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.
