Jaisalmer Travel Guide

Jaisalmer is situated in the western Rajasthan region amid Thar Desert, close to Indo-Pak border. Like all other cities of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer too has its own glorious past to boast about. The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which, Lord Krishna-the head of the Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendant of the Yadav Clan would built his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 A.D. when Rawal Jaisal, a descendant of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital - Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill. Since then it continued to be on the focus of the masses because of its location. It falls in the way of one of the two routes, which connected India from Persia, Egypt, Africa and the west. Bahti Rajputs of Jaisalmer lived off the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed the territory en route Delhi-or-Sind. These caravans earned the town great wealth.It developed itself into a major tourist destination as well as a cultural hub of the western India only after 1947, when the Rajputana royals signed the agreement to remain in just independent India.

Jaisalmer is situated in the very heart of Rajasthan and is a popular tourist destination therefore it is well connected to the rest of India and Rajasthan with airways, railways as well as roadways. The nearest airport from Jaisalmer is Jodhpur airport which is 300 kms away from the city. From Jodhpur you can hire Cabs or take a train journey according to your wish and preference. Jaisalmer is connected to major cities of India through broad gauge as well as meter gauge railway tracks and is well connected to the rest of the state by well-maintained roads.

Like various other cities of Rajasthan, in Jaisalmer too you will find a number of heritage forts and palaces which are both magnificent and royal in their own distinctive ways. Though you can find historical monuments scattered all over the city, the Jaisalmer Fort will immediately command your attention. Made of sand stones and locally known as Sonar Quila, the Jaisalmer Fort is a dominating structure between the sands. The stone - craftsmen worked delicately on the sandstone mansion, filling up facades with sculptural filigree, screen windows, delicate pavilions and beautiful balconies. Today, these veritable art - museums are still inhabited, and their colorful celebrations and festivals have placed Jaisalmer Fort firmly on the world tourism map. The Jaisalmer city is also revered for its Havelis. Among many others you will find Salim ji ki haveli and Nathmal ji ki haveli the most striking ones. There are other monuments too, which are equally important because of there distinct and individual architecture. You can also visit Gadsisar Lake and take a close look on the migratory birds as they indulge in amorous fight. Or else visit Desert Cultural center to take a sneak peek of Rajasthani culture. There is enough to keep you busy for days in Jaisalmer itself.

You can also choose to go on excursions while you are in Jaisalmer. Some of the many places that you can visit are Sam Sand dunes. You can stay in the camp in solitude and just look at the sun setting behind the horizon. Or else you can also opt for Khuri sand dunes and can get pampered by Rajasthani hospitality, listen to local folk music and enjoy authentic Rajasthani cuisine. You can also visit Lodurva, the ancient capital of the Bhattis and appreciate the Dilwara style paintings scattered all around the ruins. Or you can also peek in to the history of this majestic place and can choose to visit Amar Sagar or Bada Sagar and live the rich cultural heritage once and forever. A visit to Fossil Park could also be a wonderful option. If you are a conservationist, you can try your hands at the Desert National park or opt for Phalodi for extreme solitude. There is so much to see and explore in Jaisalmer!

If you are a fun loving and adventurous person then you can take up camel safari in the Desert and jeep safari in the Sam Sand Dunes and Phalodi. You can opt for the same in the Desert National Park too. You can also enjoy the very famous desert festival at Jaisalmer that falls during the months of January - February. With all its attractions the Jaisalmer city commands premiere position among the tourist places scattered all over the desert land of Rajasthan and is is revered both by Indians as well as foreign tourists.