Gadsisar Lake and Jaislamer Fort

Our first stop of the day was a brief visit to the beautiful Gadsisar Lake.  An artificial lake built in the 14^th century to collect water.  Surrounded by a variety of temples and shrines, this lake is historically a place of pilgrimage as well as a popular tourist hotspot.

Our next stop was the intriguing Jaislamer Fort.  Standing 230 feet tall and reinforced by an imposing sandstone wall 30 feet high; it has 99 bastions, 92 of which were built between 1633 and 1647.  Unlike the other forts we have visited during our time in India, which have either been converted to hotels and/or museums, the Jaislamer Fort houses approximately one fourth of the old city’s population.  This grand magnificent attraction houses many small temples with the most intricate designs as well as a maze of small narrow alleyways of shops and residential properties.

A view of Gadsisar Lake through one of the 'Gates'

Gadsisar Lake

Monument in the middle of the lake

The team with Jaislamer Fort in the distance

Jaisalmer Fort

Temple within the Fort

Jaislamer Fort with the city in the background

A relaxing lunch!