[3] According to the local folklore, Bhojtal is said to have been built by the Paramara Raja Bhoj during his tenure as a king of Malwa (1005–1055).

He is also said to have established the city of Bhopal (also named after him, then as Bhojpal) to secure the eastern frontier of his kingdom.

Then, one day a saint told the king to build a tank to combine 365 tributaries and then have a bath in it to wipe out the skin disease.

[5] A huge statue of Raja Bhoj, standing with sword, was also installed on a pillar on one corner of the lake to cement the name of Bhopal as the city of lakes[6] Bhojtal is situated on the west central part of Bhopal city and is surrounded by Van Vihar National Park on the south, human settlements on the east and north, and agriculture fields on the west.

The idols of gods and goddesses are also immersed in the lake during religious festivals, though the local administration is advising devotees not to do so.

A number of operators provide facilities for exciting trips by sail, paddle and motor boats.

[10] Van Vihar National Park, situated on the south-eastern side of the lake, attracts tourists.

The largest bird of India, sarus crane (Grus antigone) is known for its size, majestic flight and lifetime pairing.

[11] 105 species of zooplanktons, which includes (Rotifera 41, Protozoa 10, Cladocera 14, Copepoda 5, Ostracoda 9, Coleoptera 11, and Diptera 25).

The waste and drainage generated by nearby city of Bhopal is dumped in lake affecting its ecology.