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Lakes of Rajasthan

Pushkar lake, Rajasthan

The state of Rajasthan is primarily known for its magnificent forts and palaces. However, there are quiet a few lakes that quietly make their presence felt among the tourists because of their pristine beauty, opportunity for water sports and also for useful purpose. While some of the lakes are a gift of nature to Rajasthan, others have been carved out in the earth's surface by the efforts of man.

Lake Pichola

This is perhaps the most important and the most beautiful lake in Rajasthan. Situated in the Lake city of Rajasthan, Udaipur, the Lake Pichola exudes a virginal beauty for its spectator. Two of the most important attractions of Udaipur are located in and around the lake. The lake is overlooked by the grandiose City Palace complex while the beautiful Lake Palace occupies an island right in the middle of the lake. Tourists can have the pleasure of enjoying a boat ride in the Lake Pichola early in the morning or in the evening when the rising and setting sun spreads a bewitching charm on the lake and surrounding areas. The 2¼ miles long and 1¼ mile wide lake was started in the 14th century, however, it was completed in the 16th century by Maharana Udai Singh.

Fateh Sagar Lake

This is the second most important lake among the three lakes in the city of Udaipur. Dug up in the year 1678 by Maharana Jai Singh, the lake was destroyed by flood waters. Later, it was reconstructed by Maharana Fateh Singh. The lake is linked to the Lake Pichola in the south by a canal via Swaroop Sagar Lake and Rang Sagar Lake. Though the lake water was originally meant for the irrigation purpose, today it fulfills the need for drinking water as well. Tourists can enjoy a boat ride in the lake with the views of towering hills on three sides. The lake has three prominent islands occupied by a public park, solar observatory and a jet fountain.

Rajasmand Lake

Not very far away from Udaipur, on the way to Kumbhalgarh lies a place called Rajasmand. The place is known for its scenic Rajasmand Lake which was built by Rana Raj Singh in the year 1660 AD. On the sides of the lake, beautiful toranas and chattris enhance the overall charm. A walk on the banks of the lake with the setting sun in the backdrop is a real treat for tourists.

Ana Sagar Lake

Another important lake created by the efforts of man in Rajasthan. The lake is surrounded by beautiful parks and marble pavilions. Right in the middle of the lake is an island which can be reached by a motor boat. The ride, ofcourse, is as enjoyable as a walk on the beautiful bank.

Gadsisar Lake

In the dry region of Jaisalmer, Gadsisar Lake has its own importance. The lake was once a major source of water supply in the city of Jaisalmer and as such it is not surprising to find numerous shrines and temples around it. A yellow sandstone gateway that leads to the lake was constructed by a prostitute, Tilon, despite disapproval from the Maharaja.

Pushkar Lake

Legends have it that the Pushkar Lake was created by Lord Brahma by merging the waters of four holy places of Hindus in India - Badrinath, Jagannath, Rameshwaram and Dwarka. The lake is surrounded by 52 ghats and there is a floating chattris in the centre. The Pushkar lake is worth visiting during the final night of the famous Pushkar fair when the thousands of glittering oil lamps are left into the water.

Sambhar Lake

Distinct from sweet water lakes of Rajasthan, this is a saline water lake in the state of Rajasthan. Infact, this is the largest saline water lake in entire India and a major source of salt production in India. The lake stretches in length for 22.5 km and its width varies from 3 to 11 km. The lake is fed by several freshwater streams.

Pachprada Lake

This is yet another salt water lake in the district of Barmer. The lake produces high quality salt.