Jaisalmer | The Golden Crown of the Desert

Highlights

Jaisalmer Sonar Fort, the massive citadel that lies in the center of Jaisalmer, houses one fourth of the city’s residents. The fort stands amidst the sandy expanse of Trikuta Hill, and has been the scene of many battles over the centuries. Its massive sandstone walls reflect a tawny lion-like color during the day, fading to a deep honey-gold as the sun sets, thereby camouflaging the fort in the yellow desert. For this reason, it is also known as Sonar Quila or “Golden Fort.” Deep inside the fort, visitors can stroll the twisting streets, seeking out savory food treats or amazing photos.

A visit to Jaisalmer would not be complete without a jaunty Camel Ride through the desert landscape at the Sam Sand Dunes. Perhaps gaze at groups of frisky chinkaras - shy Indian gazelles - as they make their way across the silent sands. See herds of cattle and sheep roaming around, sometimes grazing, sometimes wandering, as if under the watchful eye of a greater shepherd in a cloudless sky. Most guests go out for a ride in the late afternoon, proceeding out in the sands to view a magnificent sunset in the endless golden dunes beyond Jaisalmer.

A Haveli is a gorgeous mansion owned by one of Rajasthan's wealthy merchants. These elaborate homes are etched out of sandstone with seemingly infinite details, all carved and pieced together in unique patterns. The extensive frescoes and murals that decorate the walls of the havelis would appear loud to many finer tastes, but in the arid desert where no greenery softens the cityscape, they are exquisite. Merchants imbibed color and ornamentation into their life by indulging in building mansions for themselves with intricate and lavish painted patterns. Patwon Ki Haveli is foremost among the places of interest in Jaisalmer. This is one of the largest and most elaborate Havelis in Jaisalmer and stands nestled in a narrow lane. It is five stories high and is formed of extensively carved sandstone. It is divided into six apartments; two owned by the Archaeological Survey of India, two by families who operate craft-shops, and two private homes.

is the most awaited, most famous, and certainly the most colorful cultural event in Rajasthan. Camel races, Turban-tying, and Mr. Desert competitions are organized throughout the multi-day event and authentic local food is available throughout. The festival is held every year in the month of February and attracts thousands of visitors from within India and from across the globe. It showcases Rajasthani folk songs, while Gair dancers and Fire performers are the major attractions of this desert celebration. This festival is the best time to witness performing arts like Kalbelia dances, folk songs, and music that are the signature of Rajasthani culture.

Add-ons

Gadi Sagar Lake is one of the most photogenic attractions in Jaisalmer. Part of its historic charm lies in the fact that it was the only source of water for the Jaisalmer city in the olden days. Artistically carved Chattris, Temples, Shrines, and Ghats surround the banks of the lake. The entrance to the Gadi Sagar Lake is through a magnificent and artistically carved yellow sandstone archway that is known as the Tilon-Ki-Pol. You may see rare migratory birds that stop for a drink at the lustrous lake which reflects the mellow amber of the picturesque sandstone banks. Just sit on any of the Ghats and watch the yellow facades change hues of magnificent ochre with the setting sun, a delightful panorama that you should not miss for the world.

Manak Chowk is a major marketplace and shopping site in the center of the fort. Manak Chowk is known for its assortment of products like leather items, antiques, textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, and many other authentic souvenirs. The shops here are small but loaded with items in various designs and colors. A visit here can also hone your bargaining skills with the local vendors.

There are seven Jain Temples situated within the Jaisalmer Fort, most of them built during the 12th and 15th centuries. Several of the most ornate buildings in Jaisalmer were built by its Jain community, including the temples dedicated to the 16th Tirthankara, Shantinath, and the 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvanath. Among these temples, the biggest is the Paraswanath Temple. Others include Chandraprabhu Temple, Rishabdev Temple, Shitalnath Temple, Kunthunath Temple, and Shantinath Temple. Known for their exquisite work of art and architecture that was predominant in the medieval era, these temples have intricate engravings adorning nearly every surface.