Rajasthan, known for its desert landscapes, is also home to several picturesque lakes that enhance the charm of the region. These lakes are not only beautiful but also have historical and cultural significance. Here are some of the most famous lakes in Rajasthan along with details and how to reach them:
1. Lake Pichola
- Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan.
- Significance: Lake Pichola is one of the most famous and scenic lakes in Rajasthan, situated in the city of Udaipur, often called the "City of Lakes." It was created in the 14th century and is known for its boat rides that offer stunning views of the City Palace and the Jag Mandir palace. The lake also has the famous Lake Palace (Taj Lake Palace) situated on an island in the middle of the lake.
- Activities: Boating, sightseeing, and visiting nearby attractions like Jag Mandir and City Palace.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Udaipur is well-connected by road with major cities like Jaipur (around 390 km) and Ahmedabad (around 265 km).
- By Train: Udaipur Railway Station is well connected to major cities like Jaipur, Delhi, and Mumbai.
- By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur, around 22 km from the city center, is the nearest airport.
2. Fateh Sagar Lake
- Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan.
- Significance: Fateh Sagar Lake is another major lake in Udaipur, built by Maharana Jai Singh in the 17th century. It is located to the north of Lake Pichola and is known for its serene environment and scenic beauty. The Nehru Garden on an island in the lake and the nearby Moti Magri offer excellent spots for visitors to relax and enjoy the surroundings.
- Activities: Boating, visiting the Nehru Garden, and enjoying the views from Moti Magri.
How to Reach:
- By Road: The lake is located just 2 km from the city center, and can be easily accessed by car or auto-rickshaw.
- By Train: Udaipur Railway Station is the nearest station.
- By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport, about 22 km from the lake.
3. Pushkar Lake
- Location: Pushkar, Rajasthan.
- Significance: Pushkar Lake is a sacred lake for Hindus, located in the town of Pushkar, famous for the Pushkar Fair. It is surrounded by 52 ghats and over 400 temples. The lake is associated with the legend of Lord Brahma, who is believed to have created the lake. Pilgrims from all over India come to take a dip in the holy water.
- Activities: Spiritual activities, bathing in the lake for purification, and visiting nearby temples like Brahma Temple.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Pushkar is around 14 km from Ajmer, and can be reached via NH 48 from Jaipur or Ajmer.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Ajmer Railway Station, which is about 11 km from Pushkar.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, approximately 150 km from Pushkar.
4. Sambhar Lake
- Location: Sambhar, Rajasthan.
- Significance: Sambhar Lake is the largest saltwater lake in India, situated about 64 km southwest of Jaipur. It is a seasonal lake and serves as a major source of salt production. The lake is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during migratory seasons when a variety of birds, including flamingos, flock to the lake.
- Activities: Bird watching, photography, and salt production tours.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Sambhar Lake is easily accessible from Jaipur by road (about 64 km).
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Sambhar Lake Railway Station, around 10 km from the lake.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, approximately 64 km away.
5. Ana Sagar Lake
- Location: Ajmer, Rajasthan.
- Significance: Ana Sagar Lake is an artificial lake created in the 12th century by Anaji Chauhan, the grandfather of Prithviraj Chauhan. It is located in the city of Ajmer and is known for its picturesque views, the Daulat Bagh garden, and the Baradari Pavilion.
- Activities: Boating, visiting the Daulat Bagh, and enjoying the serene ambiance.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Ana Sagar Lake is located just 3 km from Ajmer Railway Station and is easily accessible by road.
- By Train: Ajmer Railway Station is the nearest railway station.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, about 130 km away.
6. Jaisamand Lake
- Location: Udaipur, Rajasthan.
- Significance: Jaisamand Lake, also known as Dhariawad Lake, is one of the largest artificial lakes in Asia. It was created in the 17th century by Maharana Jai Singh to supply water to the region. The lake is surrounded by hills and is a popular destination for its natural beauty.
- Activities: Boating, nature walks, and enjoying the scenic surroundings.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Located about 50 km from Udaipur, Jaisamand Lake is easily accessible by road.
- By Train: Udaipur Railway Station is the nearest station.
- By Air: Maharana Pratap Airport in Udaipur is about 50 km away.
7. Rana Kumbha Lake
- Location: Chittorgarh, Rajasthan.
- Significance: Located within the Chittorgarh Fort, Rana Kumbha Lake is an ancient stepwell lake, believed to be built during the reign of Rana Kumbha in the 15th century. It is a symbol of the fort’s engineering and architectural excellence.
- Activities: Visiting the historic Chittorgarh Fort and exploring the ancient stepwells.
How to Reach:
- By Road: Chittorgarh is well connected by road, approximately 120 km from Udaipur and 300 km from Jaipur.
- By Train: Chittorgarh Railway Station is the nearest station.
- By Air: The nearest airport is Udaipur Airport, approximately 120 km away.
Conclusion:
Rajasthan’s lakes are not just beautiful natural formations but also hold deep historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. From the serene boating experiences in Udaipur's lakes to the spiritual aura of Pushkar Lake, these lakes offer a perfect blend of relaxation, history, and adventure. Most of these lakes are easily accessible by road, train, and air from major cities in Rajasthan. The best time to visit is during the cooler months, from October to March, when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
