- From city centre
- ~30 km · 1 h–1 h 30
- Best months
- Nov–Feb
- Best hours
- First light to 9 am
- Entry
- Free
- Habitat
- Grassland
- Birds listed
- 10
How to get there
About 30 km north-west of the centre via Tumkur Road and Chikkabidarakallu or Hesaraghatta Main Road. The grassland and lake bed are a short walk or drive from the main road.
Best time to visit
Best: November to February (harrier season). Time of day: First light to 9 am, and late afternoon.
Entry fee & timings
As reported at the review date (2026-11-04). Confirm at the gate: fees and timings change.
Birds you can spot
10 birds listed. Tap a bird to add it to your life list (saved in this browser only).
Regularly reported, not guaranteed. See recent sightings on eBird
About Hesaraghatta Lake & Grasslands
A reservoir bed and surrounding grasslands. Water levels change from year to year; when the lake has water, waterbirds gather, and when it is dry the grasslands hold larks, pipits and raptors. One birder's blog counts more than 240 species here, among the highest for any site near the city.
History
The reservoir was built across the Arkavathy in 1894 to supply drinking water to Bengaluru. It has run low or dry for years, and the surrounding grassland is now the draw.
Flora
Dry grassland, scattered acacia and scrub, with aquatic plants when water is present.
Fauna
Blackbuck are reported nearby, plus hares and foxes.
Nearby places
- Nrityagram~3 kmA well-known dance village near the lake.
- Jakkur Lake~15 kmWetland birds.Birding guide →
- Hoskote Lake~45 kmA different side of the city.Birding guide →
Tips
- Check recent eBird lists for water levels before you go.
- There is little shade: bring a hat and water.
- Stay on tracks; this is mostly open land.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Hesaraghatta Lake & Grasslands for birds?
November to February (harrier season). First light to 9 am, and late afternoon.
What is the entry fee for Hesaraghatta Lake & Grasslands?
Open access; no ticket reported. Timings: Open access; go in daylight.
Which birds can I see at Hesaraghatta Lake & Grasslands?
Regularly reported birds include Yellow-wattled lapwing, Black-winged kite, Ashy-crowned sparrow-lark, Indian bushlark, Painted stork, Spot-billed pelican, Montagu's harrier, Pallid harrier. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Hesaraghatta Lake & Grasslands?
About 30 km north-west of the centre via Tumkur Road and Chikkabidarakallu or Hesaraghatta Main Road. The grassland and lake bed are a short walk or drive from the main road. It is about 30 km from central Bengaluru (1 h–1 h 30 depending on traffic).
More birding spots
Reviewed 2026-11-04. Species lists, fees and timings are as reported and can change; confirm before you go.