Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is a large artificial lake located in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh. This lake is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city and is a major source of drinking water for the residents of Bhopal.
The Upper Lake was created by Raja Bhoj, a king of the Paramara dynasty, in the 11th century by building an earthen dam on the Kolans River. The lake covers an area of approximately 31 square kilometres and has an average depth of 8 meters. Lush green hills surround the lake and are popular for picnics and boating.
One of the main attractions of the Upper Lake is the Van Vihar National Park, which is located on its southern shore. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, sloth bears, crocodiles, and many species of birds. Visitors can take a safari tour of the park or go for a leisurely walk along its well-maintained trails.
The Upper Lake is the Birla Museum, located on the Arera Hills overlooking the lake. The museum houses many sculptures, paintings, and artefacts from ancient and medieval Indian history. Visitors can also enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding landscape from the museum's rooftop.
The Upper Lake is also home to several temples and other religious sites. One of the most prominent is the Kamla Park Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, the monkey god. The temple is located on the lake's northern shore and is a popular pilgrimage site for devotees.
Visitors can also indulge in various water sports and activities on the Upper Lake, including kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and jet skiing. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, with several fish species, including catfish and murrel, found in its waters.
The Upper Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Bhopal. Its natural beauty, rich wildlife, and cultural significance make it a unique and unforgettable experience.
Places To Visit Nearby Upper Lake:
Van Vihar National Park:
Van Vihar National Park is a zoological park near the Upper Lake in Bhopal. Spread over an area of 4.45 sq. km, the park houses various wild animals, including tigers, lions, bears, panthers, and many more.
Shaukat Mahal is an architectural marvel near the Upper Lake in Bhopal. Built in the 19th century, the palace combines Gothic, Mughal, and Hindu architectural styles.
Bharat Bhavan is a multi-art complex near the Upper Lake in Bhopal. The complex has art galleries, a library, a theatre, and a museum that showcases the rich culture and heritage of Madhya Pradesh.
Located about 6 kilometres from Upper Lake, Bhojpur Temple is an ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is known for its massive lingam, one of India's largest. The temple's architectural grandeur and historical significance make it a popular destination for visitors.
Located in Bhopal, Taj-ul-Masajid is one of the largest mosques in Asia. Its name translates to "Crown among Mosques." The mosque features impressive architecture with intricately designed domes, minarets, and marblework. It is an important religious site for Muslims and an architectural marvel worth visiting.