The Bhopal Lake

A beautiful water body of the 11th century, Upper Lake is the oldest man-made lake in India. Locally called as Bada Talab, it is a massive earthen bund constructed across the Kolans River. Legend says that King Bhoj constructed this gigantic lake, which is believed to have cured his skin disease. 

A massive lake with a catchment area of 36.1 sq km, the Upper Lake happens to be the major source of potable water for the people of Bhopal. An attractive royal garden called Kamla Park in the vicinity makes the surroundings more scenic. A favourite spot of the water enthusiasts, this lake is the hub of all water sport activities in Bhopal.

Happy Bhai Dooj

According to our legends,

Bhai Dooj is also known as the ' Yama Dwitiya'. It is believed that on this auspicious day, the God of Death Yamaraja visits His sister, Yamuna. Yamuna welcomes Her brother by putting a tilak on His head and so the ritual of tilak is so popular.

According to another famous legend, after Lord Krishna killed the demon, Narakasura. He went to His sister Subhadra who welcomed Him with flowers, lamp and put a tilak to mark His victory. Hence, the ritual of tilak came into existence. 

Whatever be the myth or the story behind the festival, the ritual of tilak is the most important part. In Bengal, this event is known as 'Bhai Phota' where 'Phota' means tilak. This tilak or the protective spot on forehead is put to guard the brother against any danger. Also, it is believed that anyone who receives a tilak from his sister on this day would never be put through hell.

The Jungle Book, Pench

Remember Mowgli, the pint-sized 'Man-Child' or Bagheera, the Black Panther? And who can forget the inimitable Sher Khan, the villain of Rudyard Kipling's Jungle Book. Kipling was inspired to write his memorable book by the luxuriant forest cover of Pench teeming with an astonishing variety of wildlife.

For more visit: www.triptocentralindia.com

Jahaz Mahal, Mandu

The Jahaz Mahal in Mandu India is located on a narrow strip of land between the two lakes, Munj Talao to the west and Kapur Talao to the east. It stands on the terraces of the adjoining Taweli Mahal. Jahaz Mahal is a double storied, rectangular structure with 3 feet (0.86 meters) thick wall. 
It is a royal pleasure to watch this boat floating on the lake on a moonlit night.