Location: Situated in western Rajasthan.
It is 413 km from Jaipur and 630 km from Delhi.
Climate: Jaipur has a typical desert climate with
scorching and dry summers and stormy and chilly winters.
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Jaisalmer is set amidst the arid Thar Desert. Jaisalmer Fort
is the most prominent feature of the city and is made up of yellow
sandstone. The beautiful hue of the fort lends a stark barren look as
it stands atop the cliff of Trikuta Hills and has stood up to the dry
stormy winds and the scorching sun for centuries, ever since it was
built in 1156. Some people even claim that materialization of this
fort was prophesized by Lord Krishna, the head of Yadav clan long ago.
Rawal Jaisal from Bhatti Rajput clan founded the city and the fort. He
conceptualized this new capital for his princely estate after
deserting Lodurva fort. The location was chosen as it was on the
ancient silk route and hence, soon evolved into an important trade and
commerce center. Natural beauty takes a very different meaning at
Jaisalmer as we become acquainted with the beauties of the extreme
climate and get to look at natural elements beyond the waterfalls,
rivers and the greens.
The blinding windstorms of the desert, the rolling movements of the
hump-backed camels, the haunting music and dexterous steps of the
desert natives that have faced the extreme climate for generations and
the sand dunes that move like tall sea waves, all lend an 'Arabian
Night' feel to the city. Then there are charming legends related to
medieval concepts of valor, chivalry and romance that still haunt
every nook and corner of the fort. The daunting structures with
delicately latticed stonework and the dark brown people dresses in
multicolored attires attract the tourists. The turbans and the
moustaches of the makes and the unique jewellery designs and
long-flowing skirts of the women are not less interesting.
Jaisalmer's Prime Attractions
Jaisalmer Fort
The second oldest fort of
Rajasthan, Jaisalmer Fort is from the 12th century and stands atop the
250 ft high hill that provides some of the fantastic views of the
desert around the city. The four gateways that one has to pass through
before reaching the fort are Akhai Pol or Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhuta
Pol and Hawa Pol.
Salem Singh ki Haveli, Patwon ki haveli and Nathmal ki Haveli
Havelis of Jaisalmer were the magnificent houses of the rich merchants
of the former kingdom and exude architectural and sculptural
perfection and grandeur. The blossoming wild flower at the top of the
Salem Singh ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli that reflects the intricate
brocade, gold and silver embroidery work designs, the business of its
owners that extended from Afghanistan to China, and Nathmal ki Haveli
built in 1885 by Nathmal and his brother as a gift to the Rawal or the
Prince of the estate. However, they were allowed to retain it.
Gadsisar Lake
The rainwater lake showcases
the evolution of the concept of the rainwater conservation in the
ancient times and has managed to create an oasis in the desert with
green environs. There are small temples around it along with a
beautiful museum and many folklore tales are woven around the area.
Sam Sand Dunes
Sam sand dunes, 42 m from Jaisalmer, are quite
famous. It is situated at the borders of the Desert National Park. The
sunsets and sunrises here are quite like a fairy tale setting while
camel rides give you a feel of being a part of the desert country.
Desert Festival
The three-day long Desert
festival showcases the imperial, virant, rich and colorful culture of
Rajasthan with Gair and Fire dancers as its highlights along wit the
camel polo and camel dance, the two unique and exclusive events
organized here. Other interesting events to look at are the turban
tying competition and display of long glorious moustaches by the
natives.
How to Reach: By Air:
Domestic flights to and from New Delhi, Jodhpur and Jaipur are available
from the Jaisalmer Airport in the cantonment area, 5 km away from the
city center and managed by the Indian Air Force. It remains operational
only from September to March.
By Train:
Jaisalmer has most trains to and from Jaipur though it is well connected
to other major cities such as Agra, Jaipur, New Delhi and Mumbai. The
railway station is just 10 minutes from Gadi Sagar Pol.
By
Road: Luxury coaches and motor able roads link Jaisalmer to the
major cities of Rajasthan such as Bikaner, Jaipur and Jodhpur. The main
Bus Stand is near the Railway Station. However, other buses can be
caught from the Bus Depot situated at the city centre.