Gadisar Lake, Water heritage site in Jaisalmer, India.
Gadisar Lake is an artificial reservoir in Jaisalmer featuring structures built from pale yellow sandstone that mirror in the water below. The site includes numerous temples and ornately carved gates positioned around its shoreline.
The lake was built in 1367 by Maharaja Gadsi Singh as a water storage solution during dry periods in Jaisalmer. This early engineering project reflects how local rulers addressed water scarcity across the desert landscape.
The temples and cenotaphs around the lake show how local people practice their daily rituals and how water holds deep meaning in this desert town. You will notice colorful flags, prayer sites, and gathering spaces where residents and visitors come together throughout the day.
The lake is accessible daily and the shoreline can be explored easily on foot, though boats offer a different perspective from the water. Early morning and late afternoon visits are more comfortable when temperatures are lower.
The lake is fed by the Indira Gandhi Canal and maintains water year-round, which is unusual for an artificial basin in the desert. This modern water supply allows it to support populations of fish that have adapted to the local environment.
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