Rajasthan, India’s desert state, astounds visitors with the variety of colors entrenched in its enormous landscape. Rajasthan encompasses mountains, free-flowing rivers, brilliant hues, and engaging cultural traditions. It is an exquisite treat for travelers seeking an amalgamation of Indian culture and geography.
Image source: unsplash
Another aspect that distinguishes Rajasthan is its numerous shimmering lakes. These water bodies are not only gorgeous and immaculate to look at, but they also carry the state’s history, tradition, and ever-changing culture.
In this write-up, we have covered the most famous lakes in Rajasthan that you must visit once in lifetime.
- Lake Pichola, Udaipur
Lake Pichola, which dates back to 1362 AD, is one of largest and oldest lake in Rajasthan. This lake has a spectacular view because it is surrounded by towering hills, bathing ghats, and heritage structures.
The Mohan Mandir adorns the lake’s northeast corner, while the City Palace adorns its eastern banks. The Lake Palace is located in the center of the lake, while the Jag Mandir is on Jag Island. During the later hours, tourists can take a sunset boat trip and bathe in the tranquil golden rays of the setting sun.
Image source: Unsplash
- Doodh Talai Lake, Udaipur
Doodh Talai Lake was built in the 14th century to give water to the surrounding territories. It is located in the center of Udaipur and is surrounded by picturesque hillocks. This lake was the location of one of the country’s first musical fountains, the Doodh Talai Musical Fountain.
Doodh Talai lake now provides fantastic boat-riding options for tourists. The lake also provides sufficient accommodations for camel and horseback riding. This area is also littered with many fast food vendors that serve visitors tasty hot snacks.
- Fateh Sagar Lake, Udaipur
Fateh Sagar Lake, one of the most famous lakes in Rajasthan, was established in the 1680s and is encircled by the rugged Aravalli hills. This lovely lake has three lovely islands. On the main island are the Nehru Park, a boat-shaped eatery, and a little zoo.
The second island is the Udaipur Solar Observatory, and the third is home to stunning water jet fountains and a lovely garden. Fateh Sagar Lake, often known as ‘The Second Kashmir,’ offers breathtaking sunset vistas and fantastic boating options.
- Jaisamand Lake, Udaipur
The picturesque Jaisamand Lake was created in 1685 under the reign of Maharana Jai Singh. Among the list of lakes in Rajasthan that are popular, Jaisamand covers an area of approximately 36 square kilometers, is the country’s second-largest artificial lake and one of the most well-designed Rajasthan lakes.
The lake’s dam is lavishly decorated with enticing cenotaphs with artistic carvings. This lake, known locally as ‘Dhebar Lake,’ is home to three lovely islands inhabited by the Bhil Minas tribe. The smaller island is Piari, while the two larger ones are Baba ka Magra. Visitors to Jaisamand Lake can also enjoy boat rides.
Also Read: Kashmir Great Lakes – The Best Trek in India
- Pushkar Lake, Pushkar
Pushkar Lake, one of the most famous Rajasthan lakes with 52 holy bathing ghats, attracts many worshippers from all over the country. Taking a swim in the mystical waters of this lake, according to common belief, will wash away all sins and also aid treat numerous skin issues.
The lake’s tranquil dam is dotted with 500 age-old Hindu temples, which are visited by nearly all visitors who come to spend time at Pushkar Lake.
The Pushkar Lake, which has its name referenced in Hindu texts, is related to the common mythological notion that it was created at the same location where Lord Brahma’s lotus petals fell while he defeated Vajra Nabha.
- Balsamand Lake, Jodhpur
Balsamand Lake, built by the Gurjara-Pratihara monarchs in the 12th century, is one of Rajasthan’s least congested lakes, famed for its verdant surroundings and tranquil surroundings.
This tranquil lake, surrounded by gorgeous gardens of papaya, pomegranate, banana, and mango trees, was built to protect the inhabitants of Jodhpur from severe droughts.
Balsamand Lake now serves as a lovely picnic location and provides beautiful sunset views. Visitors to the lake also enjoy horseback riding and garden stroll. Tourists usually book a taxi service in Jodhpur to travel to this lake as well as other local sightseeing places in the city.
- Rajsamudra Lake, Rajsamand
Rajsamundra Lake, built by Maharana Raj Singh in 1660 over the Tali, Kelwa, and Gomati rivers, is considered one of Rajasthan’s best sunset view lakes. The lake is located between the cities of Kankroli and Rajnagar and is fed by the Gomti river.
A massive glittering white marble embankment enhances the lake’s attractiveness at its southern end. The dam is known as ‘Nauchowki,’ meaning “nine pavilions.” The Nauchowki is ornately carved with images of chariots, birds, the Sun, and other Gods.
- Mansagar Lake, Jaipur
Mansagar Lake, with the gorgeous Nahargarh hills as a backdrop, is regarded as one of Rajasthan’s most nature-loving lakes. The gorgeous Jal Mahal sits amid this pure lake, adding to its beauty.
Many gorgeous migrating birds flock to this lake, making Mansagar Lake a bird watcher’s heaven. Here, bird watchers can see wagtails, grey herons, and blue-tailed bee-eaters, among other colorful birds. The Mansagar Lake dam is equipped with an observation point from which tourists can take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
- Sambhar Salt Lake, Jaipur
Sambhar Salt Water Lake is the country’s largest inland salt lake and one of Rajasthan’s least visited lakes. The lake is home to India’s largest salt-producing facility, with saltier water than seawater. The lake, whose name appears in the sacred book of Mahabharata, is visited by devotees who believe in its mythological significance.
Tourists that visit the Sambhar Salt Lake normally spend their time taking tranquil walks, picnicking, and going on exciting safaris. As the most famous lake in Rajasthan, Sambhar Jheel also provides an unrivaled bird viewing experience, with many pelicans, flamingos, and other exotic birds coming.
- Ana Sagar Lake, Ajmer
The picturesque Ana Sagar Lake, which covers an area of around 13 square kilometers, was formed in 1135 AD under the leadership of Anaji Tomar. With an attractive island floating in the middle and quiet embankments ornamented with lush gardens and gorgeous temples, this magnificent water feature is one of Rajasthan’s most scenic lakes.
Ana Sagar Lake also provides adrenaline junkies with the opportunity to participate in water activities such as boating and water scooter excursions. The lake is also recognized for providing visitors with breathtaking sunrise and sunset views.
- Gadsisar Lake, Jaisalmer
Gadsisar Lake, located in the desert and surrounded by historic landmarks, is one of Rajasthan’s most out-of-the-way lakes. This lovely lake was built under and named for Maharaja Gadsi Singh to meet the city of Jaisalmer’s water demands.
The lake is now one of the major tourist attractions in Rajasthan, luring visitors to enjoy its picturesque beauty.
Image source: unsplash
The Gadsisar Lake also provides superb bird-watching possibilities, with many exotic migratory birds arriving here during winter. Row boats, paddle boats, and shikaras are available on the lake. One can opt for a taxi in Jaisalmer to explore this place and other tourist attractions.
- Nakki Lake, Mount Abu
Nakki Lake, perched amid the majestic Aravalli mountains, is one of Rajasthan’s oldest manmade lakes. This lake, surrounded by oddly shaped boulders, craggy mountains, and lush foliage, has an estimated depth of 11,000 meters.
The area attracts history buffs and nationalists due to the common notion that the ashes of Mahatma Gandhi were buried in Nakki Lake on February 12, 1948. The lake’s green surroundings and pure blue waters exude romance and entice couples. The scenic Nakki Lake also has boating opportunities, including pedal boats and shikara rides.
Wrapping Up:
These are some of the most famous lakes in Rajasthan that add a view of nature to the state of Thar Desert. There are numerous more lakes like Kaylana lake Jodhpur, Gulab Sagar, Fateh Sagar, etc. that add to the beauty of the places.
Also Read: Places to visit in Bangalore