THE DESERT CITY- JAISALMER

Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands, with its awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued city. The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which, Lord Krishna-the head of the Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of the Yadav Clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 AD when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital -Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill.

The golden beauty, etched in yellow sandstone. Perched atop the Trikuta Hill, it stands tall against miles of gleaming sand. Epitomising the desolate, awesome charm of the desert. Filled with colour, festivity and smiles, Jaisalmer is truely a memorable experience across the shimmering sands.

PRIME SITES

Jaisalmer Fort: The fort stands guard over the desertscape from its 250 ft.high perch on the hill with its wall following the contours of the hills. The steep cobblestone pathways leading to the royal palace pass through four gates. The sharp twists and turns make the fort invincible. The fort has five inter connected palaces with 'jaali' screens and dainty jharokhas -all showpieces of Jaisalmer artisan's talent. Within the fort are three exquisitely sculptured Jain temples.

Gadsisar Lake: A rain water lake adorned with an arched gateway. Many small shrines and temples are festooned all around the lake . Today, it is an ideal picnic spot, famous for boating.

Salim Singh-ki-Haveli: Of particular note are the blue roof and rows of peacocks below the arched balconies. The haveli was once the residence of the Mohta family, ministers of Jaisalmer rulers.

Patwon-ki-Haveli: It is grandest mansion in Jaisalmer, not to be missed at all. This five haveli wonder has its ceiling supported by exquisitely carved pillars and its delicately chiselled balconies surely leave you mermerised.

Nathmalji-ki-Haveli: This haveli was carved by two brothers. One worked on right side and the other on left,but the harmony in design still exists. Screened windows, projected balconies and intricate carvings illustrate superb craftsman- ship.

Jain Temples: Within the citadel are the splendours Jain temples, dedicated to Rishabdevji, Sambhavnathji and Parshavnathji. The Parshavnathji temple is the oldest and the most beautiful of the Jain temples .Human and animal figures are carved on the walls of its sanctum and the rising dome or 'shikhar' is crowned by an amalak and a waterpot containing a lotus flower.

Gyan Bhandar or Library: A part of the jain temples, the library contains some of the oldest manuscripts of India.

CELEBRATING TIME:

The Desert Festival (Feb): During the three day long festival, Jaisalmer reverberates with music, colour and joy, displaying its glorious past and rich culture . Under the full moon, the vigorous folk dancers sway to the enchanting music. The turban tying contest and Mr.Desert contest add to the enthusiasm. A trip to Sam Sand Dunes, where one can view folk musicians performing and even enjoy a camel safari, marks the finale of this colourful extravaganza.

Lodurva (16 km): A trip to this important pilgrimage centre for Jains, once the ancient capital of Jaisalmer rulers is a rewarding experience.

Sam Sand Dunes(42 km): No trip is complete without a visit to the most picturesque dunes.The ripples on the wind caressed dunes create enchanting mirages-a photographer's delight. Various cultural programmes are organised against the backdrop of these fascinating dunes. Adventure freaks can go out on a camel safari for getting the real feel of the desert on the camel back.

Wood Fossil Park (17 km): This park, lying on the Barmer road, takes you back to the jurassic period with 180 million year old fossils, which are the geological landmarks for the study of the Thar desert.

Desert National Park: See the rolling landscape of the Sam sand dunes. Head on for a wild experience, as you may encounter the Indian Gazelle, Chinkara eagle and exotic avian variety in this 3000 sq.km.vast protected Biosphere Reserve. The park lies to the south west of Jaisalmer.

Book a Hotel

« Places to visit in Rajasthan