Durgam Cheruvu is one of the popular sightseeing places in Hyderabad which is situated close to Hi-tech city. It a serene and picturesque lake in the middle of the bustling cybercity. Durgam Cheruvu is bordered by granite on all sides and is hidden bu the rock, which gave the lake its alternate name called a Secret Lake. The rock formations surrounding the lake are said to be approximately 2500 million years old that are spread across an area of 63 acres of land. This lake has a great historical significance, under the rule of the Qutub Shahi Dynasty, it is believed that the lake was the main source of water for the residents of Golconda fort. The place offers calmness and scenic beauty along with the astonishing sight of the sunset.
In 2001, the local government and the tourism department initiated a step to promote Durgam Cheruvu as a tourist destination. As a part of the beautification process of the site, the surrounding area of the lake is illuminated, rock garden, waterfalls and a floating fountain were added. On the weekends, people nearby travel to this lake to relax and enjoy fishing. The local agencies turned the lake into a fishing zone and capitalized on the visitors. Adventure activities like trekking, rock climbing, rappelling, sculptor park and an art gallery were introduced. With the capacity to hold 1500 people at a time, an amphitheater was also added for public access. Plastic is completely banned at the site and the authorities are working to make it a Lake Park that will cater to local people and tourism.
Walking Track
The Durgam Cheruvu lake park is well laid out with steps for you to climb down till you reach the lakefront, and in case you want to rest and read a book, there are benches scattered across the park. The walking track delights art enthusiasts and Nature lovers. In 2018, the lake bund has been upgraded with walkways by the K Raheja group. as part of CSR activity. Out of a 6 km broad walk, 2.2 km has been developed in the first phase and is currently open for the public in the mornings and evenings. The first phase of the lake was developed at a cost of Rs 15 crores. The 2.2 km jogging and cycling tracks have a central median with signboards, benches, children’s play area, yoga corner, cycle stand and toilet facilities.
Cable Bridge
Recently the country’s longest span extra-dosed cable-stayed bridge over Durgam Cheruvu was successfully completed. The total length of the bridge including approach ways is 764.38m and the cable-stay bridge length is 425.85m This cable bridge will aid in cutting down the distance from Jubilee Hills to Madhapur mainly for corporate and IT employees. The bridge begins from the main entrance of the Ambedkar Open University on Jubilee Hills Road No 45 and leads to the junction near Inorbit Mall. Nearly 130 segments were used to construct the bridge and the cost of this bridge is about 187 crores. To suit the occasions and festivities, multi-coloured lighting is being designed with different themes.
Owing to its scenic beauty and unique location, Durgam Cheruvu is a common venue for film shootings. Although not as popular at the Hussain Sagar Lake, it is often considered at a popular party zone and an ideal place for a relaxed yet fun-filled hang out of the city. One can spend a quiet evening and watch the breathtaking sunset where you can witness the evening turn into sublime dusk at the lake. Plenty of chirping birds and squirrels will accompany you on your walks and make it more fun. Durgam Cheruvu has a dedicated fast food joint and restaurant for refreshments and there are also other restaurants close by at Inorbit mall. The site is even more beautified with an artificial waterfall and fountain.
The nearby landmarks to Durgam Cheruvu include Inorbit Mall, Hi-Tech City and Cyber Towers which is just 2km drive. It is open on all days, from Monday to Sunday and the timings of the lake are from 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM. The Durgam Cheruvu is an ideal getaway from the hustle and bustle of the big city.
Durgam Cheruvu Address Location;
Durgam Cheruvu Lake Timings:
10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (All Days of the Week)