Tourist Attraction - Gadsisar Lake

Location: Walking Distance from ‘Tillon Ki Gate, Jaisalmer

How to Reach: Local transport

Highlights: Boating, Bird watching and Sightseeing

Rajasthan is known more for its vast stretches of Golden desert, picturesque sand dunes and typical desert life than for its water bodies or lakes. However, the few lakes that do exist comprise some of the most picturesque water bodies that one may come around. Gadsisar is one such lake, enticing Jaisalmer visitors with its picture perfect settings and tranquil water and becoming one of Jaisalmer’s prime tourist attractions.

Although not a natural lake, Gadsisar saw its artificial birth in 1156 and renovation as a water tank in 1367 by Maharwal Garsissingh Ji- the then ruler of Jaisalmer. Initially, it used to serve as the source of water supply to the whole city of Jaisalmer. The lake is decorated by a beautiful arched gateway, with numerous temples, gardens and cenotaphs surrounding it.

Apart from its picture perfect setting, the lake has earned fame for its wide variety of Avifuana apart from the amusement opportunities. An ideal picnic spot, boating in Gadsisar Lake is one of its prime attractions. The world renowned Bharartpur Bird Sanctuary is located not too far away, and the reserves resident and migratory birds often visit the lake- much to the delight of bird watchers.

Some interesting ancient monuments also exist here, enhancing the charm and pilgrimage value of Gadsisar Lake. The arched gateway was built in the 19th century by a royal courtesan named Tilon, and the gate is named after him as ‘Tilon Ki Prol’ meaning ‘Gate of Tilon’. A statue of Lord Vishnu exist which was erected in 1908 A.D. by a courtesan who declared it as a Krishna Temple to save it from being demolished by Maharawal.

In a nutshell, the Gadsisar Lake is an ideal destination for boating, a short picnic trip added with some historical sightseeing. Needless to mention the Bird watching opportunities and some of the most splendid views that one may find in the desert.