In the words of Dr C Narayana Reddy, the charm of Hussain Sagar is a spectacle that can only be realized by taking a stroll across the Tank Bund on a pleasant evening. Cool drifts caress one’s temples, welcoming to this exquisite place.
About Hussain Sagar
One of the largest manmade lakes of Hyderabad, it connects the twin cities of Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Hussain Sagar was constructed on a tributary of the Musi River by an engineer Hussain Shah Wahi during Ibrahim Quli Qutub Shah’s reign in 1562. It is a sprawling and expansive artificial lake, which holds water perennially. The lake also has a charming promenade that doubles up a busy thoroughfare today.
| S.No | Type of Boat | No. of Boats | Capacity |
| 01 | Large Vessel | 3 | 100 |
| 02 | Mechanized Boat | 6 | 55 |
| 03 | Parasail Boat | 2 | 7 |
| 04 | American Pontoon Boat | 1 | 7 |
| 05 | Speed Boat | 8 | 4 |
| 06 | HDPE Speed Boat | 1 | 8 |
| 07 | Jet Skies | 1 | 1 |
| 08 | Donut Boat | 1 | 6 |
| Total | 23 |
Boating
From times immemorial, lakes were a source of drinking water and also for some adventure filled sport activities. Hussain Sagar Lake is landmark attraction that is a symbol of the Tourism potential of Hyderabad, the capital of Telangana state.
Likewise, Boating and Water Sports is a regular feature of Hussain Sagar Lake. The department of tourism operates regular boating facilities at this vast lake, considered one of Asia’s largest man-made lakes. There are different types of boating facilities offered here.
Speed boats
To experience the perfect adrenaline rush, one can take up speed boating on modern boats, that are well maintained. Equipped with safety parameters like life jackets and buoys, the thrill of cruising through a speedboat on Hussain Sagar Lake is an unparalleled experience. One can criss cross the lake with the help of experts at the boating facility here, the rising of waves during the high speed cruise making the experience all the more worthwhile. These boats can be hired and boarded from the Lumbini park section, a theme park built for kids and a favorite hangout for families to de-stress during the weekends.
Regular Boats
Operating at an optimum speed, one can enjoy the pleasant environs of Hussain Sagar with regular paddling boats and diesel operated ones, which takes you to different corners of the lake, safely. Tourists are spotted often during evenings trying to latch onto a boat for enjoying a fun ride. The sunset on the lake while travelling on a boat is a delightful experience.
Launch
The department of Tourism offers a cruise facility, which is a huge draw with tourist and revelers. The cruise also can also be availed for corporate bookings, weddings and other occasions. A wonderful cruise on lake’s placid waters in the heart of Hyderabad on a pleasant evening, behold Hussain Sagar Lake has earned a place in the hearts of tourists visiting Hyderabad. The 48 seater Launch etc. also offers facilities for starlit dinner on board and is ideal for private parties. A water body like Hussain Sagar is considered special because in the absence of beaches, one can almost experience a similar feel on this lake. The launch makes it more special. Bookings are made in advance, so in case you are planning for a nice evening for your group, then hurry up to book your favorite slot!
Water sports
Hussain Sagar Lake is also home to the yachting and sailing clubs that are active all round the year. The annual regatta at the lake draws many sports persons from all over the country. The regatta competitions, featuring picturesque lake with colourful yachts s on the shimmering waters is again very popular with people.
Attractions
The boats and the launch are operated from Lumbini Park. From here one can visit famous monolith of Lord Buddha installed at the center of the lake on a structure called ‘Rock of Gibraltar’. The Buddha statue weighing 350 tonnes stands 16 meter tall in the middle of the Hussain Sagar Lake. The statue is made completely with white granite and is among the tallest statues in the world. Cruising in the waters, tourists get mesmerized by the shining lights demarcating the lake and a wonderful view of Birla Mandir. From the center of the lake, the panoramic view of Hyderabad’s landscape is a must-see. One can also enjoy a different view from the other side of the lake close to Sanjeevayya park.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Hussain Sagar Lake is during the cooler months from October to March, when the weather is pleasing. However, during summers, the water of the lake imparts a pleasant atmosphere, which is ideal for boating and a pleasurable evening sojourn. A perfect place for some leisure and fun!