As Jaisalmer is known as the “Golden City” for its architectural splendour, Rajasthan is a land of many hues. The city’s fort and other structures are noted for their beauty because they are made of yellow sandstone. When it was founded in 1156, Rawal Jaisal was its creator and king.
When it was founded in 1156, Rawal Jaisal was its creator and king. Apart from the yellow architecture, the Thar desert’s vast sand dunes are another attraction of this city. Jaisalmer desert camp offers some of the most relaxing experiences in Rajasthan.
Jaisalmer’s founder, Jaisal Singh, built an artificial lake in 1156 AD that has become a popular tourist destination. It’s also known as Gadsisar Lake, which is most likely a reference to the fact that it was reconstructed in 1367 AD by Gadsi Singh. Jai Salasar Lake is a body of water in the city’s south that was formerly known by the name Jai Salasar. It was once the only source of water for the region, but thanks to the Indira Gandhi canal, it remains filled.
Architecture-around-the-lake
As an oasis in the middle of the Thar desert, Gadisar Lake is a sight to behold for everybody.
The fort of Jaisalmer is just 2 kilometres away from the Gadisar lake, which provides tourists with stunning views of the lake. You may walk to the fort in roughly 30 minutes from this location. Many Hindu shrines and temples, as well as chhatris with complex architectural elements, surround the site as well.
Observing the lake’s sunrise and sunset is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The lake attracts visitors from all over the world who come to take advantage of the stunning surroundings, great photo opportunities, and peaceful atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for picnics and family outings for locals on the weekends.
Serenity on the lakeside
An excursion on the lake in a paddleboat costs 100-150 rupees per person. One of life’s most memorable moments is watching the sunsets over a lake as it’s accompanied by the sound of rippling water and the vivid orange glow of the setting sun.
At the Gadisar Lake, the first thing you may notice is the ‘Tilon ki Pol,’ an artistically designed gate. There’s a rumour that the gate was built for a courtesan named Tilon, which is why the gate’s name can be translated as “The Gate of Tilon.” When it was threatened with demolition in 1908, a shrine to Lord Vishnu was erected in its place to keep it standing. Boat ride tickets are also available at this gate. The shrine of Lord Shiva is located on the shores of the lake and is highly revered.
The Jaisalmer tourism department oversees and preserves the Desert Culture Centre & Museum, which is located close by. It contains a wide range of artefacts, including historical currencies, ancient coins, artillery, and armour, as well as exhibitions of previous kings of the region, all of which illustrate the history and cultural relevance of Rajasthani princely states. This museum is a treasure trove for history aficionados who want to learn about the region’s various rulers and eras.
It’s possible to see migrating birds in the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, also known as the Keoladeo National Park, which is only a short distance away from this location.
Even if you’re not a history buff, a photographer or a solitary traveller, Gadisar Lake is a must-see for everyone.
In addition to visiting Gadisar Lake and staying at a desert camp in Jaisalmer, you may also take part in the city’s famous desert safari experience. With a wide range of adventurous activities and enthralling marketplaces featuring traditional handicrafts, Rajasthani culture and heritage may be explored in all its richness. Make sure to include Jaisalmer’s fort and Gadisar lake in your Rajasthan itinerary!