**Bump**
Some more pics as an update...
The Gateway to the Palace of the Maharaja of Bastar
After India became independent of British rule back in 1947, the Maharaja continued to rule for 10-11 more years over this area (known as Bastar). He had a lot of command over the local tribals and so when the princely states were siezed from the Kings and Princes to become a part of democratic India, the King of Bastar put up a stubborn fight along with his tribal army. Finally the King was defeated and killed, alongwith thousands of tribals. All their dead bodies were loaded on trucks and thrown off a huge waterfall about 35 miles from here.
The present Palace has a section still devoted to the present descendants of the royal family. It also houses 2 colleges and a big library, alongwith some small shops. It is situated in the middle of the city.
The renovated remains of the Palace behind the Gateway
The colleges are to the left. One is a girls college (now defunct), and the other is a co-ed one. The library and the royal home is to the right.
The Lake
Once it used to be the city dump. All of it was removed and burnt outside the city, and the whole place was transformed into an artificial lake. Over the years, it has grown quite big and now stretches for almost 6 miles on all sides. A temple dedicated to Lord Shiva is situated in the centre, which is accessible by boat only.
The Lake's Evening Spot
For rest and relaxation in the evenings. Also for nice, quiet evening strolls. Boats are available if you want to go on a cruise along the lake.