Red Hills Lake, Tamilnadu

About Red Hills Lake

Previously this was used as a Irrigation lake. During the British Rule, it was utilised as a Military Camp. That is why Pozhal Town is also expressed as Camp.This lake was used as an Airport for Water plans for to make a landing and takeoff. There was a concrete ramp to bring the floating crafts and vessals to the then Workshop and the remains can be seen.There was a big Bangalow for the Military personals with Wind mill pump house, sump,overhead tank,a small swimming pool, Tennis court and a mini Theatre for the military use.In order to feed the water plans, there were few huge M.S.tanks for oil storage on the earthern bunds of this lake.For this heavy movement of vehicles, the earthern bunds are enforced with concrete paths. The lake and its water was made to quench the thirst of Chennaities right from the year1868. This lake gets it s supply from Poondi Reservoir and the Cholavaram Lake, through its Upper and Lower Supply Channals.Thus the irrigation utility was stopped. Now a days Poondi Reservoir and Sembaramapkkam Lakes interlinked to get water from Kandaleru (Telugu Ganga Project)and at present ,the Redhills Lake is made to fill on both sides apart from the rain water from the Catchment areas.Its water spreading area is around 7.5K.Ms and with much storage capacity, when compared Poondi and Cholavaram Lakes.

Interesting places to Visit

Marina Beach
The city’s Marina Beach, bordered by gardens, lies just to the South of the War Memorial. It is claimed to be the second largest in the world, about 13 kms.

Covelong
For a balmy holiday, the fishing village of Covelong has an excellent stretch of beach. This lies 55 km enroute to Mamallapuram which is 60 km from Madras and is a breathtaking seaside haven ideal for a relaxing holiday.

Elliots Beach (Marina beach):

The Marina Beach is a beach situated along shoreline in the city of Chennai, India.It is the longest beach in India and the second longest in the world

Valluvar Kottam
The ValluvarKottam, dedicated to the memory of the Tamil Saint Philosopher and poet Thiruvalluvar, is the largest auditorium in Asia. It is located at the junction of Kodampakkam High Road and Valluvar Kottam Road.

National Art Gallery and Museum
Built in 1906, the Chennai National Art Gallery was originally intended to be a memorial to queen Victoria. An impressive certal dome flanked a series of smaller domes supported by pillars on each side. After independence, it became an art Gallery in 1951. It has bronze exhibits dating from 10th to 13th centuries and paintings of Rajasthani and Mughals of the 17th century. Established in 1857, the museum can justify its claim to being one of India’s best. There are large sectiors devoted to Archacology, Anthropology, Geology, Numismatics, Zoology and Botany along with comprehensive collections of arms and armour.

Parathasarathy Temple
Located at Triplicane High Road is the large Sri Prthasarathy Temple. This Hindu Temple, devoted to Lord Krishna, was built in the 8th Century by Pallava King and has been ornately renovated since.

Hotels/Lodge/Accommodation

For accommodation near Red Hills Lake, nearby towns offer budget lodges, guesthouses, and mid-range hotels. Book ahead during peak season (December-March).

Help Line/Phone Number

Police Station:

Kutchery Road Police Station
, Mylapore, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

R 7 KK Nagar Police Station
Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu- 044 2345630

Police Station
, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Police Station
, Triplicane, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu

Nearest Hospital:

St. Isabel’s Hospital & Nursing Home
No. 18, Oliver Road, Mylapore, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600004- 044 24991081

Csi Kalyani Multispeciality Hospital
Radha Krishnan Salai, Mylapore, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu- 044 28470642

Rajan Dental - Implants, Cosmetic, Pediatric, Sedation and more
56, Dr.R.K.Salai,, Chennai, Tamilnadu 600004- 044 2847 2266

Harvey Heart Hospitals Ltd
No. 542, T.T.K. Road, Alwarpet, Taynampet, Teynampet, Chennai, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600018- 044 24311722

Roots Dental Hospitals
33, Desiga Road, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil nadu 600004- 044 24642565

Location info

**Address:**Thiruvallur Tamil Nadu India.
**District:**Thiruvallur
Nearest City: Chennai
Best time to visit: January to April

Climate & weather

Like other parts of Tamil Nadu, hot climate prevails during the month of April - May and humid climate during the rest of the year except December - February when it is slightly cold.

How to reach Red Hills Lake

**Nearest Railway Station:**Chennai
**Nearest Airport:**Chennai
**Road Transport:**Chennai is very well connected to all the major cities in the Southern India.there are good number of buses to every cities

Nearest visiting places

**Elliots Beach (Marina beach):**The Marina Beach is a beach situated along shoreline in the city of Chennai, India.It is the longest beach in India and the second longest in the world
Kanchipuram:Kanchipuram,is a city and a municipality in Kanchipuram district in Tamil Nadu. It is a temple town and the headquarters of Kanchipuram district.It was called Kachi and Kachiampathi in ancient times.
Mahabalipuram:Mahabalipuram lies on the Coromandel Coast which faces the Bay of Bengal. This is an elegant place to watch which a well established sea port was during the 7th and 10th centuries of the Pallava dynasty. This was the second capital of the Pallavas who ruled Kanchipuram

Best time to visit Red Hills Lake

November to March when the weather is pleasant. Early morning (6–8 AM) offers beautiful reflections on the water surface. Late afternoon (3–5 PM) is good for walks and photography. Migratory birds visit during winter (November–February).

Timings & opening hours

Accessible during daylight hours. Best visited between 6:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Some lakes managed by forest departments have specific visiting hours. Boating, if available, operates between 9:00 AM–5:00 PM.

Entry fee & tickets

Entry is generally free. Nominal parking fee of INR 10–30 may apply. Boating charges: INR 50–200 per person depending on boat type. Some maintained lake parks may charge INR 10–20 entry.

Duration needed

1–2 hours for a relaxed visit including a walk along the banks. If boating is available, allow an additional 30–45 minutes. A picnic visit may extend to 3–4 hours.

Safety tips

Swimming is generally not permitted in most lakes — observe warning signs. Keep away from sluice gates and deep areas. Supervise children at all times near the water. Avoid visiting alone after dark. Do not litter — help keep the lake clean.

Things to carry

Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during your visit.
Comfortable Footwear: For walking and exploring.
Camera: Capture memorable moments.
Hat and Sunglasses: Sun protection.

Nearest airport, railway & bus

Nearest airport: Chennai International Airport (MAA) for lakes near Chennai, or the nearest regional airport for lakes in other regions.

Nearest railway station: the nearest station in the closest town.

By road: accessible via local roads from the nearest town or city.

Mobile network coverage

Airtel, Jio, BSNL, and Vi all provide coverage across Tamil Nadu. 4G is reliable in Chennai, Coimbatore, Madurai, and along major highways. Coverage may be weaker in remote sections of the Western Ghats, deep forest reserves, and certain rural interior areas. Free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels and cafes in urban areas.

Food & restaurants nearby

Near Red Hills Lake, small eateries and food stalls serve local Tamil Nadu snacks. Visitors can enjoy fresh coconut water, sundal, bhajji, and roasted corn. For proper meals, nearby towns have restaurants offering vegetarian South Indian thali meals including rice, sambar, rasam, and curd.

History of Red Hills Lake

Red Hills Lake serves as an important water reservoir for the surrounding region of Tamil Nadu. Built to meet the water needs of agriculture and communities, the lake has become an integral part of the local landscape. Its shores support biodiversity and provide a recreational space for nearby residents.

Things to do at Red Hills Lake

Take a peaceful walk along the lake embankment and enjoy the serene water views. Watch for birds — many lakes attract herons, egrets, kingfishers, and migratory waterfowl during winter. If boating is available, enjoy a ride on the placid waters.

Things to visit & highlights

The lake with its expansive water surface reflecting the sky. The surrounding green banks and vegetation. Birdlife along the shores — particularly during winter when migratory birds arrive. The sunset view over the lake is especially beautiful.

Nearest petrol pump

Petrol pumps are available in the nearest town and along the main approach roads. Several major fuel station chains operate within 3–8 km of the lake.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best time to visit Red Hills Lake? Early morning (6–8 AM) or late afternoon (3–5 PM) between November and March for pleasant weather and good bird watching.

Can I go boating at Red Hills Lake? Boating facilities vary by lake. Check with the local tourism office or visit early to confirm availability.

Are there food options near Red Hills Lake? Food stalls and small eateries may be available near the lake. The nearest town offers more comprehensive dining options.

Accessibility

Accessibility information is not currently available for this site. Contact the venue directly or check with your accommodation for the latest accessibility details.

Rules & restrictions

Standard visitor rules apply. Check locally for any specific restrictions at this site.

Best photography spots

The best photography spots are typically during the golden hours (early morning and late afternoon). Scout the location first to identify the best angles, and consider the direction of light at different times of day.