- From city centre
- ~40 km · 1 h 15–2 h
- Best months
- Sep–Feb
- Best hours
- Sunrise to 9 am
- Entry
- By permission
- Habitat
- Lake
- Birds listed
- 8
How to get there
West of the city along Magadi Road and Kudur, about 35 to 45 km depending on the source. Birders often take the mud tracks before the dam to reach the lake bed.
Best time to visit
Best: September to February. Time of day: Sunrise to 9 am.
Entry fee & timings
As reported at the review date (2026-11-04). Confirm at the gate: fees and timings change.
Birds you can spot
8 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 Thippagondanahalli (TG Halli) Reservoir
A large reservoir on the Arkavathy that has long been on the birding clubs' list. Weekend birders spread out along the lake beds and raised banks. Species counts change a lot with water level, so check recent reports first.
History
Built across the Arkavathy in the 1930s as the Chamarajasagara reservoir, to supply water to Bengaluru. Water levels have fallen over the years as inflow dropped.
Flora
Scrub and eucalyptus around the reservoir, with grass and reed patches on the lake bed.
Fauna
Fish, plus hare and mongoose in the scrub nearby.
Nearby places
- Savandurga~15 kmA huge monolith with a popular trek.
- Hesaraghatta Lake~40 kmGrassland and harriers.Birding guide →
Tips
- Check the permission rule and water level first.
- There is little shade; carry water and a hat.
- Go with a local birding group the first time.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best time to visit Thippagondanahalli (TG Halli) Reservoir for birds?
September to February. Sunrise to 9 am.
What is the entry fee for Thippagondanahalli (TG Halli) Reservoir?
A birders' club listing says permission is needed for access; no fee was confirmed. Check with the water board or a local group before you go. Timings: Daylight; confirm locally.
Which birds can I see at Thippagondanahalli (TG Halli) Reservoir?
Regularly reported birds include Indian cormorant, Black-winged stilt, Cattle egret, Black kite, Brahminy kite, Garganey, Common sandpiper, Eurasian marsh harrier. Sightings change with season and water levels.
How do I get to Thippagondanahalli (TG Halli) Reservoir?
West of the city along Magadi Road and Kudur, about 35 to 45 km depending on the source. Birders often take the mud tracks before the dam to reach the lake bed. It is about 40 km from central Bengaluru (1 h 15–2 h 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.