Jaisalmer is a beautiful town in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is also known as the Golden city, because it stands on a crest of yellow sandstone and this gives a golden touch to the city. It was founded by Rao Jaisal and thus derived its name. Jaisalmer means the fort of Jaisal. Jaisalmer has lot of options for tourists, which include forts, parks, havelis and lakes.

 

• Jaisalmer Fort:

Jaisalmer Fort also known as Sonar Quila is one of the largest forts in India. It is mounted atop Trituka hill. It is a remarkable structure amidst the sands. It is two hundred and fifty feet tall and the crenellated sandstone wall that strengthens the fort stands 30 feet high. It has 99 fortresses, out of which 92 were built between 1633 and 1647. They were used as gun platforms. The wells within the fort still provide water. One fourth of the city’s population resides within the fort. The view of these 99 fortresses of the fort made up of yellow sandstone offer a spectacular view from distance. You can gain access to the Jaisalmer fort via the Ganesh pol, Bhoot Pol, Hawa pol and Suraj Pol. There are several havelis and Jain temples inside the fort. Viewing the fort in full moon light lets you enjoy an unforgettable experience.

Jain temples:

Jain temples in the Jaisalmer Fort were built in12th and 15th centuries. They enshrine various Jain Tirthankars, especially to the famous hermits Rikhabdevji and Shambhavdevji. You can see the animal and human figures carved in Dilwara style in the walls of these temples. The embellishments on the walls would give ultimate peace of mind. You can also plan a visit to the Astapadhi temples that are located in the same complex. The temple complex is open every day from early morning to 12 noon.

 

• Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli:

Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli was built in the 19th century and it served as a residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal. Two Muslim brothers Lulu and Hathi constructed it. The stone-carved screen windows, beautiful balconies and murals are sure to overwhelm you. You can see various paintings of modern ceiling fans and cars on the walls of this Haveli.

• Patwon Ji Ki Haveli:

It is one of the most sophisticated havelis in Jaisalmer. It is actually a cluster of five small havelis. Guman Chand Patwa built the first havelis in the year 1805. You can find beautiful paintings and mirror works on the wall. The gateways and arches are some other exquisite attractions. You can see gorgeous depictions and themes on the arches.

• Salim Ji Ki Haveli:

Salim Singh Ki Haveli was built in the late 17th century. Salim Singh was the Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. This havelis attracts numerous visitors due its unique style of architecture. The gateways feature two life size elephant figures made of sandstone. There are 38 balconies and each one has distinct design.

Tazia Tower:

Tazia Tower is a fine structure that rises from Badal Palace. It was built in Pagoda style by skilled Muslim artisans. It is a five-storied structure and each storey has a beautifully carved balcony.

 

• Desert National park:

The Desert National Park is the most prominent attraction in Jaisalmer. It is actually a protected sanctuary. It is the largest park in India, which covers 3100 square km. It is a home to blackbuck, wolf, Indian fox, hare, desert cat and chinkara. You can see the great Indian Bustard, which is a magnificent bird in this park. The Desert National park is a haven for various species of birds, such as eagles, falcons, vultures, short-toed eagles, spotted eagles, kestrel and Indian rollers. If you want to explore the fabulous wild life, you can select a jeep safari.

• Wood Fossil Park:

Wood Fossil Park is just 17 km away from Jaisalmer. There was a forest in this park before 180 millions of years. It was submersed into the sea and the tree trunks got preserved in the form of fossils. You can see various sizes of fossilized tree trunks in this park.

Other attractions:

• Godi Sagar Lake in Jaisalmer:

Godi Sagar Lake is the most beautiful place to relax in Jaisalmer. It was the only source of water to the city in the past. It is a man made reservoir, built by Raja Rawal Jaisal and was later renovated by Maharaja Garisisar. The kings and royal family members spent pleasant evenings in this lake during hot summers. The entrance to the Godi Sagar Lake is called the Tilon-Ki-Pol.

• Amar Sagar Lake:

Amar Sagar Lake is a beautiful lake and oasis, located just 7 km away from Jaisalmer. It is adjacent to the Amar Singh Palace, which was built by Maharawal Akhai Singh to commemorate his predecessor Amar Singh. .You can find an old Shiva temple in this complex.

 

Sand dunes in Jaisalmer:

Sand dunes in Jaisalmer add enjoyment to your trip. You can choose camel safari to explore the sand dunes. Sam Sand Dunes and Khuri sand dunes are the two most famous sand dunes in Jaisalmer.

• Sam Sand dunes:

Sam Sand dunes are located 42 km away from the main town of Jaisalmer. You can take a jeep, SUV or camel ride to reach the place. You can enjoy miles of sweeping sand dunes. There are more than 40 luxurious tents in Sam Sand dunes and you can enjoy a comfortable stay in the midst of the desert. You can enjoy the glorious sunset, while staying in the desert. If you plan your trip in the month of February or March, you can enjoy the desert festival organized in these dunes. The festival lets you understand the rich culture of Rajasthan.

• Khuri Sand dunes:

It is located 40 km southwest from Jaisalmer. If you want to enjoy complete serenity, Khuri Sand dunes are the right place for you. You can see mud houses in the desert. You can gain an understanding of the local way of living by visiting these mud houses. You can also relish the Rajasthani cuisine in a marvelous backdrop.

 

 © 2009 Abiyoyo SL