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Showing posts from July, 2025

Ramgarh Lake: A Forgotten Jewel of Rajasthan's Heritage and Ecology

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Nestled in the Jamwa Ramgarh subdivision of Jaipur district, Ramgarh Lake stands as a testament to Rajasthan’s rich history, ecological diversity, and architectural legacy. Once a thriving reservoir and a lifeline for Jaipur city, this artificial lake now evokes nostalgia and concern, as its dry bed reflects the changing dynamics of water management and urban expansion. Location and Historical Significance Distance from Jaipur : Approximately 32 km northeast of the city Surface Area : Around 15.5 square kilometers Constructed by : Maharaja Sawai Ram Singh II in 1876 Purpose : Originally built to provide water relief to the inhabitants of Ramgarh and Jaipur Ramgarh Lake was not just a water body it was a symbol of royal leisure and civic planning. The lake served as the primary water source for Jaipur until the year 2000, and its scenic surroundings made it a popular picnic destination, especially after the monsoon season. Royal Legacy and Sporting...

Pookkot Lake: A Serene Jewel in Wayanad’s Lap

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Introduction Nestled in the verdant hills of Wayanad, Kerala, Pookkot Lake is a natural freshwater body that radiates tranquility and charm. Located about 13 kilometers from Kalpetta and halfway from Calicut, this picturesque lake is a prime tourist destination, drawing nature enthusiasts, families, and wanderers looking for a peaceful retreat. Surrounded by meadows, forests, and lofty mountains, Pookkot Lake offers an exquisite blend of natural beauty, ecological richness, and thoughtfully curated tourism amenities that make it one of Wayanad’s most treasured gems. Geographical Location and Accessibility Pookkot Lake strategic location makes it an ideal stopover for travelers navigating between Kalpetta and Calicut. A short 30-minute drive from Kalpetta, and situated along the highway connecting Kozhikode, the lake is easily accessible by road. It serves as a gateway to the wilderness and cultural heritage of Wayanad, with the drive itself offering panoramic views of rolling hi...

Nigeen Lake: The Jewel of Kashmir’s Waterscape

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Nestled in the heart of Srinagar the summer capital of Jammu and Kashmir Nigeen Lake is a serene, mildly eutrophic water body that enchants visitors with its tranquil beauty, ecological importance, and rich cultural surroundings. Less crowded than its famed counterpart, Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake offers a quieter, more immersive experience of Kashmir’s natural splendour, dotted with houseboats, traditional shikaras, and encircled by lush tree cover. Location and Connectivity Nigeen Lake enjoys a strategic location adjacent to the iconic Hari Parbat hillock, to the west of Dal Lake. To the north and west lie Baghwanpora and Lal Bazar vibrant localities of Srinagar while the northeast is flanked by Hazratbal, home to the revered Hazratbal Shrine. The lake’s location within the city provides easy connectivity through both roadways and airways, making it a convenient destination for domestic and international tourists alike. Geographic Features and Linkages Geographically, Nigeen Lake ...

Discovering Mulkarkha Lake: The Hidden Gem of the Himalayas

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Nestled quietly in the lap of the Himalayan foothills, Mulkarkha Lake offers a spellbinding blend of spirituality, natural grandeur, and untamed adventure. Tucked away on the Sikkim West Bengal border, this high-altitude natural lake sits at approximately 7,500 feet above sea level and draws visitors not only for its picturesque charm but also for the legends that surround it. Location and Accessibility Mulkarkha Lake is located in the remotest green stretches of North Bengal; near the border it shares with the state of Sikkim. The lake is part of the Kalimpong district and is accessed primarily through a trekking route, making it a cherished destination for backpackers, nature lovers, and spiritual seekers. To reach Mulkarkha Lake: Nearest Airport : Bagdogra Airport (approx. 95 km from Darjeeling) Nearest Railway Station : New Jalpaiguri (NJP), which connects to major Indian cities Base Town : Darjeeling or Gangtok; approximately 3 hours fr...

Loktak Lake: Jewel of Manipur’s Natural Heritage

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Introduction Loktak Lake, nestled in Moirang in the north-eastern state of Manipur, India, is revered as the largest freshwater lake in the region. Beyond its sheer size, the lake is celebrated for its unique ecosystem and cultural significance. Dominating its surface are floating masses known as phumdis—a mesmerizing formation of vegetation, soil, and organic matter at various stages of decomposition. These phumdis resemble miniature islands, drifting serenely across the water and shaping the lake’s extraordinary character. Not merely a natural spectacle, Loktak Lake sustains the region by supplying water for hydropower generation, irrigation, and drinking purposes. It also offers livelihood to a significant population of local fishermen, rooting itself deeply in the social fabric of Manipur. Etymology & Origins The name "Loktak" is derived from the Meitei language. It combines two words: Lok, meaning "stream," and Tak, meaning "end." Thus, Lok...