GADISAR LAKE JAISALMER – RAJASTHAN TRAVEL GUIDE

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Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer is a man-made lake edged by historic temples and shrines. Here is my complete guide to visiting Gadisar Lake, including how to get here, what to expect, and some photos to inspire your travels.

Constructed in 1400 AD, Gadisar Lake has long been a significant part of Jaisalmer’s culture and history. It’s a peaceful and scenic place that once served as an integral water source for the people of Jaisalmer.

Today, many people visit Gadisar Lake from all over the world to capture photos of the sandstone temples, shrines, and monuments, or just to unwind in the serenity of a picturesque lake in the oasis of the Thar Desert.TABLE OF CONTENTS

I’m Olly, a full-time traveler for the past 5 years. I visit every destination I write about & handpick all recommendations.

How To Get To Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer

Gadisar Lake is located just on the outskirts of the Jaisalmer fort, approximately 2 kilometers from the entrance. It’s possible to walk to Gadisar Lake from the Jaisalmer fort in just under 30 minutes. Alternatively, a rickshaw from the fort to the Gadisar Lake only costs roughly 70-100 rupees each way.

To get to the lake by foot, you’ll need to head south from the fort until you reach the main road (Gadisar Road). From here, just continue down Gadisar Road heading east. Eventually, you’ll come to an intersection called “Gadisar Lake Road”. There is a sign here and a few restaurants to attract tourists.

  • Google Maps Pin: “Gadisar Lake”

Continue down Gadisar Lake Road and you’ll arrive at the lakefront.

Atlernative: Book a Jaisalmer Walking tour which includes Gadisar Lake

What To Expect At Gadisar Lake In Jaisalmer

Immediately upon arriving at Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer, you will notice that this is quite the tourist attraction! When I was here, there were many tour groups, photography groups, and even a wedding shoot!

I’d suggest, if you are planning to visit Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer, to come here for sunrise or sunset instead. This way, you’ll beat the crowds and you’ll get to watch the setting Thar sun reflecting on the calm waters of Gadisar Lake.

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Related: Review: 2-Day Overnight Camel Safari Jaisalmer

Notable Sites At Gadisar Lake

There are many notable temples and shrines that edge the waterfront. Perhaps the most famous of which is the Tilon Ki Pol, a yellowish sandstone gateway with a unique story.

The legend goes that this 14th-century gateway was constructed by a famous prostitute! Apparently, when proposing the construction of the gateway, the then-ruling Maharawal refused, due to the nature of her work.

However, she ignored his ruling and built it anyway, while also adding a Krishna temple so the king would not destroy it.

Other notable attractions at Gadisar Lake include a Shiva temple, several century-old monuments, and some very scenic pergolas that stretch out into the lake.

Gadisar Lake Boat Trip

Perhaps one of the best things to do at Gadisar Lake is to rent a paddleboat for sunset or sunrise. While I didn’t do this as I visited in the stinking heat of midday sun, I could imagine that it would be a great experience.

Gadisar Lake Boat Cost: 100-150 rupees

Best Jaisalmer Experiences

To save you time and to make sure you get the best bang for your buck, I’ve offered a quick list of my 3 favorite tours in Jaisalmer below.

You can book these experiences online in advance to ensure they don’t sell out.

1. Jaisalmer Desert Camel Safari Unique

Experience the Thar desert on this amazing overnight camel ride.

2. Jaisalmer Fort & City Walking Tour

The top-rated walking tour of the Jaisalmer Fort and city.

3. Desert Overnight Safari Glamping

Stargaze under a luxury glamping tent in the heart of the Thar desert.

Where To Stay In Jaisalmer

Perhaps one of the best experiences in Jaisalmer is the ability to sleep inside the ancient fort complex! Below I’ve listed some of the best accommodation options that should satisfy a range of budgets.

  • Where I stayed (budget room inside the Jaisalmer fort): Hotel Surja – Comfortable rooms within the fort with a rooftop terrace and restaurant for under $5USD? Seriously this place was easily one of the best deals I’ve ever come across.
  • Best Jaisalmer Hostel: Toffu Safari – Hostelworld rates Toffu Safari as one of the best hostels in Jaisalmer year after year. While I didn’t stay here, I visited twice since a friend of mine was staying here at the time. It has a great roof-top terrace, comfortable beds, and a great vibe.
  • Luxury option within the fort: Killa Bhawan – If you’ve ever wanted a luxury room in an ancient fort, Jaisalmer is probably the place to book one. For what you get, the prices of accommodation are ridiculously affordable. The Killa Bhawan is one of the top-rated luxury accommodation options within the Jaisalmer fort.
  • Glamping Safari Camp: Real Desert Man Safari Camp – Are you a fan of glamping? If you’re not really after the full Jaisalmer camel safari experience, then you can book a night in the desert with this glamping camp.