Built by Prithviraj Chauhan’s grandfather Anaji Tomar in the 12th century, Ana Sagar Lake lies in Ajmer in the Indian state of Rajasthan. This beautiful artificial lake is spread over 495 acres (200 hectares) and is the biggest lake in Ajmer. It also has the distinction of being one of the biggest lakes in India. The lake, named after Anaji Tomar, was built to encourage a better way of life for the locals. The lake is near Khobra Behroon Temple and is quite picturesque during sunset when the rays glisten in the water. Ana Sagar Lake has an island in its center, which you can access by boat. Surrounding the enchanting lake in Ajmer is the lush green Daulat Bagh Garden. The lake is just 13 km (1.9 miles) away from Ajmer City. To learn more, hop over to Rajasthan Tourism. For now, here’s a guide to Ana Sagar Lake, Ajmer.
Things to do / Highlights
Ana Sagar Lake is nearly 4.4 meters (14 feet) deep and is the biggest lake in Ajmer. You can enjoy its scenic views from the walkway and Chowpatty. There are pavilions that were built in 1637 AD by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan, from where you can soak in the views. Here are some things you can do when visiting:
Learn about the lake's legend
Legend has it that Moinuddin Chishti, a Sufi saint, and his followers went to the lake and was stopped from entering its waters. He requested a cup that was given to him. Once the cup was full, Ana Sagar Lake’s water mysteriously dried up. It was only when they pleaded with him to return the lake’s water did it fill up! Incidentally, his tomb in Ajmer is one of the most revered spots in the city.
Enjoy some street food
Ana Sagar Lake has street food stalls scattered around where you can enjoy local food like chaat or popcorn and cotton candy and golgappa in the evening.
Take a water scooter to the island
You can take a boat or a water scooter to the island at the center of the lake. You can hire the same from Daulat Bagh’s east side.
Stroll around the serene Daulat Bagh Garden
Take a leisurely stroll around Daulat Bagh Garden, which was made by the Mughal emperor Jehangir. It has marble pavilions and beautiful flowers that add to its charm. It also has a running track where people can jog. You can relax here easily. There is also a temple and a fountain on-site.
Visit Khobra Behroon
On the south side of Ana Sagar Lake is the Khobra Behroon shrine, which is also worth a visit.
Check out Dargah Bazaar
Head to Dargah Bazaar, also called Naya Bazaar, where you can get pretty much everything imaginable. Make sure you also explore the bangle market nearby to indulge in some more shopping. You can pick up colorful bangles and local handicrafts to take back home for friends and family. Make sure you try some local fare while you are here. Also, take home some miniature paintings and exquisite woodwork items from the bazaar.
Travelers tips
Best time to visit
If you’re planning to visit Ana Sagar Lake, the best time to come is from October to March. The lake dries up during the summer, so it’s pointless to visit then. In winter and spring, the weather is usually pleasant and the lake is full.
Watch the sunset
Make sure you come here during sunset to experience the magic! Keep an hour to two handy to enjoy the beauty of Ana Sagar Lake and to explore the shrine and take a water scooter to the island.
Photography
Photography is allowed around the area and you won’t be charged for taking photos.
Go boating
A great way to experience Ana Sagar Lake is to go boating. This is chargeable and you will need to shell around 160 INR (2.25 USD) per person for the ride.
Restroom facilities
There are restroom facilities available by the lake, but they may not always be clean.
Food
Tourists can also buy food easily if they get hungry, but they are mostly street snacks. You can opt to pack something with you just in case.
How to get there
From Ajmer Sharif Dargah
Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a popular tourist spot in Ajmer, and from here, Ana Sagar Lake is just 1.5 km (0.93 mi) away. If you’re coming from this area, travel up north and cross Karakka Chowk to reach the lake.
From Ajmer Railway Station
You can take a rickshaw or walk down to Ana Sagar Lake from Ajmer Railway Station, which is just 2 km (1.2 mi) away.
Take a cab
Book a taxi to pick you up from your current location and easily find your way to Ana Sagar Lake with the help of the driver.
Ana Sagar Lake information
Ana Sagar Lake
Address: Ana Sagar Lake Ana Sagar Circular Road, Ajmer 305001 India
Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)
Cost: Entrance: Free | Boat ride: 2.25 USD (160 INR)
Department of tourism: Rajasthan Tourism
History
Get Trip101 in your inbox
Unsubscribe in one click. See our Privacy Policy for more information on how we use your data
Create an account to