Ulsoor Lake

Located on the northeasternfringe of Bangalore, the Ulsoor Lake is a beautiful water body stretching over an area of 125 acres. Dottedwith a number of little islands, the Ulsoor Lake in Bangalore not only attracts the tourists because of its splendid beauty but for a wonderful experience of boating in the lake. And if you are a shopaholic, stop your boat at each of the islands and shop till you drop. Ulsoor Lake will offeryou an experience you will remember.
Constructed by Kempe Gowda II back in the second century, the Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore was a place of major importance in the earlier days. Today the Ulsoor town, lying to the west of the Ulsoor Lake stands still with the memories of the by-gone days. While the Ulsoor is called the 'City Market' of the East in Bangalore, history says that the lake Ulsoor was known as"Halsur" or "Alasur" in the past.
Major Attractions:
While boating and shoppingare the major attractions thatcan be enjoyed all year round, the ideal time to come to this picturesque lake is during the Ganesh Festival that is celebrated in the month of August/ September.
Legend:
Legend has it that when Kempe Godwa II came to this place while chasing a game, there was dense forestin the region. As Godwa fellasleep under a tree, weary from his sport, God Somesvara appeared in his dream and told him about ahidden treasure. It is believed that Kempe Godwa dug up the treasure and built the Somesvara pagoda that still exists in Ulsoor. While this the most famous temple of the region, beautifully decorate with paintings of Lord Shiva and Parvati tying their nuptial knots and sculptors by A descendant of Jakanachari, there is another famous temple dedicated to Subbaraya.
Caution:
Although swimming is allowed in Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore, it is a little dangerous for people other than the natives. The weeds and the lotus under the water often twine around the legs pulls one down. However, swimming in the nearby swimming pool beside the 'Kensington Park'near the lake is a good option