Fox Sagar & The Lost Pump House
I was born in Hyderabad, and I have lived here most of my life. But, it wasn’t until a year ago, when a friend mentioned Fox Sagar Lake, did I even become aware of its existence. He hadn’t heard of it either, till his work for a magazine helped us discover this Lake.
& This lake is beautiful. Period.
Hyderabad is known for its Hussain Sagar and The Buddha Statue there. The Hussain Sagar has an iconic status that it shares with Charminar and now, Hitec City. But, in reality, it is an extremely polluted lake that stinks up the air! Inspite of this, being the only water body in an otherwise hot and crowded city, it draws in crowds by the hundreds and even thousands on holidays. I, like everyone else, have been drawn to it too.
On the other hand, is The Fox Sagar Lake. In the city, but wide, expansive and cheerful. You can still see buildings, but at a distance.
Though not so popular with the locals, it definitely is a hit with the birds! I wasn't really expecting to see so many birds of such varied species. Truth be told, I did not even know what to expect. All we did was follow the route traced out on Google Maps!!
[gallery ids="1428,1448,1449" type="rectangular"]
But, what adds to the charm of this Lake and makes it so special is the antiquated Pump House built on it.
Nearly 120 years old, the lake and pump house were apparently built by the Nizam of Hyderabad as part of his program for bringing in water to the city. There is even an 1897 inscribed on its dome! :D
You reach the pump house by a stretch of narrow elevated road, which is more of a dirt trail sloping off on either side with thorny shrubs as barricades. So, the only way to reach it is by foot or by a bike. When we had gone there do a recce of this place, we were driving as suggested by google maps and we were already on this road with no where else to go but ahead! Some careful manoeuvering did get us there, but I wouldn't suggest this.
Walking is more fun anyway, for then you notice more.
[gallery ids="1388,1387" type="rectangular"]
The Pump House is a beautiful structure which also creates gorgeous, intricate shadow patterns with the sun's rays. You would not be able to resist clicking pictures of it!
Waiting - literally - just around the corner is a view just as picturesque if not more. You can go around the ledge for a beautiful view of the lake and the breathtaking quality of it is enhanced not only by the absolute vertical drop from there, but the cool breeze blowing in your face.
Well, finding not just water but in a place that is relatively un-intruded upon by man, plus the bonus of a cool tranquil breeze is a very rare occurrence here, so, I am sorry if I go a little overboard with my adjectives!!
[gallery ids="1340,1339" type="rectangular"]
PS: This fellow here, gets a special mention for just being so cute! He led us to the lake after ascertaining the 'goodness' of each of us.
Discover other Lakes in Hyderabad:
Gandipet, Where is The Lake??A Lake in Resort Land: ShamirpetThe Flamingo Story: Ameenpur