Ayyanakere

 Ayyanakere is situated at the eastern base of Baba Budan range hills (approx 225 kms from Bengaluru)

. It is the biggest lake in Chikmagalur and 2nd biggest in Karnataka. Being well maintained, this serves as one of the best Picnic spots in Chikamagalur. 

The lake is usually crowded on weekends and it is quite hard to find a parking spot if you visit on a busy day. Once you reach the entrance gate, you would find a small deserted forest area on your right and a small canal for kids to play on your left. If you go further ahead, you would find the lake which has a unique walkway.

You may have to wait for your turn to step into the walkway since you would find tourists busy clicking pics but if you like photography, it is definitely worth the wait ! 

The lake is surrounded by hills thereby increasing its scenic value. There are few spots from where you could jump into the lake and swim around (at your own risk). If you are not a great swimmer, you could spend some time enjoying the scenic view.

                    

While returning back to the gate entrance, you could take a diversion and walk through a deserted forest area close to the entrance gate

                    

We also spent some time at the canal for kids to play since they couldnt get into the lake earlier. 

                                    

After spending some quality time by the lake we started our return journey.