Jodhpur Lakes

The most peaceful and relaxing place for a person is by the lakeside. The tranquility of the water lends calmness to the mind in this hectic and forever running world. Whenever we go on a holiday trip, we are trying to get away from the maddening pace of the world. What better way to compose and comfort the mind than visiting a lake.

Jodhpur lakes offer you their placidity to sooth as well as refresh your mind. There are a number of famous lakes around Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Following are the names of some of these lakes:

• Balsammand Lake
• Kaylana Lake
• Sardar Samand Lake

Make sure to visit these lakes, while in Jodhpur. They are a virtual treat to the eye. Most probably, you will get a sense of composure and serenity after spending some time there.

Balsammand Lake Jodhpur

The Balsammand Lake in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is a popular picnic spot, encircled by hills. It is an artificial lake built in 1159 AD. Balsammand Lake is approximately 7 kms from the main city, on the Jodhpur - Mandore road. This lake is approximately one kilometer long, fifty meters wide and fifteen meters deep. Next to the lake stands the Balsammand Palace, an artistic eight-pillared palace with three entrance gates. Maharaja Sur Singh got the palace constructed in 1936, as a summer pavilion.

All around the lake are lush green gardens. You can also take a walk through the trees, the rose beds and around pools covered with lilies. Also in the garden are the groves of mango, guava, papaya, plum, banana, pomegranate and other fruits. An artificial cascading waterfall brings water from the reservoir to the gardens. The embankments of the lake, in front of the palace, have domed structure that offers fabulous views of the lake. One will also get to see the peacocks, blue bulls, jackals and hundreds of fruit bats in the trees.

Approximately 2 km from the city and on the way to the lake, is the Maha Mandir. A hundred pillared temple, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. A walled town is built around the temple. The lake is a must-see picnic spot, enchanting tourists with the cool breeze blowing through the lush greenery around the lake. The peaceful surroundings of Balsammand Lake will leave you at peace with yourself.

Kaylana Lake Jodhpur

Kaylana Lake in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is located 8 kms to the west of Jodhpur on the Jaiselmer road. Pratap Singh, the then Prime Minister of Jodhpur, got the lake constructed in 1872. This artificial lake is spread over 84 square kms. Where the lake now lies, was once an area having palaces and gardens of two rulers of Jodhpur. They were destroyed to make the Kaylana Lake. Near to the lake is a Dak Bungalow of PHED, the Irrigation department. There are also boating facilities available for the tourists here.

An ideal picnic spot for tourists, this lake offers a breathtaking view of the sunset. At that time the sky looks like a canvas splashed with spectacular colors. Kaylana Lake is the perfect place to relax or have picnics. If you are interested in birds, then, this place will further interest you. Also known by the name of Pratap Sagar, the area around this lake was once full of wild bears. It served as a secured hunting place for the royal members. But, with the increase in population it has not remained so.

Don't even try to swim in this if you are not an expert swimmer. Better still, don't swim at all. Many youngsters trying to swim across this deep lake have lost their lives. Inspite of this, Kaylana Lake is a charming picnic spot. The beauty of this place will keep on lingering with you for a long time after your visit.

Sardar Samand Lake Jodhpur

Near to the city of Jodhpur is the Sardar Samand Lake. The lake lays 60-kms south-east of Jodhpur off the Jodhpur - Pali route. The scenery of this lake is fascinating. Sardar Samand Lake attracts countless varieties of migratory birds. So, if you are a bird watcher, this is the place to be. Also enchanted by its placid waters are tourists who come to enjoy peace and solitude of the place.

While on your way to Sardar Samand Lake from Jodhpur, one may even spot feely roaming wildlife of the region, especially the Black Buck, Neelgai and Chinkara. Even the rote presents you with an interesting drive, keeping you entranced. The countryside with its lively villages and smiling village folk offers you taste of the region's hospitality. The route also passes through the Bishnoi villages, an old community.

The lake as well as the route to the lake, provides a virtual treat to photographers. On a hill overlooking the Sardar Samand Lake, stands the summer palace of Maharaja Umaid Singh. It was once the hunting lodge of the royal Jodhpur family. It has now been converted into the Sardar Samand Lake Resort. The resort offers some of the most breathtaking views of the magnificent lake.