Whether you are planning to take a break from your routine, head for a family holiday or a romantic getaway you will always find beautiful towns with lakes in India that offer a serene experience. Believe it or not, there’s something deeply comforting about water – the way it reflects the sky, calms the mind and allows you to unwind.
No wonder some of the most beautiful towns with lakes in India have become our go-to escapes when life feels too loud. A lot of lakes draw us to them because of their stillness but they are also an activity hub for those who want to holiday.
We love to boat not just for fun, but for the rhythm — the gentle drift that slows time. We walk their edges to think, to talk, to reconnect. These towns wrap those simple joys in forest trails, colonial charm, hilltop cafes, and cool breezes.
Different lake cities in India offer different experiences and vibes. From the regal shimmer of Udaipur to the misty calm of Kodaikanal, you can choose options that best fit your preferences.
This handpicked list brings you the best lake towns to experience peace, play, and the pull of water.
15 Gorgeous Lake Towns in India That’ll Make You Want to Stay Forever
1. Udaipur, Rajasthan
Lake: Lake Pichola, Fateh Sagar Lake & Badi Lake
Often called the City of Lakes, Udaipur brings together royal heritage and serene waters like nowhere else. The still blue surface of Lake Pichola reflects grand palaces, temples, and ghats — a scene straight out of a dream. As you enjoy boating in Lake Pichola you can experience the grandeur of City Palace Udaipur from a different view.
But if you’re looking for peace away from the crowds, head to Fateh Sagar Lake. It’s perfect for an evening walk, with cool breezes and fewer tourists. In fact, many visitors (including us!) prefer its calm over the more commercialized Pichola.
Whether you’re sailing past the white-marble Lake Palace or catching golden hour by the promenade, Udaipur’s lakes invite you to slow down and soak in timeless beauty. You can also explore Badi Lake early in the morning — it’s perfect for a peaceful cycle tour with barely any crowds.
Don’t Miss: A sunset boat ride on Lake Pichola followed by dinner with a lakeside view, a bicycle tour at Badi Lake — and a stroll at Fateh Sagar Lake to end the day.
2. Nainital, Uttarakhand
Lake: Naini Lake
Tucked into a forested valley, Nainital is one of North India’s most iconic lake towns — and for good reason. At its heart lies the pear-shaped Naini Lake, glistening under the watchful gaze of the surrounding hills.
Locals believe the lake holds a divine presence, and honestly, it feels that way — especially at dawn or dusk. From slow paddle-boat rides to morning walks along Thandi Sadak, life in Nainital flows at a gentler pace.
The lake isn’t just a view — it’s the pulse of the town, wrapping you in nostalgia, stillness, and fresh mountain air. You can find plenty of restaurants and cafés around the lake that can add to your experience.
Don’t Miss: A cable car ride to Snow View Point, then come back down for a quiet lakeside coffee.
3. Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu
Lake: Kodaikanal Lake
Cradled in the Palani Hills, Kodaikanal is all about moody skies, winding trails, and its shimmering star-shaped lake. Built in the 19th century, Kodaikanal Lake is the town’s soul — quiet in the morning mist, lively by afternoon with cyclists and rowboats.
The path around the lake is perfect for long, slow walks, with little cafés, eucalyptus trees, and old-world cottages lining the way. The cool climate and pine forests wrap you in a kind of stillness you rarely find in touristy towns.
Come here if you’re chasing a peaceful escape with just the right pinch of nostalgia. If you are unsure how to plan a Kodaikanal trip you can use our guide for complete details.
Don’t Miss: A cycle ride around the lake, followed by hot chocolate at a local bakery nearby.
4. Mahabaleshwar, Maharashtra
Lake: Venna Lake
A beloved escape from Mumbai and Pune, Mahabaleshwar is all mist, strawberries, and forest-scented air. Right at the centre is Venna Lake, lined with paddle boats, food stalls, and horse rides — a bit touristy, yes, but still charming in that old-school hill station way.
The lake shimmers under towering trees and mornings here are best spent walking or just sitting quietly by the shore with a cup of chai. If you’re not in a rush, you’ll find hidden corners where time slows down.
If you are planning a romantic escape read our honeymoon in Mahabaleshwar guide based on our experience. On the other hand, if you are planning a weekend getaway you can choose from these affordable Treebo hotels in Mahabaleshwar.
Don’t Miss: A peaceful boat ride before 10 a.m., when the lake is quiet and the hills wear a soft fog.
Lake: Pawna Lake
One of the most accessible towns with lakes in India is Lonavala. Nestled just a couple of hours from Mumbai, Lonavala is known for its misty hills, nature trails, waterfalls and chikki. One of the main attractions in Lonavala is Pawna Lake. This artificial lake is just a short drive from the main town and offers a stunning view of forts nearby like Lohagad, Tung and Tikona.
This is one of the top choices for campers and glampers looking for a lovely weekend getaway. When you are done unwinding at the lake you can head up the mountains and opt for a Lohagad trek that offers a nice outdoor experience.
The calm blue water against rugged green hills creates the kind of setting that makes you forget your phone exists. Whether you’re kayaking, stargazing, or sipping tea at a lakeside campsite, Pawna brings you closer to nature in the simplest way.
Don’t Miss: An overnight stay in a lakeside tent — it’s pure serenity under the stars.
6. Mount Abu, Rajasthan
Lake: Nakki Lake
Isn’t it strange that Rajasthan, known for its deserts, is also home to three of the most beautiful lake towns in India? Second on this list is Mount Abu, a cool retreat perched high in the Aravalli range.
At its heart lies Nakki Lake, wrapped in legend and rock formations, where paddle boats glide past age-old trees and temples. This is where locals gather, couples take long walks, and the hills reflect softly in the water at dusk.
While it can get busy in peak season, early mornings here feel like a scene from a Himalayan town — misty, quiet, and deeply peaceful. This is a great place for those who want to put their feet up and slow down time.
Don’t Miss: A morning stroll around Nakki Lake followed by a visit to the nearby sunset point.
7. Saputara, Gujarat
Lake: Saputara Lake
Tucked into the Sahyadri range on the Gujarat-Maharashtra border, Saputara is Gujarat’s only hill station — and a surprisingly refreshing one. At the centre of it, all is Saputara Lake, calm and quiet, with paddle boats gently moving across its surface and green hills rising all around.
It’s not just about the lake, though. The cool weather, tribal heritage, local art, and clean mountain air are all reasons to visit Saputara — especially if you’re looking to escape the chaos without going too far off-grid.
With ample accommodations and restaurants, you can have a good time whether you are alone, with your partner or family.
Don’t Miss: A boat ride at sunset followed by a visit to the nearby artist village or the tribal museum.
8. Srinagar, Kashmir
Lake: Dal Lake and Nigeen Lake
Srinagar needs no introduction. Known for its iconic Dal Lake and the smaller Nigeen Lake right next to it, Srinagar is a living postcard. While you enjoy the sky mirroring the lake waters, you can enjoy the landscape of the mighty Zabarwan Hills in the backdrop.
One of the best ways to explore these lakes is to get on one of the colourful shikaras or old wooden houseboats and enjoy the quietness. Unlike Dal Lake which gets most tourists, Nigeen Lake offers a serene experience with limited boats around.
Undoubtedly, Srinagar is one of the most beautiful towns with lakes in India that offer an experience unlike any other. You can enjoy morning tea on a houseboat, a slow cruise through lotus-covered waters and smell crisp air filled with fragrances of pine and saffron.
Don’t Miss: A shikara ride at golden hour — it’s pure poetry, especially when the lake glows in the sunset.
9. Pushkar, Rajasthan
Lake: Pushkar Lake
Unlike Udaipur and Mount Abu, Pushkar offers a unique experience for those looking for towns with lakes in India. Bordering 52 ghats and over 400 temples, Pushkar Lake holds a spiritual weight that you can feel the moment you arrive.
While Pushkar is known for its annual camel fair and boho bazaars, the lake itself is timeless — calm, sacred, and steeped in centuries of devotion. If you are on a solo trip in India you would want to add Pushkar to your list and spend some time contemplating.
Pilgrims perform rituals along its edges, while travellers sit in quiet reflection or catch the echo of temple bells at dusk. Unlike many other lakes on this list, Pushkar’s charm lies more in its soul than its scenery.
Don’t Miss: Sitting on a quiet ghat during the evening aarti — the chants, the lamps, the still water… it stays with you.
10. Bhimtal, Uttarakhand
Lake: Bhimtal Lake
Just an hour’s drive east of Nainital lies Bhimtal, a peaceful town built around a large, glassy lake that’s named after Bhima from the Mahabharata. Bhimtal Lake is bigger and far less crowded than its famous neighbour, making it a favourite for nature lovers and solitude seekers.
If you are someone who’s looking for privacy and serenity, Bhimtal is a much better option than Nainital. This is where you can slow down your time and contemplate your life choices or just enjoy quality time with your loved ones.
At the lake’s centre sits a small island, home to an aquarium, which adds a unique twist to the usual boat ride. The surrounding hills and chirping birds give this place a raw, untouched charm that’s hard to come by in Uttarakhand’s more commercial towns.
11. Wayanad, Kerala
Lake: Pookode Lake and Banasura Sagar Lake
When you are looking for beautiful towns with lakes in India you can head to Wayanad. Tucked away in Kerala’s Western Ghats this is the kind of place where you wake up to birds chirping and fall asleep to the sound of crickets.
While you can explore and make the most of Pookode Lake you can also explore the Banasura Sagar Lake which offers amazing scenic beauty and lush landscapes. Formed by the Banasura Dam, the rolling hills around it offer an amazing backdrop to the lake.
This is a great place for those who want to enjoy outdoor activities like boating, hiking nearby nature trails or just strolling around the lake. You must enjoy the calm that this lake has to offer as an escape from your chaotic lifestyle.
Don’t Miss: A speedboat ride across the lake with the Banasura hills in the background — thrilling and serene all at once.
12. Chopta, Uttarakhand
Lake: Deoria Tal
If you are looking for lesser-known towns with lakes in India, Chopta in Uttarakhand is a great choice. This small town is known as the gateway to Tungnath and Chandrashila. However, if you are looking for a scenic getaway you can hike all the way to Deoria Tal.
Unlike other bigger lakes on this list, this alpine lake looks like a mirror placed at a high altitude among the pines. This is a great place where you can spend hours soaking in the mountain air and lush scenic views.
On a clear day, the peaks of Chaukhamba reflect perfectly in the waters which adds to its natural beauty. This is no place for paddle boating and cafés, but you can enjoy the forest and snow-clad mountains that offer you silence you’ve never heard of before.
Don’t Miss: Camp overnight near Deoria Tal and wake up to golden peaks lighting up the lake — it’s nothing short of magical.
13. Mandi, Himachal Pradesh
Lake: Rewalsar Lake & Prashar Lake
Skipping away from the popular destinations in Himachal Pradesh, Mandi offers a unique blend of myth, mysticism and mountains. This is where the river meets temples and lakes whisper stories from the hills.
While you are in Mandi you can explore the Rewalsar Lake which is a sacred space for both Hindus, Sikhs and Buddhists. On the other hand, Prashar Lake is one of the most unique lakes in India. The lake has a floating island that drifts across its surface. While you are here you can also explore the small ancient temple of sage Prashar.
If you are looking for places to eat and hang out you can find them near Rewalsar Lake. However, Prashar Lake has no shops or recreational venues which allow you to enjoy crisp mountain air and silence.
Don’t Miss: The trek to Prashar Lake at sunrise — the kind of beauty that settles in your memory for years.
14. Chikmagalur, Karnataka
Lake: Hirekolale Lake
Are you a coffee aficionado? Well, if you are Chikmagalur (Chikkamagaluru) is one of the best towns with lakes in India you should visit. Known for its coffee estates and misty mountains, Chikmagalur is a great place where you can enjoy some quiet time and smell the aroma of coffee all around.
Surrounded by lush plantations and distant peaks, Hirekolale Lake is one of the best lakes in India. This is where you can enjoy raw natural beauty and make your moments special. The still lake water reflects the Mullayanagiri range and that makes up for a lovely scenic canvas.
While this is not a place for outdoor activities like boating and kayaking you can still spend hours here alone, with loved ones and family. All you need to do is sit and soak in the natural beauty and vibes.
Don’t Miss: Visit around sunset with a thermos of coffee from a nearby estate — you won’t want to leave.
15. Ooty, Tamil Nadu
Lake: Ooty Lake
Ooty remains one of the top hill stations in India offering unmatched natural landscapes and experiences. It is also one of the most beautiful towns with lakes in India where you can enjoy the calm like no other. Ooty Lake is an artificial lake surrounded by eucalyptus trees and rolling hills.
If you are looking for a lovely picnic day with your family and loved ones, Ooty Lake is a great choice. Here you can opt for paddle boats, row boats and even pedal boats. This makes Ooty Lake an ideal choice for families and honeymooners.
To make it better there are shaded walking paths and pony rides available that add to the outdoor adventure you expect from a hill station. With excellent accommodations, restaurants and cafés you can have a great time around the lake.
Don’t Miss: A peaceful early morning boat ride before the crowds arrive — just mist, water, and mountains waking up around you.
Plan Your Escape to These Beautiful Towns with Lakes in India
There’s something timeless about towns with lakes in India — the way water holds reflections, stories, and stillness. Whether you’re boating in Srinagar, cycling around Badi Lake in Udaipur, or sipping coffee by Hirekolale in Chikmagalur, these lakes offer more than just scenic views — they restore, recharge, and reconnect.
While they all are lake towns each one offers a different experience and vibe which makes them unique. This means that you need to look for the ones that offer you the right level of tranquillity, natural landscapes and outdoor activities. So, if you planning an escape you can choose from these beautiful towns with lakes in India that offer you the experiences you seek.
