All Bangalore birding spots

Lake · Day trip · Hoskote, east of Bengaluru

Hoskote Lake

Where local birders say the winter ducks are best.

Winter ducksWaterbirds
From city centre
~30 km · 1 h–1 h 30
Best months
Nov–Mar
Best hours
Sunrise to 9 am
Entry
Free
Habitat
Lake
Birds listed
9

How to get there

East of the city near Hoskote town off the Old Madras Road. The lake is a short drive from the town and is visible from the road in places.

Open directions in Google Maps~30 km from the city centre; travel time depends on traffic.

Best time to visit

Best: November to March. Time of day: Sunrise to 9 am.

Entry fee & timings

Entry
Free
Fee
Open access along the bund; no ticket reported.
Timings
Open access; go in daylight

As reported at the review date (2026-11-04). Confirm at the gate: fees and timings change.

Birds you can spot

9 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 Hoskote Lake

A big tank with open water, reed edges and islands. Winter brings flocks of ducks and waders, and local birders have called it among the best waterbird sites near Bengaluru.

History

A long-standing tank on the old Madras road, part of the lake chain east of the city.

Flora

Reeds, water plants and scattered trees along the edge.

Fauna

Fish and amphibians, plus the usual lake insects.

Nearby places

Tips

  • Check water levels before you go.
  • A scope helps for distant ducks.
  • Combine with another lake on the same morning.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Hoskote Lake for birds?

November to March. Sunrise to 9 am.

What is the entry fee for Hoskote Lake?

Open access along the bund; no ticket reported. Timings: Open access; go in daylight.

Which birds can I see at Hoskote Lake?

Regularly reported birds include Painted stork, Spot-billed pelican, Black-headed ibis, Eurasian spoonbill, Black-winged stilt, Garganey, Northern shoveler, Northern pintail. Sightings change with season and water levels.

How do I get to Hoskote Lake?

East of the city near Hoskote town off the Old Madras Road. The lake is a short drive from the town and is visible from the road in places. 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.

Nov–Mar

Free · ~30 km

Directions