Located at the heart of Bangalore, the Ulsoor Lake shines like a diamond, giving relief from the city’s hustle and bustle. This vast source of water, which was once used to supply water to the city, has now become one of the favourite tourist attractions for outings and bird-watching and is the historical evidence of Bengaluru. Revealing the fascinating tale of Ulsoor Lake and its origin to the current services and facilities available in the area.
Ulsoor Lake’s History
Image Credit: Saad Faruque for Wikimedia Commons
Much about the eastern lake, known as Ulsoor Lake, is still the subject of controversy along with the current state and history of water bodies in the city dating back to the 16th century. In the earlier centuries, particularly when the city was under the rule of the Kempegowda dynasty, the lake was used extensively to irrigate the agricultural fields of Bangalore. People believe that the founder of Bangalore, Kempegowda, had a dream where he saw the linga, which is one of the representations of Lord Shiva, submerged in water. He believed that this was a dream sent from the god and he had to go for the search of the linga. Though the search was carried out to the best of his ability, he found it at the exact place where today’s Ulsoor Lake is located.
Even the name of the lake stems from this legend where ‘Ulsoor’ is the anglicised version of ‘Halasuru’ translated as ‘old town’ and ‘Ganga’ is the reference to the holy River Ganges, thereby underlining the broken linga discovered by Kempegowda I. As history unfolds, Ulsoor Lake served as a very significant part of the growth and evolution of Bangalore.
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Unveiling Ulsoor Lake’s Beauty
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Ulsoor Lake, or the double-portioned Halasuru Lake and Semanakunte Lake, is a breathtakingly gorgeous set of water bodies that occupies about 121 hectares or 296 acres of overall area. Tropical growth envelops the lake, which gives people a feeling of being released from the shackles of concrete structures. There are pathways within the park and so many trees that most are tall to provide shade and habitation for a variety of birds. Bird enthusiasts can easily identify the kingfisher, egret, cormorant and sometimes even the heron which are believed to prefer living in the lake habitat.
The lake is known to be active during the monsoon season from June to September and takes up its activities with more energy. It becomes flooded, reaching its banks, and is beautiful, and any vegetation within the region flourishes, painting a beautiful picture of life around the lake. These are best seen in early mornings when the mist will be rising from the water and the sun will be rising from behind giving the most brilliant outlooks on the view.
Tip: Take a bicycle ride around the edge of Ulsoor Lake in Bangalore for fresh air.
Activities At Ulsoor Lake
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Ulsoor Lake provides leisure and recreational facilities for people interested in boating, fishing, etc. Some of the most common activities to do at Ulsoor Lake include:
- Fitness Enthusiasts: For the morning people, the areas that feature the walking and jogging paths around the beautiful lake provide the best working out environment. This means well-established trails that are several kilometres long, and enough space for people jogging or walking to get fresh air and nature scenery at the same time.
- Cycling Adventures: From a means of transport perspective, cycling lovers will be able to ride only allowed biking trails around the lake giving them a good healthy activity as they enjoy the lake. Around the lake, there are various bicycle rental shops so that the individuals visiting the area can hire bicycles and do cycling tours.
- Family Fun: From a family perspective, it is even more convenient, as one could spend the whole day there if you have children. Several playgrounds exist across the lake that act as a playground for children to play and perhaps relax. Recreation facilities involving boats allow observing the lake as a boat, and though there are few of them in the park, they do create a different view of the park.
Tip: Ulsoor Lake offers a fun day of boating, cycling, and scenic walks that are perfect for families and fitness enthusiasts.
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A Taste Of Bangalore: Local Food Scene Around Ulsoor Lake
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Bangalore offers a rich food culture. Some of the most popular restaurants are located at the side of Ulsoor Lake where several food carts and stalls sell spicy Indian dishes such as masala dosa, savoury pastry snacks called samosas or natural coconut juice prepared directly from a coconut.
For a more laid-back experience, not only accommodation but also cafes and restaurants that are located in proximity to the lake provide a vast array of dishes to satisfy your palate.
Tip: Make sure to try cool coconut juice and mouth watering Indian street food once you visit Ulsoor Lake.
Planning Your Visit To Ulsoor Lake: Responsible Tourism Tips
The attraction of the Ulsoor Lake and the picturesque landscape that the Lake offers all come with certain expectations or proper etiquette from the side of the spectators and the beholders. Here are some of the most essential points to remember when planning your visit to Ulsoor Lake:
- Reduce lighting usage and recycle appropriate wastes in the designated bins or bring your bag.
- Do not harass the birds and other animals that could be spotted around Ulsoor Lake.
- Do not feed them with human foods, as this will cause them to go off their normal nutritional habits.
- Do not throw or spill anything that may contaminate the water. Ulsoor Lake is also a source of water supply to the city so conserving the water body is necessary both for rejuvenation and purification.
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Ulsoor Lake is an oasis for Bangalore residents; it can be visited by people who love nature and need a place to exercise, families with children, and every person who needs to escape the overcrowded city. Even today, Ulsoor Lake adds a new chapter of identity to the town, once inhabited as part of its historic splendour. So plan your trip to Bangalore today and enjoy wonderful weather on your amazing journey.
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Cover Image Credit: Ramesh NG for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Ulsoor Lake
When is the best time to visit?
Early morning is usually devoid of traffic on the beach, while evening brings large numbers of people to watch the sunset.
What kind of activities are possible in this place?
Beautiful natural trails, roads for walking and jogging, bicycle trails, non-motorised boating (to some extent), other recreational activities such as picnicking, and children’s playgrounds.
What's near Ulsoor Lake?
They include the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) (Free Entry), National Museum (Entry Fee), Vidhana Soudha (Free Entry), and Cubbon Park (Free Entry).
Is parking available?
Yes, there are special spaces provided near Ulsoor Road and HAL Airport Road, respectively.
Is it also possible to reach Ulsoor Lake by public transport?
Absolutely! There are places for leaving Metro stations and bus stops just a few steps away.
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