Location | Jodhpur

History & Heritage

The history of Bal Samand Lake dates back centuries, serving as a vital water source for the region. The artificial lake was originally constructed in the 12th or 13th century (specifically cited as 1159 AD) by the Gurjara-Pratihara ruler Balak Rao Parihar to act as a water reservoir to supply water to the ancient capital of Mandore. Overlooking the tranquil waters is the magnificent Bal Samand Lake Palace, a red sandstone architectural marvel. Constructed in the 17th century by Maharaja Jaswant Singh I as the royal family’s summer palace and monsoon retreat, it was designed to offer a cool escape from the desert heat. Today, the palace has been transformed into a premier Heritage Hotel, allowing guests to live like royalty amidst historical grandeur and modern comfort.

Key Attractions and Experiences

Bal Samand is more than just a lake; it is a sprawling estate offering serene landscapes and unique activities.

• Bal Samand Lake Palace: An exquisite palace built from red sandstone, featuring traditional Rajput architecture. Now a luxury heritage hotel, it boasts stunning interiors, a pool, and exclusive dining experiences overlooking the lake.
• Lush Gardens and Orchards: The palace and lake are set within 60 acres of beautifully manicured lawns and extensive fruit orchards. Wander among groves of mango, papaya, pomegranate, guava, and plum trees. The gardens also feature Mughal-inspired water channels and a marble cascade from the lake.
• Boating on the Lake: Enjoy the ultimate tranquility with a boat ride (paddle or rowboat) on the serene waters of the lake, offering unique views of the palace and the surrounding natural beauty.
• Nature and Wildlife: The lush environment attracts various wildlife, making it a wonderful spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Keep an eye out for peacocks, jackals, blue bulls (nilgai), and a variety of exotic birds.
• Royal Activities: Embrace the royal lifestyle with activities like horse riding and buggy rides through the vast palace estate and gardens.

Visitor Information

Location	Approximately 5 km from the main Jodhpur city center, located on the Jodhpur-Mandore Road.
Best Time to Visit	October to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The monsoon season also offers a beautifully lush landscape.
Duration of Visit	Allocate 2-3 hours to fully explore the gardens and lake area, or plan for an overnight stay at the palace hotel for a truly immersive experience.