Damdama Lake

Damdama Lake is one of the largest natural lakes in the region and the Millennium City's go-to weekend escape into nature. It sits about 25 km south of central Gurugram in the rocky Aravalli foothills near the town of Sohna, a rain-fed expanse of water ringed by low hills that turn green after the monsoon and gold in winter.

• The draw is the open air and the activities.
• Boating and kayaking on the lake, birdwatching along its margins — winter brings migratory waterfowl — cycling, and lakeside picnics are the staples, and a cluster of adventure and camping operators on the shore offer rappelling, zip-lining, and even hot-air balloon rides on clear mornings.
• It is an easy, scenic day-trip rather than a city sight: families and groups come out from Gurugram and Delhi for the day and head back by evening.
• Wandering the lakeside itself is free; the boating, camping, and adventure activities are run by private operators and are charged separately, so carry some cash.
• The best season is the cool, clear stretch from October to March; summer afternoons are hot and exposed.
• Come early for the calmest water and the best birding, bring sun protection, and check with operators in advance if you want to book a specific activity.