Overview
Jaisalmer, referred to as the “Golden City”, is a captivating place that combines history, culture and natural beauty. This Jaisalmer travel guide will give you a comprehensive outlook of what makes it a must-visit city, from its stunning geography and rich history to its vibrant culture and very warm people.
Approximately 575 kilometres west of Jaipur, which is the state capital of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is found in the western part of India. The city stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone and bears the ancient UNESCO World Heritage Site of Jaisalmer Fort. Sonar Quila or Golden Fort, also known as this fort, has many people living within its walls, so it’s considered a living fort. Its nickname, “Golden City”, comes from the colour with which it glows because it is constructed using yellow-coloured sandstones.
The city’s landscape is dominated by the Thar desert which stretches into Pakistan from Western Rajasthan. In places like these, there are vast areas covered with sand dunes. Some rise to heights of about 150 feet. Jaisalmer has an arid climate with scorching hot summers followed by cool winters. The average annual rainfall here is around 150 mm, making water precious.
In 1156 AD, Rawal Jaisal established Jaisalmer as the ruler of the Bhati Rajput. The strategic position along ancient trade routes linking India with Central Asia, Egypt and Persia made it very rich. The caravans carrying silk, spices and other valuable items brought money to the coffers. By imposing taxes on them, Bhati Rajputs, who were ruling the Jaisalmer, became very wealthy. Invasions by several rulers, including Ala-ud-din Khilji in the 13th century marked Jasisalmer’s history. Despite all these problems, the city not only survived but also prospered, keeping alive its cultural values.
One of the most interesting things about Jaisalmer is its unique architecture. As far as Rajput architecture is concerned, Jaisalmer Fort is unsurpassed in its highly ornate etchings that decorate its walls. Among other attractions, there is also a palace, several Jain temples, and havelis inside the fort, which represent the art and culture of this place from earlier times. Some of the best-known havelis include Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Nathmal Ki Haveli, etc., all having intricate facades with richly detailed stoneworks in them. The golden sandstone structures gleaming under the desert sun make Jaisalmer appear like an ethereal land outside of time.
Jaisalmer Tourism offers different tour packages for both budget travellers and luxurious tourists if you want to visit it yourself. A typical trip to Jaisalmer will include going on a camel safari through the Thar Desert and guided tours around havelis, forts and temples located within or outside it. If you want to have hands-on experience of seeing actual nomadic communities living their lives amidst such scenery, then camel safaris provide a good chance to see deserts up close. Jaisalmer Tour packages and Rajasthan tour packages provide extensive insight into the rich cultural heritage and history offered by Jaisalmer. For honeymooners, look no further than Rajasthan Honeymoon Packages, where you get romance-filled moments at any point, especially when visiting captivating places like Jaisalmer.
