India's largest inland salt lake and a Ramsar wetland, known for flamingos in winter and white salt flats.
Sambhar Lake is a vast salt lake about 80 km from Jaipur and the source of much of Rajasthan's salt. It is a Ramsar wetland and hosts flamingos, ducks and waders from November to February. The salt works, the old Sambhar town and the Shakambhari Devi temple form the circuit. Facilities are minimal, so food and water should be carried. In summer the lake is nearly dry and the flats are white and bleak. A car is the practical option. The site has no formal entry gate at the shore.
| Distance | About 80 km west of Jaipur |
|---|---|
| Travel time | 1.5-2 hours each way |
| Getting there | Private car or taxi on NH-48 and the Sambhar link road; trains to Sambhar Lake station also run. |
| Cost | Entry to the lake edge is generally free; taxi ₹2,500-4,000 (approx $26-42 USD) for the day |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Address | Sambhar Lake, Sambhar Lake Town, Jaipur district, Rajasthan 303604, India |
How to get there
- Car: private car with driver about ₹2,500-4,000 (approx $26-42 USD) for the day
- Train: regional trains from Jaipur to Sambhar Lake station, about 1.5-2 hours
- Bus: RSRTC buses to Sambhar town
- Organised tour: occasional birdwatching tours in winter
Location
Sambhar Lake, Sambhar Lake Town, Jaipur district, Rajasthan 303604, India
26.9137, 75.1920 View on map
Highlights
- Ramsar wetland
- Flamingos in winter
- White salt pans
- Sambhar town and Shakambhari Devi temple
Tips for visiting
- Go from November to February for birds
- Carry water and sun protection
- Check the lake water level
- Keep to public paths; the salt works are active
When to visit
Sunrise or sunset in winter
Frequently asked questions
Is the lake worth visiting in summer?
It is mostly dry and without birds.
Is there an entry fee?
No fee is charged at the shore.
How far is it?
About 80 km.