Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer City - The desert town of Jaisalmer, rises from sands of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage. Situated 413 Km from Jaipur, Jaisalmer is a town that continues to have an old world ambience. It's narrow lanes, high walled houses with trellised windows, beautiful mansions made of golden-yellow sandstone, marble temples where silence reigns and towering above them all, the majestic Golden Fort of Jaisalmer, gives this town its unique charm.

Built by Rawal Jaiswal in 1156 A.D., the Jaisalmer Fort was constructed by the leader of the Bhatti Rajputs, who established a new capital after leaving his old fort at Lodurva. The ruins at Lodurva are a popular tourist attraction, which you can see on your tour to Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is also known for its arts and crafts. Block printed and tie and dyed clothes, carved sandstone artifacts, camel leather bags, silver jewelry, and hand woven and embroidered rugs and shawls are good buys in Jaisalmer.

Jaisalmer Fort:
Perched on a 250 feet high hill, the Jaisalmer Fort is one of the oldest forts in Rajasthan. With formidable ramparts and four immense gates, the Jaisalmer Fort is also known as the Sonar Fort or Golden Fort, for its amber colored sandstone walls, which glow in the rays of the desert sun. You can see a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside from the walls of Jaisalmer Fort.

Havelis:
Grand mansions of rich merchants in Jodhpur are a beautiful sight. Carved from sandstone, these mansions have exquisitely carved screens covering their windows and balconies. Salim Singh ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli and Nathmal ki Haveli are some of the beautiful havelis that you will see in Jaisalmer.

Sand Dunes:
Located about 40 Km from Jaisalmer town, are a region of undulating sand dunes, where you can enjoy a camel ride. Fell the wind blow through your hair, sway with the rhythmic movement of the camel as it strides across the sand dunes and watch the sunset pain the desert sky in vibrant colors.

Gadsisar Lake:
This beautiful lake at the heart of Jaisalmer town, was built by a previous ruler to ensure his townsfolk never ran out of water. The serene atmosphere of the lake, with temples and a museum nearby, make it a popular tourist spot.

Jaisalmer Desert Festival:
This cultural event brings together the most colorful cultural attractions of the region around Jaisalmer. Folk dancers and musicians, camel dances, camel races, and camel polo events are held. Other attractions include turban tying contests and contests to judge the man with the best moustache!