Balsamand Lake and Garden is a popular tourist destination in Jodhpur in Rajasthan, India. The lake and garden are located approximately 5 kilometers from Jodhpur City and are among the top tourist destinations in Rajasthan, India. The serene waters of Balsamand Lake and the garden’s lush greenery are a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life.
It is a beautiful man-made lake that was constructed in the 13th century by a Gurjara-Pratihara ruler named Balak Rao Parihar. The lake is surrounded by a beautiful garden that was built in the 19th century by Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Located on 200 acres, the garden is a haven for nature lovers and those seeking peace and tranquility.
The lake was initially constructed to serve as a water reservoir for the nearby villages, but over time, it transformed into a popular leisure spot for the locals. The lake has a depth of 15 meters and an area of 1 square kilometer. Enjoy a leisurely paddle boat or rowboat ride on the lake’s calm waters as you relax.
The garden surrounding the lake is equally stunning. It was designed by a renowned architect named Henry Vaughan Lanchester in the early 20th century. Lanchester was known for his love for nature, and his designs always incorporated natural landscape elements. The garden at Balsamand Lake is no exception. It features a variety of exotic plants, flowers, and trees and is a paradise for birdwatchers.
This garden has a small zoo, one of its most unique features, making it a very attractive garden. The zoo is home to various animals, including peacocks, rabbits, and even crocodiles! Visitors can also ride a horse around the garden, which is a great way to explore the area.
To start your visit, stroll through the lush gardens surrounding the lake. Flowering plants, trees, and shrubs adorn the gardens, which are beautifully landscaped. You’ll also find several benches to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. This stunning destination is perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Balsamand Lake and Garden Jodhpur Entry Fee
No entry fee
Balsamand Lake and Garden Jodhpur Address: Mandore Rd, Mandore, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, 342007, India
Balsamand Lake and Garden Jodhpur Timings
| Day | Timing |
|---|---|
| Monday | 8:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Tuesday | 8:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Wednesday | 8:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Thursday | 8:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Friday | 8:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Saturday | 8:00 am – 5:30 pm |
| Sunday | 8:00 am – 5:30 pm |
History of Balsamand Lake and Garden
Balsamand Lake was built in the 13th century to provide water to the people of Jodhpur. The lake was constructed by a Gurjara-Pratihara ruler named Balak Rao Parihar. The lake was named after him and is known as Balsamand Lake. Water was supplied to the city from the lake until the 18th century, when it was abandoned due to lack of maintenance.
In the 19th century, Maharaja Jaswant Singh decided to revive the lake and built a beautiful garden around it. He constructed a palace on the lake’s banks, which the royal family used as a summer residence. The garden was designed by a British architect named Henry Vaughan Lanchester. He used the Mughal style of architecture to design the garden.
If you’re interested in history, make sure to visit the Balsamand Palace. This stunning building was constructed in the early 20th century and features Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. Maharaja Sur Singh constructed the palace as a summer retreat for the royal family. Today, the palace serves as a heritage hotel where visitors can experience the grandeur of the Rajput period.
Architecture of Balsamand Lake and Garden
The Balsamand Lake and Garden is a perfect example of the Mughal style of architecture. The garden is designed in a geometric pattern with beautiful fountains and water channels. There are different sections of the garden, each with its own unique features.
Rajput architecture is beautifully displayed in the palace on the lake’s bank. Beautiful jharokhas (balconies) overlook the lake, and the palace is built from red sandstone. Now that the palace has been converted into a hotel, visitors are welcome to stay there.
The Balsamand Lake and Garden is not just a tourist attraction but also an important water source for the city. A nearby river feeds the lake and is an important source of drinking water for the locals. In accordance with the Wildlife Protection Act, the government has taken steps to protect the lake and its surroundings.
Entry Fees and Timings of Balsamand Lake and Garden
The entry fee for Balsamand Lake and Garden is INR 50 for Indian tourists and INR 100 for foreign tourists. The garden is open from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm every day.
Best Time to Visit Balsamand Lake and Garden
One of the best times to visit Balsamand Lake and Garden is during the monsoon season. The lake is at its fullest, and the surrounding area is lush green. The weather is pleasant, and it is a great time to go boating on the lake. The garden is also in full bloom during this time, and visitors can enjoy the sight of colourful flowers and butterflies.
How to Reach Balsamand Lake and Garden
There are several ways to reach Balsamand Lake and Garden in Jodhpur.
By Air: If you travel by air, the nearest airport is the Jodhpur Airport, which is approximately 10 km from the lake and garden. You can take a cab or bus to reach your destination from there.
By Rail: The Jodhpur railway station is the closest option if you prefer to travel by rail. It is situated around 7 km from Balsamand Lake and Garden. To reach your destination, you can choose the best cab rental services in Jodhpur or an auto-rickshaw from the station.
By Road: If you wish to travel by bus, there are several options available. The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) operates buses from major cities in Rajasthan to Jodhpur. You can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the Jodhpur bus stand to Balsamand Lake and Garden.
Make sure you carry all necessary documents and proofs of identification, regardless of your transportation mode. The journey to Balsamand Lake and Garden is beautiful, and you will surely enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Balsamand Lake and Garden is a popular destination for picnics, boating, and other outdoor activities. Various facilities are available for visitors, such as boating, horse riding, and camel riding. Visitors can also enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal at the restaurant within the garden’s premises.
Balsamand Lake and Garden is a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Jodhpur. Combining natural beauty, history, and wildlife makes it a unique and memorable experience. The Balsamand Lake and Garden will appeal to all types of visitors, whether they enjoy nature and history, or just want a relaxing getaway. With its beautiful gardens, serene lake, and rich history, it’s sure to be a highlight of your trip.
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