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.
Jaisalmer City Facts
