Jodhpur is located in the western part of the state of Rajasthan, and Kaylana Lake is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places you can go. This lake was made by people and is one of the most unique places to visit in Jodhpur. The Thar Desert and rough hills surround it on all the sides. If you like nature, taking pictures, or just relaxing and watching the sun go down, you should go to Kaylana Lake Jodhpur.
The city's big water bodies not only give it water, but they also make a great place for tourists to relax, to enjoy fishing, or, even to watch birds and chill. Kaylana Lake Jodhpur is a nice break from the busy streets and grand forts of Jodhpur because it is a quiet destination and you can feel very peaceful here. If you're planning to visit this extraordinary destination, this guide covers everything you need to know about Kaylana Lake history, what to see, and helpful tips for making the most of your trip.
The History of Kaylana Lake
In 1872, Pratap Singh, who was the ruler of Jodhpur at that time, built Kaylana Lake as a man-made reservoir to deal with the lack of water in the area. The lake was formed by damming up natural streams, and it finally covered up palaces and gardens that were there before.
It now covers almost 84 square kilometers and is both an important part of the city and a beautiful place to relax. Over the years, the lake has become a place where locals go to relax and fish. It has also become a yearly stopover for migrating birds, which adds to its ecological and cultural importance.
Kaylana Lake Jodhpur Timings & Ticket Price
Kaylana Lake Jodhpur is affordable and easy to visit for travellers on any budget. To make sure you have a great trip, here's what you need to know:
Kaylana Lake timings and ticket price
Boating services are usually open from 9 AM to 6 PM, but this can change depending on the weather.
For 30 minutes, pedal boats cost between 100 and 300 rupees.
Kaylana Lake ticket price is about ₹1,100 per person to take a motorboat.
Prices vary depending on the type of boat, like speed boats or motorboats with shade, but they are usually between ₹120 and ₹250 per session.
Safety note: You are usually given life jackets when you go boating.
Best Time to Visit Kaylana Lake
With every seasonal change, the Kaylana Lake changes too. However, the best time to visit is from October to March, when it is cool and nice. The temperature at that time usually ranges between 10°C and 25°C. During these months, a lot of migrating birds come to the lake, which is great for people who love to watch birds. With their cool air and beautiful sunsets, winter nights are especially magical.
It can get very hot in the summer, from April to June, with temperatures rising above 40°C. If you are in Jodhpur during this time of year, it is best to visit in the early morning or late evening.
From July to September, the monsoon gives some relief with cooler winds and more plants around the lake, but it can rain at any time. At this point, the lake looks bigger and more colourful, which makes the experience very different.
How to Reach Kaylana Lake Jodhpur
Planning a trip to Kaylana Lake? Knowing Kaylana lake directions from beforehand will make your journey easier. The lake sits on Jaisalmer Road, about 8 -10 km west of Jodhpur city centre. You can reach this beautiful spot by car, train, or plane. Here are all the ways to get to Kaylana Lake, whether you're travelling from within Rajasthan or coming from other states.
By Train:
The central railway station is called Jodhpur Junction and is located 9 km away of Kaylana Lake. Jodhpur is linked by many trains to the major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Udaipur. When you get to the station you have a number of choices. The cost of an auto-rickshaw ride is 150-200. Taxis cost ₹200-300. Ola or Uber cabs can also be booked. The duration of the ride is 15- 20 minutes with traffic. This is among the most used means, as trains are comfortable and economical.
By Air:
Jodhpur Airport is 15 km from the lake and receives flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and other major cities. After landing, you can hire a prepaid taxi from the airport counter. The fare is usually ₹400-500. Private taxis and app-based cabs are also available. Auto-rickshaws charge around ₹300-350. The journey takes 25-30 minutes. Flying is the fastest option if you're coming from distant cities.
By Bus:
Jodhpur has good bus connections with cities like Jaipur, Udaipur, Jaisalmer, Delhi, and Ahmedabad. Government and private buses run regularly on these routes. The main bus stand is about 10 km from Kaylana Lake. From there, auto-rickshaws charge ₹120-150. Local buses also run toward Jaisalmer Road and you can get off near the lake. Bus travel is the cheapest option for budget travellers.
By Road:
If you're driving your own car, take the Jaisalmer Highway (NH 125). The lake is clearly marked with signboards. The roads are in good condition and well-maintained. You can also rent a car in Jodhpur city. Driving gives you the freedom to stop at other attractions along the way. There's ample parking space available near the lake. This is the best option for families or groups who want flexibility.
Things to Do in Jodhpur Kaylana Lake
Kaylana Lake Jodhpur has a lot more than water scenery. Be it the first time you are in Jodhpur or you are visiting this city again, this beautiful lake offers a wonderful escape to the city and there is so much one can do there. These are the best things to do in Jodhpur Kaylana Lake that suit all kinds of travellers:
1. Riding a boat on the lake
Boating is one of the most popular things to do at Kaylana Lake. There are rowboats and paddle boats that you can rent for a ride, to relax on the calm water and enjoy the view.The lake reveals its most stunning moments either in the early morning or during the late afternoon. However, boating can be a fun addition to trips for both couples and children alike.
2. Enjoy the sunset
People often call Kaylana Lake the "sunset point" of Jodhpur, and they're not wrong. As the day ends, the sky turns into a beautiful painting of bright colours that are mirrored in the water. People say that seeing the sunset here is one of the best things to do and that everyone who comes should do it.
3. Taking pictures and watching birds
Bird lovers will love the lake in the winter season, when migrating birds come to stay here. People who take pictures also love to record these fleeting moments, like when a group of pelicans takes off or the Aravalli hills turn golden at dusk. Even people who aren't very good at photography will be able to find many beautiful shots that they would like to capture.
4. Relaxation and picnic spot
Kaylana Lake is a great place for picnic and relaxation because it is quiet there. People from the nearby areas often bring their families and spend the day in nature. People can just relax by the water, read a book, or enjoy the cool breeze. It's a great place to get away from the noise and chaos of the city.
Nearby Attractions Around Kaylana Lake
Kaylana Lake Jodhpur is located in an area that harbours other fascinating destinations. Kaylana lake has several amazing places to visit that you can explore as a part of your trip. The majority of the visitors prefer to visit these nearby places along with the lake. Following are the best destinations that you must visit in addition to your lake experience:
1. Machia Biological Park
People like to take their families who are wildlife fans to Machia Biological Park, which is only a short drive from Kaylana Lake. It covers 41 hectares and is home to leopards, desert foxes, deer, and many birds that are local to Rajasthan. The park is also meant to teach people about the environment of the desert and how to protect wildlife.
2. Mandore Gardens
The Mandore Gardens is a calm spot with old cenotaphs, temples, and lovely fields. It is also home to the Hall of Heroes and the Shrine of 33 crore gods. These spots bring out the city's rich cultural past. A trip to Kaylana Lake is a great way to learn about history and enjoy nature.
3. The Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort is one of the most famous sites in Jodhpur. It is built on a rocky hill and has a wide view of the Blue City. There are museums, palaces, courtyards, and halls inside that show off the grandeur of Rajputana. If you visit both the fort and Kaylana Lake on the same day, you'll get the best of both worlds. Kaylana lake distance from this location is nearly 10.6 kms.
4. Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
This park was made to help the rocky desert ecosystem near Mehrangarh get back to normal. It is home to more than 80 native plant types. Eco-tourists and people who love outdoor walks will love this place. When you combine it with Kaylana Lake, you can see Rajasthan's scenery as it really is.
5. The Shardar Market and the Clock Tower
Shardar Market is a very lively place to witness in Jodhpur. It is full of shops just around the old Clock Tower. People come to this market not only to shop, but also to experience the real feel of the city, especially in the evening when it comes to life with sounds, smells, and colours. It has everything from traditional textiles and fragrant spices to jewellery and other handicrafts. It's also a great spot to talk to local vendors, try some street food, and find Rajasthan-themed gifts.
Essential Travel Tips
It's best to plan ahead for your trip so that it is both comfortable and passes with ease. Bringing the right things with you will make your trip enjoyable, and being aware of your surroundings will help you experience the lake side in a safe way. These easy but useful travel tips will help you get the most out of your trip with no trouble:
Plan to see the sunset. The lake looks its best in the late afternoon and evening, so plan your trip to see the sunset.
Bring the essentials: hats, sunscreen, and lots of water are good to have, especially if you're going during the warmer months.
Birdwatching Gear: If you like nature, bring glasses and a camera. Most commonly, the winter season brings pelicans, cranes, and other migratory birds to the lake.
Combine Attractions: To make the most of your day, plan your trip to include close attractions like Machia Biological Park or Mehrangarh Fort.
Safety on the Boat: Always wear the life jackets that are given to you, and don't go fishing when the weather is bad.
Getting there: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easy ways to get to the lake. If you like having options, you could take a car or bike in Jodhpur.
Conclusion
Kaylana Lake Jodhpur goes beyond just simply being a body of water; it's a mixture of nature, history, and tranquil beauty that you can barely witness in a single place. The Kaylana lake has something for people with different preferences. Whether you want to have a nice picnic, go on an exciting boat trip, or just watch the sun set against the Aravalli hills. It's easy to fit into any Jodhpur itinerary because it's close to other main sights. The peaceful surroundings are a nice break from the busy city life. This peaceful jewel is a must-see if you're going to the Blue City. It's an experience that shows the soulful side of Rajasthan.