Monsoon season means respite for rains and the perfect time for getaways as it fills up various lakes and rejuvenates the waterfalls. Southern India is one such place where you must visit during monsoon to get the best of the place. If you are in Karnataka, then you must visit Hubballi Unkal Lake in Hubballi city. It is one of the major lakes in the city, which is currently overflowing. The continuous rainfall in the Hubballi city and surrounding villages has led to the overflowing.
Tourists are flocking to the lake as its excess water is flowing into the main drainage system. The monsoon, the lush greens and the drop in temperatures mean picturesque scenes, which has made it a perfect place to chill and relax. However, the overflowing water has raised concerns as well.
If the rainwater from the lake continues to increase and fill the drainage water, where even the wastewater flows, it could fill the drainage system and flood the houses. The drainage system is filled with garbage and this has caused worry among the residents nearby.
The Unkla laake is a beautiful recreational spot for the civilians. Apart from that, it is also the major source of drinking water for Hubbali and Dharwad, the twin cities. The lake is estimated to be at least 110 years old and spans over 200 acres as per the old records. The lake has been redeveloped and the administration added a canopy for walkers, benches to sit back, dustbins to ensure no littering in the area, tree plantation and sunshades. It also has a garden and recreational facilities for children.
Unkal is also known to be the Karma Bhoomi of Shri Siddappajja who was born in 1859. He is believed to be a great gyani. He was called Ajja while others called him Huccha Siddappajja because of his attire. He used to apply the holy ashes on his body. He left his home in search of a spiritual Guru and settled at the Shri Mailarlinga temple of Unkal.