For those new to Bangalore and visiting central Bangalore, there's no way you can miss out on the iconic Ulsoor Lake. For those who grew up around Ulsoor and the neighbourhood, the lake is nostalgic with a breath of fresh air (literally). According to history, the lake dates back to the time of Kempe Gowda 1, the founder of Bangalore. However, only during the time of Sir Lewin Bentham Bowring, the then Commissioner of Bangalore, did the lake take its present-day form.
Things To Do:
Currently maintained and operated by BBMP and the military unit of Madras Engineering Group, the BBMP part is open to the public and features a jogging pathway, a viewpoint, a catchment area for idol immersion during festivals, an open gym, a few pavilions, and a small park. The open gym is a spot amongst the old-schoolers of the neighbourhood for their morning exercise. The military’s involvement in the area also extends to their own rowing and boating facilities, so unfortunately due to that there are no public boating sessions in the lake anymore.
Ulsoor Lake is also a spot for dates, catching the sunset and going into shutterbug mode. From our amateur bird-watching friends, we're told that there are not a lot of birds to watch but it's always nice to practice bird spotting here. The sunsets here are serene and there are plenty of benches to sit and watch the orange glow.
Outside Ulsoor Lake, small street carts open in the morning, serving everything from coffee to breakfast staples such as idlis and dosa. In the evenings, you'll find carts selling roasted corn, sweet corn, momo, grilled meats, halwa, and other snacks.
How To Get Here: The closest metro station is the Trinity Metro Station
Timings: 5 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 7 PM
Entry: Free
