A saffron-bed garden in the middle of Maota Lake giving the classic reflection view of Amer Fort.
Maota Lake lies directly below Amer Fort and is crossed by the road that visitors take to the fort. The Kesar Kyari Bagh, a garden laid out like saffron beds in the middle of the lake, offers the best photographic approach with the fort reflected in still water. Light is best at sunrise when the air is calm and the stone turns gold; by mid-morning the road fills with tour buses. The garden area is accessible from the lakeside path and has a modest entry fee where charged. Water levels vary with the monsoon, and in low-water months the reflections are limited.
| Best time | Sunrise, 6:30-8:00AM, for still water; late afternoon for warm light |
|---|---|
| Best season | October to March |
| Address | Kesar Kyari Garden, Maota Lake, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302028, India |
Shooting notes
- Equipment
- 70-200mm telephoto, 24-70mm, polarising filter
Location
Kesar Kyari Garden, Maota Lake, Amer, Jaipur, Rajasthan 302028, India
26.9892, 75.8525 View on map
Highlights
- Reflection of Amer Fort in still water
- Geometric saffron-bed garden design
- Quiet at sunrise before tour traffic
- Peacocks and egrets on the shoreline
Tips for visiting
- Go at sunrise before the wind picks up
- Use a polariser to cut glare
- Include foreground elements such as the garden path
- Stay clear of the busy road
When to visit
Sunrise, 6:30-8:00AM, for still water; late afternoon for warm light
Visit, book or contact
Frequently asked questions
Is the lake always full?
No, water levels vary and reflections are best after the monsoon.
Is entry charged?
A small fee applies at the garden where charged; the lakeside path is free.
Best lens?
A 70-200mm telephoto for the fort and a wide lens for the garden.