Gadisar or Gadsisar Lake is not just a lake, it is one of the most tranquil and picturesque locations in Jaisalmer. It’s a perfect blend of historical, cultural and architectural brilliance of medieval Rajasthan. This serene body of water was once the only source of water for the entire city but today it is a peaceful and scenic place perfect to unwind and reconnect with nature. Read on to know why the Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer never dries and why it attracts visitors from all over the world.
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History Of Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer
Gadisar Lake history dates back to the 12th century when Raja Rawal Jaisal was the ruler of Jaisalmer. Raja Rawal Jaisal was the one who constructed the lake to provide water to his people. In the 14th century the lake was reconstructed by Maharawal Gadsi Singh. A famous courtesan of Jaisalmer called Tilon was the one who made the lake more aesthetic by adding several monuments and gateways. This man-made lake served its people for many years until the Indira Gandhi Canal was constructed in 1965 to bring water into the lake from the Himalayas. Since there is a continuous flow of water from the Himalayas into the lake, people started calling it as the lake that never dries.
Key Information About The Lake
Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer Location: Postal Colony, Near Tillonki Gate, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan-345001
Duration Of Visit: 2 to 3 hours
Gadisar Lake Entry Fee: Free
Gadisar Lake Timings: Monday to Sunday from 6:00am to 8:00pm
Understanding Gadisar’s Architecture And Surroundings
The exquisite Rajasthani architecture is used in the construction of the monuments in and around the lake. Just by standing at the lake and looking around one can see that the magnificent chhatris, temples, shrines, archways and pavilions tell a lot about the history and culture of Jaisalmer. Artistic carvings, sandstone temples, mirror image of the lake and its surroundings catches everyone’s fancy at the first go. There is no doubt that the surreal beauty of the lake is due to its stunning architecture.
Also Read: Top 15 Places To Visit In Jaisalmer
Best Time To Visit
The ideal time to visit Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer is between the winter months of October to February. During this time the weather is quite pleasant and comfortable for outdoor visits. Ideally, it is best to visit Gadisar Lake early morning or evening as the light from the sunrise and sunset blends well with the yellow sandstone structures. It makes for the best ambience for a photographic experience.
How To Reach Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer
Gadisar Lake is located just about 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Fort, hence it takes only 5 minutes by auto-rickshaws/taxis and 30 minutes by walk to reach the lake. This top tourist spot is located in such a convenient place that it is just a few minutes from most of the popular accommodation options.
What To See At Gadisar Lake
On arriving at Gadisar Lake, the things that instantly catch your eyes are the numerous temples, shrines and Chhatris on the edge of the waterfront. Of the lot the main entrance gate called the Tilon Ki Pol with intricate carvings and sculptures is the most famous of them all. This is a 14th century gate to the lake built by Tilon dedicated to Lord Vishnu. There are also two small temples in the name of Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna. Popular shrines like Girdhari Ji Ka Mandir, Shitala Mata Ka Mandir, Rishabhdev Ji Ka Mandir and Peer Baba Ka Mandir can also be seen here.
Activities At The Gadisar Lake In Jaisalmer
Boating: Boat rides are perhaps one of the best things to do at Gadisar Lake. Boats come in different shapes and sizes: row boats, paddle boats and shikara rides to choose from. You can hire them for a small price and go around exploring the lake and its surroundings.
Birdwatching: Winter is the best time for bird watching as this is the time to spot migratory birds from different parts of the world. You can spot them sitting on the edges of the water body or platforms in the middle of the lake.
Photography: You don’t need to be a professional photographer to capture the beauty of the lake. Even a person with no photographic skills can take some amazing shots as every frame is naturally breathtaking.
Watch A Sunrise Or Sunset: The whole lake transforms into a golden hue when the rays of the sun fall on the yellow sandstone structures. It is totally worth coming in early or staying back till late to catch this magnificent sight.
Heritage Walks: Book yourself a guided walking tour. It is the best way to explore as the experienced guide will explain the historical significance and other details which you would have missed out otherwise.
Light Show: The Gadisar Lake Light Show is one of the best things to see while here. The 30-minute laser light show with colorful lights and songs highlights the lake’s records and splendor. The show generally starts at 7:00pm on all days of the week.
Attending Cultural Festivals: Being a part of the cultural functions by attending the Gangaur festival and getting to see the aarti offered during auspicious days at the lake is one of the best things to experience here.
Book Now: A Cultural Evening in the Thar Desert – Jaisalmer
Final Thoughts
Gadisar Lake is more than just a lake; its architectural mystery, historical oasis, and natural charm is what’s pulling in the crowds. The efforts put by the government to preserve this cultural heritage site will allow generations to enjoy this desert gem. So the next time you are here, make sure to take some time out and visit Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer. This artificial oasis in the middle of the desert is sure to etch an indelible memory in every visitor’s heart.
FAQs
The lake was initially built as a water reservoir but with the passage of time many unplanned constructions stopped the flow of water. Today it is a major tourist attraction with many things to do and see here.
Gadisar Lake which is located in the southern part of the city of Jaisalmer is 12 meters deep and covers an area of almost 17 hectares.
There are nine natural lakes that connect to the man-made artificial lake Gadisar.
There are over 15 mesmerizing lakes in Jaisalmer that are ideal for a serene escape.
