Upper Lake History, Hidden Gems, Best Time to Visit and Photography
Located at
Bhopal
Madhya Pradesh
Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is a major water body in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. It is one of the largest artificial lakes in India, constructed by the Paramara King Bhoj in the 11th century to provide water to the city. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and offers a serene escape from the bustling city life.
Key features of Upper Lake include:
- Scenic Beauty: The lake is surrounded by hills and forests, offering picturesque views and a peaceful environment. It is a popular spot for picnics, boating, and leisurely walks.
- Boating: Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the lake, which provide a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape and are a great way to relax.
- Architecture: The lake area is home to several historical structures, including the Bhojeshwar Temple and the Sadar Manzil, which add cultural and historical value to the site.
- Wildlife: The lake attracts a variety of bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
- Restoration Projects: There have been ongoing efforts to clean and restore the lake, focusing on improving water quality and maintaining the natural habitat.
Overall, Upper Lake is a beautiful and historically significant spot in Bhopal, offering both natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Upper Lake, or Bhojtal, has a rich history dating back to the 11th century. Here is a brief overview:
- Construction: The lake was built by the Paramara King Bhoj in 1005-1060 AD. It was constructed to meet the water needs of the city and to provide irrigation for the surrounding region.
- Engineering Marvel: At the time of its construction, the lake was considered a remarkable engineering feat. It involved the creation of a large dam and the use of sophisticated techniques to manage water flow.
- Cultural Significance: Upper Lake played a crucial role in the development of Bhopal, contributing to its growth as an important city. The lake also holds cultural and historical significance due to the various historical structures located around it, such as the Bhojeshwar Temple and the Sadar Manzil.
- Restoration Efforts: Over the centuries, the lake faced challenges such as siltation and pollution. Various restoration projects have been undertaken to improve water quality and maintain the lake natural beauty.
- Modern Significance: Today, Upper Lake is not only a historical landmark but also a popular recreational spot, attracting tourists and locals alike for its scenic beauty and leisure activities.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Upper Lake is from October to March. During these cooler months, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, making outdoor activities enjoyable.
Things to Do
- Boating: Enjoy a boat ride on the lake, which offers scenic views and a relaxing experience. Paddle boats and shikaras (traditional wooden boats) are popular options.
- Picnicking: The lake surroundings are perfect for picnics. Bring a blanket and some snacks to enjoy a meal by the water.
- Photography: The picturesque setting of the lake, with its surrounding hills and greenery, is ideal for photography enthusiasts.
- Walking and Jogging: The area around the lake provides a great place for a leisurely walk or a morning jog.
- Bird Watching: The lake attracts various bird species, making it a good spot for birdwatching.
Attractions
- Bhojeshwar Temple: Located near the lake, this ancient temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is known for its architectural significance and historical value.
- Sadar Manzil: A historical palace situated close to the lake, which was used by the former Nawabs of Bhopal for meetings and gatherings.
- Taj-ul-Masajid: Although not directly by the lake, this grand mosque is a notable landmark in Bhopal and worth visiting for its impressive architecture.
- Upper Lake Viewpoints: There are several viewpoints around the lake that offer panoramic views of the water and the surrounding landscape.
- Vijay Talkies: Located on the lake edge, this area is known for its local markets and eateries, providing a taste of local life.
Exploring Upper Lake offers a mix of natural beauty, historical significance, and recreational activities, making it a delightful destination.
Adventures
- Boating: Rent a boat for a leisurely ride. Available options include paddle boats, motorboats, and rowboats.
- Kayaking & Canoeing: Enjoy adventurous kayaking and canoeing experiences.
- Jet Skiing: For thrill-seekers, jet skiing is available.
- Trekking & Hiking: Surrounding areas offer mild trekking trails, especially around Van Vihar National Park.
- Bird Watching: The area is home to several species of migratory birds, especially during winter.
- Picnic and Photography: The lakefront is ideal for photography and picnics.
Budget
- Adventure Activities:
- Boating: ?50 to ?200 per person.
- Jet Skiing: ?300 to ?500 for 15 minutes.
- Entry Fee: Generally free, but some activities like Van Vihar may charge a nominal fee (?15-?50).
- Food and Souvenirs: Meals at local eateries around the lake may range from ?100-?500 depending on the type of cuisine and restaurant.
Packing Items
- Essentials:
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat (for sun protection)
- Comfortable shoes (for walking/trekking)
- Light jacket (if visiting in winter)
- Activity-Specific Items:
- For water sports: waterproof clothing or extra clothing.
- If hiking: trekking poles and a small backpack with water and snacks.
Hidden Gems
- Van Vihar National Park: Located on the banks of Upper Lake, offering wildlife sightings like tigers, leopards, and crocodiles.
- Kamlapati Palace: Historical palace near the lake that gives a beautiful sunset view.
- Bharat Bhavan: A cultural center offering glimpses of Indian art and traditions, located close to the lake.
- Sunset Point: On the southern side of the lake, a less crowded area for breathtaking sunset views.
Photography
- Permitted: Photography is generally allowed around Upper Lake. It is a good idea to be respectful of other visitors and avoid obstructing paths.
- Tips: Early mornings or late afternoons provide the best lighting for photography. The reflections on the water and the surrounding greenery create beautiful compositions.
Safety Rules
- Boating Safety: Always wear life jackets while boating and follow the instructions given by the boat operators.
- Swimming: Swimming is generally not allowed in the lake due to safety and cleanliness concerns.
- Cleanliness: Help keep the area clean by disposing of trash properly.
- Wildlife: Respect the local wildlife and avoid feeding or disturbing the birds and other animals.
Entry Fees
- General Entry: There is typically no fee to enter the lake area itself.
- Boating: Fees for boating vary depending on the type of boat and the duration of the ride. It is best to check with local operators for current rates.
Famous Food
- Poha: A popular breakfast dish made of flattened rice, often garnished with onions, peanuts, and spices.
- Chaat: Various types of chaat like pani puri, bhel puri, and sev puri are commonly available in local stalls around the lake.
- Bhutte ka Kees: A unique dish made with grated corn cooked with spices and milk.
- Lassi: A refreshing yogurt-based drink that is popular in Bhopal.
Restaurants (Vegan, Vegetarian & Non-Vegetarian Options)
- Vegan-Friendly:
- Rawat Restaurant: Serves vegan and vegetarian dishes.
- Cafe Chokolade: Known for vegan desserts.
- Vegetarian:
- Manohar Dairy and Restaurant: Known for its vegetarian Indian snacks and meals.
- Sharma and Vishnu Fast Food: Popular for fast food, chats, and sweets.
- Non-Vegetarian:
- Jehan Numa Palace: A luxury hotel offering diverse non-vegetarian meals including Mughlai, Chinese, and Continental.
- Al-Beik: Famous for its chicken dishes and shawarma.
How to Reach
- By Air: The nearest airport is Raja Bhoj Airport (BHO) in Bhopal, which is about 15-20 km from Upper Lake. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available at the airport to take you to the lake.
- By Train: Bhopal Junction is the main railway station, about 7-10 km from Upper Lake. You can take a taxi, auto-rickshaw, or local bus from the station.
- By Road: Bhopal is well-connected by road to major cities in Madhya Pradesh and neighboring states. You can drive or take a bus to reach Upper Lake.
Public transportation and local cabs make it easy to get around, and the lake is central location means it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals.
Hotels (Luxury and Affordable)
- Luxury Hotels:
- Jehan Numa Palace Hotel: Located near the lake, offering luxurious stays with premium amenities. Approx. ?10,000 per night.
- Noor Us Sabah Palace: Offers splendid views of Upper Lake, known for its regal ambiance. Approx. ?7,000-?9,000 per night.
- Affordable Hotels:
- Hotel Rajhans Regent: Budget-friendly hotel with basic amenities. Approx. ?2,000 per night.
- Treebo Trend Reva Regency: Affordable and comfortable stay near the lake. Approx. ?1,500-?2,500 per night.
ATMs
- ATMs of major banks such as SBI, HDFC, and ICICI are available around the lake area and in Bhopal city, especially near the tourist spots.
Medical Facilities
- Narmada Health Group and Chirayu Hospital are major hospitals located near Upper Lake, providing emergency medical services.
- For minor emergencies, local clinics and medical stores are easily accessible near the lake.
Parking
- Paid Parking Lots: Available near popular entry points to the lake such as Boat Club and Van Vihar National Park. Charges range from ?20 to ?50 depending on the vehicle type.
- Street Parking: In some areas, street parking is available, but it is best to stick to designated parking spots to avoid fines.
Upper Lake offers a mix of serene and adventure-filled activities with convenient access to basic amenities, making it a wonderful spot for both tourists and locals.
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