Jaisalmer,
the golden Fortress place, where practically every stone, wall or building
turns to the color of the desert sand, is a princely state in western
Rajasthan and the paradise of the desert kingdom. The splendid Jaisalmer is
nestled in the foothills of Trikuta, standing in pride with its colossal
forts, palaces and havelis. Jaisalmer showcases the artistic sense of the
Rajput kings beautifully capturing the allure of the desert.
Location
Jaisalmer, a prominent city of Rajasthan lies 285kms from Jodhpur city. To
the west of Jaisalmer is Pakistan, and to its south is Bikaner, another
beautiful Rajput heritage city.
Climate
Extreme climate prevails in Jaisalmer, summers are hot while winters give
some relief to the travellers. The best time around the year to visit
Jaisalmer is between October to February. Normal temperature stays above 45°C
in the hot seasons. Rainfall is scarce with dusty storms in the daytime in
summer seasons.
Tourist Attractions
Jaisalmer Fort -
The Jaisalmer Fort stands about 100 m over the city, and in fact, houses a
citadel within its massive ramparts. Walking down the narrow cobbled stone
lanes, one can feel and sense the true magic of Jaisalmer. Several entrances
called Pols, including the Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoota Pol and the Hava
Pol guard the Megh Durbar and the Jawahar Mahal which were occupied by the
royal family. Outside the fort is the main market place called Manek Chowk.
From Manek Chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved
havelis are to be found. The Jaisalmer Fort is popularly known as the Golden
Fort for its amber hue, which mesmerizes every tourist coming to the place.
The Havelis of Jaisalmer - The intricately designed
Havelis of Jaisalmer are a major attraction for the tourists.
Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Salim Sing ki-Haveli, Nathmalji-ki-Haveli, all with
exquisite lattice work are worth visiting.
Jain temples - The Parswanath Temple, one of the oldest
Jain Temple, where the walls of the sanctum are carved with animal and human
figures, is a beautiful architecture. There is a small dome which is crowned
by an amalak and a waterpot containing a lotus flower.
Sam Sand Dunes - The trip to Jaisalmer is incomplete
without experiencing the most picturesque dunes of Sam.The ripples on the
wind-caressed dunes, that create an enchanting mirage, are surely a delight
for the adventurous photographer. Against the backdrop of these sand dunes,
are held various cultural fests. Exciting camel safaris allow you to get the
real feel of the desert on their back.
Akal Wood Fossil Park - This 21-hectares preserved area
known as the Akal Wood Fossil Park takes you back to the Jurassic period
when the whole Thar region lay under the sea. Fossilized logs of trees
trunks lie exposed to view. Innumerable trunks lie buried deep under sand,
while few are seen above the ground. The largest log is seven meters in
length and 1.5 meters in width.
Shopping in Jaisalmer
Traditional carvings are best seen in little wooden boxes which are
intricately pierced in exciting patterns and motifs. Also woollen, cotton
rugs, blankets, embroidered fabrics, silver jewellery and trinkets spell the
uniqueness of the place. The main shopping areas are Sadar Bazaar and
Sonaron Ka Bas, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar.
