Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Crowned as the Heart of India, Madhya Pradesh reflects mesmerising natural beauty, historical heritage, and tranquil water bodies. The state is home to beautiful lakes that combine history, adventure and peace. From the ancient lakes in Madhya Pradesh to the adventure-laden island, each lake has its own unique story. Enjoy activities like boating and birdwatching to peaceful sunsets, which bring the unforgettable. Home to some of the most scenic and historically significant lakes, with ancient reservoirs and natural wonders teeming with biodiversity.
10 Lakes In Madhya Pradesh You Must Visit
Here is a list of the most beautiful lakes in Madhya Pradesh for nature lovers, adventure lovers and history lovers
1. Upper Lake
Photo: Sanyam Bahga / Wikimedia Commons
The Upper Lake (Bada Talab) is one of the biggest human-made lakes in India and was built more than 1000 years ago. It was constructed in the 11th century by Raja Bhoj, the mythical king of the Paramara dynasty who reigned in Malwa. An old tale says that the king had a bad skin disease and a saint suggested he build a huge water reservoir to cure himself. The outcome was this large lake, covering an area of 36 sq km, which continues to supply drinking water to more than 40% of Bhopal’s residents. Upper Lake is a centre for adventure seekers, in addition to its usefulness.
Location: Boat Club, Upper Lake Area, Bhopal
Nearby Attractions: Van Vihar National Park, Sair Sapata, Kamla Park
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Lower Lake
Photo: Masterblaster3r / Wikimedia Commons
Lower Lake Utthaan, also called Chhota Talab, is the lesser-known, yet equally alluring twin of the Upper Lake. Built in 1794, it was built by Chhote Khan, one of Nawab Hayat Mohammad Khan’s ministers, as part of an initiative to beautify Bhopal and provide extra water storage. Pul Pukhta Bridge, an ancient bridge, separates the Upper Lake from it and is still intact and strong. The lake is smaller in area but has vast historical importance. Adding to its charm are centuries-old temples, mosques and havelis that surround it. In contrast to the feisty Upper Lake, the Lower Lake is calmer, becoming the place for photographers as well as those who like and prefer solitude.
Location: Jahangirabad, Bhopal
Nearby Attractions: Gohar Mahal, Bharat Bhavan, Moti Masjid
Best Time To Visit: November to February
3. Kerwa Lake
Photo: Sonika Dhakad / Wikimedia Commons
Kerwa Lakes in Madhya Pradesh is a location for adventure activities that serves up a quieter, more off-the-path experience than the more famous Upper and Lower Lakes. It is especially famous for zip-lining over the lake, which draws adrenaline junkies from near and far. It is a popular spot among cyclists and trekkers because the winding trails surrounding the lake provide stunning views of the sunrise and sunset. You can have access to skiing options, including an option for kids. Near here stands the Kerwa Dam, which adds to the scenic beauty of the place, and this area is a bustling picnic spot and weekend getaway.
Location: Mahua Kheda
Nearby Attractions: Kaliyasot Dam, Van Vihar National Park
Best Time To Visit: August to February
4. Sakhya Sagar Lake
Photo: Amit Sen / Wikimedia Commons
Situated deep inside the Madhav National Park, Sakhya Sagar Lake is a paradise for wildlife and bird enthusiasts. It was constructed in the early 20th century under the rule of the Scindia dynasty to act as a supplement to the ecosystem of the surrounding forests. This lake has crocodiles and turtles and is also a waypoint for migratory birds, with painted storks, kingfishers and egrets. The lake is also home to the Sailing Club, a colonial building that now doubles as a tourist attraction. It is a must-visit for nature lovers due to its calm water, dense forest, and rich wildlife. During monsoon season, mist covers the lake, lending an almost mystical aura to the scene.
Location: Shivpuri
Nearby Attractions: Madhav National Park, Scindia Chhatris
Best Time To Visit: August to March
5. Tawa Reservoir
Photo: Rakshpatil / Wikimedia Commons
The Tawa Dam, situated on the Tawa River and forming the Tawa Reservoir, is a hidden gem between the Betul and Hoshangabad districts. Unlike the overburdened lakes of Bhopal, Tawa Lakes in Madhya Pradesh is far more beautiful with blue waters, dense forests and rich biodiversity. It’s often viewed as a gateway to the Satpura National Park, and boat safaris depart from Tawa to the park, where you can see tigers, sloth bears and deer along the banks. Fishing is a big activity here, and fishermen’s villages in the reservoir area offer a chance to see rural life.
Location: Betul-Hoshangabad border
Nearby Attractions: Satpura National Park, Pachmarhi Hill Station
Best Time To Visit: October to March
6. Gandhi Sagar Lake
Photo: LRBurdak / Wikimedia Commons
Situated on the Chambal River, Gandhi Sagar Lake is a major reservoir in Madhya Pradesh created by the Gandhi Sagar Dam in 1960. Covering an area of more than 6,800 sq km, this fabulous lake is heaven for nature and adventure enthusiasts. It is surrounded by forests and hills and is visited for camping and photography as well. Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, home to jackals, deer, crocodiles and more than 200 species of birds, also surrounds the lake. A boat ride on this lake offers the majestic view of the Chambal Valley which is famous for its rocky landscapes and has a high historical significance.
Location: Neemuch and Mandsaur districts
Nearby Attractions: Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Chambal Ravines
Best Time To Visit: October to March
7. Hanuwantiya Tapu Lake
Photo: Indrajit Das / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Hanuwantiya Lake, a tributary of the Indira Sagar Dam, is a colourful adventure destination famous for its Jal Mahotsav festival, India’s biggest water carnival. It is built in the Khandwa district and has become a hotspot for water sports and luxury tourism. The lake provides everything a thrill-seeker desires, including parasailing, jet skiing, banana boat rides, and hot air ballooning. There are also floating cottages and tented accommodations, so you can camp right by the sparkling waters. In scenic beauty, tiny islands within the lake can simply be explored by taking boat rides. The Jal Mahotsav transforms the place into a colourful festival ground, filled with cultural performances, food stalls and adventure activities.
Location: Khandwa district
Nearby Attractions: Indira Sagar Dam, Omkareshwar Jyotirlinga
Best Time To Visit: November to February (during Jal Mahotsav)
8. Shahpura Lake
Photo: Vipra97 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Shahpura Lake is nestled in the Dindori district and it is one of the lesser-known places and is a paradise with crystal-clear waters and rich tribal heritage. You get perfect views of the lake, which is surrounded by thick forests, turning it into a beautiful escape for nature lovers. The lake is vital to local agriculture and fisheries, and fishermen are often seen casting their nets in the morning mist. Nearby tribal villages, dwelling for the Baiga and Gond communities, bring in cultural appeal. These communities have maintained centuries-old traditions, and their Warli painting, folk songs and handcrafted artefacts should be explored. The surrounding greenery is something to see during the monsoons and fog on the surfaces of the water creates a mystical world.
Location: Shahapura, Bhopal
Nearby Attractions: Amarkantak, Baiga Tribal Villages
Best Time To Visit: July to February
9. Motia Talab
Photo: Swapnil.karambelkar / Wikimedia Commons
Central Gwalior also boasts of a heritage-rich Mughal-era lake named Motia Talab. Built originally as a storage reservoir for the water needs of the royal occupants of Gwalior Fort, it still serves as an essential source of drinking water for the city. Motia Talab, though smaller in size compared to the large tanks constructed in Madhya Pradesh, is of great historical importance. It is hemmed in by ancient Havelis, temples and colonial buildings and is a photographer’s dream. The pristine water mirrors the exquisite Gwalior skyline, making for a postcard-worthy view. The lake is particularly vibrant during festivals and religious holidays, as the shores are filled with many people on ghats. The evenings are popular as residents converge to enjoy food from street vendors, boat rides on the water and cultural performances.
Location: Gwalior
Nearby Attractions: Gwalior Fort, Sun Temple, Scindia Palace
Best Time To Visit: October to March
10. Kolar Dam Reservoir
Photo: Sandeep Shukla / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kolar Dam Reservoir is a beautiful lake ideal for camping and stargazing, although it is a lesser-known lakes in Madhya Pradesh. Constructed on the Kolar River, this water body acts as a major water lifeline for Bhopal. Kolar is a secluded, peaceful escape that is perfect for nature lovers and photographers. Nestled between rolling hills and lush greenery, the lake is an ideal place for picnicking and trekking. There is no pollution in this area, so camping by the lake and sleeping under the stars is magical. Kolar is also a haven for birdwatchers as migratory birds come here during winter, with flamingos, herons, and cranes among them.
Location: Jhal Pipali
Nearby Attractions: Kolar Dam, Ratapani Wildlife Sanctuary
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Madhya Pradesh’s lakes are not only a patch of water but also cultural hotspots, adventure hotspots, and environment-friendly places. Dotted with historic lakes and water sports, along with wildlife, every lakes in Madhya Pradesh serves as a uniquely captivating escape. Ideal weekend getaways, these lakes with rich history, scenic beauty and a range of exciting experiences should be on every traveller’s bucket list. So plan your visit with TripXL and arrange your trip easily.
Cover Photo: Vindravan Patel / Wikimedia Commons
