Gadisar Lake (Gadi Sagar Tank)

Lake in Jaisalmer

should-see attraction

Address: Gadisar Lake Rd, Postal Colony, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Ticket price: Free

Visit duration: People typically spend up to 1 hour here

About Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer

Gadisar Lake is located just 1.5 km away from the Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan. This artificial lake used to be the only source of water for the whole of Jaisalmer until the first half of the 20th century.

In the past due to extremely dry weather, the lake would completely dry up in the months of summer. However, nowadays, rain is not the only source of water for the lake. The Indira Gandhi Canal ensures that the lake does not run dry in the scorching summer.

History of Gadisar Lake

Gadisar Lake was constructed in the 12th century. The lake was developed when the then ruler, Rawal Jaisal realised that the city was in a dire need of water resources. Taking advantage of the geographic structure of declining landform he developed the Gadisar Lake. Earlier the lake was known as the Jaisalasar Lake, named after the creator.

In the later years, the lake was remodified by another ruler of the land, Maharawal Gadsi Singh, in the 14th century. Since then, the lake is also recognised as Gadaria Lake or Gadisar Lake.

Gadisar Lake, surrounded by a number of holy shrines and temples, is one of a kind as an artificial oasis.

Attractions of Gadisar Lake

The existence of an oasis in the ocean of sand has been a mirage, an illusion for travellers in ancient times. The thought of the blue sky's reflection on the sandy mountains has been a fantasy which can be experienced at Gadisar Lake.

• Old Shiva Temple

  
  

  A remarkable mention would be of the old shiva temple by the banks of the Gadisar Lake. The elegant carvings on the yellow stone walls of the temple are highly admired Hindu temples among tourists.




• Tilon Ki Pol or the Tilon Gate

  
  

  The gate is not only known for its architectural beauty but also for its history. You enter Gadisar Lake through this gate. Despite being hindered by the Maharwal, the gateway was constructed by a royal courtesan in the king’s absence. Worried that the king might demolish the structure, she built a temple of Lord Krishna on top of the gate to prevent the demolition of the architecture.




• Boat ride across the lake

  
  

  If you are visiting Gadisar Lake then a ride on a rowboat, a paddle boat or a Shikara should be on the list. The duration of the ride depends on the riders. The places get most visitors during the sunset. You can watch the sunset while riding the boat. The view of the sunset from the lake is magical.




• A walk to remember

  
  

  You hardly get to enjoy walking in the busy urban life, so take this moment and enjoy the view as you take a stroll around the lake. The cool breeze of the Lake, the chirping of the birds and the sight of the Jaisalmer Fort soaked in the sun's rays will surely give you a mesmerising experience. Gadisar Lake is encompassed by a number of Hindu temples and chhatris.




• Bird watching

  
  

  If you love to watch birds and capture them in the frame, then you will enjoy your visit to the lake. The lake is inhabited by fishes like catfishes. So the lake is naturally occupied with birds and if you are fortunate then you can get to see the birds catching their prey. The birds that fly by the lakes are mostly migratory birds that can only be seen between the months of November to March.

Facts and tips about Gadisar Lake

• You can visit the lake whenever you want but if you want to ride a boat on the lake then you have to visit the lake before 8:00 p.m. as services are not available after that. The cost of the boat ride depends on the style of boat you choose.


• If you plan to visit Gadisar Lake during the winter then you should book your accommodation earlier as the spot gets crowded especially during the cold season of the year.


• Be cautious while taking photographs of the lake as there is a military base near the lake and photography of national security without permission is highly offensive and suspicious.


• There are several small authentic and exclusive stalls nearby the gate that echoes to be the ideal place for shopping for souvenirs.


• Since the Desert Cultural Centre is near Gadisar lake, so it is recommended to visit the museum while visiting the lake.

Other attractions near Gadisar Lake

• Patwon ki Haveli - 1.4 km
• Jaisalmer Fort - 2.0 km
• Thar Desert (Sam Sand Dunes) - 40 km

FAQs about Gadisar Lake

1. Is there any entry fee to visit the Lake?

No entry fee is required. The only expense will be the boat ride.

2. Are we allowed to feed the fishes in the water?

Yes, you can feed only dry food like bread crumbs and biscuits to the fishes in the lake.

3. Can we visit the lake during the summer months?

Yes, you can visit the Lake any time of the year you want. However, it is recommended that you visit in winter when the weather is pleasant and you can also spot several migratory birds near the lake.

4. Is there a place to eat around Gadisar Lake?

Yes, there are several restaurants near the lake where you can have a meal with a view of the lake.