🏞️ Ashok Sagar Lake: A Scenic Eco‑Tourism Spot on the Basar Route
15‑ft Saraswati Statue | Boating | Rock Garden | Jankampet Dargah | Nizamabad, Telangana
A lake transformed into a vibrant tourist destination. Ashok Sagar was once a swampy area known as Jankampet Cheruvu. Under the initiative of Collector G. Ashok Kumar in the early 2000s, it was developed into a model eco‑tourism project, later featured in the official tourism calendar of Andhra Pradesh[reference:2]. Today, it is a favourite weekend escape for families, couples, and pilgrims on their way to Basara. The 15‑ft marble statue of Goddess Saraswati, standing gracefully in the middle of the water, is the centrepiece – illuminated at night, it creates a magical reflection on the lake[reference:3].
The rock garden is a delight, with winding paths through natural rock boulders, landscaped with colourful flowers. A swinging bridge connects parts of the garden, and children enjoy the dedicated play area. Opposite the lake lies the Jankampet Dargah, believed to fulfil wishes, and a short walk into the village reveals traditional houses with blue doors and tulsi plants – a glimpse of rural Telangana life[reference:4].
✨ Attractions & Activities
⏰ Visitor Information
📍 Address & Access
Ashok Sagar Lake (Jankampet Lake)
Jankampet Village, Yedpally Mandal,
Nizamabad District, Telangana – 503001
≈7 km from Nizamabad town
≈176 km from Hyderabad
📞 Enquiries
Nizamabad District Tourism Office
Phone: +91-8462-223456 (representative)
Tickets available at the entrance.
🌐 Official Info
🕐 Timings & Entry Fee
Timings: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (daily)
Entry Fee: ≈₹20 per person (nominal)
Boating Charges: Separate (pedal boats ~₹50–100, speed boats ~₹150–300)
Parking Fee: Small charge for cars/bikes
Best Season: October – February (pleasant weather); June–September (monsoon greenery)
⚠️ Note
The statue and rocks are illuminated after sunset – the best time for photography is 6:00–7:00 PM. Weekends are crowded; weekdays are quieter.
🚗 How to Reach Ashok Sagar Lake
By Road (from Hyderabad): Take NH44 to Nizamabad (≈170 km, 4 hours), then follow NH63 towards Basara. Ashok Sagar is 7 km from Nizamabad on the highway[reference:5]. Private vehicle or taxi is recommended. TSRTC buses from Hyderabad to Nizamabad are frequent; from Nizamabad, take a local auto or bus to Jankampet (≈₹30–50).
By Train: Nearest railway station is Nizamabad Junction (≈9 km). From the station, hire an auto or taxi.
By Air: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad (≈190 km)[reference:6].
🧭 Suggested 1‑Day Itinerary (Hyderabad → Ashok Sagar → Basara)
- 6:00 AM: Depart from Hyderabad.
- 9:30 AM: Arrive at Ashok Sagar Lake. Explore the rock garden, take photos of the Saraswati statue, enjoy the swinging bridge (1.5–2 hours).
- 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM: Boating on the lake (pedal or speed boat).
- 12:30 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch at the octagonal restaurant or picnic.
- 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Visit Jankampet Dargah (opposite the lake).
- 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Drive to Basara Saraswathi Temple (26 km, 45 min).
- 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Darshan at Basara Temple.
- 6:00 PM: Return to Hyderabad.
- 9:30 PM: Arrive back.
🏞️ Nearby Attractions
🏨 Where to Stay & Eat
Accommodation
- Ashok Sagar Octagonal Restaurant: Unique three‑tier eatery (light meals, snacks).
- Nizamabad town (≈7 km): Haritha Hotel (TSTDC), Hotel Ravi Teja, budget lodges.
- Basara (≈26 km): TSRTC Guest House, private lodges near the temple.
Food & Tips
- The octagonal restaurant serves vegetarian snacks and meals – a unique dining experience.
- Limited snack stalls near the lake – carry water.
- For a proper meal, Nizamabad town has many options.
📝 Travel Tips & Responsible Tourism
⭐ Pro tip: The Saraswati statue is illuminated after sunset (around 6:30 PM) – the reflection on the water combined with the lit rock garden is magical. If you are returning from Basara temple, plan to stop here in the early evening. The octagonal restaurant is a great place to relax, with views of the lake from different levels. Also, don't miss the Jankampet Dargah – a quiet spot where locals pray for wishes to be fulfilled.
📜 History – A Lake Named After a Visionary Collector
The lake was originally called Jankampet Cheruvu, a swampy area prone to neglect. In the early 2000s, G. Ashok Kumar, the then District Collector of Nizamabad, took the initiative to transform it into a clean, aesthetic tourist spot. The project became a success, and the lake was renamed Ashok Sagar in his honour. It was featured in the official tourism calendar of Andhra Pradesh and was the state’s entry for a National Tourism Award under the eco‑tourism category[reference:11]. The lake remains a model for local tourism development, with active involvement from the community.
🙏 Conclusion – A Perfect Stop on the Basara Route
Ashok Sagar Lake is a delightful blend of nature, recreation, and spirituality. Whether you are a pilgrim heading to Basara, a family looking for a weekend picnic, or a traveller exploring Nizamabad’s hidden gems, this lake offers a refreshing break. The combination of the majestic Saraswati statue, the whimsical rock garden, the swinging bridge, and the peaceful dargah creates a unique experience. Visit between October and February, enjoy a boat ride, and leave with a sense of tranquillity.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ashok Sagar the same as Jankampet Lake?
A: Yes, it was formerly known as Jankampet Cheruvu and was renamed Ashok Sagar after the collector.
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: Yes, a nominal fee of about ₹20. Boating charges are separate.
Q: Can we swim in the lake?
A: No, swimming is prohibited for safety reasons.
Q: What are the timings of the restaurant?
A: The octagonal restaurant operates from 10 AM to 7 PM approximately.
Q: Are there restrooms available?
A: Yes, basic facilities are available near the entrance.
Q: How far is Ashok Sagar from Basara Temple?
A: Approximately 26 km (45 minutes drive).
📚 References & More Information
- Nizamabad District Official – Ashok Sagar
- Trawell – Ashok Sagar / Jankampet Lake
- Telangana Today – Boating in Pristine Waters
- Asokji.in – Asok Sagar, Nizamabad
- Optfind – Ashok Sagar Details