India is home to diverse landscapes, architecture and natural beauty. With deserts, mountains and lakes, each city offers a different experience. Among them is a city known for its architecture, beautiful lakes and scenic surroundings. Often associated with the royal heritage of the Mewar kingdom and known for its romantic getaways, Udaipur is widely known as the ‘City of Lakes’.However, did you know that another Indian city shares the same title? While many people associate the nickname with Udaipur, Bhopal, the capital of Madhya Pradesh, is also popularly known as the ‘City of Lakes’ because of its numerous water bodies. From historic Lake Pichola in Udaipur to the expansive Upper Lake in Bhopal, the two cities offer different experiences shaped by their lakes. Although they share the same nickname, their histories, architecture and landscapes differ considerably.
Udaipur, the City of Lakes
(Image credit: Canva)
Situated amid the Aravalli Range, Udaipur served as the capital of the Mewar kingdom. The city was founded by Maharana Udai Singh II in 1559. Along with its historic architecture, its lakes have played an important role in the city’s history, supporting its water needs and shaping its landscape. Today, they are among the city’s major tourist attractions, drawing visitors from India and abroad.There is an interesting fact worth knowing: several of Udaipur’s major lakes are artificial. They are not just scenic attractions but have historically supported water storage and management in the region, making them important to the city’s development.The city’s waterfronts, ghats, bridges, heritage buildings and views of the surrounding hills also contribute to its popularity among tourists. Udaipur is particularly appealing during the monsoon, when rainfall can replenish its lakes and the surrounding Aravalli hills turn green. This combination of natural scenery and royal architecture has helped establish Udaipur as one of India’s most recognisable heritage destinations.
The lakes that make Udaipur special
(Image credit: Canva)
Udaipur is home to several lakes, each offering different views and experiences. From the royal heritage surrounding Lake Pichola to the hills around Fateh Sagar Lake, each water body has its own significance.Lake Pichola is perhaps the most recognisable of Udaipur’s lakes. Dating back to 1362, it existed even before Udaipur was founded. It was later enlarged during Maharana Udai Singh II’s reign as the city grew around it. Today, its waters offer views of the City Palace, Jag Mandir and the Lake Palace, making it one of the city’s most photographed locations.Another prominent water body is Fateh Sagar Lake, surrounded by the Aravalli hills. The artificial lake was constructed by Maharana Jai Singh in 1678 and was later reconstructed during the reign of Maharana Fateh Singh after its embankment was damaged by floods. The lake has three islands, including Nehru Garden, a popular recreational spot. It is a favourite destination for boating and evening outings, particularly when the surrounding hills turn green during the monsoon.Beyond these two well-known lakes, Udaipur also has Udai Sagar and Swaroop Sagar, which form part of its wider network of water bodies. Together, these lakes reflect how water management, royal patronage and the city’s natural surroundings have shaped Udaipur over the centuries.
Bhopal: The other Indian City of Lakes
Upper Lake, in Bhopal (ANI Photo)
Udaipur may be the first city that comes to mind when people hear the title, but Bhopal has an equally strong association with lakes. The Madhya Pradesh capital is home to several water bodies, with the Upper Lake and Lower Lake being its most prominent landmarks.The Upper Lake, also known as Bhojtal, is traditionally associated with Raja Bhoj, the king linked to Bhopal’s early history. The lake is known for its scenic views, boat rides and recreational activities. Beyond its appeal to visitors, it is also an important source of water for the city.Close by lies the Lower Lake, locally known as Chhota Talab. Together, the two lakes are central to Bhopal’s identity and contribute to its distinctive landscape. Unlike Udaipur, where lakes often appear alongside grand palaces and historic ghats, Bhopal’s lakes form an integral part of the urban environment, offering residents places to relax and take a break from the bustle of city life.Although Udaipur and Bhopal share the title of the ‘City of Lakes’, each has its own character, history and cultural significance. While Udaipur reflects the royal heritage of Mewar through its palaces and historic lakes, Bhopal’s lakes are deeply woven into the city’s identity and everyday life.