Balsamand Lake is one of the many placid lakes in the Indian state of Rajasthan. You should visit this place for family picnic or just to escape chaotic Indian traffic and noisy local markets. It is found about five kilometers from the city of Jodhpur, along the Jodhpur-Mandore Road.
Is it worth swinging by Jodhpur to see Balsamand Lake in one of your visits to India? Perhaps you have planned a holiday in Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai, and wondering whether the historic city of Jodhpur is worth checking out as well. Here are helpful details about the city and the lake.
Jodhpur is no doubt one of the most beautiful spots in India and the subcontinent of South Asia. It is found in the northwestern state of Rajasthan, which itself is quite mystifying as well. Jodhpur is more popularly called “Sun City” because the sun shines brightly over the city throughout the year.
If you wish to see ancient temples and magnificent palaces in India, then Jodhpur is definitely for you. The world knows about India’s enigmatic Taj Mahal but there are a handful of other palaces that are almost as pretty. A good example is the marble palace called Jaswant Thada.
Just like the Taj Mahal, Jaswant Thada is a tomb, but technically a cenotaph since it is empty. This temple-like royal cenotaph was built in the 19th century to honor Jodhpur’s 33rd king, Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. It is definitely a site to behold both from the outside and the inside.
There are two empty tombs inside. Outside are beautifully carved pavilions, gardens and a lake. And by the way, this white marble structure stands majestically on rocky desert hills.
Not far away is Rajasthan’s most imposing tourist attraction, the mighty Mehrangarh Fort. Built majestically on rocky hills about 400 feet above the city, this ancient fortress is considered as one of the Seven Wonders of India; a definite must-see. A good number of tourists come to Rajasthan just to stand in awe before this famous fort.
There are other ancient architectural wonders in Jodhpur but if you are one who adores the wonders of nature more, then Balsamand Lake should be your top destination. This man-made lake was created as early as the 13th century as a water reservoir that supplied water to the city for hundreds of years. It is one kilometer long, 50 meters wide and 15 meters deep.
A few years later, the water reservoir was converted into a summer getaway for royalties. The Balsamand Lake Palace was constructed around the lake, as well as a lush garden that is now home to several birds and fruit-bearing trees. If you take together the lake, the palace and the terraced gardens, you are in for a truly relaxing treat.
Other lakes in Jodhpur are Kailana Lake, Ranisar Padamsar and Gulab Sagar Lake. These are old natural landmarks: Ranisar Padamsar was built in 1459, while Gulab Sagar in 1788. You may not have the time to visit all four lakes but make sure not to miss Balsamand Lake.
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