Location
Jaisalmer is located in the westernmost part of the state of Rajasthan, the
heart of the great Thar Desert. The climate of this city is of typical
desert character. Jaisalmer is located 275 Kms from Jodhpur.
The Golden City
One of Rajasthan's best-loved tourist destinations, the medieval town of
Jaisalmer was founded by Rao Jaisal in 1156 AD. Famous for the Jaisalmer
Fort, Patwon-ki-haveli, sand dunes, and ideal for camel rides and safaris
Jaisalmer is also called "Golden City".
This unconquered fort of Jaisalmer is the shimmering golden mirage deep in
the heart of Thar Desert. The narrow lanes of the citadel are strewn with
magnificent palace, havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and
ubiquitous camels. The glowing sunsets at Jaisalmer is distinctively
majestic.
Tourist Attraction
Jaisalmer Fort :
The commanding and most alive, Jaisalmer Fort made of yellow sandstone
stands with its complete splendor, dominating the golden city. This
amber-hued fort was built in 1156 by the Rajput ruler Jaisala. About a
quarter of the old city's population resides within the fort walls. The fort
is approachable through four gateways - Akhaiyal, Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol and
Hava Pol. The bewildering narrow lanes of the fort are dominated with lovely
havelis, three beautifully sculptured Jain Temples of the 12th-15th century
A.D. and five interconnected palaces.
Lodurva :
Lodurva is 15 km from from Jaisalmer. The ancient capital of Jaisalmer is
also an important pilgrim spot of the Jain community. Lodurva has some
magnificent Jain temple. The intricate craftsmanship and carvings on yellow
stones in the Lodurva temple are noteworthy. 'Kalptaru' or a divine tree
within the ornate carved arches(Toran) at the entrance is the main
attraction of the temple.
Wood Fossil Park, Aakal (17 kms):
Lying on the Barmer Road, this park takes you back to the Jurassic period
(when the whole Thar region lay under the sea) with 180 million-year-old
fossils - the geological landmarks for the study of the Thar Desert.
Sam Sand Dunes :
A trip to Jaisalmer is incomplete without a trip to the most picturesque
dunes of Sam. The wavelets on created by the wind on the dunes creates an
enchanting mirage The sunset in the dunes are surely a delight for a
tourist. Exciting camel safaris allow you to get the real feel of the desert
on the camel back.
Desert Festival :
The perfect time to visit the golden fortress is during the Desert
Festival, that is held every Jan/Feb. Surely a not-to-be missed event.
Reaching Jaisalmer
By Air : Indian Airlines operates flights to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Mumbai
and Delhi from Jaisalmer.
By Bus : There are many deluxe buses operating daily from Jaisalmer
to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner.
By Train : There are two trains IJPJ and Jodhpur express which
operates daily from Jaisalmer to Jodhpur. Jodhpur is connected to all the
major cities of the country.
