Jaisalmer, nicknamed as Golden City by Rajput clans, is the most attractive tourist spot in Rajasthan, India. It is a vibrant tourist location with number of mind blowing attractions such as Sonar Kila, Jaisalmer Fort, havelis, temples and sand dunes. The ornate temples and many buildings are specimens of the sculptural extravaganza of medieval Rajasthan. The annual desert fair celebrated with festivities, camel shows and adventurous rides is a real attraction for tourists.
Jaisalmer is strategically located and was the main trade route between India and other Asian countries. Jaisalmer resisted the invasion from many foreign invaders and was one of the last royal places to come under the rule of the British. Jaisalmer was the princely state of British Raj until Indian Independence and was ruled by King Bhati of Rajput Clan.
This fantastic city, forming a part of the Great Indian Desert, was founded centuries back by Rawal Jaisal of the Yadav community. The name Jaisalmer means the hill fort of Jaisal. Acclaimed all over the world as world’s most beautiful golden sand desert, passion filled romantic desert sand dunes and the breathtaking picnic spot with majestic fort, Jaisalmer is the favorite location for advertising fraternity.
This medieval city has grown into fame as a romantic gateway for exotic enjoyments and breathtaking views. Magnificent palaces, Golden fort, ancient imposing temples and havelis provide this wonderful place a permanent spot in the tourist map of India. This city boasts of many medieval period Jain temples as well. It is enriched by exquisite collections of arts, textiles and crafts. The majority of the inhabitants are Rajputs, renowned as great warriors. The city is well connected with Delhi and various Jaisalmer to Delhi tours are available.
Attractions
Desert Culture Centre and Museum: Desert Culture Centre and Museum is a knowledge bank of rich cultural heritage, craftsmanship and artistic talents of Jaisalmer. The museum displays varied collections of traditional instruments, rich collections of ancient and medieval coins, praiseworthy textiles and some invaluable fossils mined in Jaisalmer. Many kinds of utensils and other artifacts are displayed in this museum. It organizes many special displays for tourists here.
First Fort Gate: Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Golden Fort, has four majestic gates. All four gates, Akhai Pol, Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol and Hawa Pol, are specimens of marvelous architectural style and craftsmanship. Among the four, the most spectacular is the first fort gate known as Akhai Pol. This gate constructed in 1156, is the main entrance and was the royal entrance for royal members and important guests.
Gopa Chowk: Gopa Chowk, also known as central market square, is located at the foot of the Golden Fort in Jaisalmer. It is the scenic well landscaped square located just in front of the first fort gate known as Akhai Pol. Gopa Chowk is placed east to the serene artificial lake known as Gadi Sagar and west to acclaimed Gandhi Chowk.
Havelis: There are many havelis in Jaisalmer. Three of them are considered as the main havelis and they are Patwon-ki-Haveli, Salim Singh-ki-Haveli and Nathmalji-ki-Haveli.
Patwon-ki-Haveli was constructed by a wealthy banker and merchant known as Guman Chand Patwa. This haveli was completed by Guman’s five sons after his death. This majestic structure built in five stories took nearly 55 years to complete. This is the largest, elegant and most attractive haveli in Jaisalmer.
Hawapol: All four gates of Jalsalmer Fort – Akhai Pol, Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol and Hawa Pol – are specimens of marvelous architectural style and craftsmanship. Hawapol, also known as Wind Pol, is the last of the four gates and is the gateway to the spectacular Dussehra Chowk. The gate is placed at impressive picturesque surroundings and is close to many revered Jain temples. The serene environment and breathtaking view of the sunset from this spot make it a most attractive eye catching spot in Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Kila): Jaisalmer Fort, the golden fortress constructed by the renowned Rajput ruler Jaisal in 1156, is located at the majestic Trikuta hills. It is also known as Sonar Kila. Its historical importance stands with the many battles fought in this spectacular Fort. The fort was the major protective cover for the Rajput Kings from the attacks of foreign invaders.
Dussehra Chowk: Dussehra Chowk, a big courtyard enclosed in the Golden Fort of Jaisalmer, is an ideal location to enjoy the marvelous beauty of the Royal Palace from all angles. The fort has four huge gateways leading to the four gateways known as Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Akshaya Pol and Hawa Pol. Dussehra Chowk can be reached through the last gate Hawa pol.
Rajmahal: The Jaisalmer Palace was renowned as Rajmahal and was the royal palace in Jaisalmer where the royal family members of the rulers of Jaisalmer were living. The Raj Mahal, with all pride of a royal palace constructed around 1500 AD, was built with marvelous beauty by the most famous architectures and craftsmen during the Royal period.
Tazia Tower: Tazia Tower, one of the major tourist destinations in Jaisalmer, is an amazing five storied structure. This marvelous attraction is located in the eye catching complex of Badal Palace near Amar Sagar Gate. The Tazia Tower is credited with imposing balconies in each of its floor and they are pretty attractive with distinct design and architectural style.
Bada Bagh: Bada Bagh, literally meaning big garden, is an entertaining garden located at Jaisalmer. It was founded in the 16th century by Maharawal Jait Singh and his son Lunakaran completed the construction during his reign.
Gadi Sagar/Gadsisar Lake: Gadisagar, a man made reservoir built in 1156 AD, is one of the most favorite tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. It was originally constructed by King Jaisal and later reconstructed by Maharaja Garsi Singh in 1367 AD, with a new name of ‘Lake Gadsisar’. During the Rajput clan period, it was the only resource for drinking water in Jaisalmer.
Desert National Park: Located close to Jaisalmer city, this park is one among the largest in India, covering a huge area of 3100 sq. km. A superb example of ecosystem in Thar Desert, the park is a major tourist attraction in Jaisalmer. Due to its close vicinity to Bharatpur, the park draws a large number of migratory birds. In fact, it is a haven for migratory birds and resident birds of the desert.
Chandraprabhu Temple: Chandraprabhu temple, the Jain temple built in 1509 AD, is located at the Jaisalmer Golden Fort. This is the first of the seven temples built during 15th and 16th centuries and is devoted to the Jain Prophet Chandraprabhuji, the 8th Tirthankara,.
Best time to visit
The city of Jaisalmer experiences extreme arid climatic conditions with very hot and dry summer and cold winters. Tourists are advised to visit the city during the months from October to March.
How to reach
By Train: Jaisalmer is an important railway station in Western railway zone. It is connected to Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur (Mandor Express) and other cities in India.
By Air: Nearest airport is Jodhpur, which is at a distance of 285 km from Jaisalmer. Jodhpur is connected to Delhi and Jaipur by air.
By Bus: There are many semi deluxe and deluxe buses to Jodhpur at regular intervals. Deluxe A/C buses are also available from Jaisalmer to Jaipur, Ajmer and Bikaner. Rajasthan state buses connect Jaisalmer with neighboring cities.
