Sambhar means Salt. Thus, sambhar Lake in Rajasthan is also called “Salt Lake of Rajasthan”. The lake produces around 195,000 tonnes of clean salt every year. It is about 9 percent of the total salt production of India. It is the largest inland Salt Lake in India. The Sambhar Lake is spread in 22.5 kms of area. This India’s biggest inland Salt Lake is viewed as a ‘Gift from Thar desert’. This saline lake is separated by a 5.1 km long dam which helps in salt making.
It contacts three cities of Rajasthan with its shores – Jaipur, Ajmer and Nagaur. It scarcely has water to the point of being known as a lake. During monsoon, the lake transforms into a pink wetland, with flamingos here in search of getting some sunlight.
The lake is open whenever you want to visit it. But it is advised not visit after sunset as the area is not secure.
History
It is said that during Mahabharata period, priest Sukracharya lived there. He married his girl Devayani to the Lord Yayati, the ruler of India. The Devayani temple was found here during an excavation. The remains of the temple are still kept preserved.
Over the long run many traditions have lived there. These may include the Sindhis, Rajputs, Marathas, Mughals and the leaders of Jaipur and Jodhpur who owned the lake. They in 1870 rented the lake to the Britishers. After freedom, the lake was taken over by the Government. The lake is currently managed by Sambhar Salts Limited. It is a joint endeavour of Hindustan Salts and the Government of Rajasthan.
Ecology of Sambhar Lake
Sambhar lake has been marked as a Ramsar site (wetland of worldwide significance). As the wetland is the home of Flamingos and different birds which move from Northern Asia.
It is one of the two Ramsar destinations in Rajasthan – the other one is the Keoladeo National Bird Sanctuary at Bharatpur. The town, saturated with antiquity, seems to be asleep, permitting guests to go in peacefully, away from the commotion of urban cities.
It was also a part of the Old Silk Route Exchange as Sambhar geologically lies on the course from Jaisalmer to Jaipur.
The travel industry of Rajasthan has placed Sambhar Lake high on its rundown of development undertakings. They plan to develop a Celebration Ground, Social Centre, RTDC Lodging, Shopping Region in the district. This will help in attracting more tourists in the Sambhar region.
How to reach
Sambhar lake is at a distance of 60 kms from Jaipur and 82 kms from Ajmer. Normal transports like buses and taxis are available to reach the lake. Sambhar also has a railway station.
For tourists travelling from Jaipur, Sambhar Lake is in no less than a road trip. One can take National Highway 8 to Dudu and afterward travel north to Sambhar. On the other hand, one can take NH 8 to Malhan and afterward travel towards Phulera, which is barely at a distance from Sambhar.
If you are lucky enough, you might get to see the salt train while travelling to Sambhar by road.
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Food to try
Rajasthan has always been rich in its cuisine. Whereas, Sambhar does not have much to offer to its visitors in terms of authentic food. You can find Rajasthani food there easily along with south Indian cuisine.
The only special food or sweet Sambhar offer is Sambhar Fini. It is the most popular food item there. Its popularity can be understood by knowing that there is a well-known Sambhar Fini Wala in Jaipur’s Johari Bazaar.
Accommodation
You can consider these places while travelling to Sambhar Lake.
- Premium hotel (Sambhar Heritage Resort)
Price – Rs. 14,290/per night (approximately)
- Deluxe hotel (Camp Sambhar)
Price – Rs. 4820/ per night (approximately)
- Budget-friendly (Hotel Karni Fort)
Price – Rs. 1200/per night (approximately)
Facts about Sambhar Lake
- The best time to visit Sambhar Lake is between November to February.
- If you are an avid avian enthusiast, definitely explore Sambhar Lake.
- Witness the 2500 years old Shakambari Devi temple near Sambhar Lake.
- If you are a history buff, then definitely explore this area.
- Sambhar Lake has been an attractive destination for Bollywood movies.
- For some amazing views take a ride on the train run by Sambhar Salt Limited.
- Do visit the Circuit house which was built in 1880 by Britishers.
- Carry your Binoculars along for birdwatching.
Conclusion
Sambhar’s scene looks like the Rann of Kutch in Gujarat. The night sky in Sambhar is adept for astrophotography and star gazing in the captivating environment. Somehow, if you can get permission for camping on the lake then it is possible to explore the lake by taking a walk on it. If you are travelling around Rajasthan then do a day trip to sambhar Lake and explore this, Salt Lake.
India is blessed with many attractive destinations and it is not that difficult to choose one for your next vacation. However, instead of picking the routine destinations, this time take your loved ones to any unexplored location and enjoy each moment. TheTravelB.Com is your best guide to select underrated destinations across India. Reach us @ https://thetravelb.com/contact-us/ or send an email to contactthetravelb@gmail.com to share your experiences or for any suggestions.
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