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The State of Rajasthan is famous for its desolate deserts, grand forts, and colourful culture. The famous lakes in Rajasthan, which are distributed all over the state, are surrounded by beautiful areas deeply connected with Rajasthan’s history, tradition and spirituality. They are surrounded by ancient temples, royal palaces and breathtaking gardens and are themselves iconic landmarks. Each water body has a story of its own, reflecting the royal heritage, cultural practices and diversity of the region. The lakes of Rajasthan, uniquely captivating, offer you an escape, an adventure, or even spiritual renewal.
10 Famous Lakes In Rajasthan
Explore the royal cultural heritage through the beautiful and famous lakes in Rajasthan, India.
1. Lake Pichola
Photo: Swetangkumar Panchal / Unsplash
Udaipur pulls its royalty from Lake Pichola, an artificial freshwater lake that is one of the most famous lakes in Rajasthan. Constructed in 1362 AD by Pichhu Banjara during Maharana Lakha’s rule, the lake covers 696 hectares. Its shimmering waters mirror the grandeur of the City Palace and the distinctive Lake Palace, making for postcard-perfect views. Lake Pichola is also a vital part of the city’s life, helping to support local migratory birds, including tufted ducks and egrets. The four islands in the lake, Jag Niwas, Jag Mandir, Mohan Mandir and Arsi Vilas, all have historical importance.
Location: Udaipur
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM (Boating hours)
Cost: ₹400 for boat rides
Best Time To Visit: October to March
2. Fateh Sagar Lake
Photo: Amanjeev / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Fateh Sagar Lake is a man-made lake created in 1678 by Maharana Jai Singh and further developed by Maharana Fateh Singh. These three islands take up 4 km of the pear-shaped lake. The largest island, Nehru Park, is a popular picnic site dotted with verdant gardens and a zoo. The second is home to a public park with a jet fountain and the third is given over to Udaipur Solar Observatory, one of Asia’s best. While in the majestic Aravalli Hills, the placid blue waters of the lake, in contrast, provide wonderful picturesque views, especially during evenings at sunset.
Location: Udaipur
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹30-200 for boat rides
Best Time To Visit: September to March
3. Sambhar Salt Lake
Photo: Nawanshu91 / Wikimedia Commons
Sambhar Salt Lake, India’s largest inland saltwater lake, sprawls over 230 sq km in the dry terrain near Jaipur. This huge expanse of salt water generates 196,000 tonnes of salt every year. Historically referenced in ancient scriptures, the drink is considered a gift from the goddess Shakambhari. The lake’s glistening salt flats form otherworldly landscapes, especially at sunrise. Sambhar’s ecological significance is its avian diversity, as thousands of migratory birds visit it, notably flamingoes, which paint a pink sheen on the waters. |
Location: Near Jaipur
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Cost: N/A
Nearby Attractions: Shakambhari Devi Temple, Jaipur city
4. Gadisar Lake
Photo: Pradeep717 / Wikimedia Commons
Gadisar Lake was an artificial reservoir created by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the 14th century and was the main water source for Jaisalmer. Surrounded by ornate chhatris, temples, and ghats, it is among the famous lakes with a visual treat in the golden sands of the Thar Desert. Also, Gadisar Lake is a winter haven for migratory birds, such as Siberian cranes, attracting their admirers here. Its most famous building, Tilon Ki Pol, a gate built by a courtesan, is shrouded in legend. Boat rides on the serene waters during the sunrise and sunset offer spectacular views of the architectural wonders of Jaisalmer.
Location: Jaisalmer
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Timings: 8 AM – 7 PM
Cost: ₹10-100 for boating
5. Pushkar Lake
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
Pushkar Lake, which is regarded as holy by Hindus, is located in the centre of the sacred town of Pushkar. Surrounded by 52 ghats and over 500 temples, this lake is said to have been created by Lord Brahma himself. Pilgrims visit here to take a holy dip, especially on Kartik Purnima, which is believed to cleanse sins. Every year, the Pushkar Camel Fair draws thousands of tourists from all over the globe. It is also a photographer’s paradise, serving as a canvas for beautiful reflections of temples and vibrant evening aartis.
Location: Pushkar
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Cost: N/A
Nearby Attractions: Brahma Temple, Varaha Temple, Savitri Temple
6. Ana Sagar Lake
Photo: Jakub Hałun / Wikimedia Commons
This ancient and huge artificial lake is about 14 kilometres long. Constructed by Maharaja Ana Singh in the 12th century, the lake is famous for its tranquil waters and picturesque landscape. The lake is beautiful for its connection with Ajmer’s architectural heritage. It’s bordered by Daulat Bagh Garden, a lovely place that’s lined with pavilions and a well-kept promenade perfect for evening walks. In the centre of the lake is the stunning white marble Baradari pavilion, with picturesque views of the surrounding hills and Ajmer skyline.
Location: Ajmer
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Cost: N/A
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
7. Keoladeo Lake
Photo: PJeganathan / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Keoladeo Lake, Keoladeo National Park or Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage site with rich biodiversity. This man-made wetland covers 29 square kilometres and was formed by Maharaja Suraj Mal of Bharatpur in the 18th century. Owing to this, it is one of the famous lakes in Rajasthan for birdwatching and these migratory birds come to this unique wetland every year. The grasslands and woodlands enveloping the lake are home to over 300 bird species, including the Siberian crane and painted stork.
Location: Bharatpur
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Cost: ₹75-200 for entry and boating
Best Time To Visit: November to February
8. Rajsamand Lake
Photo: Rahul sadhwani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Rajsamand Lake, one of the largest lakes in Rajasthan, was an engineering marvel constructed in the 17th century by Maharana Raj Singh of Mewar. A sea of crystalline blue stretches for about 48 km in length and 7 km in width, surrounded by hills. Famed for its elaborately carved embankments, the lake has 5 sizable marble pavilions or Rajsamand ki Kachahri and tiled pavilions narrate the history of the region. You can also go boating and admire scenic views of the gorgeous Aravalli Hills.
Location: Rajsamand
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Cost: N/A
Best Time To Visit: September to March
9. Jaisamand Lake
Photo: Dr. Rushikesh joshi / Wikimedia Commons
Dhebar Lake, or Jaisamand Lake, is one of the biggest artificial lakes in India, spreading over a huge area of 36 sq. km. Built in 1685 by Maharana Jai Singh, the lake is an important water source for the area. Lakeside and forested hills surround the lake, and there are a handful of small islands throughout its surface. Built to control water flow, the marble dam is the main feature of the majestic Jaisamand Lake. You can take boat rides to explore the surrounding picturesque islands, beaching at ancient temples and pavilions along the shore.
Location: Udaipur
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Cost: N/A
Best Time To Visit: October to March
10. Talab-e-Shahi
Photo: Chirag Purohit / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Talab-e-Shahi, or the Royal Lake of Alwar, is an artificial water body that lies near the Alwar Fort. Constructed by the royal family of Alwar, this lake is one of the oldest water bodies in the region. Covering more than 50 acres, Talab-e-Shahi is distinguished by the greenery and rocky terrain that surround it, ushering a return to nature from the fast pace of the city. The temples were invaded by many kings, and the Fort of Alwar was nearby, famous for its beauty and history. The lake is a popular area for nature walks, photography, and leisurely boat rides. It is also home to numerous bird species and local wildlife, making it a peaceful place.
Location: Alwar
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Cost: N/A
Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
The famous lakes in Rajasthan are not just mere water bodies; they are an inseparable part of the state’s history, culture and natural beauty. These places become the centre of attraction due to their interesting history that gives a glimpse of Rajasthan’s culture. From stunning natural beauty to lakes with history, Rajasthan has something for everyone. Plan a trip with TripXL and enjoy the magical views of these charming lakes.
Cover Photo: Prakhar Singh / Unsplash
