Gokhur) | Shahjahanpur |
6. | Payag Jheel | Bahraich |
7. | Parvati or Arga Taal | Gonda |
8. | Jirgo and Tirsi Lake, Tanda dari Taal | Mirzapur |
9. | Bhugetaal and Visaithataal | Raibareli |
10. | Liloor Jheel | Bareli |
11. | Thithoora Jheel, Moria Taal | Fatehpur |
12. | Beti, Ajgara and Nuiya Jheel | Pratapgarh |
13. | Surha Taal | Balia |
14. | Gaur Jheel | Rampur |
15. | Shukrataal | Muzzafanagar |
16. | Raamtaal | Meerut |
17. | Kimath Taal | Agra |
18. | Sheikh Jheel | Aligarh |
19. | Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar | Sonbhadra |
20. | Alwara Jheel | Koshambi |
21. | Aundhi Taal | Varanasi |
22. | Raja ka Bandh, laundhi and Bhojpur Taal | Sultanpur |
23. | Darwan Jheel | Faizabad |
24. | Bal Hapara | Kanpur |
25. | Lakshmi Taal, Bauasagar and Bhasneh | Jhansi |
26. | Sagar Taal | Badaun |
27. | Madan Sagar | Mahoba |
28. | Pangaili Fulhar or Gomti Taal | Pilibhit |
29. | Dahar Jheel, Bhijwaan Jheel | Hardoi |
30. | Devaria Taal | Kannauj |
31. | Bhakha Jheel | Etawah |
32. | Sita Kund, Chakra Kund | Sitapur |
33. | Bharatkund | Ayodhya |
34. | Radhakund, Shyamkund, Govindkund and Mansi Ganga Kund | Govardhan, Mathura |
35. | Kokilakund, Krishnakund | Kokila Forest, Mathura |
36. | Nauh Jheel | Mathura |
37. | Moti Lake | Kanpur |
38. | Chittora Lake | Bahraich |
39. | Bela Sagar | Mahoba |
Important Facts Related to Lakes of Uttar Pradesh
Here are some important facts related to Lakes of Uttar Pradesh:
- Keetham Lake in Agra’s Keetham Reserve Forest hosts over 106 migratory bird species including Siberian cranes.
- Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar Lake, Uttar Pradesh’s largest man-made lake, is also the second-largest in India.
- Ramgarh Tal Lake near Gorakhpur holds an annual festival featuring cultural events and water sports.
- Jai Samand Lake near Agra was constructed by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan.
- Moti Jheel Lake in Bareilly is renowned for boating and fishing amidst temple-studded surroundings.
- Barua Sagar Tal Lake in Jhansi is a picturesque picnic spot.
- Sarsai Nawar Lake in Etawah blooms with pink lotus flowers during the monsoon.
- Rani Jheel Lake in Jhansi has historical significance dating back to the Indian Rebellion of 1857.
- Samaspur Bird Sanctuary Lake in Rae Bareli attracts birdwatchers with its diverse avian population.
- Siddhauliya Lake in Sitapur is famous for its unique floating islands formed by aquatic plants and soil.