Gadisar lake set on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, Gadisar Lake perched like an oasis in the heart of the desert. Dating back to the middle ages, there were no canals or irrigation systems to bring the source of water in the region. In view of this, thinking about the crisis of the people that are facing, Raja Rawal Jaisal built the reservoir. The lake offers scenic views and picturesque landscape of the Fort.
One can spend quiet time by themselves or enjoy with friends or family while boating in the lake or take a walk around the embankment. During winter, exotic migratory birds flock in and around the lake from the nearby bird sanctuary of Bharatpur. If birdwatching is what interests one to travel, then winter would be the right time to plan the trip to get this splendid experience.
History of Gadsisar Lake:
It was constructed as a water conservation tank in 1156 A.D. and was rebuilt in 1367 A.D. by Maharawal Gadsi Singh, the then Maharaja of Jaisalmer. It was once the main source of water supply to Jaisalmer City.
Attractions of Gadsisar Lake:
There are a number of small but beautifully carved Temples, shrines and cenotaphs located on banks of the Lake and on the small islands of the lake, whose reflections in the water further enhance the beauty of the Lake. It is also surrounded by a number of gardens. It is an ideal picnic spot and is famous for boating. It is home to numerous species of birds and is visited by a number of migratory birds during Winter months (November to February).
A beautiful arched gateway named ‘Tillon Ki Gate’ or ‘Tillon Ki Pol’ is located across the road down to the Lake. It was built in yellow sandstone by a royal courtesan named Tillon at the end of the 19th Century A.D. It is said that the then ruler of Jaisalmer decided to demolish the gateway, but Tillon installed a statue of Lord Vishnu on the gateway and hence protected it from demolition.