The name JAISALMER evokes a vivid picture of sheer magic and brilliance of the desert. Founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 A.D., the remote location of Jaisalmer kept it almost untouched by outside influences, even during the days of the Raj. Jaisalmer was the last to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British.

Very few cities can boast of the magnificence that surrounds Jaisalmer. There is a fort that seems to rise out of a desert haze, its yellow sandstone walls and bastions taking on a golden hue in the afternoon sun, which is why it is aptly called Sonar Kila or the Golden Fort.

Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhati Rajput, laid the foundation of this city in 1156 AD. Trikuta was the hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Lodurva and established his new capital here.

The Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs who lived on the forced levy on the caravans that crossed their territory en-route Delhi. These caravans, laden with precious cargos of spices and silk brought great wealth to this town. Because of its remote location, Jaisalmer for years remained untouched by outside influences and during the British Raj, the rulers of Jaisalmer were the last to sign the instrument of agreement with the British.

In medieval times, its prosperity was due to its location on the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The glory of Jaisalmer faded when sea trade replaced the old land routes. But there is still an 'Arabian Nights' quality about the town. The narrow streets in the walled city preserve a traditional way of life : the craftsmen still work at the ancient crafts of weaving and stone carving, the making of silver jewellery and embroidery. And the stately, nonchalant camel is everywhere.

The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival every year when the city reverberates to the sound of melodious tunes and rhythms. Folk dances, exciting competitions and contest especially the turban-tying contest, Mr.Desert contest and camel races enlighten the festivities. Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions, together amounting to a memorable experience. This is a city to be visited

Places of Interest

Jaisalmer Fort:
The fort stands about 100 meters over the city and in fact houses a citadel within its huge ramparts. Walking down the narrow cobbled stone lanes, one can feel the sheer magic of Jaisalmer. Several entrances called Pols , including the Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoota Pol and the Hava Pol guard the Megh Durbar and the Jawahar Mahal which were occupied by the royal family. Outside the fort is the main market place called Manek Chowk. From Manek Chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved havelis are to be found.

The Havelis of Jaisalmer

Patwon-Ki-Haveli
Jaisalmer is famous for its intricately latticed havelis with conspicuous facades.

Salim Singh Ki Haveli
This haveli was the residence of the powerful Mohta clan - the hereditary ministers of the Jaisalmer rulers. The blue cupola roof is distinctive and an exquisite projecting balcony adorns the top storey.

Patwon Ki Haveli
This is one of the largest and most elaborate havelis in Jaisalmer. It is five storeys high and extensively carved.

Nathmalji Ki Haveli
One very interesting fact about this haveli is that its two sides were carved by two brothers. Although the motif used by one is not similar to the other, they are in harmony. One has to look very closely to spot dissimilarities. The excellent craftsmanship of the stone carver is illustrated in the gossamer quality of the screened windows.

Tazia Tower
The Pagoda like Tazia Tower rises from the Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds). Each storey of this five-tiered tower has a beautifully carved balcony.

Jain Temples

Amar Sagar Jain Temple
The Parswanath Temple is the oldest and the most beautiful of the Jain temples. The walls of the sanctum are carved with animal and human figures. There is a small dome which is crowned by an amalak and a waterpot containing a lotus flower.

Gadsisar Lake
Gadsisar Lake A rainwater lake, now a picnic spot - ideal for boating.

Lodurva
Toran, Lodurva Jain Temple Once the capital of Rawal Jaisal, Lodurva now has ruins of the ancient townhip. It is an important center of Jain pilgrimage. The temples at Lodurva exhibit some more fine examples of intricate craftsmanship on yellow stone.

Sam
From Jaisalmer, it is possible to get an insight into desert life by visiting SAM. It is great place to see patterns carved out by winds on the sand. Camel rides on the sand dunes are an unforgettable experience as is the sunset.