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Maharastra Salim Ali Lake
Salim Ali Sarovar or Salim Ali Talab is situated in the Aurangabad district of Maharashtra state and opposite to Himayat Bagh. It was initially known as Khiziri talab during the reign of Mughals but was later renamed to Salim Ali Lake. The lake gets its name from the famous ornithologist Salim Ali. The maintenance of the lake is under the Aurangabad division where the collector’s office is located. At the present time, Salim Ali Lake consists of a small bird sanctuary, a beautiful garden which is managed by the Aurangabad Municipal Corporation and boating facilities for the tourists. In all, it is a worth visiting place not only for the visitors but also for the local residents.
History
During the rule of Aurangzeb, there was a large mesh of land that extended to Begumpura but was a little damp. As it creates an unhealthy atmosphere therefore Aurangzeb ordered to convert the mesh into fields. Later on, the field was converted into a beautiful Mughal garden or Himayat Bagh. The garden consists of plantations of different fruit trees that make the garden loveliest. There was also a small tank which no longer exists as it was destructed to prevent the city from the adverse situations of flood.
Salim Ali was known as the “Birdman of India”. He was the first to conduct the different surveys related to birds and also develop ornithology in India. He is among the second person to receive the highest award of Padma Vibhushan in the year 1976. It was because of his active support that the government realized that ornithology can be developed in India. His support lead to the construction of Bharatpur bird sanctuary also.
How to Reach
Reaching Salim Ali Lake is very simple as the distance from Aurangabad railway station to Salim Ali Lake is just 6 kilometers. One can take the help of taxis which are available at cheap prices. MSRTC bus service is also available to the different routes therefore you can use this service to reach the location. Rickshaws are also a source of transport in Aurangabad therefore you can use them as well.
Best Time to Visit
To visit Salim Ali Lake, October to January is the finest time to visit the place. The climate around these months is a bit cool with a few showers of rain too. Thus if you are planning your trip, do consider this aspect in mind so that you can enjoy fully.
Attractions
Salim Ali Lake is a beautiful place to visit as it helps you to explore the natural beauty from a closer view. Apart from exploring the lake views, there are many more things that can be enjoyed in and around Aurangabad.
The bird sanctuary located near Salim Ali Lake is the greatest attractions of this place. A number of visitors come here to watch the lovely birds chirping around. Those who are fond of bird watching really find it a pleasure to come and explore this bird sanctuary. It is located very close to the lake therefore you can reach there by walking.
Boating is another excellent activity which can be enjoyed by the people. But the excitement doubles when the lake is full of water, especially during the rainy season or the winter season. This is the time when most of the tourists come to Salim Ali Lake.
Other nearby attractions that you can visit include Aurangzeb’s tomb, Siddharth garden, Mhaismal, Bibi ka maqbara, Ellora caves and many more exciting tourist spots.
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