Gandipet

Gandipet, also known as Osman Sagar, is located about 20 kilometers from the city of Secunderabad. This lake is the main source of drinking water for both Secunderabad and Hyderabad. Tourists can enjoy boating and swimming at this site in Secunderabad.

Gandipet came into existence in 1920, when Mir Osman Ali Khan was trying to construct a dam on river Moosi. Mir Osman Ali Khan, the Nizam of Hyderabad, wanted to protect the city from flooding, together with providing drinking water to the erstwhile city of Hyderabad. Gandipet was planned by Mokshagundam Vishweswaraya, after a violent flood occurred in Hyderabad in 1908.

Gandipet, popularly known as Osman Sagar, covers about 46 square kilometers of area. The lake has well-maintained shores. Therefore, it is one of the most popular picnic-spots of the city. The crystal clear swimming pool and the beautiful garden along the lake attract tourists from the different parts of the country. Apart from the tourists, the locals of the city also come to this site during the weekends to relax amidst the serenity of the lake. However, the best time to visit Gandipet is during the winters between October and March, when Secunderabad experiences a pleasant climate. Moreover, the tourists are advised to avoid the monsoon, when the reservoir remains brimming.

Tourists planning an extended trip in Gandipet can lodge at Sagar Mahal, a guesthouse belonging to Andhra Pradesh Tourism. Sagar Mahal had once been the summer resort of the ruling Nizam. This guesthouse provides the best of facilities within an economical budget.