Hidden lakes in Delhi NCR for a Day trip

Let’s face it — Delhi isn’t exactly known for silence. From the buzz of autos to the endless honking and metro rush, it’s a city that rarely pauses. But what if I told you that just a short drive or a dusty trail away, there are calm little lakes where the world slows down?

I’m not talking about the big, commercial spots with boats and ticket counters. I’m talking about real, hidden lakes in Delhi NCR. The kind that don’t show up on travel brochures. The kind you stumble upon — and never forget.

Here’s a list of those not-so-famous lakes I’ve either accidentally discovered on hikes, heard about from friends, or just decided to explore one random Sunday.

1. Bhardwaj Lake – The Accidental Gem of Faridabad

I found this one totally by accident. A friend mentioned a “blue lake” near Delhi and I was skeptical — but we decided to check it out. Tucked behind a quarry in Faridabad, Bhardwaj Lake looks like something straight out of a nature documentary. Still, deep blue water. Quiet cliffs. No crowds.

You have to trek a bit to reach it (wear good shoes!), but when you do — wow. It’s peaceful, untouched, and weirdly cinematic.

📍 Location: Near Surajkund, Faridabad
🌄 Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon
🚫 Caution: No guards, no fencing — be careful around the cliffs

2. Asola Bhatti Lake – Delhi’s Best-Kept Secret

Nestled inside the Asola Wildlife Sanctuary, this lake is one of the city’s most stunning natural hideouts. The trek there is a bit rugged — dusty paths, thorny shrubs, no real signage — but it’s worth every step. The lake is surrounded by hills and trees, and when the light hits the water just right, it looks straight-up magical.

Go with someone who’s been there before or join a weekend hiking group. And definitely take water with you.

📍 Location: Near Tughlaqabad
🧭 Vibe: Wild, raw, and breathtaking
🎒 What to Carry: Water, snacks, good shoes, and a charged phone

3. Peacock Lake – The Little Surprise in Vasant Vihar

Most people go to the Aravalli Biodiversity Park for morning walks or birdwatching. But if you take a slightly offbeat path inside, you’ll stumble upon a tiny lake that locals call Peacock Lake. It’s small, quiet, and super charming — and yes, I’ve actually seen a peacock strutting nearby like it owned the place.

It's a great spot for thinking, journaling, or just sitting with a chai and a friend.

📍 Location: Aravalli Biodiversity Park
⏰ Best Time: Mornings
🦚 Wildlife Alert: Peacocks, parakeets, butterflies galore

4. Mangar Bani Lake – Sacred, Secluded, and Soulful

This one’s not on most maps. The Mangar Bani forest is a protected, sacred grove between Gurgaon and Faridabad. And if you visit right after the monsoon, you’ll find a seasonal lake inside — calm, shallow, and surrounded by centuries-old banyan trees.

Locals believe this place is blessed, and honestly, it feels that way. There’s something deeply peaceful about it.

📍 Location: Near Mangar Village
🙏 Tip: Be respectful — it’s a spiritual space for many
🌳 What You’ll Feel: Stillness. And maybe a bit of awe.

5. Damdama Lake – Busy at One End, Blissful at the Other

I know, I know — Damdama isn’t a secret. But hear me out. Most people crowd the main boating area, but if you walk 10–15 minutes around the lake, you’ll find quiet patches with trees, birds, and maybe a sleepy dog or two.

Great for reading, slow conversations, or solo daydreaming.

📍 Location: Sohna Road, Gurgaon
🛶 Bonus: You can do kayaking here too
🌿 Hidden Tip: Avoid weekends if you want peace

6. Sanjay Lake – East Delhi’s Quiet Champion

East Delhi doesn’t get enough love. But Sanjay Lake is seriously underrated. Surrounded by a big park, this lake is clean, well-maintained, and one of the few places where you can spot migratory birds in winter.

It's great for parents with kids, early risers, or anyone looking for fresh air that isn’t mixed with traffic.

📍 Location: Trilokpuri
🪶 Bird Bonus: You might see ducks, storks, or even a kingfisher
🚴‍♀️ Great For: Cycling or long, slow walks

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these lakes safe for solo visitors?
Mostly, yes — if you visit in daylight and avoid remote corners. Bhardwaj and Asola are best visited in groups or with guides.

Can I take food or do a picnic there?
Yes, just don’t litter. Most of these spots are fragile ecosystems. Please carry your waste back with you.

Which lake is best for photos?
Bhardwaj Lake for its color, Asola for the raw nature, and Peacock Lake for its unexpected calm.

Do I need permission to visit any of these?
Asola may require a small entry fee or prior registration. Others are open-access, but always check Google reviews or with locals before planning.

💬 Final Thought: Delhi Isn’t Just Dust and Deadlines

The next time someone says Delhi is too loud, too crowded, or too fast, take them to one of these lakes. Watch their shoulders drop. Watch them breathe differently.

There’s something healing about water. Even more so when you find it where you least expect it — quietly sitting behind a hill, wrapped in silence, waiting to be seen.

So go. Pack light, carry curiosity, and let Delhi surprise you.