Jaisalmer : It is spectacular. The drive from Jodhpur is
very pleasant. Approaching from the desert, seems suddenly
to rise out of the desert haze, a magnificent edifice of
massive yellow sandstone ramparts and bastions golden in the
afternoon sun.
Rawal jaisal laid the foundation of the
city in 1156. trikuta hill was chosen for the site of the
new city and jaisal abandoned his old fort at lodurva and
established this new capital. The bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer
wear feudal chiefs who lived off the forced levy on the
caravas that crossed their territory enroute Delhi of Sind.
These caravans, laden with precious cargoes of spices and
silk brought grate wealth to this town. Because of its
remote location Jaisalmer for year remained untouched by
outside influences and during the British Raj, the Rulers of
Jaisalmer were the last to sign the instrument of Agreement
with the British.
The glory of Jaisalmer faded when sea
trade replaced te old land routes But there is still an
"Arabian Night" quality about the town. The narrow streets
in the walled city preserve a traditional way of life: the
craftsmen still work at the ancient crafts of weaving and
stone carving, the making of silver jewellery and
embroidery. And the stately, nonchalant camel is every
where. Just a walk through Jaisalmer, savoring the medieval
glory of old Rajasthan, is a marvelously rewarding travel
experience; winter is the perfect time for Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer Desert Festival, celebrated in January/February,
is a must on any itinerary. The desert seems to bloom in a
thousand colors. There are camel races and folk dances.
Craft bazaars and traditional ballad singing, and a sound and light spectacle on
the sand-dunes of Sam on the full moon night.
Jaisalmer fort :The golden-hued Jaisalmer Fort
"Sonar Kila" can be seen miles away before reaching the town. The
fort stands almost 30 meters over the city and houses an entire
living area within its huge ramparts. Walking through the narrow
lanes is an experience worth savouring. It is approached through
Ganesh Pol, Bhoota Pol and Java Pol. Also within it are many
beautiful havelis & Jain Temples, dating from the 12th to the 15th
centuries
Gadsisar Lake : A rain water lake, now a picnic
spot ideal for boating. All round the lake are many small shrines
and a spectacular variety of birds can be seen here.
Sam Sand Dunes : 42 km. Sheer magic of the golden
Sam sand dunes, beckons the tourists to ride by the dunes on camel
back to get a feel of the desert
Nathmalji - ki - Haveli : Carved by two brothers in
the 19th century, the intricate architecture in stone is the epitome
of skill and beauty. Paintings in the miniature style adorn the
interior walls.
Patwaon ki Haveli : Five storeys high with
extensive corridors and chambers all supported by exquisitely carved
pillars, it is one of the largest and most elaborate havelis in
Jaisalmer.
Jain Temples : Within the Fort complex are many
beautiful Jain temples, dedicated to Rishabdev, Sambhavnath, and
Parswanath the Jain Thirthankars
Manak Chowk and Haveli's : Outside the fort is the
main market place called Manak Chowk the centre of local activity.
From Manak Chowk one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved
Havelis are to be found. Each havelis façade differs from other.
Duration wise | Destination wise