subject: Ulsoor Lake – A Recreational Oasis on the Outskirts of Bangalore [print this page] Ulsoor Lake A Recreational Oasis on the Outskirts of Bangalore
The Ulsoor Lake is a water tank found on the north-eastern outskirts of Bangalore, on the eastern end of M. G. Road. The name of Ulsoor is derived from the locality of Halasuru, which is one of the most ancient settlements in the area. Renowned both as a site of great scenic beauty as well as a hub of recreation, the construction of this lake is believed to be as old as the settlement after which it is named, harking back to the second century to the reign of Kempe Gowda II. The tank was later reconstructed by the efforts of Lewin Bentham Bowring, the former British Commissioner of Bangalore.
The 125 acre lake is dotted with islets, to which visitors can travel via boat. Boating is naturally a popular activity here, as the boating club established near the lake can attest. A recreational complex complete with a swimming pool for those with doubts about the lake water is located near its shores. Shopping opportunities also abound in this vicinity, as do many former British residences and official buildings, as the site used to serve as a colonial encampment of the British Army. Also on the shores of these picturesque waters appears the intimate garden of Kensington Park, which is a favourite haunt of tourists who simply wish to kick back and soak in the tranquil ambience and sunshine.
The attractions lining the shores of this lake are not purely recreational. The largest Sikh shrine in Bangalore, the Sri Guru Singh Saba, also appears nearby, the gleaming white edifice a beautiful complement to the lapping waters of the lake. This temple is over 60 years old and is one of the major gathering places for Sikhs who flock here for prayer and devotion on Wednesdays and Sundays.
During the Ganesh Festival, which falls on the August-September period, thousands of Bangalore residents flock around the lake to sing in colourful procession and immerse their statues of Lord Ganesh in the water.
The Ulsoor Lake is a must-visit site for any tourist staying at one of the Bangalore hotels. In terms of accommodation, The Leela Palace Kempinski Bangalore emerges as a well-recommended choice, boasting well-appointed deluxe rooms Bangalore as well as easy access to a myriad of attractions such as Ulsoor Lake.
