Badi Jheel Lake

About Badi Jheel Lake

Badi Jheel Lake is a huge lake set within a large city, and a popular outing spot for Bhopal residents. It is somewhere to slow down for an hour or two without leaving town.

Most of what people come for happens on or beside the water: boats crossing in front of the cityscape, a tall water jet, small islands out in the lake, and a well-paved shore to stroll along.

Things to do on the water

Boat ride to a small island

A boat ride takes in the scenery of the cityscape and the tall water jet out on the lake. You can also visit one of the small islands. It is the simplest way to see the lake from the middle rather than the edge.

Kayaking, canoeing and watersports

You can kayak or canoe on the lake. Watersports rentals such as parasailing and water skiing are also available. Check what is operating on the day you arrive, since this varies.

The shoreline walk

The shore is well paved, so a stroll needs no planning at all. People feed the geese here, and the wildlife includes the Indian sarus crane.

Planning your visit

Because the lake sits inside the city, it works as a short break in a sightseeing day rather than a separate excursion.

• Decide first whether you want a boat ride, a paddle or just a walk, as the three take very different amounts of time.
• Confirm watersports availability on arrival; rentals such as parasailing and water skiing are not always running.
• Keep some time at the shore itself for the geese and birdlife.
• Carry water and sun cover, as much of the shoreline is open.

Best time to visit

Mornings and late afternoons are the more comfortable times for a walk along the shore or time out on a boat. Water activity levels change through the day, so an earlier arrival leaves room to adjust.