The name Jaisalmer evokes a vivid picture of sheer magic
and brilliance of the desert. The exotic, remote and
beautiful, Jaisalmer is a bit of aparadox. So far west
that it is in the heart of the desert, one would expect
barren near-desolation. Yet this frontier town is today
one of Rajasthan's best-loved tourist destinations.
Local colour and warmth prevail over the in hospitable
and forbidding terrain, imbuing the medieval town with a
special magic.
Rawal Jaisal a descendent of the Yadav
Clan and a Bhati Rajput, laid the foundation of this
city in 1156 AD. Trikuta was the hill chosen and
Jaisalabandoned his old fort at Lodurva and established
his new capital here. |
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The Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs who
lived on the forcedlevy on the caravans that crossed
their territory en-route Delhi. These caravans, laden
with precious cargos of spices and silk brought great
wealth to this town. Because of its remote location,
Jaisalmer for years remained untouched by outside
influences and during the British Raj, the rulers of
Jaisalmer were the last to sign the instrument of
agreement with the British.
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In medieval times, its prosperity was due to its
location on the main trade route linking India to Egypt,
Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The gloryof
Jaisalmer faded when sea trade replaced the old land
routes. But there isstill an 'Arabian Nights' quality
about the town. The narrow streets in the walled city
preserve a traditional way of life : the craftsmen still
work at the ancient crafts of weaving and stone carving,
the making of silver jewellery and embroidery. And the
stately, nonchalant camel is everywhere.
Jaipur & its surroundings are rather like
an endless museum. The city also offers an endless
variety of crafts. Jewellers here still fashion the
beautiful enamel-on-gold pendants, studded on the
reverse with precious stones or pearls & turquoise that
one sees in miniature paintings.Jaipur's lacquer bangles
are famous all over the world. This is a city to be
visited.
Just a walk through Jaisalmer, savouring the medieval
glory of old Rajasthan, is a marvellously rewarding
travel experience. Desert Festival, celebrated in
January/ February, is a must on any itinerary. The
desert seems to bloom in a thousand colours. There are
camel races and folk dances. Craft bazaar and
traditional balled singing. A sound and light spectacle
onthe sand-dunes of Sam on the full moon night. And all
the colour and excitement of the best in Rajasthan.
The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the
Desert Festival every year when the city reverberates to
the sound of melodious tunes and rhythms. Folk dances,
exciting competitions and contest especially the
turban-tying contest, Mr.Desert contest and camel races
enlighten the festivities. Jaisalmer is a marvel of
beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions,
together amounting to a memorable experience. This is a
city tobe visited.
Prime Attractions :
The Jaisalmer Fort
-The golden hued Jaisalmer Fort 'Sonar
Kila' can be seen miles away before reaching the town.
Manak Chowk and Havelis
- A main market place outside the fort
leads to the narrow lanes dotted with famous 'havelis'
Havelis
- Some of the most exotic mansions or 'havelis',
all intricately latticed, are stretchedall over
Jaisalmer, each with a different facade.
Gadsisar Sagar Tank
- Ascenic rain water lake with numerous
beautiful shrines around. The lake is an idyllic spot
for outings.
Jain Temples
- The fort has three exquisitely carved
Jain Temples dedicated to the JainTirthankaras -
Rishabhdevji and Sambhavnathji. |
Jaisalmer
Travel Packages:
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