Durgam Cheruvu Lake Front Park — Attraction in Hyderabad

Nestled between the lively neighborhoods of Jubilee Hills, Madhapur, and Raidurg in Hyderabad, Durgam Cheruvu—often called the “Secret Lake”—is a beautiful urban retreat where nature, history, activities, and modern design converge in one enriching experience. The lake spans approximately 83 acres and sits peacefully behind ancient granite rock formations that date back millions of years .

Historically, Durgam Cheruvu served as a crucial water source for the Golconda Fort under the Qutb Shahi dynasty—giving it both historical importance and a sense of timeless allure . Today, it has evolved beautifully thanks to thoughtful beautification efforts: you’ll find landscaped gardens, a rock garden, an artificial waterfall, floating fountain, paved walkways for about 2 km, and even an amphitheater that seats up to 1,500 people .

For those seeking relaxing or active outings, the lakefront is ideal. Go boating—from mechanized boats and speedboats to pedal boats, water scooters, and more—and enjoy scenic views of the surroundings while floating on the water . Adventure lovers can trek, enjoy rock climbing, rappelling, and even explore an art gallery and sculptor’s park nearby . Birdwatchers will also appreciate that around 149 bird species have been recorded here as of mid-2024 .

One of the most striking modern additions is the Durgam Cheruvu Cable Bridge—an elegant extradosed bridge connecting Jubilee Hills and Madhapur, opening up travel, while also adding a dramatic visual element to the lakefront . At night, it's lit with colorful lights and accompanied by musical fountains, making for a magical experience .

For visitors, timing and access are easy: the lakefront park is typically open from early morning (around 5 AM) to late evening (around 8 PM), with boating starting shortly after (around 9 AM) until evening . Entry is free or minimal—boating costs vary depending on type, but overall, the experience is very accessible . The peaceful ambiance, along with cafes and restaurants nearby (like Olive Bistro, Last House Coffee, etc.), makes it perfect for everything from a solo escape to a family outing or date night .

Beyond its scenic and recreational appeal, Durgam Cheruvu also hosts events like the annual “Inorbit Durgam Cheruvu Run” and has even been a location for Formula E car unveilings and cultural performances . And with an ongoing focus on preservation—GHMC is working to resolve encroachment issues with a recent High Court directive—the lake’s ecological integrity is actively being...

Durgam Cheruvu Lake Front Park: A Scenic Gem 💎

Durgam Cheruvu Lake Front Park offers a fantastic and affordable outing for families and individuals alike. The entry fee is incredibly reasonable, making it accessible to all.

Highlights: Stunning Walkway: The beautifully landscaped walkway, adorned with lights and trees, provides a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls and photo opportunities. The heart-shaped entry points, illuminated in the evening, add a touch of charm. Lake Views & Bridge: The park boasts breathtaking views of Durgam Cheruvu and the iconic Durgam Cheruvu bridge, especially when the Indian flag is illuminated. Musical Fountain: The mesmerizing musical fountain is undoubtedly the highlight, creating a captivating spectacle of lights and water. Family-Friendly Amenities: The park caters to families with a dedicated play area for children, an outdoor gym, and plenty of green spaces for relaxation. Boating & Other Activities: Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the lake. The park also offers various food stalls selling delicious treats like panipuri, momos, bhelpuri, and ice cream. Minor Observations: Single Entry/Exit: The single entry/exit point can be slightly inconvenient for those who walk a significant distance within the park. Cash and UPI Payments: While UPI is accepted, it's always helpful to have some cash on hand.

Overall: Durgam Cheruvu Lake Front Park is a highly recommended destination. It offers a serene and enjoyable experience with stunning views, family-friendly amenities, and a touch of cultural significance.

Tips for Visitors: Evening Visit: For the best experience, visit the park in the evening to enjoy the illuminated walkway, musical fountain, and the breathtaking views of the city skyline. Wear Comfortable Shoes: The park offers ample walking space, so comfortable footwear is essential. Carry Water: Stay hydrated, especially during warmer weather. Respect the Environment: Please dispose of waste responsibly and maintain the cleanliness of the park. In Summary: Durgam Cheruvu Lake Front Park is a hidden gem in Hyderabad, offering a delightful escape from the...

🌳 Durgam Cheruvu Lake Park Overview

📍 Location & History • Located in Hyderabad, Telangana, between Jubilee Hills and Madhapur. • Often called the “Secret Lake”, hidden by rocky terrain and granite formations. • Spread across approximately 83 acres. • The lake dates back to the Qutub Shahi dynasty and historically served as a drinking water source for Golconda Fort. • The surrounding rock formations are around 2,500 million years old, making it both a natural and historical landmark.

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🏞 Park Features & Infrastructure • Timings: • Morning: 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM • Evening: 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM • Boating timings usually: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM • Entry Fee: • General park entry: Free • Charges apply for boating, floating restaurant, and adventure sports. • Facilities Include: • 2 to 3.5 km walking, jogging, and cycling track around the lake • Children’s playgrounds • Yoga zones and seating benches • Sculpture park with artwork and installations • Amphitheater (called The Crescent), capacity around 1,300 to 1,500 people • Toilets, dustbins, and ample seating

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🚤 Activities & Attractions Boating Options • Paddle boats • Mechanized boats • Speed boats • Water scooters (Jet Ski) • Charges range from ₹20 to ₹500 depending on the type of ride Floating Restaurant • Capacity for about 40 people • Duration: ~40–45 minutes ride on the lake • Ticket cost: ~₹200 per person Adventure Activities • Rock climbing • Rappelling • Trekking • Kayaking Fishing (Angling) • Popular among weekend visitors • Common fish: Rohu, Catla, and others Evening Attractions • Musical/dancing fountains • Artificial waterfalls • Beautifully illuminated cable bridge in the evenings

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🌉 Durgam Cheruvu Cable Bridge • Type: Extradosed cable-stayed bridge • Opened to public: September 2020 • Connects Jubilee Hills to HITEC City/Madhapur, reducing traffic congestion • Features separate pedestrian and cycling tracks • Popular spot for photography and night-time illumination • Has hosted events like runs, exhibitions, and...