Bhojtal (Upper Lake) Bhopal
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Bhojtal (Upper Lake) Bhopal

4.5
·3k reviews·, India

Bhopal's expansive artificial lake, Bhojtal, offers stunning views, boating, and a glimpse into history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
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Bhojtal (Upper Lake) Bhopal

Bhojtal (Upper Lake) Bhopal

Best Time

Sunrise & Sunset

Golden hour magic

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Bhopal's expansive artificial lake, Bhojtal, offers stunning views, boating, and a glimpse into history.

4.5
(3k reviews)

"The lake never goes dry and is rich in nature… Best place to hang out with your friends and family."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Sunrise and sunset offer stunning views and cooler temperatures. Perfect for photos!

🚤 Boat Club Fun

Enjoy motorboat, pedal boat, or speed boat rides. Speed boat tickets are around ₹250 for three.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sunrise/Sunset Views

Sunrise/Sunset Views

Witness the sky ablaze with color over the vast, calm waters. A truly magical experience.

Boating Adventures

Boating Adventures

Boat Club

Glide across the lake on a motorboat, pedal boat, or thrilling speed boat. Fun for all ages.

Raja Bhoj Statue

Raja Bhoj Statue

Center of the lake

A majestic statue of the lake's founder, King Bhoj, stands as a testament to its historical significance.

Bhoj Wetland Ecosystem

Bhoj Wetland Ecosystem

Explore the rich biodiversity, including numerous fish species and migratory birds.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most breathtaking views and cooler temperatures, especially in summer. Avoid midday heat. Evenings are popular for a relaxed atmosphere and boat rides.

Boating & Activities

Bhojtal offers various boating options, including motorboats, pedal boats, and speed boats. Paragliding is also available. Check operating hours and prices beforehand, as they can vary.

Best Times

When
Sunrise & Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Evenings
Why
Cool breeze & relaxed vibe
Crowd
High
When
April (off-peak)
Why
Fewer crowds, less heat
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The worst industrial disaster most have never heard of. #bhopal #historytok #LearnOnTikTok #History #disaster #india
@grislyhistory
43.2K likes • 346.9K views

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Sunrise and sunset offer stunning views and cooler temperatures. Perfect for photos! Instagram+1

🚤 Boat Club Fun

Enjoy motorboat, pedal boat, or speed boat rides. Speed boat tickets are around ₹250 for three. InstagramReddit

🚨 Boy jumps into Lake at VIP Road, Bhopal Rescue team and emergency van have reached the spot. As per initial reports, it appears to be a suicide case. A man has jumped from VIP road into Upper Lake Bhopal. If you have verified information about what exactly happened, please share it in the comments. 🙏 🎥 News by @arbazmirzalive #Bhopal #UpdateBusBhopal #BhopalNews #VipRoadBhopal #BhopalUpdat...
update_bus_bhopal
458 likes • 34.1K views
Bhopal - City of lakes ❤️⛵️🦢 Where Nature and Heritage Flow Together!” Follow @bhopal_edition ✅ Bhopal Lake View is one of the most scenic spots in the city, offering breathtaking views of the Upper Lake (Bada Talab), the largest artificial lake in India. Surrounded by lush greenery, the lake view area is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, providing a perfect blend of natural b...
bhopal_edition
78.7K likes • 1.1M views

🚶‍♀️ Lakeside Strolls

The area is neat and clean, ideal for a relaxing walk with beautiful scenery. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Heat

Mornings and evenings are best, especially during summer. Avoid hot afternoons. Reddit

Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is a prominent water body located in the city of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India. It is one of the largest man-made lakes in India. The lake was constructed in the 11th century by Raja Bhoj, a King of the Paramara dynasty, which is why it is also called Bhojtal. Upper Lake is situated in the heart of Bhopal, surrounded by hills and lush green landscapes, making it ...
meesureshdasari
199 likes • 3.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Catch the Golden Hour

Sunrise and sunset offer stunning views and cooler temperatures. Perfect for photos! Instagram+1

🚤 Boat Club Fun

Enjoy motorboat, pedal boat, or speed boat rides. Speed boat tickets are around ₹250 for three. InstagramReddit

🚶‍♀️ Lakeside Strolls

The area is neat and clean, ideal for a relaxing walk with beautiful scenery. Reddit

☀️ Beat the Heat

Mornings and evenings are best, especially during summer. Avoid hot afternoons. Reddit

🐦 Birdwatching Potential

While bird sightings can vary, the lake is a habitat for many species. InstagramReddit

🍽️ Dine with a View

Restaurants by the lake offer good food with scenic views. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Bhojtal is widely praised as the heart of Bhopal, offering stunning natural beauty, especially at sunrise and sunset. Visitors enjoy the boating facilities and the historical significance of the lake. While generally well-maintained, some note that boat availability could be better, and crowds can increase during peak times.

"This is the most iconic place of Bhopal for tourists and locals both. The lake offers breathtaking views and is a beautiful place for leisure walks.

Recently, I discovered a nice area developed by MP Tourism for morning and evening stroll. There are nice shaded shelters and benches along with landscaped and well maintained garden. Lot of bird watching can also be done here.

The sunrise and sunset look serene and scenic from this spot. Some films and web series have also been shot at this location recently.

A place I return to often as my heart still yearns for the peace and tranquility it offers."

Mandeep Singh Sahni

"Upper Lake is the most serene place in Bhopal. Perfect for peaceful moments and fun activities like boating. A must-visit for nature lovers!"

anjana hanra

"Very beautiful place in Bhopal, we can say it's a identity of Bhopal,
You can walk peacefully arround lake in the evening and also enjoy beautiful sunset from boat."

Vijay Kumar

What People Like

Beautiful sunrise/sunset views
Boating activities
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Crowded evenings
Boat availability

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Bhojtal is centrally located in Bhopal. You can easily reach it by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or local bus from anywhere in the city. It's a popular spot, so most drivers will know the way. Instagram

Yes, there is a good parking facility available near the lake, making it convenient for visitors arriving by private vehicles. Reddit

Walking along the lakefront is highly recommended for enjoying the views. For exploring the water, boating is the primary option. Reddit

There are generally no entry fees to access the lake area itself. However, specific activities like boating or paragliding will have separate charges. Instagram

While the main pathways are generally accessible, some areas might be uneven. Boating facilities might have limitations, so it's advisable to inquire beforehand. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Ticket prices vary by boat type. For example, a speed boat is around ₹250 for up to three people, and a cruise ride is about ₹120 per person. Pedal boats are also available. InstagramReddit

Advance booking for boat tickets is usually not required, but it's best to check with the Boat Club, especially during peak season or holidays. Instagram

Boating typically operates from morning until evening, with a special focus on sunset cruises. It's advisable to confirm the exact timings upon arrival as they can change. Instagram

Yes, paragliding is also offered at the lake for around ₹500 per person. Reddit

Visiting during off-peak hours, like weekdays or early mornings/late afternoons, can help avoid long queues for tickets. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy boating, admire the sunrise/sunset, take leisurely walks, visit the Raja Bhoj statue, and dine at lakeside restaurants. InstagramReddit

It can get crowded in the evenings and on weekends, especially during sunset. Weekday mornings and afternoons are generally less crowded. Reddit

The best times are early morning for a peaceful start and late afternoon into the evening for beautiful sunset views and a pleasant atmosphere. InstagramReddit

Absolutely! The lake offers stunning photographic opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset, with reflections on the water. Instagram+1

Built in the 11th century by Raja Bhoj, it's one of India's largest man-made lakes and a vital water source for Bhopal, holding significant historical and ecological importance. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, several restaurants are located along the lake, offering good food with beautiful views of the water. Reddit

You can find a variety of local Indian cuisine, often with options catering to different tastes. Many offer a pleasant dining experience overlooking the lake. Reddit

While some restaurants offer fine dining, you can also find more casual eateries or street food stalls nearby that are more budget-friendly. Inquiring locally can help. Reddit

While there aren't designated picnic areas, you can find spots along the lakefront to enjoy a packed meal, provided you clean up afterward. Reddit

For the best experience, consider dining during sunset for romantic views or during lunch for a relaxed meal. Reservations might be wise on weekends. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire lakefront offers great views. Key spots include areas with clear reflections, the Raja Bhoj statue, and vantage points during sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

Golden hour, just after sunrise and before sunset, provides the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Instagram+1

Drone usage is typically restricted in public areas and near water bodies for safety and privacy reasons. It's best to check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Boating offers unique perspectives of the lake, the city skyline, and the surrounding hills. You can capture wide-angle shots and reflections. Instagram

While dedicated photography tours might not be common, local guides or photography enthusiasts can often provide tips on the best angles and times. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Bhojtal is a fantastic destination for families. The boat rides, especially pedal boats, are a hit with children, offering a fun and safe way to enjoy the water. The open spaces along the lakefront are great for kids to run around, and the general atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly. InstagramReddit

Consider visiting in the late afternoon to avoid the midday sun. Pack some snacks or enjoy a meal at one of the lakeside restaurants. The Raja Bhoj statue can also be an interesting point of discussion about history for older children. Ensure you supervise children closely, especially near the water's edge. InstagramReddit

💑 Couples

For couples, Bhojtal offers a romantic setting, particularly during sunset. A leisurely boat ride as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the lake, is an unforgettable experience. Instagram+1

Enjoy a quiet walk along the lakefront, hand-in-hand, or opt for a dinner at one of the restaurants with a view. The tranquil ambiance, especially on a weekday evening, makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful and intimate outing. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Budget Explorers

Solo travelers will find Bhojtal a safe and engaging place to explore. A walk along the lake is a great way to experience the city's vibe without spending much. The evening atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, perfect for people-watching. Reddit

For budget-conscious visitors, opting for a pedal boat or simply enjoying the views from the shore are excellent free or low-cost activities. Look for local eateries away from the immediate lakeside for more affordable food options. Visiting during off-peak hours can also save money on activities. InstagramReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History and Significance of Bhojtal

Bhojtal, formerly known as Upper Lake, is not just a scenic spot but a cornerstone of Bhopal's identity. Constructed in the 11th century by the Paramara King Raja Bhoj, it stands as one of India's largest man-made lakes. Its creation was a feat of engineering for its time, designed to serve as a vital water reservoir for the burgeoning city. The lake's historical importance is further underscored by the statue of Raja Bhoj situated within its waters, a constant reminder of its founder. Instagram+1

Beyond its historical roots, Bhojtal plays a crucial ecological role. It is a key component of the Bhoj Wetland, which has been recognized internationally by being included in the Ramsar list of Wetlands. This designation highlights its importance for biodiversity, supporting numerous fish species and serving as a habitat for migratory birds. The lake's continuous water supply is essential for the city's residents and the surrounding environment, making its preservation a priority. InstagramReddit

This dual role as a historical monument and an ecological asset makes Bhojtal a unique destination. Visitors can appreciate not only its natural beauty and recreational activities but also its deep-seated connection to the history and sustainability of Bhopal. The lake truly is the lifeline of the city, embodying its past, present, and future. Instagram+1

Experiencing Bhojtal: Activities and Views

Bhojtal offers a range of activities that cater to different interests. The most popular is undoubtedly boating. Visitors can choose from motorboats, pedal boats, and speed boats, each offering a different perspective of the lake. Speed boat rides are particularly thrilling, while pedal boats offer a more relaxed pace. The Boat Club is the central hub for these activities, with various options available for individuals and groups. InstagramReddit

The visual appeal of Bhojtal is undeniable, especially during the golden hours. Sunrise and sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors, reflecting beautifully on the calm water, creating a serene and picturesque atmosphere. Many visitors flock to the lakefront during these times to witness this spectacle and capture stunning photographs. The cool breeze during these periods adds to the overall pleasant experience. InstagramReddit+1

For those seeking a bit more adventure, paragliding is also an option available at the lake, offering an aerial view of the expansive water body and the city. Additionally, the well-maintained lakefront provides a perfect setting for leisurely walks, allowing visitors to soak in the ambiance and enjoy the expansive views. Several restaurants are also situated along the lake, providing opportunities to dine with a beautiful backdrop. Reddit

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