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of Rajasthan's most alluring cities, Jaisalmer, deep in the heart of Thar Desert,
abounds in ancient palaces, temples and quaint settlements. As the sun sets, the
sandstone buildings emit a lustrous glow, that make Jaisalmer the "Golden City".
Founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 A.D., the remote location of Jaisalmer, kept it
almost untouched by outside influences, even during the days of the British Raj.
Very few cities can, even hope to match the sheer grandeur of this city.
There is an undefinable aura of magic and mystery, that surrounds its famous desert-fortress
- the yellow sandstone walls and bastions of which, take on a golden hue in the
afternoon sun, which is why it is, so aptly, called Sonar Kila or the Golden Fort.
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Jaisalmer Fort
 Jaisalmer
fort lies deep in the heart of the desert. Rising out of the sea of sand, its
rounded battlements of golden sandstone, echoing the colour of the desert, this
12th century fort has proudly withstood the ravages of time. Walking down the
narrow cobbled stone lanes, one can feel the magnetism of Jaisalmer. Several entrances,
called 'pols', guard the Megh Durbar and the Jawahar Mahal, which bear the imperial
symbols of the Bhatti clan's lunar lineage. 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.
Within the fort, is a palace
located on the highest point of Tricuta Hill, within a protective wall of double
ramparts. Four gateways provided protection to the fort, and several tower-like
buildings functioned as lookouts. The fort also houses a number of small Mahals,
such as the Janaki Mahal, Moti Mahal, and the Phool Mahal.
The
Havelis Of Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is famous for its intricately latticed
havelis with conspicuous facades.
Salim Singh
ki Haveli
Built about 300 years ago, this haveli was the residence
of the powerful Mohta clan - the hereditary ministers of the Jaisalmer rulers.
The blue cupola roof is distinctive, and an exquisite projecting balcony adorns
the top storey.Part of it is still occupied.
Patwon
ki Haveli
This is one of the largest and most elaborate havelis
in Jaisalmer. Located in a narrow alley, it is five storeys high, and one of its
rooms is adorned with exquisite murals.
Nathmalji
ki Haveli
One very interesting fact about this haveli, is that
its two sides were carved by two brothers. Although the motif used by one is not
similiar to the other, they are, nevertheless, in perfect harmony. One has to
look very closely to spot any dissimiliarities. The excellent craftsmanship of
the stone carver, is illustrated in the gossamer quality of the screened windows.
Yellow sandstone elephants guard the building, and even the front door is an amazing
piece of art.
Tazia Tower
The
pagoda - like Tazia Tower rises from the Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds). Each
storey of this five-tiered tower, has a beautifully carved balcony. Muslim craftsmen
built the tower, in the shape of a Tazia (ornately decorated bamboo, paper and
tinsel replicas of a bier carried in procession during Mohurram), and gifted it
to their royal patron.
Parswanath Temple
The Parswanath Temple is the oldest, and the most beautiful of the Jain temples.
The walls of the sanctum are carved with animal and human figures. The shikhara,
is crowned by an amalak, and a waterpot containing a lotus flower.
Lodurva Jain Temple
15 km from Jaisalmer,
are the deserted ruins of this town, which was the ancient capital, previous to
Jaisalmer. It is an important centre of Jain pilgrimage. The temples at Lodurva
exhibit fine examples of intricate craftsmanship on yellow stone. They have ornate
carved arches at the entrance, and a Kalputra, the Divine - Tree, within. In the
temple, is a hole from which, a snake is said to emerge every evening, to drink
an offering of milk. Only the ' blessed' can actually see it, it is said.
Gadsisar Lake
A rainwater lake,
now a picnic spot - ideal for boating.
Sam
From Jaisalmer, it is possible to get an insight into desert life, by visiting
the Sam sand dunes. It is a great place to see lovely patterns carved out by winds,
on the sand. Camel rides on the sand dunes are a thrilling experience, as is the
brilliant sunset.
Wood Fossil Park, Aakal
An impressive fossil park, bearing witness to the geologic cataclysms, that
have taken place in the Thar.
Desert National
Park
An extensive variety of desert birdlife, ranging from birds
of prey to sandgrouse, doves, shrikes, bee-eaters, warblers and desert coursers,
are to be found in the National Park. The most remarkable bird of the desert,
the Great Indian Bustard can also be sighted here. Among the animals to be seen,
are the desert fox, wolf, blackbuck, chinkara, nilgai, and the crusted porcupine.
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Winter: October to March.