Jaisalmer
also known as the Golden City, is one of the most important tourist
destinations in Rajasthan. Situated amidst the landscaped surroundings,
Jaisalmer is the perfect place for vacations far from hustle and bustle of
cities. The city situated in the heart of Thar Desert, is crowned by a fort,
built by Rawal Jaiswal in the 12 th century. The fort contains the palace
and several ornate Jain temples. Jaisalmer has been an ancient trading
centre, because of its location in the camel trade routes. In the 19th
century, the merchants built many havelis, exquisitely carved from
golden-yellow sandstone, which are still in a good condition. Jaisalmer is
famous for its desert festival held every year during January- February. The
major attractions of the festival are arts performances such as Kalbelia
dances, folk songs and music.
Climate of Jaisalmer
The city has got typical extreme desert climate, with hot summers and
chilling winters. The temperatures during summers are Max - 41.6°C and
Min 25°C. During winters Max - 23.6°C and Min 7.9°C. The
ideal time to visit Jaisalmer is October to March
Major Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer
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Jaisalmer
Fort - The golden-yellow sandstone fort,also called as 'Sonar
Quila' was built by the Bhati Rajput ruler Jaisal, in 1156. Situated on the
80 metre high Trikuta hill, the fort has strong and imposing crenelated 30
feet high sandstone wall and 99 bastion. The fort houses the old township
within its ramparts, which is nearly a quarter of modern Jaisalmer. The
setting sun gives the fort a fairy tale look, with its colourful shades.
Walking through the narrow lanes of fort is a worthy experience. The fort
houses some beautiful havelis (mansions), five magnificent palaces and
nicely carved Jain Temples date back to 12th to 15th century. The fort can
be reached through four gateways such as Ganesh Pol, Bhoot Pol, Suraj Pol
and Hava Pol.
» Nathmalji Ki Haveli - Built in late 19th century,
the haveli was the residence of prime minister of royal state. The haveli is
popular for its excellent architecture, an example of sheer craftsmanship.
The left and right wings of the mansion were carved by brothers, and are not
fully identical, but very much similar and balanced in design. The yellow
sandstone elephants are situated at the entrance, and the front door is also
a beautiful work of art. The interior of the haveli are beautifully orated
with miniature paintings.
» Patwon Ki Haveli - Patwon Ki haveli was built by
five Jain brothers, between 1800 and 1860. It is the most elaborate and
magnificent of all the havelis in Jaisalmer. The haveli standing in a narrow
lane, has intricately carved pillars and spacious corridors and chambers.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli : Built in 1815, Salim Singh Ki Haveli is still
partially lived in. Salim Singh was the Prime Minister, when Jaisalmer was
the capital of the royal state. The haveli has a beautifully arched blue
cupola roof with superbly carved brackets in the shape of peacocks. Covered
with intricate carvings, the yellow stone haveli has a big colony at the
top.
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Gadi Sagar Lake - Gadi Sagar Lake, located south of the city is the
rainwater fed reservoir. The tank was once the main source of water supply
for the town. It was constructed in 1156 and rebuilt in 1367 by Maharwal
Garsisingh. The beautiful rain water tank is flanked by small temples and
shrines. The enchanting lake is ideal for family outings, while in winter a
wide variety of birds flock here, which attracts bird watchers.
» Jain Temples - The Jain temples built between 12th
and 15th century, are excellent examples of medieval period temple
architecture. Enclosed within the Jaisalmer Fort, the temples are connected
to each other by a series of corridors. Another attraction inside the temple
complex is the Gyan Bhandar Library, which contains some old manuscripts.
» Shopping - The main shopping markets in Jaisalmer are Manak
Chowk, Sadar Bazaaer, Sonaron Ka Bas and Pansari Bazaar. The town is famous
for embroidered articles, mirror work, woolen pattu, locally produced wood,
wooden boxes, trinkets and silver jewellery. The shops of Ranasthan -
Government are best for buying handicrafts and Khadi garments.
How to Reach
» Air - The nearest airport from Jaisalmer is
Jodhpur (290 Kms). Indian Airlines operates flights twice-weekly to Jodhpur
from Delhi
» Rail - Jodhpur railway station is nearest
railhead, which is connected to major cities of the country. Jaisalmer is
connected to Jodhpur by metre gauge line, a train runs every day from
Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, except Wednesday.
» Road - Jaisalmer is connected with a good network
of roads with Jodhpur and other places in and around Rajasthan. Regular
deluxe buses run from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur and Bikaner.
Accommodation
Jaisalmer has many hotels which provide comfortable stay to travellers. The
hotels range from standard, luxurious as well as hotels are well-equipped
with modern facilities.
