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Jodhpur
Lakes
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The most
peaceful and relaxing place for a person is by the lakeside.
The tranquility of the water lends calmness to the mind in
this hectic and forever running world. Whenever we go on a
holiday trip, we are trying to get away from the maddening
pace of the world. What better way to compose and comfort
the mind than visiting a lake.
Jodhpur lakes offer you their placidity to sooth as well as
refresh your mind. There are a number of famous lakes around
Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Following are the names of some of these
lakes:
Balsammand Lake
Kaylana Lake
Sardar Samand Lake
Make sure to visit these lakes, while in Jodhpur. They are a
virtual treat to the eye. Most probably, you will get a
sense of composure and serenity after spending some time
there.
Balsammand Lake Jodhpur
The Balsammand Lake in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is a popular
picnic spot, encircled by hills. It is an artificial lake
built in 1159 AD. Balsammand Lake is approximately 7 kms
from the main city, on the Jodhpur - Mandore road. This lake
is approximately one kilometer long, fifty meters wide and
fifteen meters deep. Next to the lake stands the Balsammand
Palace, an artistic eight-pillared palace with three
entrance gates. Maharaja Sur Singh got the palace
constructed in 1936, as a summer pavilion.
All around the lake are lush green gardens. You can also
take a walk through the trees, the rose beds and around
pools covered with lilies. Also in the garden are the groves
of mango, guava, papaya, plum, banana, pomegranate and other
fruits. An artificial cascading waterfall brings water from
the reservoir to the gardens. The embankments of the lake,
in front of the palace, have domed structure that offers
fabulous views of the lake. One will also get to see the
peacocks, blue bulls, jackals and hundreds of fruit bats in
the trees.
Approximately 2 km from the city and on the way to the lake,
is the Maha Mandir. A hundred pillared temple, it is
dedicated to Lord Shiva. A walled town is built around the
temple. The lake is a must-see picnic spot, enchanting
tourists with the cool breeze blowing through the lush
greenery around the lake. The peaceful surroundings of
Balsammand Lake will leave you at peace with yourself.
Kaylana Lake Jodhpur
Kaylana Lake in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is located 8 kms to the
west of Jodhpur on the Jaiselmer road. Pratap Singh, the
then Prime Minister of Jodhpur, got the lake constructed in
1872. This artificial lake is spread over 84 square kms.
Where the lake now lies, was once an area having palaces and
gardens of two rulers of Jodhpur. They were destroyed to
make the Kaylana Lake. Near to the lake is a Dak Bungalow of
PHED, the Irrigation department. There are also boating
facilities available for the tourists here.
An ideal picnic spot for tourists, this lake offers a
breathtaking view of the sunset. At that time the sky looks
like a canvas splashed with spectacular colors. Kaylana Lake
is the perfect place to relax or have picnics. If you are
interested in birds, then, this place will further interest
you. Also known by the name of Pratap Sagar, the area around
this lake was once full of wild bears. It served as a
secured hunting place for the royal members. But, with the
increase in population it has not remained so.
Don't even try to swim in this if you are not an expert
swimmer. Better still, don't swim at all. Many youngsters
trying to swim across this deep lake have lost their lives.
Inspite of this, Kaylana Lake is a charming picnic spot. The
beauty of this place will keep on lingering with you for a
long time after your visit.
Sardar Samand Lake Jodhpur
Near to the city of Jodhpur is the Sardar Samand Lake. The
lake lays 60-kms south-east of Jodhpur off the Jodhpur -
Pali route. The scenery of this lake is fascinating. Sardar
Samand Lake attracts countless varieties of migratory birds.
So, if you are a bird watcher, this is the place to be. Also
enchanted by its placid waters are tourists who come to
enjoy peace and solitude of the place.
While on your way to Sardar Samand Lake from Jodhpur, one
may even spot feely roaming wildlife of the region,
especially the Black Buck, Neelgai and Chinkara. Even the
rote presents you with an interesting drive, keeping you
entranced. The countryside with its lively villages and
smiling village folk offers you taste of the region's
hospitality. The route also passes through the Bishnoi
villages, an old community.
The lake as well as the route to the lake, provides a
virtual treat to photographers. On a hill overlooking the
Sardar Samand Lake, stands the summer palace of Maharaja
Umaid Singh. It was once the hunting lodge of the royal
Jodhpur family. It has now been converted into the Sardar
Samand Lake Resort. The resort offers some of the most
breathtaking views of the magnificent lake. |
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