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While Bikaner is famous for its splendid forts and golden dunes its desert environment makes lake formation unexpected. However, the city boasts beautiful water bodies which create peaceful spaces in its desert surroundings. Lakes in Bikaner provide a tranquil retreat for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and people who want to find a picturesque location. Both natural and man-made lakes here fulfil diverse roles including functioning as habitats for migratory birds as well as providing peaceful sanctuaries for travellers. Historical and religious significance defines some lakes while others play an important role in water conservation for the region.
Top Lakes In Bikaner
From Gajner Lake to Kote Gate Lake, explore the best lakes in Bikaner, Rajasthan for a peaceful escape.
1. Gajner Lake
Photo: Daniel VILLAFRUELA / Wikimedia Commons
Maharaja Ganga Singh constructed Gajner Lake, which stands as one of Bikaner’s most stunning lakes to serve as a hunting ground for royalty. The artificial lake located inside the Gajner Palace complex provides a wonderful escape from desert heat. The tranquil waters that exist among dense foliage create a remarkable visual difference from the arid surroundings. Visitors to the lake find its scenic beauty most striking at sunrise and sunset when the palace glimmers on its surface. During winter migratory birds such as waterfowl, cranes, and flamingos flock to Gajner Lake making it a birdwatchers’ paradise.
Location: Gajner, Rajasthan
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: Gajner Palace, Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary
2. Jorbeer Lake
Photo: Raman Patel / Wikimedia Commons
Visitors find Jorbeer Lake situated in the Jorbeer Conservation Reserve to be one of Bikaner’s most excellent bird-watching destinations. This site functions as a vulture conservation zone which draws thousands of scavenging birds unlike typical lakes. The presence of eagles, vultures, and falcons at this site creates an ideal setting for wildlife photographers and bird enthusiasts. This lake which sits amidst dry grasslands, serves as an essential component for regional ecological stability. Jorbeer Lake becomes an active hub for wildlife during the winter months thanks to the arrival of migratory birds from Central Asia and Europe.
Location: Jorbeer Conservation Reserve, Bikaner
Best Time To Visit: November to February
Nearby Attractions: Bikaner Camel Breeding Farm and Karni Mata Temple
3. Kodamdesar Lake
Photo: Lacen / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
On Bikaner’s outskirts, Kodamdesar Lake serves as a serene getaway with religious importance. The Kodamdesar Bhainru Ji Temple draws many worshippers from all over Rajasthan who visit the nearby lake. This lake stands out from others that operate as tourist destinations because it holds spiritual meaning and hosts ritual activities by its shoreline. The peaceful atmosphere along with the lake’s natural beauty creates the perfect setting for meditation and relaxation. The lake experiences water level changes each season that result from rainfall patterns and nearby water supplies.
Location: Kodamdesar village, Rajasthan
Best Time To Visit: September to March
Nearby Attractions: Kodamdesar Bhainru Ji Temple
4. Kote Gate Lake
Photo: Rahilarious / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Kote Gate Lake is a lesser-known water body located close to Bikaner’s historical Kote Gate landmark. The creation of this small artificial lake aimed to beautify the surrounding area while offering a tranquil escape from the busy city environment. Surrounding the lake are local markets which create an intriguing juxtaposition of traditional and modern elements. This location provides locals with a quiet space for relaxation despite not matching Gajner Lake’s grandeur. Visitors will find the best experience during the evening when the city lights dance on the lake’s surface to create a captivating spectacle.
Location: Near Kote Gate, Bikaner city center
Best Time To Visit: Evening hours for the best cityscape views.
Nearby Attractions: Kote Gate Market, Junagarh Fort and Rampuria Havelis
Lakes Near Bikaner
Apart from the above lakes in Bikaner, explore these nearby lakes, all of which are located a moderate drive away.
1. Indira Gandhi Canal Reservoir
Photo: સતિષચંદ્ર / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Indira Gandhi Canal Reservoir functions as a vital water source for Bikaner and nearby desert regions despite its nontraditional status as a lake. The Indira Gandhi Canal Project encompasses this canal segment which aims to provide water resources to Rajasthan’s dry regions. The reservoir serves a critical function for irrigation purposes as well as drinking water distribution while maintaining ecological stability. The Reservoir draws interest from engineering enthusiasts and water conservationists but does not function as a standard tourist destination.
Location: Near the Indira Gandhi Canal, outskirts of Bikaner
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
Nearby Attractions: Desert landscapes and rural Rajasthan
2. Lunkaransar Lake
Photo: Vyacheslav Argenberg / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
An artificial lake named Lunkaransar Lake serves as a crucial water resource for the adjacent village. Despite being less renowned than Gajner Lake it remains crucial for residents who use it as a serene retreat from city life. The lake offers a serene setting which is perfect for having picnics and taking leisurely walks. The Lunkaransar Fort in close proximity enhances the visit through its historical allure and attracts people who love history. The arrival of monsoon rains causes the lake to fill with water which transforms it into a beautiful scene. This place serves as a top choice for visitors who want to experience Bikaner’s rural landscape.
Location: Lunkaransar, about 70 km from Bikaner city
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Nearby Attractions: Lunkaransar Fort, Lunkaransar village
3. Khajuwala Lake
Photo: Christian Ferrer / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Khajuwala Lake exists seasonally within the Khajuwala region close to the border between India and Pakistan. During monsoon months rainwater gathers in low-lying regions to form this lake which stands as a temporary and beautiful oasis within the desert’s arid surroundings. This lake serves as a critical ecosystem component by drawing different bird species and supplying water to the surrounding wildlife. Even though it isn’t permanent like Gajner or Nal Lake, it stands out as special because of its temporary beauty.
Location: Khajuwala, about 120 km from Bikaner city
Best Time To Visit: July to September
Nearby Attractions: Indo-Pak border
Where To Stay
Photo: Steven Ungermann / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The city of Bikaner provides accommodation options ranging from opulent heritage hotels to economical lodging choices. The Laxmi Niwas Palace offers an opulent royal experience as a heritage hotel which showcases the splendour of Rajasthan’s regal history. The Gajner Palace Hotel located by Gajner Lake serves as a luxurious accommodation option featuring stunning views and peaceful surroundings. Travelers who want a mid-range stay should consider Hotel Bhairon Vilas which combines haveli-style charm with both traditional and contemporary amenities. Hotel Desert Winds and Tanisha Heritage Haweli provide comfortable accommodations for travellers who need affordable options.
Where To Eat
Photo: Kaapeine / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Food enthusiasts will find Bikaner to be a haven with its combination of Rajasthani traditional dishes and street food options. Chhotu Motu Joshi stands as a must-visit destination renowned for its kachoris, samosas and traditional sweets such as rasgullas. Gallops Restaurant next to Junagarh Fort offers authentic Rajasthani dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi that will satisfy your cravings. Bhikharam Chandmal stands out as an iconic restaurant specialising in namkeens and bhujia along with mithai. Heeralal’s fine dining establishment serves an extensive variety of Rajasthani and North Indian dishes.
Lakes in Bikaner may not be as famous as its grand forts and palaces, but they add a unique charm to this desert city. Whether you’re enjoying the serene beauty of Gajner Lake or learning the region’s irrigation at Indira Gandhi Canal Reservoir, these water bodies offer a refreshing contrast to Rajasthan’s arid landscape. Beyond their scenic beauty, these lakes also hold cultural, ecological, and historical significance, making them worth exploring. Ready to explore Bikaner’s hidden water gems and more? Plan your Bikaner adventure with TripXL today for a hassle-free experience.
Cover Photo: CC0 Public Domain / pxhere / Image For Representation Only
