How to Visit Gadisar Lake From Jaisalmer, India

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

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 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.

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

What to Expect at Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer

Immediately upon arriving at Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer, you will notice that this is quite a 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.

Notable Sites & What to See

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.

I hope that this guide has been useful for finding things to do in this beautiful desert city. For more travel guides and trips in Rajasthan, make sure to check out the list of articles below.

• Epic 1-month India Itinerary - the ultimate India travel itinerary covering the best places to go and things to see.
• Taj Mahal View Locations - best spots to see & photograph the Taj Mahal.
• Things to do in Rishikesh - explore the adventure & yoga capital of India in this travel guide.
• Training & HMI Darjeeling - my experience completing my Basic Mountaineering Course in Darjeeling.
• India Packing List - everything you need to bring on a trip to India (and what you should leave at home)