Magnificent artificial lakes of Rajasthan

Magnificent artificial lakes of Rajasthan

Rajasthan is the land of resplendent palaces and forts. A land resided by the Rajputs, this beautiful state in the Northern part of India is filled with endless deserts, hills, mountains, lakes, and deep forests. What really makes Rajasthan such a draw among tourists are its magnificent decadent palaces which are as old as Rajasthan.

How many of you are aware that the Hawa Mahal is situated at the artificial lake? When you visit this land of rich cultural heritage and art, prepare to be surprised by its diversity. And you will constantly be surprised by the hidden gems you might unearth in the bargain. Did you know that India’s second-largest artificial lake is situated in Rajasthan? This lake and its surrounding areas will a source of marvel to you.

The reservoir of Rihand Dam called Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar is India's largest artificial lake. Rihand Dam is a concrete gravity dam located at Pipri in Sonbhadra District in Uttar Pradesh. Its reservoir area is on the border of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh.

Rajasthan's Dhebar Lake, also named Jaisamand Lake and is India's second-largest artificial lake. It has an area of 87 km2 (34 sq mi) when full and was created at Namla Thikana in the 17th century when Rana Jai Singh of Udaipur built a marble dam across the Gomati River. It is situated 45 km away from the city of Udaipur.

Three islands in the lake

There are three islands on Dhebar Lake, and the tribe of Bhil Minas inhabits all. The two bigger islands are known as Baba ka Magra and the smaller island is called Piari. There is a bund on the lake, which is over 1,202 feet (366 m) long, 116 feet (35 m) high , and 70 feet (21 m) broad at the base. On the marble dam are six exotic cenotaphs and a Shiva temple in the centre. The northern end of the lake has a palace with a courtyard while its southern end has a pavilion of 12 pillars. The hills to its south have grand palaces that have an excellent view of the lake.

In 1685 it was Maharana Jai Singh who built the Dhebar lake. The lake was built to provide water for agriculture in the South-East regions of Mewar. To reach the lake you need to walk down the marble stairs. Dhebar Lake is another name for luxury. Encasing the lake are the Udaipur Queen's summer palaces. Much of the constructions around the lake are made in marble.

The Jaisamand Wildlife Sanctuary is an interesting place to visit when you visit this lake. You can feast your eyes on the rich wildlife in their natural habitat. The fauna includes the panther, wild boar, deer, four-horned antelope, mongoose, and various species of migratory birds. The sanctuary's eco-region is that of Kathiawar-Gir dry deciduous forests

Rajasthan’s beautiful lakes

Fateh Sagar Lake: Constructed in the 1680s, this is among the most popular lakes in Rajasthan. There are three islands in the lake, including Udaipur Solar Observatory and Nehru Park – a popular picnic spot with an iconic fountain. Embraced by verdant hillocks, this azure-colored gem is the reason why Udaipur is called ‘The Second Kashmir’. Take a boat ride around sunset and find your own little heaven as the ripples play around and the sky changes its color. You can also visit Maharana Pratap Memorial, Nehru Park, Udaipur Solar Observatory, and Saheliyon Ki Bari while you are there.

Doodh Talai Lake: This famous lake in the state is enclosed by charming little mountains. Considered a major attraction in Udaipur, this lake is adjacent to Lake Pichola. You can opt for camel and horse rides, sample food from the fast-food centres and boat rides. The garden which is named Doodh Talai Musical garden is famous for its musical fountain and offers a spectacular view of Lake Pichola and Doodh Talai Lake. While there do visit Manikya Garden, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Park, and Mata Temple.

Man Sagar Lake: The Man Sagar Lake, is a 300-acre lake, fenced by the Nahargarh hills. The artificial lake was formed as a result of instituting a dam across river Darbhawati during the 18th century. Today it is the only significant water body in the city of Jaipur. Jal Mahal, an architectural monument, is situated in the midst of Mansagar Lake. In fact, this is among those Rajasthan lakes where boating is not allowed, however, an observation point on its embankment allows a soulful panoramic view of the area. Many migratory birds – such as blue-tailed bee-eaters, grey heron, and wagtails – can be seen here. Pick an accommodation that lets you enjoy the beauty of the lake whenever you want. Amer Fort, Hawa Mahal, Nahargarh Fort and Jabaj Vrindavan Park are other places you can visit nearby.

Ana Sagar Lake, Ajmer: This man-made lake was built by Anaji Chauhan (grandfather of Prithviraj Chauhan) during 1135-1150 AD. On its bank is a pleasant park, the Daulat Bagh, containing a series of marble pavilions erected in 1637 by Shah Jahan. You can watch the sunset while boating on this lake. Spread over 13 km, the lake captures the beauty of Ajmer. Though it dries up in the months of summer, it also acts as a source of livelihood for all the local people of this city. The island on its center is accessible by boat rides, and the embankments have pavilions and gardens which escalate the beauty of Ana Sagar. Do visit Daulat Bagh, Khobra Behroon Temple, Tarahgarh Fort, and Adahi-Din-Ka Jhopra while you are there.

Pushkar Lake: This lake has many ghats where pilgrims bathe and is also significant for its Gurdwaras for Guru Nanak and Guru Gobind Singh. Pushkar is famous for its annual fair (Pushkar Camel Fair) featuring a trading fete of cattle, horses, and camels. Brahma is believed to have built the lake by combining the waters of other Hindu holy sites such as Badrinath, Jagannath, Rameswaram and Dwarka. There is a chhatri in the centre of the lake, which was built in the 18th century. A few among the many reasons to visit Pushkar include its spirituality andash; taking a dip in the holy Pushkar Lake and visiting the only Brahma Temple in the country; its natural marvels - mesmerizing sunrise and gorgeous sunset over the sand dunes and the lake; its food - cafes overlooking the lake serve a variety. What makes this beautiful lake even more magnificent is the presence of over 500 Hindu temples around the lake. Fifty-two bathing ghats surround the lake where devotees take sacred dips that are said to cleanse the soul of worldly sins.

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