Boating in India - 10 Places You Can Visit To Sail Through The Waters

Being someone who seeks thrill in boating is always guaranteed of an adventure ahead. Boating as a water-based leisurely activity is found to have a positive impact on the relationships. Those who enjoy boating have certain craftsmanship in them to be always able to spot the best boat and know that it is the going to be significant fun. If you are looking for refreshing breaks to connect and spend quality time with your family, choose a location, plan a trip and go on a boat ride with them. The part about picking up a place where you can delight yourself on a boat ride might sound tricky, but, believe us, it is not.

This article lists all the popular boating destinations in India which will tempt you to pack your bags and get going for that calming boat ride:

1. Nakki Lake, Mount Abu

The popular hill station situated in the Aravalli Range, Mount Abu has several tourist attractions. Among those, Nakki Lake which is considered to be pious because of its historical importance is a must-visit spot. According to the Hindu culture, in the ancient times, Gods dug out this lake with their fingers and nails while seeking protection from a demon. Nakki Lake is the first human-made lake which is believed to be 11,000 meters deep and a quarter of a mile wide. There is a boating facility at the Nakki Lake which gives visitors a great chance to enjoy the serene view of the lake. The lake is also famous for a different reason Mahatma Gandhi's ashes were immersed in the same lake where Gandhi Ghat has been constructed. The fountains in the lake offer an enchanting view of the life at Mount Abu while you boat merrily. There is also Toad Rock on a hill nearby. These strangely shaped rocks are arranged in such a way that it resembles a toad about to jump in the lake. Additionally, there are numerous eateries in the area where you can enjoy a sumptuous meal after the pleasant boat ride.

Timings: 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM

Tickets: No entry fee. Boating charges applicable

2. Gadisar Lake, Rajasthan

Enjoy the lush greenery on an early morning or evening boat ride at the Gadisar Lake, Rajasthan. This lake is one of the most precious assets for the locals and has been carrying the heritage and culture for generations. The first Maharaja of the city of Jaisalmer, Raja Rawal Jaisal, artificially built this lake in as a water reservoir for his people in the hope of solving the water crisis in the area. The Gadisar Lake is situated in the heart of Mount Abu and thus, boating around the lake offers a mesmerising view of the city while you can also spot the famous Raghunath Temple and Maharaja Jaipur Palace which are located in the nearby area. The lake is considered to be sacred and is worshipped by a local tribe known as Garasia.

You can also buy food from the stalls there and feed the catfish in the lake. The sight of the fishes flocking around you to grab a bite or two is intriguing as well as tad bit scary too. During winters, bird-watchers can engage in their favourite pastime as beautiful migratory birds visit the lake as the Bharatpur bird sanctuary is very close to the lake. While you plan a trip to the Gadisar Lake, don't forget to pack a pair of binoculars and a camera with a wide-angle lens to capture the magnificence of this place.

Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Tickets:
INR 100 per person two-seater pedal
INR 200 per person four-seater pedal
INR 300 per person six seater rowing

3. Bedhaghat, Jabalpur

A spectacle of nature, Bhedaghat is a town located in the Jabalpur district in the state of Madhya Pradesh. Elevate your spirits in this picturesque location which has also been used as a setting for various movie scenes.The marble rock boating area is breathtaking with the subtle hues and colours of the rocks and stones. With time, the Narmada river has carved a beautiful gorge of approximately eight kilometres. Rent a rowboat or a motorboat and go on a guided tour of the river. On your way back, make sure to buy some marble souvenirs from the art and craft shops in the market area.

Timings: 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Tickets: INR 500 for a 5-seater boat
INR 50 per person for shared boat rides

4. Kumarakom Backwaters

A trip to Kerala is incomplete if you do not get to enjoy the tranquil serenity of the Kumarakom backwaters. A small town located in Kottayam district of Kerala receives thousands of tourists everywhere who come to live up their dream of spending time on a houseboat in the backwaters. A much-deserved break from the fast-paced urban lifestyle, the Kumarakom boating tours are therapeutic in an actual sense. The vibrant green cover contributed by the coconut plantations, and paddy fields all around make up for a soothing sight for the mind and soul. For the boat cruises, you can get the booking done in advance. The most exciting part is these houseboats or Kettuvallams, as known in Kerala, are entirely built with eco-friendly materials. If you are staying overnight, the houseboats will remain stationary from 6:00 PM till 7:00 AM in the morning, the next day.

Timings: 12:00 PM to 10:00 AM (22 hours trip)

Tickets: INR 9000 to INR 22000 (Depending upon the rooms on the houseboat)

5. Dal Lake, Srinagar

To go on a fascinating Shikara boat ride on the Dal Lake and live up the most captivating activity while you are in Srinagar. The awe-inspiring panoramic view of the lush green landscapes, the ripples forming on the lake water, flowering gardens, and the vibrant floating market will leave you enchanted. Shikara is a kind of a wooden boat made primarily out of deodar wood. The Shikara boat can also take you to the famous tourist attraction surrounding the Dal Lake such as the Shalimar Garden, Nishat Garden and the Hazratbal Mosque. The Shikaras also play a crucial part in the infamous floating market on the Dal Lake where the locals sell flowers, vegetables and handicrafts. So, while you reside in a Shikara houseboat, you can go shopping on your boat to the eye-catching hues on the floating boats which are a part of the market.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM

Tickets: INR 400 for an hour-long ride

6. Hoganekkal, Tamil Nadu

If you want to visit the Niagara Falls of India, head out to Hogaenakkal Waterfalls, Tamil Nadu, located at a distance of 200 kms from Bangalore in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu. Famous for the spectacular waterfalls and hide boat rides, this major tourist destination offers fun boating and coracle rides. The waterfalls are divided; where the ones in Karnataka has numerous cascades whereas the part that lies on the Tamil Nadu side has picturesque gorges and boat rides. Do not plan a trip during the monsoon season as the boating is closed to the rise in water level.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Tickets: INR 200 per person

7. Ganga Ghat, Varanasi

The sacred River Ganga is believed to have magical powers of having the potential to wash off one's sins. Gliding through the water of Ganges to when the sun is rising or setting, you can experience the true essence of Varanasi. During the period starting from mid-July to mid-October, the prices of the boat increase as the water current is stronger and hence, more resources are required for rowing the boat.  Visit the different Ghats which are connected to the land via waterways. Another major attraction is the Ram Nagar Fort, located on the opposite side of the river, which is the palace of the King of Banaras. The boat ride includes a mini-tour of the palace and the nearby market area and a visit to a Goddess Durga temple which was built 200 years ago. If you are opting for a rowboat tour, ensure that you do not go on the one who is taking more than six passengers. It is also advisable to carry a mosquito repellent lotion for the times when the boat halts in the middle of the river for the Aarti ceremony.

Timings: 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM

Tickets: Row Boat - INR 300 per hour
Yamaha Engine Boat Ride - INR 3000 for two hours

8. Naini Lake, Nainital

Making time on the water is among the favourite recreational activity during summers. This eye-shaped lake, located at the height of 1938 meters, offer boating as the major attraction for tourists who seek some entertaining activities at the hill station. You can purchase the tickets at the ticket counter. There is also a Yacht Club at Mallital which offers yachting for the members and tourist alike. During the peak season, however, you might face difficulty in getting one as the number of yachts sailing on the lake is limited. The exquisite beauty of the gleaming water, under the Kumaon Sky, can be thoroughly rejoiced only by a boating experience.

Timings: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Tickets: Gondola Ride -INR 210
Pedal Boat- INR 150

9. Bhimtal, Nainital

Bhimtal Lake in the Bhimtal Town is among the most famous lakes in India. There is an island in the middle of the lake which is an aquarium attracts visitors. The only way to reach the island is via boat. Visit the aquarium which has a variety of species that will leave you amazed. The Bhimeshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is also located on the island. The C-shaped lake is situated at an altitude of 4500 feet, sprawling over an area of 47 hectares. The clear lake water A paradise for nature-lovers and photo-fanatics, the surrounding of the lake are well-maintained with eateries offering local delicacies in the area. Immerse yourself in the hypnotic tranquillity on a boat ride around the lake.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Ticket: INR 150 per person

10. Unkal Lake, Karnataka

A resplendent sunset at the Unkal Lake will leave you mesmerised. Go on a boat ride around the Lake and capture the ravishing sight in your camera to relive the moment time and again. This scenic tourist spot is situated at Unkal in Dharwad district. The Unkal Lake is 110 years old. There is a statue of Swami Vivekananda in the middle of the lake. Tourists can reach here by taking a boat the site. The picturesque beauty of the Lake is a must-visit for nature lovers who could get some great shots at nature photography. There are recreational facilities for children around the lake premises.

Timings: 9:30 AM to 8:00 PM

Tickets: INR 30 per person for the pedal boat
INR 75 for scooter boat per ride
INR 200 for Jet Ski Rs. 200 per ride.

11. Loukoipat, Manipur

The perfect way to spend a holiday amidst nature is to visit the Loukoipat Ecological Park. The small natural lake, Loukoipat, is surrounded by hills on all sides and your boat ride will provide a panoramic view of the valley of Manipur to appeal to your senses. Get on board and boat up at the Loukoipat for some adventures in the Manipur sun. Trust us when we say there is nothing like a boat ride to explore the area. Buy some food for the fishes. Feeding the hungry little creatures is an absolute fun activity to spend quality time in the company of nature.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Tickets: No Entry Fees

12. Ranchi Lake, Jharkhand

Boaters can escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life to this human-made lake located at the base of the Ranchi hill. Constructed in the year 1842 by a British national named Colonel Onsely, this lake has a boating facility is a splendid recreational activity that will help you unwind and create some picture-perfect memories. As your boat glides on the calm and clean water, take delight in the soothing hues of nature all around you. Birdwatching is yet another activity that you can indulge in while you boat merrily around the lake.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Ticket: No Entry Fees

13. Sukhna Lake, Chandigarh

Push off into the Sukhna Lake at Chandigarh from the boating spot at this artificial lake located at the foothills of the Himalayan range. Cover the vast expanse of this serene beauty in a boat where your only job will be to sit back and live up the peaceful moment. Look around and observe the migratory birds such as Cranes, Storks ad Siberian Ducks during winters and gaze up at the gorgeous skyline.

Timings: January to April: 09:30 AM - 06:00 PM
August to September: 09:30 AM - 06:00 PM
September to December: 09:30 AM - 06:00 PM

Ticket: INR 50 per person

14. Amravati Lake, West Bengal

Spend an afternoon paddling around the lake which is flushed with scenic beauty. It is considered among the most charming picnic spots with flowers and shrubs enveloping the recreational zone. Once you are done with the alluring boat ride, you can visit the snake house in the vicinity which is open at all hours.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Ticket: INR 100- 200 per person

15. Asan Barrage, Uttarakhand

Amuse yourself by opting for a leisurely sail at the Asan Barrage, Uttarakhand, or if you are an adventure-seeker, you must know that there is a wide array of water sports to choose from - water skiing, paddle boating, rowing, double waters skiing, kayaking, mono-skiing and motor boating. Asan Barrage is the meeting point of Eastern Yamuna Canal and Asan River. Bird-watchers? Paradise, species such as Greylag, Shoveller, RC pochard, Tufted, Pintail, Mallard, C.Teal and many more can be spotted here.

Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Ticket: INR 100- 200 per person

While boating lightens up the mood by offering a uniquely delightful experience, it also is a form of a lesson for the tourists to learn and care for nature. It brings forth the historical elements of the water bodies that might not be commonly known. In a country like India, one can indulge in a wide array of boating experiences all across the country without burning a hole in your pocket. Boating, in all senses, sets up the right mood for a romantic holiday where you let go of your worries and collect some unforgettable memories.  Sail safe!