Plan your Next Trip To Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, or the ‘Golden City’, was established in the 12th century by Rawal Jaisal and has since been an epitome of Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage . It is home to numerous interesting places that will surely make your vacation a memorable one . Located deep inside the majestic Thar Desert and dotted with stunning architectural marvels, the history and beauty of Jaisalmer never fails to fascinate tourists.
Being a major tourist destination, the Golden City, as it is popularly referred to, is well-connected to the rest of the country. You can either fly to Airport or reach Jodhpur Airport and take a taxi to Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer traces its inception to the 12th century.
History tells us of Rawal Jaisal, the eldest heir of the Rawal of Deoraj, was passed over for the throne of Lodurva and a younger half-brother was crowned king. Rawal Jaisal went looking for a new location to set up his capital when he came across sage Eesul. The sage told him about Krishna’s prophecy which said that a descendant of his Yaduvanshi clan would found a new kingdom at this same spot.
Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of art, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat in the desert, Jaisalmer has something for everyone. A plethora of tourist places in Jaisalmer makes it a holiday-goers’ haven. People flock to this golden city to view its beautiful forts, ancient temples, picturesque lakes and vibrant bazaars.
Even inside the walls of the fort, you will be amazed to find a wide number of famous tourist places to see in Jaisalmer. The bazaars like Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar and Bhatia Bazaar, all lie in and around the fort.
Places to Visit
Jaisalmer Fort
Located on the golden sands of the Thar Desert and resembling a huge sandcastle, Jaisalmer Fort is the epitome of Rajasthani architecture. This largest living fort in India houses around 5000 people and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Due to its location at the golden stretches of the Thar Desert, this fort is also known as the ‘Sonar Quila’ or the ‘Golden Fort’ . The fort is constructed in the classic style of the royals by local craftsmen. This fort is a world heritage site and forms an important plot point in one of Satyajit Ray’s famous Feluda stories and corresponding movie, Sonar Kela (The Golden Fortress).
Desert Safari
Popular Desert Safaris in Jaisalmer takes place in Sam Sand Dunes. A Jeep takes you to a point near Sam Sand Dunes (around 45km from the city) from where the camel ride starts and lasts for around 90 minutes.
Jain Temples
This group of beautiful temples within the Jaisalmer Fort walls have carved structures which depict pictures of sages, hermits, animals, etc. Built in the Dilwara style that is famous all over the world for its architecture, these temples are dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Shambhavdev Ji, the famous Jain hermits known as ‘Tirthankaras’. Like all other structures in Jaisalmer, the temples are carved out of yellow sandstone. They have been built in the famed Dilwara style which is known for its beautiful architecture. Those interested in the history of these temples must visit Gyan Bhandar Library here for old texts and rare manuscripts.
Patwon ki Haveli
Dipped in an enchanting shade of yellow, Patwon ki Haveli grabs the attention of every visitor. It is a cluster of 5 Haveli which was believed to be built by Patwa, a wealthy trader who constructed the stories for each of his 5 sons.Among the largest and the most elaborately carved havelis in Jaisalmer, this five-storey structure sits proudly in a narrow street.
While the haveli has lost some of its early glory, a few paintings and mirror work art can still be seen on the inside walls. The haveli is also known for residences of merchants who sold gold and silver items, amongst which some threads were used in ornamental dresses. It houses the office of Archaeological Survey of India today, managed by the government as a whole & makes it as one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.
Sam Sand Dunes
Sam sand dunes are indeed one of the most authentic desert dune sites in whole India and truly deserves to be on your list of things to do in Jaisalmer. Here, you find 30 to 60-meter tall sand dunes and many travellers enjoy Desert Safari on camels or jeep. Sam is 45 kilometres west of Jaisalmer city where you can reach by hiring a vehicle. You may further choose to stay in one of many desert camps that are mostly built in 2 to 3 km radius of sand dunes.
Folk dance, musical nights, authentic Rajasthani cuisine and other interesting activities showcasing the culture and heritage of Rajasthan are some things to look forward to at Sam Sand Dunes.
FAQs : Jaisalmer
What is famous about Jaisalmer?
The city’s most prominent landmark is the Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Qila (Golden Fort).
Which is the best month to visit Jaisalmer?
November to March