Jaisalmer is like a fairy tale city that has emerged from a bygone era. A place that once evoked trade routes and is full of exotic history, welcomes travel enthusiasts with lustful offerings. It is impossible to not be charmed by this desert citadel. The royal structures with hues of golden honey, call in for a vivid historical experience in the city of Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer, nicknamed ‘The Golden city” is a city in the state of Rajasthan, India. It was earlier known as Jaisalmer state and is a World Heritage Site. The fort & town of Jaisalmer was founded by Maharawal Jaisal in the year 1156 AD after having shifted his capital from Ludharva. The city appears to be an ornament of gold studded with forts, temples and fine art.
In order to reach here, you can take flights from major cities to Jodhpur airport which is 300 km from here. Jaisalmer has a well connected rail route hence it serves to be a better option. Jaisalmer is also one of the major stations in the journey by India’s most luxurious train “Palace on Wheels”.
Also known as “Sonar Kila” is a fort built of sandstone on the Trikuta Hill which belonged to the Jurassic period. This awe-inspiring fort is protected by huge walls and is approachable through four gates which are Akhaiy Pol, Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol and Hawa Pol. The fort is also a base for many old Hindu and Jain temples. The fort has an intricately carved architecture which is mesmerizing to view.
Golden Fort
Picture credits: allthecities.com |
An exquisite structure embellished in the city which exemplifies ancient architecture. The Patwa Haveli is a five storey monument with extensive corridors and chambers which are supported by magnificently carved pillars.
Patwa Haveli
Picture credits: www.rajasthanindiatour.net |
It is the most popular destination in Jaisalmer after the Golden Fort. A tourist hot spot with an amazing experience is what one can avail here. The exquisite camel safaris give a firsthand experience of the desert here. As you go by sweeping through the dunes, riding along the breathtaking crests, you can indulge in pure solitude and lose yourself in a cultural rehab. Other activities like puppet shows, folk dance, earthy music, camel races and general festivities mark a wonderful stay here.
Sam Sand Dunes
Picture credits: Manish Pareek / Wikipedia |
It was carved by Lalu and Hathi who were two brothers for the Prime Minister of State, Nathmalji in 19th century. The interesting fact about this place is that, both the brothers worked separately on two ends which resulted in a glorious symphony of carvings. The haveli is rich with beautifully carved inner chambers which are decorated with miniature paintings.
Nathmal Ki Haveli
Picture credits: indiagetaways.co.in |
This five storey structure rules the skyline of the city. It was built by Salim Singh, a powerful Chief Minister of Jaisalmer. The haveli extends with an elaborate balcony on its top storey which is distinguished by its blue cupola roof.
Salim Singh ki Haveli
Picture credits: Antoine Taveneaux / Wikipedia |
It is a lake and a palace which appears more like an Oasis built in the 17th century. The palace was built by Maharawal Akhai Singh in honour of one of his predecessors Amar Singh, hence the name. The interior consists of murals painted with delicate efforts. The pavilion has large steps which lead down to the lake.
Amar Sagar
Picture credits: jaisalmer.rajasthangov.in |
The existence of this park takes you millions of years back in time. A forest which stood here around 180 million year ago has its fossil remains preserved at Akal Wood Fossils Park. The park consists of fossilized tree trunks are of various sizes with the largest being 13 meters in length and 1.5 meters in width. The 21-hectare preserved area of the park lies about 17 Km from Jaisalmer.
Akal Wood Fossils Park
Picture credits: tourmet.com |
It is also known as Bara Bagh which literally means ‘Big Garden’. It was commissioned by Maharawal Jait Singh in the early 16th century which was later completed by his son Lunakaran. It contains a set of royal cenotaphs, or chhatris of Maharajas of Jaisalmer state. The place consists of a tank, a dam and the garden. The dam is called Jait Bandh and the tank is called Jaitsar. The dam is a colossal structure which is around 1200 feet high.
Bada Bagh
Picture credits: Honzasoukup / Wikipedia |
Also known as Lodhurva, Lodrawa or Lodarwa is the ancient capital of Jaisalmer, however it is more famous for the Jain temples and Kalp Vraksh (wish tree). The place is of great importance to the Jain community. The temples have beautiful carvings on every piece of stone which was used for its construction. The place has striking peacocks which are a great pull of pleasantness here.
Ludurva
Picture credits: www.sid-thewanderer.com |
This rainwater lake was once the major water supplier in town. A major tourist attraction now, is wooing picnickers in the desert city. With sacred shrines and well laid gardens, Gadisar Lake is a harmonious place offering a visual treat.
Gadisar Lake
Picture credits: www.rajasthanisafari.com |
The city of Jaisalmer is an extraordinary example of preserving history with its well maintained forts, palaces, temples and art. Free Press Journal requests its readers to keep the flow of oil in the lamp of history pouring and allowing it to burn and stay sustained.
