Kolkata, West Bengal
Rabindra Sarobar, formerly known as Dhakuria Lake, is an artificial lake and urban park located in South Kolkata, West Bengal, India. Spanning approximately 192 acres, it comprises a 73-acre water body surrounded by lush greenery, making it a popular recreational spot for residents and visitors alike. Originally excavated in the early 1920s by the Calcutta Improvement Trust and named Dhakuria Lake, it was renamed Rabindra Sarobar in May 1958 to honor the Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore. The lake and its environs support rich biodiversity, with 107 species of birds recorded in 2019, including resident and migratory species. Rabindra Sarobar offers numerous recreational facilities including rowing clubs, stadiums, auditoria, and a Japanese Buddhist Temple, making it one of Kolkata's most significant urban parks and recreational destinations.
Rabindra Sarobar was excavated in the early 1920s by the Calcutta Improvement Trust to develop the surrounding marshy areas for residential use. Originally named Dhakuria Lake, the artificial lake was created as part of urban development efforts in South Kolkata. In May 1958, the lake was renamed Rabindra Sarobar to honor Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate poet, writer, and cultural icon of Bengal. Over the decades, the area has evolved into a significant urban park and recreational space, supporting rich biodiversity and serving as a center for sports, culture, and leisure activities. The lake is home to esteemed rowing clubs including the Calcutta Rowing Club (established in 1858) and the Bengal Rowing Club (founded in 1929), reflecting its importance in the city's sporting culture. The area also hosts various cultural venues including the Rabindra Sarobar Stadium, Mukta Mancha, and Nazrul Mancha, making it a hub for cultural and sporting events. Despite facing environmental challenges including water pollution and habitat degradation, efforts such as tree plantation programs and inclusion in the National Lake Conservation Plan aim to preserve its ecological balance. Rabindra Sarobar stands as a testament to Kolkata's commitment to preserving green spaces amidst urban development.
73-Acre Water Body: A large artificial lake providing opportunities for boating and water-based activities
Rowing Clubs: Home to esteemed rowing clubs including the Calcutta Rowing Club (established in 1858) and the Bengal Rowing Club (founded in 1929)
Rabindra Sarobar Stadium: A stadium with a seating capacity of approximately 22,000, hosting various sports events
Cultural Venues: Open-air theaters including Mukta Mancha and Nazrul Mancha, serving as venues for cultural performances
Japanese Buddhist Temple: Established in 1935 by Nichidatsu Fujii, offering a serene environment for meditation and prayer
Biodiversity: Rich biodiversity with 107 species of birds recorded in 2019, including resident and migratory species, and various species of dragonflies and other fauna
Walking Trails: Walking trails and open spaces for relaxation and exercise
Lush Greenery: Surrounded by lush greenery providing a habitat for various species
Boating on the 73-acre lake
Rowing activities at the prestigious rowing clubs
Jogging and walking along the trails
Bird watching and observing the rich biodiversity
Picnicking in the open spaces
Attending cultural performances at Mukta Mancha and Nazrul Mancha
Watching sports events at the Rabindra Sarobar Stadium
Visiting the Japanese Buddhist Temple for meditation and prayer
Photography of the lake, birds, and natural scenery
Location: Southern Avenue, South Kolkata, West Bengal, India
Nearest Airport: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata – approx. 16 km
Major Railway Stations:
Sealdah Railway Station – approx. 7 km
Howrah Railway Station – approx. 11 km
Kolkata Railway Station – approx. 9 km
Metro Station: Rabindra Sarobar Metro Station (Blue Line) – directly accessible, providing convenient access via the Kolkata Metro network
Railway Station: Tollygunge Railway Station – adjacent to the metro station, facilitating suburban rail connectivity
Major Roads: Bordered by Southern Avenue and Deshapran Sashmal Road
Rabindra Sarobar is strategically located in South Kolkata, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city and well-connected to major transportation hubs.
Rabindra Sarobar is well connected by road, metro, and rail. The park is located in South Kolkata, bordered by Southern Avenue and Deshapran Sashmal Road, which provides excellent connectivity to the city center and surrounding areas. The Rabindra Sarobar Metro Station on the Kolkata Metro's Blue Line is directly accessible, providing convenient access via the metro network. The Tollygunge Railway Station is adjacent to the metro station, facilitating suburban rail connectivity. Public bus services operated by the West Bengal Transport Corporation and other operators provide regular connectivity to the area, with bus routes readily available along the major roads. Taxis, auto-rickshaws, and app-based cab services operate regularly in the area, offering convenient access for visitors. Rabindra Sarobar is easily accessible from major railway stations including Sealdah, Howrah, and Kolkata stations, and the international airport, making it convenient for both local visitors and tourists. The park's location in South Kolkata and excellent connectivity make it easily accessible and a popular destination for residents and visitors seeking recreational activities, nature appreciation, and cultural experiences. Rabindra Sarobar is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM and from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM, with no entry fee, making it accessible to all.