Sukhna Lake gets Ramsar tag, India’s tally rises to 103

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Chandigarh’s Sukhna Lake has been added to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance, bringing India’s total Ramsar sites to 103.The Ramsar List has assigned Sukhna Wetland Site Number 2602. Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav announced the development in a post on X, stating that Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh and Sauj Jheel in Uttar Pradesh were the latest additions to the list.

The Ramsar designation recognizes wetlands for their ecological importance, biodiversity and role in supporting wildlife and local communities. The Ramsar Convention is an international environmental treaty adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran.The designation emphasizes wetland conservation and the responsible use of natural resources. It does not automatically prohibit all activities at a designated site; instead, it focuses on protecting its ecosystem while allowing suitable activities to continue.

Located in Sector 1, Chandigarh, Sukhna Lake was created in 1958 by damming the seasonal Sukhna Choe stream flowing down from the Shivalik Hills. The rain-fed lake is a popular destination for residents and tourists.Visitors can enjoy boating, walking, birdwatching, and views of the surrounding landscape. The Garden of Silence, located at one end of the lake, features a seated Buddha and offers a quieter place for visitors.

General entry to Sukhna Lake is free, according to Chandigarh Tourism information. The lake is commonly listed as open from 5 am to 9 pm, while separate charges apply for boating. Visitors are advised to check timings locally before traveling.You can reach the lake from Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport and Chandigarh Junction Railway Station by taxi or other local transport. Chandigarh is also connected to nearby cities by road.