Bengaluru is located on a ridge and lacks a major perennial river, relying historically on a highly developed, centuries-old network of interconnected man-made lakes (keres) to manage monsoons and supply water.
**Notable Lakes:** * **Ulsoor (Halasuru) Lake:** One of the oldest lakes, popular for boating and central to the city. * **Sankey Tank:** A picturesque artificial lake built in the 1880s, popular for morning walks. * **Bellandur and Varthur Lakes:** The largest lakes in the city, which have faced significant ecological challenges, including pollution and foaming, though massive citizen and government rejuvenation efforts are underway. * **Agara and Madiwala Lakes:** Important wetlands that attract migratory birds.
**Rivers:** The Vrishabhavathi and Arkavathi rivers originate near the city, though today they face severe urbanization pressures and are the focus of long-term restoration projects.
