Jaisalmer

Also called the “Western Sentinel” of India, Jaisalmer is most exotic and unusual towns of Rajasthan. The city reveals the courage and determination of the Rajput community and their love for art.

Breathtaking sight of its sandcastle-like fortress – The Sonar Quila, Jaisalmer is situated in the heart of the great Thar Desert near to the India – Pakistan border on its western side.

The city has a great history dating back to the epic period of Mahabharata. Lord Krishna, the head of Yadav clan foretold pandavas that his kingdom will be built on the top of Trikuta Hills by a remote descendent of Yadavas. Prophecy being fulfilled and a new capital of Jaisalmer was built in 1156 A.D. by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput and descendent of Yadav clan after he abandoned his fortress at Lodurva. The capital was founded on the Trikuta Hills itself.

Jaisalmer, also called “Golden City” was a big trading center due to its strategic location on camel trade routes for silks and spices in ancient times and Bhatti rajputs of the city were feudal chiefs which made the town one of the wealthiest of that period. The city possesses many exceptional qualities surrounded by the barren Thar Desert. The structure and appearance of past is still intact and unchanged.

One is mesmerized to see the “Golden Fort” standing tall on the 80 meters high Trikuta hill. Apart from the fort, there are approximately 100 huge bastions in the fort premises and the fort is still home to the localities living inside for many generations. One can also find unique temples of religious significance with great architecture inside the fort. Few Jain temples inside the fort are the example of the wealth city once possessed. Magnificent palaces adorn the fort area and one is stunned at the sight of wonderful Golden Fort constructed of golden sandstone.

The place is also famous for its havelis which were built by merchants of the 19th century. The breathtaking beauty of exquisitely carved havelis made from yellow sandstone is of rare architecture and is unique from this part of the world.

A typical desert character endures the climate of the city which has quiet low population as compared to the other parts of the state. Desert festival is very popular among tourists and is held every year. Some rare events such as turban tying competitions and camel races are also famous from the area. Tour to Jaisalmer is incomplete without a camel safari which is itself a great experience.

Reminding of the golden past of Jaisalmer, the Jaisalmer has some great sights to offer to the travelers:

The heart-stirring yellow sandstone Jaisalmer Fort or the Golden fort

• Ancient Jain Temples located inside the Fort

• Camel Safari on Sand Dunes

• Stay on sand dunes in desert camps

• Gadisar Lake in Desert – the source of water supply for Jaisalmer

• Four Havelis with unparalleled flourish

• Cenotaphs

• Jaisalmer Folklore and culture museum