Introduction: The city of Jaisalmer shimmers like
a mirage amidst the desolate beauty of the hot barren deserts of
The Jaisalmer FortRajasthan. It is a small city that can be covered
within two hours of leisurely strolling through the lanes and by-lanes,
and has an extraordinarily medieval feel and incredible atmosphere.
The havelis (mansions of rich merchants) which are the pride of
Jaisalmer’s architecture and a part of the national heritage
should be seen and admired at an unhurried pace. The Jaisalmer Fort,
perched atop the triangular-shaped Trikuta Hills, contains some
gems of Jain temple buildings, while beautifully decorated havelis
are scattered throughout the town. The city is also famous for its
beautiful embroidery.
During the medieval times Jaisalmer made rapid progress due to Enquiry
Nowits strategic location on the camel trade route between India
and Central Asia. Even now, especially after the two wars with Pakistan,
its strategic importance has led to the building of national highways,
a railway track, and an airstrip, and brought Jaisalmer within easy
reach of the people.
Sightseeing at Jaisalmer -
The Jaisamer Fort : rises above its city like a
mirage from the sands. The second oldest fort in Rajasthan, it was
built in 1156 by the Rajput ruler Jaisala. At the time the entire
city lay within the fort but as the town prospered and its population
grew it spilled out into the land below where merchants set up beautiful
Sam Sand Duneshavelis. The most amazing thing though is the fact
that till this day 25% of Jaisalmer's population resides within
the fort, its temples and palaces are now monuments and part of
heritage but the streets are packed with shops, people and children
playing hopscotch. Its an extraordinary experience to walk around
these still inhabited lanes and feel like you have somehow been
transported back in time.
Sam Sand Dunes : No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a trip to the most picturesque dunes of Sam.The ripples on the wind-caressed dunes,that create an enchanting mirage, are surely a delight for a tigger-happy photographer. Various cultural programmers are organised against the backdrop of these fascinating sand dunes.Exciting camel safaris allow you to get the real feel of the desert on the camel back.
The Jain Temples : Three exquisitely sculptured Jain temples dedicated to Rishabhdevji, Sambhavanathji and the Ashthapadi temple are located within the fort. Their ornamentation, done in the style of the Dilwara temples at Mt. Abu, is marvellous. The emerald icon of Mahavira here is an unparalleled gem.
The Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli : is a magnificent edifice whose two upper storeys had to be demolished and yet whose surviving structure has unsurpassed splendor. Particularly noteworthy are the rows of peacocks below the jharokhas (projected arched balconies).
Patwon-ki-Haveli : is near the city centre. Its five suites built between AD 1800 and AD 1860 are evidence of Jaisalmer’s legendary architectural wealth. The balconies are delicately chiseled, and oblique sunrays create enchanting and dramatic shadows. It is the grandest mansion in Jaisalmer , a veritable museum piece in the open.
The Gadisar Lake : is an important historic symbol as it was once the only source of water for the kingdom of Jaisalmer. This soothing desert oasis has now become a populaEnquiry Nowr picnic spot and pedal and paddle-boats are available on hire.
Jaisalmer Weather
Climate: hot and dry
Summer temperature : Minimum: 25 °C - Maximum:
41.6° C
Winter temperature: Minimum: 7.9° C - Maximum:
23.6° C
Annual rainfall: 15 cm.