Delhi fascinates. Its rivers and lakes form a major attraction for tourists, both domestic and international. Delhi has 3 chief rivers: Hindon River, Sahibi River, and Yamuna River. It features several lakes too. Tourists with an affinity towards water bodies can spend a good time in this metro city.

Rivers of Delhi

Hindon River

Hindon River originates from Upper Shivalik in Lower Himalayan Range. It flows for 400 km between Ganga and Yamuna Rivers and passes through districts of Muzaffarnagar, Meerut, Baghpat, Ghaziabad, NOIDA, and then joins Delhi. At the bank of this river, on the outskirts of Delhi, lies the Hindon Air Force Base. The Ghaziabad Nagar Nigam has stepped forward to beautify this river and make it a tourist attraction.

Yamuna River

It is written in holy Bhagwad Gita: “Devotees in Vrindavana, who bathe in Yamuna regularly, cleanse themselves of all the contamination of the material world.”

Yamuna, also called Jamuna, is the second largest tributary river of the Ganga. It is India’s longest river, which does not flow into the sea directly. It originates from Yamunotri Glacier of Lower Himalayas. It passes through several states like Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Harayana, and Delhi.

On April 25, 2014, The National Green Tribunal proposed to the Government to declare the Yamuna stretch between Delhi and Uttar Pradesh as a conservation zone. The stretch is 52 km long. People of Delhi perform rituals along the banks of this holy river, which witnesses a large crowd during festivals. It is a major source of water for Delhiites.

Sahibi River

Sahibi River is a rain-fed river of India. In Delhi it is known as Najafgarh Drain or Nallah. Here, the river is channelized for the purpose of flood control.

Sahibi River is a tributary to the Yamuna, into which it flows. It is called Najafgarh Drain from its once renowned and big Najafgarh Lake near Najafgarh town, located in Southwest Delhi. Regulators situated at the Outer Ring Road Keshopur Bus Depot are wide. They feature dense and high embankments. Surplus amount of water is present in this drain. This happens by closing the Kakrola regulators located under Najafgarh Road for the purpose of recharging local groundwater table.

Lakes of Delhi

Damdama Lake lies a few km south of Gurgaon, off the Gurgaon-Alwar road. This is a fun place, perfect for picnics, corporate tours, and adventure. It is a famous weekend getaway of Delhiites and people of NCR. Tourists, from outside, also visit this place.

Damdama Lake is one of the largest natural lakes of Haryana. The lake fills up a depression created in Aravalli Hills. It forms a picturesque background with its placid waters.
There is a lot to do here. Tourists can indulge in boating by Paddle Boats, Row Boats, and Motor Boats. Rock climbing offers an adventure trip to visitors who want to cover the difficult terrains of the Aravalli. Other adventure sports include para sailing, angling, trekking, cycling, hot air ballooning, and camping. Adventure lovers can also organize bungee jumping here.

The lake features several resorts that allow tourists to camp here and enjoy an overnight trip.

Sultanpur Lake

Sultanpur Lake is in Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary, which is home to about 250 bird species and many migratory birds. They perch on the lakeside and form a breathtaking view. The lake offers a great site for photography and bird watching.

The lake lies about 15 km from Gurgaon. It provides an easy escape from the daily hustle bustle of the city. Visitors can spend serene time here among the beautiful flamingos and Siberian Cranes.

Manger Lake

Manger Lake is also called Asola Bhatti Lake or Bhardwaj Lake. This is the last remnant of Delhi Ridge. It lies at the south most corner of Delhi. Tourists can take the walking trail of the semi arid sanctuary to reach the lake, which lies at the end of the trail. Tourists can also approach this lake from Surajkund Road.

Sanjay Jheel

Sanjay Jheel is the perfect place to spend leisure time with family and friends. It is an artificial lake created by Delhi Development Authority in Trilokpuri area of East Delhi. It features a big, lush park that offers a great place for migratory birds. Visitors must carry their camera to capture some breathtaking views of the place. The lake offers a refreshing site where visitors can relax after a busy week. Nearby stores offer interesting props and merchandise, ambient music, and fascinating items.

Boating Lake

The lake is located at Purana Quila or Old Fort of Delhi. This shimmering lake offers a terrific site for boating. The fort gives a rich backdrop, proudly boasting of Delhi’s ancient history and culture. A 15-minute boat ride on the lake lets tourists explore the hidden beauty of this place.

Suraj Kund

Suraj Kund lies about 20 km from the center of Delhi. This is an artificial lake featuring calm surroundings and picturesque beauty. It has become a famous picnic spot for Delhiites and people from nearby areas. The renowned Suraj Kund Mela is held here in February every year. The mela attracts swarms of tourists from India and abroad.
Suraj Kund offers overnight stay too through its guest houses. Visitors can enjoy campfires and have frolic nights and days. The place rejuvenates the senses.

The Ballabgarh Lake lies at the Delhi-Mathura Road. It is a great place for picnics, fishing, and leisure. More such lakes exist in and around Delhi.