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Ulsoor Lake
 Location
:
Bangalore, Karnataka
Area
:
1.5 sq. kms
Built By
:
Kempe Gowda
Originally Known As
: Halsur Or Alsur
The famous Ulsoor Lake is centrally situated sprawling over an area of 1.5 sq. kms. Originally known as "Halsur" or "Alsur", the lake then extended over an area of 125 acres. Constructed by Kempe Gowda II, this pretty picnic spot is on the northeastern fringe of the city centre.
Dotted with picturesque tiny island, it is just the spot to take a break from busy sight seeing and shopping. It is a major tourist attraction with a boat club where you can hire out cruises with stops at some of the tiny islands that dot the lake.
You can enjoy a boat-ride, which includes stops at some of the tiny islands that dot the lake. The boating is organized by the KSTDC. Pedal and rowboats can be hired for Rs 120/- per hour.
Attached to the lake is a park with a lot of shade and greenery, which is frequented by children and many other people. Timings boating are open on all days including Sundays and government
Story behind
It is said that Kempe Gowda founded Ulsoor, and tradition carries the story thus: The whole area was covered with forest, and Kempe Gowda came from Yelahankar chasing game, and was tired during the chase. While he rested under a tree, in his sleep the God Somesvara (who was supposedly worshipped earlier by the Mandava Rishi at this very spot), appeared to Kempe Gowda in a dream and revealed the existence of a hidden treasure. Kempe Gowda is supposed to have dug up the treasure and built the Somesvara pagoda, and was said to use the services of a sculptor from Belur, a descendant of the famous Jakanachari, to decorate the walls with scenes from the marriage of Siva and Paravati. The gopura is very commanding in the Dravidian style of art. In the same area is also another famous temple dedicated to Subbaraya.
There is also a small garden to the Northeast of the Lake known as 'Kensington Park', and runs along Kensington Road. Location It is on the northeastern fringe of the city centre, close to M. G. Road.
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