Jaisamand Lake - A Vast Man-Made Wonder in Udaipur

Jaisamand Lake, also known as Dhebar Lake, is a remarkable man-made reservoir located about 50 kilometers from Udaipur. Constructed in the 17th century, it was the largest artificial lake in the world at the time of its creation and remains the second largest in India. The lake's most prominent feature is its massive dam, which is adorned with six intricately carved marble cenotaphs and a central temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. The sheer scale of the water body is impressive, spanning an area of around 87 square kilometers when full. Visitors typically experience the lake by taking a boat ride, which offers a unique perspective of its size and the surrounding Aravalli hills. The lake contains seven islands of various sizes, with the larger ones inhabited by the Bhil Minas tribal community. A boat trip often includes a stop at one of these islands. The atmosphere is generally calm and far removed from the city's activity, providing a peaceful natural escape. Overlooking the lake is the Jaisamand Island Resort and the Hawa Mahal, a former winter palace of the Maharanas of Mewar.