Ward’s Lake, also known as Lady Hydari Park Lake, is a charming and centrally located man-made lake in the heart of Shillong, Meghalaya. Named after Sir William Ward, the Chief Commissioner of Assam, this picturesque lake is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and is one of the most visited recreational spots in the city. With its calm waters, pedal boats, and colourful flower beds, it offers a perfect blend of nature and leisure in the capital of Meghalaya.
Quick Overview — Ward’s Lake Shillong
| Detail | Information |
| Location | Ward’s Lake Road, Police Bazaar, Shillong, Meghalaya – 793001 |
| Also Known As | Lady Hydari Park Lake |
| Type | Man-made Freshwater Lake |
| Timings | 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM (Daily) |
| Entry Fee | ₹10 – ₹20 per person |
| Boating Fee | ₹30 – ₹80 (Pedal Boats) |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March |
| Nearest Landmark | Police Bazaar / Shillong Cathedral |
Location of Ward’s Lake
Ward’s Lake is situated in the bustling yet green area of Police Bazaar, right in the centre of Shillong. The lake is part of the beautiful Lady Hydari Park, which features well-maintained gardens, walking paths, seasonal flowers, and a small waterfall.
The lake has a circular shape and is surrounded by pine trees and flowering plants, creating a peaceful ambiance despite being located in the heart of the city. It is especially lovely during autumn and winter when the weather is crisp and the gardens are in full bloom.
Directions to Ward’s Lake
Ward’s Lake is very centrally located and extremely easy to reach.
- From Police Bazaar: Just 5–10 minutes walking distance.
- From Shillong Bus Stand: Approximately 1–1.5 km.
- From Shillong Railway Station (under construction): Around 2–3 km.
- From Shillong Airport: 35–40 km (1 hour drive).
The lake is best reached by walking from Police Bazaar or by taking a short auto-rickshaw or taxi ride. Parking is available near the entrance of Lady Hydari Park, though it can get crowded on weekends.
Timings and Activities
Ward’s Lake and Lady Hydari Park are open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM.
Main Activities:
- Pedal boating on the lake
- Walking and relaxing in the beautiful gardens
- Photography (especially the flower beds and lake views)
- Enjoying the small waterfall and Japanese-style garden
- Children’s play area
- Evening strolls with ambient lighting
The park is well-maintained and offers a calm environment for families and couples.
Nearby Places
Ward’s Lake is centrally located, making it convenient to explore other attractions in Shillong:
- Police Bazaar — Main shopping and commercial hub (walking distance)
- Shillong Cathedral — Beautiful church nearby
- Umiam Lake (Barapani) — Scenic reservoir (~15 km)
- Elephant Falls — Popular waterfall (~12 km)
- Lady Hydari Park — The park surrounding the lake itself
- Don Bosco Museum — Largest museum of indigenous culture in Northeast India (~3 km)
FAQs — Ward’s Lake Shillong
Q1. What are the timings of Ward’s Lake?
A: The lake and Lady Hydari Park are open from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM daily.
Q2. Is there an entry fee for Ward’s Lake?
A: Yes, a nominal entry fee of ₹10–₹20 per person is charged to enter Lady Hydari Park.
Q3. How far is Ward’s Lake from Police Bazaar?
A: Just a 5–10 minute walk. It is very centrally located.
Q4. When is the best time to visit Ward’s Lake?
A: October to March offers the most pleasant weather. Evenings are beautiful for a relaxing walk.
Q5. What activities are available at Ward’s Lake?
A: Pedal boating, walking in the gardens, photography, and enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Overall, Ward’s Lake is a delightful green oasis in the middle of Shillong that perfectly captures the calm and natural charm of Meghalaya. Whether you are looking for a peaceful morning walk, a fun boating experience, or a quiet evening amidst flowers and hills, Ward’s Lake is a must-visit spot during your trip to Shillong.
