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It is curious that the driest state of the country has one of the largest numbers of lakes in a state.
In fact it is the climatic conditions of the region that led to the creation of several man made lakes, which acts as a reservoir for rainwater storage and supplies drinking water to the human population in the state.
Ana Sagar Lake, the Fateh Sagar Lake, Gad Sisar Lake, Kailana Lake, Lake Pichola and Sardar Samand Lake are some of the major lakes in the state.
Utility apart, they also make picturesque locations in an otherwise dry region. |
Ana Sagar Lake: situated to the north of the city of Ajmer, it was built in the 12th century by creating a dam over the river Luni and was named after the then ruler Anaji Chauhan. The Daulat Bagh Gardens and the marble pavilion of Baradari adds to it’s over all beauty.
Fateh Sagar Lake: Originally built by Maharana Jai Singh in 1678 on the north of lake Pichola in Udaipur, the dam was reconstructed by Maharana Fateh Singh after it was destroyed due to heavy rain.
Today the Fateh Sagar Lake serves as the second largest source of drinking water for the city.
The lake boasts of three picturesque islands; Nehru Park being the largest of the three.
Lake Pichola: It was the panoramic beauty of the Pichola lake that inspired Maharana Udai Singh to widen the lake;
which further motivated Maharana Jagjit Singh to create two island palaces on the lake; i.e. Jag Niwas (commonly known as Lake Palace) and Jag Mandir.
The lake also has a masonry dam named Badipol, which is approximately 4km long and 3km wide. |
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The City Palace on the eastern bank enhances the beauty of the lake.
Lake Sardar Samand: Developed by Maharaja Umaid Singh in 1933, it is at a distance of 60 km from Jodhpur. The locals primary comprise of the Bishnois who are known to respect lives of all forms. The Sardar Samand Lake is a host to several migratory birds and this adds colour to the existing essence of the scene. The summer palace or the Sardar Samand Lake Resort is known for its picturesque lawns, walking trails which once played host as a hunting lodge for the Jodhpur royalty.
Gadsisar Lake: Gadsisar Lake is one of the most enchanting Lakes in the state. Originally built in 1156 in order to conserve rain, it was rebuilt by Maharwal Garsisingh in 1367. Today it is the sole source of drinking water for the city of Jaisalmer. There are several myths associated with the structures on the bank of the Lake. Famous among them is the myth about the Tilon Ki Pol, which you might like to discover before actually visiting the lake!
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