A place located deep in the middle of Jaisalmer city, Gadisar Lake is an artificial, sweet-watered lake that looks beautiful in the middle of golden sandy Thar. This 14th century lake, built by the then Maharaja Gadsi Singh, for whom this water body was named after his name, not only renders a sense of tranquillity but is also significant regarding its history and culture. It once provided water for the inhabitants of Jaisalmer, thus making it an integral part of the heritage of this city. Presently, Gadisar Lake has become a hub for all tourists across the globe to visit and get drenched in its beauty, understand its history, and participate in a number of other activities. Gadisar Lake is best to bring mental peace with the help of its beauty and several other activities. if you also want to witness this and any other place in Jaisalmer, then our Jaisalmer tour packages are personalised to bring peace and serenity.
History of Gadisar Lake
Gadisar Lake, built during the time of Maharaja Gadsi Singh in the 14th century, was developed in order to overcome the severe water scarcity problems in Jaisalmer. The rainwater was collected and deposited in the lake through innovative design. It thus acted as the lifeline for the city and supplied all types of water throughout the year. Over time, temples, shrines, and ghats were constructed alongside the lake, which in due course made it a sacrosanct site as well as a center for cultural activities. What was most remarkable about Gadisar Lake was the story of commitment, trade, and preserving water in the desert.
Architectural as well as cultural significance
The lake, surrounded with intricately carved chhatris of cenotaphs and temples, along with ghats, narrates the rich cultural identity. Tilon ki Pol represents a perfect gateway to Gadisar Lake, through which Rajasthani skillfulness is found at a large scale. The gateway was said to have been constructed by a courtesan named Tilon who wanted to leave her stamp on Jaisalmer. When the Maharaja protested against the construction, feeling it would desecrate the sanctity of the lake, Tilon added a temple of Lord Krishna on top of the arch so that it was consecrated.
Design an Layout
The Krishna Temple near the lake is a marvelous combination of spirituality and art. This place attracts the pilgrims as well as architecture enthusiasts. The whole setting of Gadisar Lake with nicely designed structures and its calming waters will exhibit the essence of Rajasthani culture and devotion. If you are willing to witness historical designs and layouts of the Godisar lake of Jaisalmer and other places located in Jaisalmer , then we have several tour packages, including same day Jaisalmer tour packages, at cheap and affordable rates.
Things to Do at Gadisar Lake
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Boating is one of the most sought-after activities at Gadisar Lake. You can hire paddle boats or rowboats in order to explore the tranquil waters and appreciate the splendor of the surrounding landscape. Gliding over this lake, especially at dawn or dusk, is almost magical.
- Bird Watching: The lake is a paradise for bird watchers, especially in winter when migratory birds from different regions flock here. The Siberian cranes, flamingos, and kingfishers make the lake even more beautiful.
- Photography: The beautiful lake and environment provide fabulous photographic opportunities. The golden colour of Jaisalmer sandstone structures as reflected in the lake provides perfect frames for capturing beauty in Rajasthan.
- Gadisar Lake is very popular, and by merely walking around, one may notice many temples and chhatris with their different stories and architectural beauty. So, this
- serene ambiance creates a good atmosphere for meditation and spiritual reflections.
- Respect to the Heritage site: Gadisar Lake and its environs are great cultural and historical sites, therefore ensure that you preserve the sanctity of the area and refrain from littering Water.
Tips while visiting Gadisar Lake
Try and visit either early in the morning or late in the evening. This saves the sun in between and ensures good light to click photography also.
Binoculars: If you are an avid bird-watcher, do not forget your binoculars since you may observe a lot of migratory birds around the lake.
Ideal time to visit Gadisar Lake
The best time to visit Gadisar Lake would be from October to March since the cool and pleasant climate will accompany you. Migratory birds flock there during the winter season; hence, it becomes quite spectacular. It is during early morning or late evenings that one can enjoy sunrise or sunset, as the soft golden light around the surroundings seems to add a magic touch.
Places to Visit Around
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There are also several other places to visit in Jaisalmer that are near Gadisar Lake:
- Jaisalmer Fort: Majestic Jaisalmer Fort is the nearest place one can visit. Distant from Gadisar Lake, this is often colloquially known as Sonar Quila or Golden Fort. One can almost experience the rich history as well as architectural brilliance in Rajasthan from here.
- Patwon Ki Haveli: A combination of five grand havelis, showcasing intricate carvings with an opulent lifestyle portrayed of the erstwhile Jaisalmer merchants, these are an architectural masterpiece.
- Bada Bagh: This is a royal garden complex with cenotaphs of the kings of Jaisalmer. It offers some great panoramic views, especially at sunrise and sunset.
- Desert Cultural Centre: The Desert Cultural Centre gives one an insight into the traditions, art, and history of the Thar Desert and its people. It houses exhibits of artefacts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani puppetry.
- Salim Singh Ki Haveli: This is one of the most beautiful havelis; it has architecture that is really different, with a roof resembling a peacock. A great specimen of Rajasthani art and design.