10 Famous Lakes In Bhopal You Should Visit For Scenic Escape

Bhopal, a city with many unique features, has vast arrays of natural and artificial lakes. Each famous lake in Bhopal is a scenic attraction, but an equally much-needed source of drinking water, biodiversity hotspots, and recreational places. From the historic Bada Talab, dating back to the 11th century, to the tranquil Hathaikheda Lake, each water body in Bhopal has its charm and significance. Bhopal’s lakes have something for everybody, be it an explorer seeking an offbeat day out, a nature lover excited about spotting migratory birds, or an adventure seeker hoping to kayak or zip line.

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10 Famous Lakes Of Bhopal That You Must See

Explore the 10 most iconic lakes of the city, their history, things to do and the attractions surrounding them for holistic exploration:

1. Upper Lake / Bada Talab

Upper lake, a famous lake in Bhopal, from the top with a large water multiple boats parked

Photo: Sanyam Bahga / Wikimedia Commons

The Upper Lake, the largest artificial and famous lake in Bhopal, was built in the 11th century. Locals say Raja Bhoj himself built it so he could use the lake’s water to treat a skin disease. The lake spreads across 30-plus square kilometres, serving as Bhopal’s main supply of drinking water. Adventure enthusiasts can relish activities like boating, kayaking and parasailing at Boat Club. With a wildlife-friendly habitat, the south edge of the city is marked by the Van Vihar National Park.

Location: Near TT Nagar, Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: October – March

2. Lower Lake / Chhota Talab

Lower lake, a famous lake in Bhopal, from the top with a small fountain in the middle

Photo: Masterblaster3r / Wikimedia Commons

The Lower Lake, also called Chhota Talab, is a picturesque waterbody that is part of Bhopal’s renowned Bhoj Wetland, separated by a centuries-old bridge known as Pul Pukhta from the Upper Lake. Constructed by Nawab Chhote Khan in 1794 as an extension of the Upper Lake, the lake occupies less space, making it a significant ecological area for migratory birds in winter. The calm environment is perfect for morning walks and meditation, and the placid waters reflecting the city skyline make it a magnet for photographers. Lower Lake is less known for adventure sports and more for its tranquillity and surrounding architectural beauty.

Location: Near VIP Road, Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: October – February
Nearby Attractions: Gauhar Mahal, Sadar Manzil, Moti Masjid

3. Shahpura Lake

Shahpura Lake, a famous lake in Bhopal with a large water body, green palm trees

Photo: Vipra97 / Wikimedia Commons

Shahpura Lake is a modern water body, developed to facilitate groundwater recharge for the urban area. Today, it is a fitness ground, attracting early-morning joggers and exercise fanatics. Well-kept walking trails around the lake provide a refreshing escape from the city’s clamour. The park around the lake, with flowering plants and benches, is perfect for a picnic. The place is a bird-watcher’s spot as several migratory birds come to the lake during the winter. Development projects have programmed floating fountains and musical light shows that, in the evenings, make the lake more vibrant.

Location: Shahpura, Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: November – February
Nearby Attractions: Shahpura Park, Aura Mall

4. Motia Talab

Motia Talab, a famous lake in Bhopal, reflecting the greenery, a boat and old buildings

Photo: Suyash Dwivedi / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the centre of old Bhopal, Motia Talab is an understated beauty often eclipsed by the other famous lake in Bhopal. Built during the era of the Nawabs, this small but important waterbody is bracketed by centuries-old structures evoking Bhopal’s regal heritage. The lake was named ‘Motia’ which translates to pearl because its waters were once so clear that they sparkled as only pearls can in the moonlight. Today, it’s still an important cultural landmark, lending a picturesque setting to the nearby Taj-ul-Masjid, one of the largest mosques in India.

Location: Near Taj-ul-Masjid, Old Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: Early morning or evening
Nearby Attractions: Taj-ul-Masjid, Moti Masjid, Sadar Manzil

5. Munshi Hussain Khan Talab

An image of a lake with a large water body that is similar to Munshi Hussain Khan Talab

Photo: Alexandre Ultré / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

A little famous lake in Bhopal is Munshi Hussain Khan Talab, which is enriched with history. It was constructed during the Nawab’s period to act as a reservoir to cater to the local population. This lake serves a purpose, attending to the daily lives of the people living in the vicinity. Even with the encroachments of city life, the lake still maintains a lot of its old-world charm. Restoration projects to provide cleaner water and beautify the area have taken place in recent years.

Location: Near Jinsi, Old Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: Early morning
Nearby Attractions: Shaukat Mahal, Iqbal Maidan

6. Sarangpani Lake

An image of a lake in Bhopal with a large water body that is similar to Sarangpani Lake

Photo: Vvicky87 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Sarangpani Lake is the Bhopal waterbody that plays an ecologically important role. Situated on the edge of the town, this water body enhances local biodiversity. The lake is covered with greenery on all sides and is the habitat to a variety of bird species, so it is a must-visit if you are a bird watcher. Unlike the more commercialised and famous lake in Bhopal, Sarangpani is rustic and untouched. It attracts locals looking to escape the city rush. The peaceful waters, along with the beautiful scenery around, are great for meditation and yoga practitioners.

Location: Outskirts of Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: October – February
Nearby Attractions: Local villages, Green fields

7. Kaliasot Lake

Kaliasot Dam reservoir with a distant water body surrounded by dense greenery and sunset

Photo: Arpitargal1996 / Wikimedia Commons

Kaliasot Lake is one of the famous lakes in Bhopal for adventure and nature lovers. Located on the outskirts of Bhopal, the lake is known for its quiet, secluded location amidst dense trees. It has gradually turned into a well-liked place for camping and has been explored uniquely over the years. The lake is encircled by cycling and hiking trails popular with outdoor enthusiasts, while its tranquil waters are perfect for kayaking and paddle boating. It is also a pleasant sight for many migratory birds during the winter.

Location: Near Chuna Bhatti, Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: November – March

8. Kerwa Dam Lake

Person smiling while ziplining, holding the hook over a large waterbody and greenery

Photo: Ayaita / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Kerwa Dam Lake is one of the most adventurous water destinations and a famous lake in Bhopal. The lake is created by the Kerwa Dam and is an ideal picnic and trekking destination. The other forests around it make it beautiful to look at and are popular not only among nature lovers but trekkers and cyclists too. It is famous for ziplining over its waters, which is provided by local adventure camps. Local food stalls and eco-resorts offer a relaxed experience, making it one of the perfect weekend getaways for Bhopal residents.

Location: Near Mendora Village
Best Time To Visit: August – February
Nearby Attractions: Kerwa Jungle Camp, Ratanpur Forest

9. Hathaikheda Lake

Lake with a silhouette of the boundary railings and a colourful sky during the evening

Photo: Image35 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Hathaikheda Lake, an artificial reservoir built for irrigation and water supply, is a relatively less popular lake in Bhopal. Over the years, it has grown into a serene escape for natives who prefer to avoid throngs of tourists. Farmlands surround the lake, lending it a rural charm that is an antithesis to Bhopal’s urban topography. Local and migratory species are also observed by birdwatchers around this lake. The best times to go are in the morning or at sunset when the water is calm and reflecting the sky, an effect that is stunning to behold.

Location: Near Ayodhya Bypass, Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: Early mornings
Nearby Attractions: Local villages and farmlands

10. Bhadbhada Lake

Lake with a fountain in the middle of the water body and distant buildings and greenery

Photo: Alexandre Ultré / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Bhadbhada Lake is formed by the Upper Lake’s backwaters, which are controlled by the Bhadbhada Dam. In monsoons, when excess water is released from the dam, the lake helps to control floods and is an important lifeline to the city. The lake is situated at the entrance near the suburbs of Bhopal and the surrounding area is a beautiful mix of forests and rock formations, making for great scenery. Monsoon drives to this lake are an excellent way to boost your mood and the water overflows create a waterfall effect at the dam gates.

Location: Near Bhadbhada Dam, outskirts of Bhopal
Best Time To Visit: July – September
Nearby Attractions: Bhadbhada Dam, Van Vihar National Park

In addition to offering beautiful scenery, every famous lake in Bhopal is the city’s lifeline that holds ecological, cultural and recreational benefits. From some historic reservoirs and adventure-friendly spots, these water bodies offer a lot of tranquillity and thrill. Plan your trip with TripXL and experience the city’s profound relationship with nature.

Cover Photo: Kuldeep ra1 / Wikimedia Commons

10 Famous Lakes In Bhopal That Capture Nature’s Beauty