Gadisar Lake

Gadisar Lake is situated to the south of the city of Jaisalmer. Gadisar Lake is a rain-water lake of Jaisalmer, is located amidst calm and cool surroundings. This lake is surrounded by numerous temples and holy shrines. The water of this lake is crystal clear. Some water sports such as boating can be done in this lake. It holds the water supply of the entire city. Numerous migratory birds can be seen flocking around the lake. On top of the yellow sandstone gate, there is a famous Krishna temple built.

The Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer lies in natural splendor and is indeed a natural attraction worth a visit. The artificial reservoir of Gadisar was built to serve as a source of water, which is home to a wide variety of fishes and water bodies. The local inhabitants of this place often use the water of the lake for various purposes. To protect the beauty and cleanliness of the lake the tourism department of Jaisalmer is taking some serious measures. The Gadisar Lake has a number of beautifully carved Temples, shrines, Chatteris, and ghats surrounding the lake. This lake becomes more attractive during the winter season as the lake attracts a large number of migratory birds.

Gadisar Lake – A Quick Glance:
Famous for: History, boat rides, heritage experience, solitude in location, and blissful ambiance.
Visiting time: 8am to 8pm (boating); entry 24 hours
Visiting duration: 2-3 hours
Best time to visit: November to early March
How to reach: 2 km (1.2 mi) from Jaisalmer Railway Station; auto-rickshaw/rickshaw available

A Brief History:
Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer was built in 1400 AD by the first Maharaja of the city – Raja Rawal Jaisal. The main aim to build the lake was to use it as a conversation reservoir to help beat the major water problem faced by the people of that era. The lake was, however, rebuilt later by Maharaja Garisisar Singh who revamped the lake and its surrounding area which is full of temples and shrines.

A Visual Introduction of Gadisar Lake:
The historic lake, a major landmark of Jaisalmer city, is located towards the south of Jaisalmer city. The main entrance of the lake is through Tilon-Ki-Pol – a spectacular archway carved in yellow sandstone. The entrance is complete with an idol of the Hindu god Vishnu that was ornamented there in the year 1908.
The bank of the Gadisar Lake is surrounded by artistically created chhatris, temples, shrines, and ghats. Since it’s near the Jaisalmer Fort, it is cooler than other places and is a welcomed summer resort. At the same time, with the backdrop of the fort, the lake offers a perfect visual treat amidst scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset to contrast with the golden yellow sand, and blood red eastern sky as the first rays of sun strike on the upper floors of Jaisalmer Fort.

Why visit Gadisar Lake?
Gadisar Lake is the best spot to visit if you are looking for some serene time for yourself, or to spend a peaceful trip with your family. There are several experiences to devour yourself in – boating being the most popular and favourite among the visitors, followed by a serene walk around the embankment.
You can also see a cluster of birds from Bharatpur Sanctuary flying and foraging.

Things to do at or near Gadisar Lake:

a) Boat Ride
A boat ride in the Gadisar Lake is a must if you want to enjoy the peaceful ambience of the lake in the desert. Do keep in mind that the number of boats available here is limited, and hence the queue could be pretty long. So, it is advisable to reach here in the early mornings to avoid the rush and also to come with ample time to enjoy the scenic beauty. The boat rides are extremely soothing, and a lifetime experience to try at Gadisar Lake.

b) Tillon ki Pol or Gate of Tillon
This is the first thing that you would notice while visiting the Gadisar Lake – the majestic entrance welcoming you to the exotic surroundings of the lake. The archway forming an entrance to the lake is beautifully carved in rich yellow sandstone. The gate was installed by a royal courtesan of the then ruler of Jaisalmer, during the last few years of the 19th century. Almost a century later, in 1908, a beautiful idol of Lord Vishnu was installed at the gate and it was declared as Krishna Temple. Tillon ka Pol has been standing the test of time, proving as a rich artistic heritage of Jaisalmer.

c) A Walk Around
The lake offers brilliant natural views to treat your senses with. A walk around it at early hours is extremely refreshing, and at the same time offers some of the most amazing views from all sides. Do keep your camera lenses as well as your mind’s camera open and active to capture some of the most beautiful sights. Don’t forget to carry your binoculars and a wide-angle camera lens to capture the views.

d) Bird-watching
While visiting Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer in winter doesn’t only help you beat the unbearable summer heat, but it also gives you an opportunity to catch glimpses of the migratory birds flying down from Bharatpur Sanctuary located nearby. The exotic birds and their mesmerizing vibrant hues are guaranteed to take visitors in awe.