|
 Jaisalmer – the
golden beauty, etched in yellow sandstone. Perched atop the
Trikuta Hill, it stands tall against miles of gleaming sand. Epitomising the desolate, awesome charm of the desert.
Jaisalmer, the city of the golden fort is a fantasy in yellow
sandstone in the heart of the Thar Desert. The city was founded
in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput King.
Legend has it,
that Lord Krishna – the head of Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that
a remote descendent of Yadav Clan would build his kingdom atop
the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled, when in 1156 AD
Rawal Jaisal, a descendant of Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput,
founded the city of Jaisalmer.
 This amber-hued
city, in the heart of the desert, dazzles gloriously in the
early morning. The sunset has a peculiar glow here. As the night
descends, the sky goes up in flames, which fade leaving a few
embers, till it becomes black. A breathtaking sight indeed!
Jaisalmer is famous for cobbled streets, strewn with palaces,
forts, temples and havelis. Every house, here, is exquisitely
carved, having filigreed work all over. These houses date back
to 12th – 15th century. And hence Jaisalmer is called 'the
Museum city'.
Filled with colour, festivity and smiles, Jaisalmer is truly a
memorable experience across the shimmering sands.
Transportation
-
Air : The nearest
airport is Jodhpur (285 km)
-
Rail : Jaisalmer is
connected with Jodhpur by night train service.
-
Road : Well connected
by road with all the major cities of India. Direct bus
services to Udaipur, Mount Abu, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Barmer,
Ajmer and Jaipur. Ahmedabad and Bhuj (Gujarat)
What to see
Jaisalmer Fort : Renew yourself amid the past galore, as
you visit the commanding Jaisalmer Fort. The fort stands guard
over the desertscape from its 250 feet high perch on the hill
with its wall following the contours of the hills.
Gadsisar Lake : A rain water lake, adorned with an arched
gateway. Many small shrines and temples are festooned a11 around
the lake. Today, it is an ideal picnic spot, famous for boating.
Salim Singh-ki-Haveli : Witness the legendary
architectural wealth of Jaisalmer at Salim Singh's haveli, truly
unsurpassed in splendor. Of particular note are the blue roof
and rows of peacocks below the arched balconies. The haveli was
once the residence of the Mohta family, ministers of Jaisalmer
rulers.
Patwon-ki-Haveli : It is the grandest mansion in
Jaisalmer, not to be missed at all. This five haveli wonder has
its ceiling supported by exquisitely carved pillars and its
delicately chiselled balconies surely leave you mesmerized.
Nathmalji-ki-Haveli : This haveli was carved by two
brothers. One worked on right side and the other on left, but
the harmony in design exists still. Screened windows, projected
balconies and intricate carvings illustrate superb
craftsmanship.
Jain Temples : Within the citadel are the splendorous
Jain temples, dedicated to Rishabdevji, Sambhavnathji and
Parshvanathji.
Excursions
Devikot (40 kms), Ramdeora (150 kms), Sam Sand Duna (42 kms),
Lodhruva (17 kms), Bada Bagh (6 kms), Wood Fossil Park (17 kms),
Desert National Park (40 kms), Barmer (153 kms).
|
