Unkal Lake, also known as Unkal Keri, is one of the most cherished landmarks in Hubli, blending natural beauty with historical significance. Constructed in 1893 by the eminent engineer Bharat Ratna Sir M. Visvesvaraya, this sprawling lake covers 218 acres with a maximum depth of 20 feet.
The Unkal Lake is located about 8 kilometers from the Hubli Railway Station.
One of the lake’s most famous attractions is the statue of Swami Vivekananda, which proudly stands in the middle of the lake.
Visitors can enjoy boating facilities that allow them to get up close to the statue while taking in the serene surroundings. For families, the lake offers recreational activities for children, making it an ideal spot for a day out.
The lake’s lush greenery and picturesque sunset viewing points make every visit worthwhile, especially for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The cool breeze that sweeps across the lake adds to the charm, creating endless opportunities for capturing beautiful moments.
Another highlight near Unkal Lake is the historic Chandramouleswara Temple. Dating back to the Chalukya period, this temple, with its marvelous architecture and ancient scriptures, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of the 11th and 12th centuries.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is conserved by the Archaeological Survey of India, making it a must-visit for history buffs and spiritual seekers alike.
Recent Developments at Unkal Lake
Hubballi’s historic Unkal Lake has recently undergone significant redevelopment, enhancing its appeal to both residents and tourists. Thanks to the efforts of Hubballi-Dharwad Smart City Limited (HDSCL), the lake now features a new 5-km walking track, part of a project that cost Rs 38.89 crore. The project aimed to rejuvenate the lake and improve the leisure and recreation facilities available to visitors.
Spread over 218 acres, Unkal Lake is about 100 years old and plays a central role in the Hubballi-Dharwad Smart City project. The area around the lake has been thoughtfully developed, with a well-maintained garden and various recreational facilities for children. The park surrounding the lake includes an existing 800-meter bund and a newly constructed 570-meter walking track.
The first phase of the project focused on cleaning and infrastructure development, while the second phase involved the construction of the walking track. The improvements include building a fence around the lake, installing 441 electrical poles, gabion walls for the embankment, canopies for walkers, and setting up benches, dustbins, and sunshades along the walkway. Trees have also been planted to enhance the natural beauty of the area.
Manjunath Mane, a resident of Raj Nagar, expressed his appreciation for the redevelopment efforts, noting that the new garden, walking track, and viewpoints have attracted many visitors. He emphasized the importance of maintaining these facilities to ensure they continue to benefit the community.
Unkal Lake, located on the Hubli-Dharwad road, is a true landmark of the twin cities. Its vastness and serene atmosphere make it a pleasant sight for the eye and a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.
Childhood Memories at Unkal Lake
As a kid growing up in the 90s, Unkal Lake was a regular destination for family outings and picnics. Back then, there was no entry fee, and we would often head to the lake for a garden lunch. These outings felt like festivals, filled with laughter, games, and good food. I’m so grateful to have such fond memories of those times.
There’s one more thing I remember vividly. Right opposite the entrance to Unkal Lake, there is an old church called CSI Muller Memorial Church.
My cousins and I used to sneak into the church during our visits to the lake. The church was usually empty, with a big bell hanging at the top. The silence inside was both fascinating and eerie. We would sit quietly for a few minutes, soaking in the tranquility, before our nerves got the better of us and we would run out, laughing and teasing each other.
Unkal Lake is more than just a place to visit; it’s a part of the fabric of Hubli, holding memories for many and continuing to create new ones for future generations.
Whether you’re there for the history, the scenery, or simply a peaceful afternoon, Unkal Lake is a must-visit place in Hubli.
