Jaisamand Lake

Jaisamand Lake, also known as Dhebar Lake, is India's second largest artificial freshwater lake located in the Udaipur district of Rajasthan. Built by Maharana Jai Singh between 1685 and 1691 by damming the Gomati River, it covers approximately 87 square kilometers when full. The lake features a massive marble dam with six cenotaphs and a Shiva temple, surrounded by Aravalli hills and summer palaces.

Visitors can expect to see a vast expanse of water surrounded by the Aravalli hills, with views of historic summer palaces including Hawa Mahal and Ruthi Rani ka Mahal on the embankments. The marble dam features intricately carved cenotaphs and a centrally located Shiva temple. Visitors can take boat rides on the lake, observe wildlife at the adjacent sanctuary, and view islands inhabited by Bhil tribal communities. The setting offers scenic landscapes ideal for photography and relaxation.

Constructed by Maharana Jai Singh of Mewar between 1685 and 1691 by building a marble dam across the Gomati River. Named Jaisamand meaning 'Ocean of Victory' after its builder. It was once the largest artificial lake in the world until the Aswan Dam was built in Egypt. On its inauguration day in June 1691, Maharana Jai Singh performed a Tuladaan ceremony distributing gold equal to his weight in charity.

The lake holds cultural importance as a heritage monument featuring marble cenotaphs commemorating rulers of Mewar and a Shiva temple on the dam. The surrounding summer palaces reflect royal architectural traditions. Islands are inhabited by the Bhil Minas tribal community, maintaining traditional lifestyles.