Ana Sagar Lake – The Heart of Ajmer

Ana Sagar Lake lies at the heart of Ajmer, a shimmering urban oasis that blends natural beauty, architectural charm, and historical depth. Built centuries ago, the lake now serves as both a serene getaway for locals and a magnet for travelers seeking calm waters, sunset views, and leisurely walks. As you approach its banks, you’ll notice tree‑lined promenades, shaded benches, and reflective waters that mirror the sky and surrounding hills. In summer, when the heat presses hard, the lake offers a cooling respite; in cooler months, its calm surface invites boating, relaxed strolls, and quiet reflection.

The scene is framed by graceful pavilions (baradaris) rising from the water’s edge, elegant gardens beyond them, and pathways stretching along the embankments. At dusk, the sun casts a golden glow across the lake, turning ripples into patterns of light and shadow. You can hire a small boat to reach the island in the center, offering a closer panorama of the surroundings. Nearby, a circuit house sits on a gentle hill, overlooking the lake — a reminder of an older era of colonial presence and leisurely retreats.

Though the lake’s origins are ancient, its life continues in modern times: families enjoy evening walks, couples linger by the water, students sketch or read by its edge, and photographers capture the play of light. The ambiance is peaceful, yet alive with the sounds of water lapping, birdsong, and distant chatter. In many ways, Ana Sagar is a living meeting point between Ajmer’s historic character and its present rhythm. Whether you come for calm, for scenery, for boating, or simply to breathe in simpler moments, the lake offers an escape from bustle without leaving the city behind. Its waters, pavilions, pathways, and gardens together create an experience that lingers long after departure.

History 

The story of Ana Sagar Lake begins in the twelfth century, during the period of the Chauhan dynasty. It was commissioned by Arnoraja (often called Ana), the grandfather of the famed king Prithviraj Chauhan. He envisioned a reservoir to enhance the region’s water supply and support inhabitants during dry spells. Between 1135 and 1150 AD, local communities joined in the effort to build the catchment structures and a dam across the channels that carried seasonal runoff. Thus the expansive artificial lake was born, and it took on the name “Ana Sagar” in honor of its patron.

Over the centuries, successive rulers enhanced the lake and its surroundings. In the Mughal era, Emperor Jahangir set out the Daulat Bagh gardens along its banks, adding lush green spaces and walkways to enjoy the waterside. Later, Shah Jahan had five elegant pavilions (baradaris) built between the garden and the lake, giving the shoreline architectural grace and a sense of royal leisure. These pavilions, with their arches and symmetry, became focal points for viewing the water and enjoying the gentle breezes.

During colonial times, a circuit house was erected on a hill overlooking the lake, once used as a rest house for British officials. This building retains echoes of that era and offers splendid views of the lake and city beyond. The lake’s design and engineering—its dams, embankments, and water control—reflected the knowledge and resources of its builders, enabling it to survive through many seasons and rulers.

Throughout its life, the lake has been both a practical water source and a cultural symbol. It served as a lifeline during drought years, while also earning admiration for its beauty. As Ajmer grew around it, Ana Sagar became woven into the identity of the city. In modern times, it remains a cherished landmark—its banks, pavilions, and island continuing to attract visitors. Although environmental and maintenance challenges have arisen, the legacy of centuries of human effort and artistic enhancement endures in every ripple and reflected pavilion.

Nearby Places to Visit 

Ajmer Sharif Dargah

This spiritual shrine is the resting place of the revered Sufi saint Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti. Pilgrims of all faiths come for blessings, qawwalis, and the serene courtyard ambience. The architecture blends Islamic and local styles, with ornate arches, marble floors, and cloisters. Its spiritual energy, especially at dawn or dusk, is deeply felt, and the site remains one of India’s most visited saint shrines.

Adhai Din Ka Jhopra

One of the oldest mosques in northern India, this structure was originally a Sanskrit college before being converted, over two days (thus the name “two and a half days”) by early Muslim rulers. Its façade shows intricate carvings, pillars, and arches merging Hindu and Islamic architectural elements. The interplay of light and shadow inside, and the historical texture of its pillars, makes it a striking and poignant site to explore.

Soniji Ki Nasiyan 

This elegant Jain temple houses richly carved halls, ornately painted ceilings, and a sanctum consecrated to Lord Rishabhanatha. Its interior includes a “golden temple” chamber, with gilded decorations, glasswork, miniature models, and sacred motifs. The red sandstone exterior adds to its dramatic appeal against the city skyline. Visitors often admire both the artistry and the spiritual calm within.

Nareli Jain Temple

Set on the outskirts, this modern temple complex blends contemporary design with traditional symbolism. Perched on a hill in the Aravalli foothills, its white domes and sculpted exteriors stand out. Inside, multiple shrines, beautifully carved corridors, and serene gardens invite visitors. The elevated site offers panoramas of the surrounding landscape, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Taragarh Fort

Perched on a hill overlooking Ajmer, this “Star Fort” commands sweeping views of the city and valleys below. Its massive walls, gateways, bastions, cisterns, and ramparts stand in rugged grandeur. Exploring its ramparts, ruins, and defensive features gives a sense of old strategic importance and how the fort watched over Ajmer through changing eras.

Best Time to Visit 

The prime time to visit Ana Sagar Lake and surrounding Ajmer is October through March. During these months the weather is cool to mild, making sightseeing and walking comfortable. The skies are usually clear, enhancing lake reflections and architectural views. Monsoon months (July–September) bring heavy rains and occasional flooding, while summer (April–June) is hot and makes long outdoor time less pleasant. So plan in the cooler half of the year for the best experience.

 How to Reach

• By Air: The nearest airport is in Kishangarh, about 25‑30 km away, with flights from major Indian cities. From there, you can hire a taxi or share ride into Ajmer city and reach Ana Sagar Lake.

• By Train: Ajmer Junction is a major railway hub connecting to Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Udaipur, and many other places. Once in Ajmer, the lake is within city reach and easy to access by local transport.

• By Road: Ajmer is well linked by highways. From Jaipur it is about 135 km, from Udaipur about 260 km. Regular buses, coaches, and taxis run frequently. Once in Ajmer, Ana Sagar Lake lies in the northwestern area of the city and is reachable via local auto‑rickshaws or buses.