Karanji Lake, Mysore, Karnataka India

 Karanji Lake is a picturesque lake located at the footsteps of Chamundi Hills and behind Mysore Zoo. Karanji means 'fountain' in Kannada. It is regarded as one of the biggest lakes in Karnataka. Karanji Lake is home to more than 90 species of resident and migratory birds. It also supports several species of butterflies, small mammals and is a good example of wetland ecosystem. The lake attracts painted storks, pelicans and darters and a host of other winged beauties.

The Karanji Lake includes a walk through aviary for chirping birds. This aviary is constructed on the banks of the lake making it India's biggest walk-through aviary. The birds are within handshaking distance. Karanji Lake has a butterfly park housing a large variety of plant species to attract butterflies. Karanji Lake also includes children corner and boating facilities.

If you are an avid bird watcher, Karanji Lake Nature Park is where you should visit while you are in Mysore. It is considered a bird paradise that attracts many ornithologists and other nature enthusiasts. You get to meet a lot of sundry bird species like the great and little cormorants, purple and grey herons, egrets, black bises, rose-ringed parakeets, green bee-eaters, painted storks and a variety of butterflies.