
Jaisalmer,
exotic, remote, and beautiful, is a bit of a paradox.
Set so deep in the heart of the desert that one would
expect barren near-desolation, this frontier town is
today one of Rajasthan's best-loved tourist destinations.
Local colour and warmth prevail over the inhospitable
and forbidding terrain, imbuing the medieval town with
a special magic. Jaisalmer is located in the westernmost
part of the state of Rajasthan, the heart of the great
Thar Desert. It is neighbored by Pakistan on its western
side. On its south, there is the beautiful city of Bikaner.
The eastern part of the place is bordered by Jodhpur,
another city of color and tradition. The climate of
this city is of typical desert character
Connectivity
Air : The nearest airport is Jodhpur
(285 km).
Rail : Jaisalmer is connected with
Jodhpur by night train service.
Road : Well connected by road with
all the major cities of India. Direct bus services to
Udaipur, Mount Abu, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Barmer, Ajmer
and Jaipur. Ahmedabad and Bhuj (Gujarat),
Prime Sites
Jaisalmer Fort :
Renew yourself amid the past galore, as you visit the
commanding Jaisalmer Fort. The fort stands guard over
the desertscape from its 250 feet high perch on the
hill with its wall following the contours of the hills.
The steep cobblestone pathways leading to the royal
palace pass through four gates. The sharp twists and
turns make the fort invincible. The fort has five interconnected
palaces with 'jaali' screens and dainty 'jharokhas'
- all showpieces of Jaisalmer artisans' talent.
Within the fort are three exquisitely sculptured Jain
temples,
Gadsisar Lake :
A rain water lake, adorned with an arched gateway. Many
small shrines and temples are festooned a11 around the
lake. Today, it is an ideal picnic spot, famous for
boating.
Salim Singh-ki-Haveli :
Witness the legendary architectural wealth of Jaisalmer
at Salim Singh's haveli, truly unsurpassed in splendor.
Of particular note are the blue roof and rows of peacocks
below the arched balconies. The haveli was once the
residence of the Mohta family, ministers of Jaisalmer
rulers.
Patwon-ki-Haveli
:
It is the grandest mansion in Jaisalmer, not to be missed
at all. This five haveli wonder has its ceiling supported
by exquisitely carved pillars and its delicately chiselled
balconies surely leave you mesmerized.
Nathmalji-ki-Haveli :
This haveli was carved by two brothers. One worked on
right side and the other on left, but the harmony in
design exists still. Screened windows, projected balconies
and intricate carvings illustrate superb craftsmanship.
Jain Temples : Within the citadel
are the splendorous Jain temples, dedicated to Rishabdevji,
Sambhavnathji and Parshvanathji.
Camel Safaris :
An intriguing way of exploring the vast desert around
Jaisalmer, is the Camel Safari - a prime attraction
for visitors. Most safaris last 3 to 4 days, and thread
their way through Amar Sagar, Ludharva, Mool Sagar,
Bada Bagh and Sam, as well as several abandoned villages
on the way. The best time for a safari is October to
February.