A magnanimous lake sprawling over hectares of land, forming the largest Ulsoor Lake one of the top places to visit near Bangalore. This is a man-made lake in the place named Ulsoor which is spread across 125 acres of land. It is one of the most serene places to spend the evening delightfully without spending much.

Ulsoor Lake was built during the period of Kempe Gowda’s reign. It was later enhanced by the commissioner named Lewin Bentham Bowring. It is a recreational complex where a large swimming pool is attached. There is a wonderful garden all-around the Lake which is known as Kensington Park. The lake is decorated gracefully, during the festival of Ganesh Chaturthi.

As per the ancient stories,  Kempe Gowda the then ruler of Vijayanagar Empire was traveling through the dense forest area of the Ulsoor. He was tired and exhausted. He decided to stay back and take some rest under a tree. Strangely, this was the tree under which the great Mandava Rishi once worshipped the god Someswara.

It is said; God Someswara appeared in his dream and told about the hidden treasure here. When the king woke up he started digging up for the treasure. He found the treasure and built the Someswara Pagoda here. Thus, Ulsoor Lake was created.

Water of Ulsoor Lake

The ecosystem of the lake is monitored time to time, based on light, temperature, nutrients, aquatic plants and oxygen required to keep the water fresh. The Eutrophication of the lake indicated by the nitrogen, chlorophyll and the phosphate are very high. The presence of the blue-green algae is noted at the bottom of the lake. These often affect the aquatic plants and fishes at a large. 

Studies show that the concentration of Zinc and metal in the water contents are high. Restoration of the quality water is highly maintained in Ulsoor Lake.

Ulsoor Lake timings

The timings are 9:30 am to 5:30 pm in all the seven days in a week.

Ulsoor Lake boating

One of the finest activities to explore in Ulsoor Lake is the boating facilities. There is a small number of the island spread across the lake which is reached by boat riding. The facilities offered by the Boat club are maintained by the KSTDC which offers a wonderful boat outing. The fee charges around Rs. 120 per hour of boating, across Ulsoor Lake.

Ganesh Chaturthi at Ulsoor Lake

The most colourful celebration held at Ulsoor Lake is the auspicious Ganesh Chaturthi. It generally takes place around the months of August or September. The extravaganza of dance, music, and conventional practices are observed here.

Travelers from various locations crowd the premises in groups. The grand idol of Lord Ganesha is immersed in the lake water. The devotees make a wish to return to this place every year for the celebration of Ganesh Chaturthi.

Anytime or a one day trip from Bangalore to this fantastic beauty of nature, Ulsoor Lake must be explored. It is inside the city so you can just make it anytime and any day as per your schedule.