Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer 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 Jaisalmer 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.
History of Gadisar Lake
Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer was built as a reservoir in around 12th-13th AD by the then ruler Raja Rawal Jaisal. He belonged to one of the bluest among the royal blood of Rajasthan and was the first king of the state and city of Jaisalmer Tourism. It can be easily assumed that the lake was dug up to make up for the aridity of the region.
Because of a specific gradient of the land there, the area where the lake stands automatically was able to gather and retain some rainwater, whatever little it was there. In time, the lake became the life-saving source of water in Jaisalmer Attractions, acting as a reservoir and water conservation system. It was successful in fighting the water scarcity to a great extent. For this reason, many people believe it was a natural oasis in the middle of Indian Thar desert, but it is very much a manmade one.
The pristine lake got its name from its renovator Maharawal Gadsi Singh who revamped the whole area in 1400 AD. It is said that the additional chhatris and a couple of shrines were his addition to the simple body of water. The lake was later named after him and got called Gadsisar Lake or Gadisar Lake.
Places to visit near Gadisar Lake
At the entrance of Gadsisar Lake is Tilon ki Pol. This magnificent arched gateway is made of yellow sandstone, and has intricately carved windows and chhatris. It also has a temple dedicated to Lord Krishna adjoining the pol.
There are chhatris, ghats, and temples bordering Gadsisar Lake, which makes it perfect for scenic landscape photography.
Boating is very relaxing thing to do in Gadsisar Lake. You can also feed the catfish in the waters of the lake.
Birds can be seen wading on the waters. Migratory birds can also be seen flying over Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer in the winter season. Take your binoculars or a DSLR Camera with you.
And di visit the Folklore Museum and Desert Cultural Center situated quite close to the lake. You will enjoy the puppet show in the museum, and various exhibits like coins, musical instruments, textiles, old utensils, rare manuscripts and other artifacts relating to folk history of Rajasthan.
Jaisalmer Fort – Another jewel built under the reign of Rawal Jaisal, Jaisalmer Fort enriches history and beauty. It is counted amongst the largest forts in the world and also holds museums, shops, restaurants, residential accommodation, and hotels etc.
Built with a blend of Islamic and Rajput architecture, Jaisalmer fort was built in 1156. It has 4 gateways for entering i.e. Ganesh Pol, Akshaya Pol, Suraj Pol, and Hawa Pol. It offers a splendid view of the surrounding Gadisar lake and the city.
Tilon ki Pol – It is the first thing you would notice while visiting the Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer. It is a beautiful archway built with the famous yellow sandstone of Jaisalmer Tour Packages. Built by a royal courtesan of Jaisalmer around 19th century, Tilon ki Pol speaks about the enriched artistic heritage of Jaisalmer till this date.
Much later, around 1908, an idol of Lord Vishnu was installed at the gate to save it from demolition by the Maharawal of that time.
Desert Cultural Centre and Museum – The Desert Cultural Centre and the museum tell the history of Rajasthan’s princely states and consist artefacts of traditional Rajasthani culture.
It exhibits local musical instruments, ancient coins and currency, traditional jewellery of the womenfolk, hunting gear, historical displays of rulers, artillery and armour used in the era of armies, and much more. The place is well preserved by Jaisalmer tourism.
Temple of Lord Shiva on the banks of Gadisar Lake – Located on the banks of Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer, Lord Shiva temple is a highly esteemed temple for Hindus across the country.
Best Time To Visit
Winter is a really good time to visit if you want to avoid the scorching heat of the desert. Jaisalmer’s weather is mostly hot. Winters are cool and breezy while summers are hot and dry. Also, the lake experiences heaviest tourist traffic during winters.
Plan your trip early to save money on accommodation. You might have to pack a heavy jacket with you for chilly nights.
In the spring season, Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer starts getting warmer. The visit should be completely avoided during April to June as the temperature can easily exceed 40 degrees Celsius. The weather from July to September can be humid and sweaty.
How To Reach
Jaisalmer Railway Station is almost 2 km away from the Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer. There are plenty of ways to reach Jaisalmer’s jewel, Gadisar Lake, from the railway station. The quickest way to get to the lake is by hailing a taxi or auto rickshaws.
Or, you can book an online cab and reach your destination. If you want to explore the local whereabouts of the city, you can also take a rickshaw from the railway station to Gadisar. The journey will take approximately 10 minutes. Also, the Jaisalmer Fort is situated very close to the lake. You can take a walk too.