Ever get that urge to run away from traffic, buildings, and all things concrete, but without actually leaving the city?
Yeah, me too.
That’s exactly why I love escaping to Ulsoor Lake.
Ulsoor Lake isn’t just a body of water — it’s where I hit pause, breathe easy, and remind myself why I fell in love with Bangalore in the first place.
Nestled right in the heart of Bangalore, this place feels like a deep breath in the middle of chaos.
If you’re craving water, calm, and a dose of fresh air without a full-on road trip, this one’s for you.
Let me take you through everything you need to know before heading there.
Quick Information: Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore
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| Location | Ulsoor, near MG Road |
| Extent | 125 acres |
| Entry Fee | Free However, parking charges are applicable 2-wheeler: INR 10 4-wheeler: INR 20 |
| Timings | Morning: 5 AM to 10 AM Evening: 4 PM to 7 PM |
| Best for | Morning walks, jogging, boating, birdwatching, and photography |
| Distance from major hubs | Cantonment Railway Station (4 km) Bangalore City Railway Station (7 km) Kempegowda International Airport (33 km) |
| Maintained by | Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and Madras Sappers (Madras Engineer Group) |
Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore: An Overview
So here’s a fun fact.
Ulsoor Lake (also called Halasuru Lake) has been around since the 18th century.
It’s said that Kempegowda, the man credited with founding Bangalore, had a hand in creating it.
And yes, apparently, he loved fishing here too. Legends had cooler hobbies, I guess.
The lake spans a massive 125 acres, which is pretty impressive for a man-made lake sitting right in the middle of the city.
What started as a water source for old Bangalore has now turned into a peaceful retreat for joggers, picnic lovers, bird watchers, and folks like me who just want to stare at water and reflect on life decisions.
Today, Ulsoor Lake is a mix of:
- History
- Nature
- And random uncles doing yoga under trees
It’s become a beloved landmark and is still playing its part in keeping Bangalore beautiful, from being a habitat for birds and aquatic life to offering folks like us a scenic jog or a lazy evening by the water.
Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore: Location
Ulsoor Lake is located in Halasuru, on the eastern side of Bangalore, not far from MG Road and right in the middle of all the action.
You’ll find some notable landmarks around it too, like:
- Sri Lake View Mahaganapathy Temple
- The historic Gurudwara
- Kensington Swimming Pool
- State Fire HQ
- The Madras Sappers HQ
- And more spots that scream “old-school Bangalore charm”
Getting there? Super easy.
- By Metro: Just hop off at Trinity Station on the Purple Line. It’s barely 1.5 km away.
- By Bus: The Halasuru Bus Stop is about 1 km from the lake.
- By Auto or Cab: Always available. Just say “Ulsoor Lake,” and you’re good.
- By your own ride: There’s parking at the lake gate. INR 10 for two-wheelers, INR 20 for cars. Fair enough for some lake time.
Even if you’re coming in from Kempegowda International Airport, it’s around 33 KM.
So yeah, if you feel like chilling by a lake straight after landing — it’s possible!
Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore: Activities
So what can you actually do at Ulsoor Lake?
Boating
If it’s open (it depends on the day and the mood of the authorities), boating is easily the star attraction here.
You can rent a boat and paddle your way across the lake while soaking in all the greenery around.
It’s calm, it’s scenic, and it definitely beats sitting in traffic.
There are different kinds of boats: paddle boats, row boats, and those bigger ones you can share if you’re going with a gang.
Just be sure to check availability before you plan your day around it.
Picnicking
Pack a lunch, grab a mat, and chill in the Ulsoor Lake Park area.
With all that green cover and gentle breeze, it’s perfect for a lazy afternoon.
And if you didn’t pack anything?
Don’t worry, Sharitha Hotel and Cool Zone inside the park has you covered with snacks and drinks.
That said, I’d advise you to bring your food along, unless you’d like to get your food delivered.
Jogging & Walking
Love your morning workouts with a view?
The jogging track around the lake is about 3.5 km long and incredibly scenic.
It’s well-maintained, and you’ll often find regulars here doing their rounds.
It’s also ideal for an early morning walk or some peaceful introspection (with or without earphones).
Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore: Entry Fee
Good news. Entry is free!
No ticket, no online booking nonsense, just walk in and enjoy.
The only cost is for parking, if you’re driving:
- ₹10 for 2-wheelers
- ₹20 for 4-wheelers
Totally worth it, if you ask me.
Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore: Timings
The lake is open during two specific time slots:
- Morning: 5 AM – 10 AM
- Evening: 4 PM – 7 PM
(All days of the week)
Perfect for that sunrise jog or a post-work chill session.
Just make sure you plan your visit within these windows — they’re pretty strict with closing time.
Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore: Location Map
FAQs on Ulsoor Lake
Where is Ulsoor Lake located and how do I get there?
Ulsoor Lake is located in central Bangalore, close to MG Road and Ulsoor metro station. It’s easily accessible by metro, bus, cab, or even a good old auto ride.
Is boating still available at Ulsoor Lake?
Boating used to be a popular attraction, but as of now, it’s temporarily suspended. Keep an eye on updates from BBMP or the Karnataka Tourism Department for changes.
Is there an entry fee to visit Ulsoor Lake?
Nope! Entry to the walking path around Ulsoor Lake is completely free, making it one of the best budget-friendly outdoor spots in Bangalore.
What’s the best time to visit Ulsoor Lake?
Early mornings (around 6–8 AM) or late evenings (around 5–7 PM) are ideal, especially if you enjoy a peaceful walk or want to avoid the midday heat.
Is Ulsoor Lake suitable for kids and families?
Yes, it’s quite family-friendly. There’s enough open space for kids to play around (under supervision), and the walking trail is safe and scenic for all ages.
Ulsoor Lake, Bangalore: A Must-Visit
In a city that’s constantly buzzing and building, Ulsoor Lake is like pressing the pause button — even if just for an hour.
Whether you’re:
- A local who forgot what fresh air feels like
- A tourist trying to squeeze in one last Bangalore spot
- Or someone who just needs a moment of peace
This lake won’t disappoint.
The mix of nature, history, and simple joy makes Ulsoor Lake more than just a water body; it’s a slice of serenity, right in the city.
Been to Ulsoor Lake recently?
Got a story, a memory, or a snack recommendation from around the area?
Drop it in the comments. I’d love to hear from you!
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