Pilikula Lake is a serene water body located in the vicinity of Mangalore. The lake is situated on the Mangalore – Moodbidri Highway (NH13), at a distance of about 12 km from the town of Mangalore.
The lake is part of the “Pilikula Nisarga Dhama”, an eco-educational tourist park that comprises of a zoo, botanical garden, heritage village, science centre, garden and golf course along with the lake. The water body is spread across an area of 5 acres and has a depth of about 30 foot.
The lake attracts nature lovers to the scenic beauty of the place and is frequented by people of all age groups.
History of the Pilikula Lake, Mangalore
Pilikula Lake was once a large water body that served as the source of water for the various wild animals living in that area.
However, with the passage of time the lake was affected by water pollution. The pollution increased to such a level that the huge lake shrank to become a small pond and was on its way to oblivion. It was at that time that the authorities finally woke up to the matter of preservation and restoration of the lake.
The lake was de-silted and restored under the Pilikula Project. Due to the restoration process the lake was able to get back its original glory.
Legend surrounding the Pilikula Lake, Mangalore
Legend has it that the Pilikula Lake was once a famous haunt of tigers where they came to quench their thirst. The lake derives its name from this legend surrounding the water body. Pilikula in the local language means the ‘Tiger Pond.’
The beauty of the Pilikula Lake, Mangalore
Pilikula Lake is a place of visual delight. The scenic beauty of the water body is enhanced by the presence of beautifully laid gardens that encircle the lake. The green lawns have rest areas and drinking water facilities for visitors.
Due to the serene beauty of the lake it has become popular as a picnic spot among the locals. There are boating facilities available for visitors to the water body. There are small pedal boats that are ideal for couples who want to enjoy a nice time on the lake.
For families or visitors in large groups there are bigger boats that can carry about 10 to 15 people at a time for a cruise on the lake. Swans and ducks can be seen in and around the lake. A walking cum jogging track surrounds the water body.
How to reach the Pilikula Lake, Mangalore
The Pilikula Lake is easily accessible from different parts of Karnataka and beyond. As the lake is located near the town of Mangalore it can be reached by several means of transport.
By air – The nearest airport to reach the lake is the Mangalore Airport (Bajpe International Airport) that lies at a distance of 12 km from the lake. It is the second largest airport in Karnataka and has flights connecting it to several towns and cities within and outside the country. The lake can be reached from the airport through taxis or local public buses.
By train – The nearest railway stations to reach the lake are situated within Mangalore. The town has two stations, the Mangalore Central Railway Station located at Hampankatta and the Mangalore Junction located at Kankanadi. The lake can be reached from both the railway stations within half an hour by using means of public transport like cabs, taxis and buses.
By road – The lake can be reached from Mangalore through a number of public buses that operate frequently from the town. Cab service is also available for the lake from Mangalore.
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