An Insight :
Deep in the heart of the Thar Desert is Jaisalmer, one of the last princely
bastions in the region. Founded on what was the crossroad of lucrative trade
routes, this remote settlement came to be celebrated for the valour of its
rulers, and for the aesthetic sense represented by their palaces and
havelis. The rich merchants engaged stone-craftsmen who worked with great
diligence on the sandstone mansions they built, filling up facades with
sculptural filigree, screen windows, delicate pavilions and beautiful
balconies. These veritable art-museums are still inhabited, and their
colourful celebrations and festivals have placed Jaisalmer firmly on the
world tourism map. It's unique location in the midst of miles of sand dunes
makes it India's most popular destination for camel safaris.
Lets Explore ... the romantic sand city of Jaisalmer :
On your tour to Jaisalmer you can visit the famous Jaisalmer Fort, which is
the second oldest fort in Rajasthan after Chittaur, and commands the
desertscape from its 250 feet high pedestal on the Trikuta Hill. Three
strong walls protect the citadel. The fort has five palaces called Sarvottam
Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal. Jali or
latticework screens of excellent craftsmanship shade interiors from the
fierce heat and desert winds. The Rang Mahal has some exquisite murals
painted on arches and spandrels. The fort contains one-third of the city's
population. Many houses provide budget accommodation to visitors and have
curio shops. Jaisalmer cultural heritage takes you to the popular Jain
Temples of Jaisalmer. Three exquisitely sculptured Jain temples dedicated to
Rishabhdevji, Sambhavanathji and the Ashthapadi temple are located within
the fort. Their ornamentation, done in the style of the Dilwara temples at
Mt. Abu, is marvelous. The emerald icon of Mahavira here is an unparalleled
gem.
A trip to Jaisalmer is incomplete without a visit to the most panoramic
Dunes of Sam, where the wind is unceasingly carving out scenic patterns on
this desert Sand. Truly the essence of the desert, the ripples of the Dunes
create a enchanting mirage. By visiting the Sam Sand dunes, it is possible
to get an insight into desert life from Jaisalmer itself! Camel rides on the
sand dunes are a thrilling experience, as is the brilliant sunset.
Where is Jaisalmer?
» By Air - During the peak tourist season,
Jaisalmer is expected to be connected by air to Delhi, Udaipur & Jaipur.
Alternatively, Jodhpur airport (290 kms) serves as a convenient gateway for
Jaisalmer.
» By Rail - Jaisalmer is connected to Jodhpur by
day as well as overnight trains. There is also an overnight service from
Jaipur, suitable for budget travellers only.
» By Road - It is well connected by good roads to
Jodhpur (290 kms), Bikaner via Pokran (330 kms), and Barmer via Devikot (153
kms).
