Indo Islamic Heritage

Kankaria Lake

Kankaria Lake is the largest lake in Ahmedabad in the Indian state of Gujarat. It is located in the south-eastern part of the city, in the Maninagar area. It was completed in 1451 during the reign of Sultan Qutb-ud-Din Ahmad Shah II though its origin is placed in the Chaulukya period sometimes The Nearest Bus Stand - kankaria , Nearest Railway Station - Ahmedabad Junction Railway Station Nearest Airport- Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport

The construction of the lake, known as "Hauj-e-Qutb" (Pond of Qutb), was initiated by Sultan Muizz-ud-Din Muhammad Shah II in the 15th century and completed during the reign of Sultan Qutb-ud-Din Ahmad Shah II in 1451, as per an inscription at the site. The lake is a remarkable 34-sided regular polygon that spans an area of 76 acres, with a shore length of approximately 2 kilometers (or one and a quarter miles). Its design includes flights of meticulously cut stone steps on all sides, providing access to the water. Additionally, six sloping pathways lead into the reservoir, each historically covered by square cupolas raised on 12 intricately carved pillars, enhancing its architectural grandeur. At the center of the lake lies a picturesque island called Nagina Wadi, originally named Bagh-e-Nagina (meaning "Beautiful Garden" in Urdu). This island garden is connected to the lake's banks by a bridge that was initially constructed with 48 arches. Known as "the Jewel (Nagina) in the center of the ring of lake," the garden was a symbol of elegance and serenity. It houses a pleasure pavilion or summer palace named Ghattamandal, designed to offer respite and leisure. During the British restoration of the site, a parapet wall was added around the garden to preserve its integrity. The lake was equipped with an advanced water purification system, the remnants of which are now lost. On its eastern side, well-carved supply sluices were installed to regulate water flow. These sluices, with their beautifully carved margins, resemble the architectural style of the minarets seen in Ahmedabad mosques. They are supported by buttresses or jambs, which are a testament to the sophisticated engineering of the period. Between these buttresses lies a six-foot-thick screen with three large openings, each six feet in diameter, allowing for the inflow of water. The intricate carvings on the margins of these openings highlight the artistry and attention to detail that went into the lake's construction, making it not only a functional reservoir but also a masterpiece of medieval engineering and design.

Year of Built: 15th Century

Address: Kankaria Lake, Kankaria, Ahmedabad, Gujarat

Country: India

State: Gujarat

District: Ahmedabad

Pincode: 380043

Longitude: 72.6011

Latitude: 23.006