Gadisar Lake / Gadsisar Lake - History, Timings & Entry Fee

Lake / Backwaters

Photo Credit: Flickr

Distance (From Jaisalmer): 1.5 Kms

Trip Duration (Including Travel): 1 Hour

Transportation Options: Cab / Auto

Travel Tips: None

At a distance of 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station and 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake or Gadsisar Lake is an artificial reservoir in Jaisalmer. It was the only source of water for the Jaisalmer city in the olden days and also one of the best sightseeing places in Jaisalmer.

The Gadisar Lake was constructed by Raja Rawal Jaisal, the first ruler of Jaisalmer, and later reconstructed by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the year 1367 AD. It is said that this rainwater lake once provided water to the entire town. At present Gadisar Lake gets water from Indira Gandhi Canal so it never dries.

Located towards the south of Jaisalmer city, the entrance to the Gadisar Lake is through a magnificent and artistically carved yellow sandstone archway that is known as the Tilon-Ki-Pol. There are numerous shrines and small temples on the embankment of this lake which can visit during your trip to Jaisalmer. The most popular among these temples is the Krishna Temple which houses a statue of Lord Vishnu. There is a big domed pavilion in the center of the lake. The main attractions of the lake are the different species of birds, which migrate from distinct places.

The Gadisar Lake can be visited any time of the day, though it is best to go early in the morning and watch the sunrise. Boating facility is also available in this lake where charges vary from type of boat and based on the duration of boating. Shikaras are also available to go around the lake. The serene Gadisar Lake springs to life during the annual Gangaur celebrations. This is the most popular point to take photographs of Jaisalmer Fort early in the morning when the fort looks golden with the first rays of the Sun and also a bird viewing site and a major attraction of Jaisalmer city.

Timings: 6 AM to 6 PM

Boat Cost: Rs. 10 for Row Boat, Rs. 50 for Paddle Boat and Rs. 100 for Shikara for 30 minutes