A Quiet Welcome: Sunset by Venkatagirikote Lake
There’s something magical about a still evening, when the sun is bowing out and the sky softens into pastel blues and golds. I wanted that quiet magic to be the opening note in my friend’s two‑week stay in Bengaluru. He was a Captain in the Indian Air Force, flying in after a long journey, and I wanted his landing in my city to feel more than just a transfer from airport to home.
So, instead of plunging into city traffic or heading somewhere far and strenuous, I chose to keep it simple — drive a short distance, find a calm spot, let the quiet do the work. That spot was Venkatagirikote Lake, lying discreetly off the Bengaluru–Hyderabad highway.
Location & Access
Venkatagirikote (or Venkatagiri Kote Kere) is located in the Devanahalli area of Bengaluru Rural district. On mapping services, the village is shown just south of Devanahalli.
If you are driving out on the Bangalore–Hyderabad highway (NH‑44), this lake lies at a convenient distance. Because the plan was to keep things easy for someone tired from travel, the proximity mattered more than grandeur.
Venkagirikote Kere (Lake) holds a moderate Google rating (~3.6/5) and people mention that while the approach road may not always be great, the views—especially with Nandi Hills in the backdrop—are worth the visit. Top Rated
There isn’t much in the way of formal tourism infrastructure here. It’s mostly nature, silence, and a patch of path to walk in. That’s exactly its charm.
The Setup
We left Bengaluru International Airport in the late afternoon, drove along the Hyderabad highway exit. The idea was to avoid anything too tiring or steep; I had topography in mind — no long climbs, no effort. Just a gentle evening.
On spotting Venkatagirikote Lake, I pulled in toward the road shoulder to park. Though parking is unofficial (just by the highway), the spot is accessible enough for a casual stop.
From the highway edge, a narrow path leads into the direction of the lake. On one side, you see the still expanse of water; on the other, there’s a nursery patch—young plants and greenery lending a rural air.
Roughly 200 meters (give or take) from the road, we found a spot where the earth softens — a stretch of mud‑sand terrain right next to the water’s edge. We sat, swung our legs down, and let the world slow down.
Golden Hour by the Water
As the clock ticked toward 5 PM, the sun dipped, spilling golden light across the lake. Trees bent low, shadows grew longer, and the water mirrored the sky in quiet orange and blue strokes.
We sat for 20–30 minutes, saying little, watching a few birds flit past, catching the hush of the evening. No distractions, no noise (apart from occasional soft rustling). Then, as twilight deepened, we returned to the car and made our way back toward Bengaluru.
Why This Works as a Welcome
– Low effort, high reward
– Natural calm
– No crowds
– A memory anchor
Tips & Notes for anyone trying this
Check the route first: Though the lake is not far, the paths aren’t always well-maintained. Use Google Maps or local guidance.
Visit timing: Arrive before sunset, find a spot, settle in, let your eyes adjust, and soak the changing light.
Bring light essentials: Water, a light cover, insect spray etc.
Mind safety: Since you’re parking by the highway, stay aware of passing traffic. Walk carefully on uneven ground. Avoid venturing into deep water.
Leave no trace: Keep the place as you found it.
Check weather & light: If it’s overcast or heavy rain, the sunset effect will be muted. Plan when skies are clear.
