Jaisalmer, the “Golden City of Rajasthan,” is a mesmerizing desert destination in Rajasthan, India. Its crowning glory is the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a living fort housing shops, temples, and homes. Beyond the fort, the city offers captivating experiences like camel safaris into the undulating sand dunes of the Thar Desert, providing stunning sunset views. Intricately carved havelis (mansions) showcase the city’s rich architectural heritage. Jaisalmer’s vibrant bazaars offer unique handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The city’s blend of history, culture, and desert landscapes makes it an unforgettable tourist destination. Jaisalmer tourist places contribute significantly to Rajasthan tour.
Table of Content
- Within Jaisalmer Fort Complex
- Within Jaisalmer City
- Places near Jaisalmer City
- Desert Experience in Jaisalmer
- Further from Jaisalmer | Day Trips
Within Jaisalmer Fort Complex
Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila (Golden Fort), is a magnificent historical fort located in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world. A major tourist attraction in Jaisalmer that draws visitors from all over the world to experience its rich history and cultural heritage. Here are some key facts about Jaisalmer Fort:
- Rawal Jaisal, a Rajput ruler, built it in 1156 AD, and the city of Jaisalmer takes its name from him.
- The fort is located on the Trikuta Hill in the Thar Desert, offering spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.
- People call it “Sonar Quila” because of the golden sandstone used in its construction, which makes its walls blend seamlessly with the desert landscape.
- It is a “living fortress”, as about a quarter of the city’s population still lives within its walls.
- It has a triple ring of walls with 99 bastions, providing a formidable defence.
Jain Temples | Complex of Seven Temples
The Jain temples within the Jaisalmer Fort are truly remarkable places. They are testimony to the exquisite craftsmanship and architectural brilliance of the Jain community. The fort houses a cluster of seven Shvetambara Jain temples, all of which were built between the 12th and 16th centuries. These temples are famous for their intricate carvings, delicate sculptures and stunning designs, which are often compared to the famous Dilwara temples of Mount Abu. Each temple is dedicated to a different Tirthankara (a spiritual leader in Jainism). These temples are as follows –
- Parshvanath Temple – the oldest and the most elaborate, which houses a black marble idol of Lord Parshvanath.
- Chandraprabha Temple – known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings on the dome.
- Rishabhnath Temple – which houses the idol of the first Tirthankara Lord Rishabhanatha.
- Sambhavnath Temple – A large temple with over 600 idols and a grand library called Gyan Bhandar. This magnificent library housed within the Sambhavnath temple houses ancient handwritten manuscripts dating back to the 12th century on palm leaves and Bhojpatra (birch bark). It is a treasure trove of knowledge and history.
- Sheetalnath Temple – Dedicated to Sheetalnath, the 10th Tirthankara, this temple is known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful sculptures.
- Shantinath Temple – have magnificent carvings and artworks.
- Kunthunath Temples – also have magnificent carvings and artworks.
Jaisalmer’s Jain temples are a must-see. These beautiful temples offer a peaceful space in the city. Visitors are immersed in a spiritual atmosphere. The walls, ceilings, and pillars are covered with detailed carvings of animals, people, and gods. This shows the amazing skill of the artists. The temples are decorated with frescoes, mirrors, and other fine details. These decorations reflect Jainism’s rich cultural past. The temple architecture blends Rajput and Jain styles. A glimpse of Jaisalmer’s rich cultural heritage is offered by them. The skill and artistry of the builders are shown by these temples. Anyone interested in Jainism, architecture, or history should visit these temples. Their beauty and the history of Jainism will amaze visitors.
Within Jaisalmer City
Patwa Haveli (Patwon ki Haveli)
Patwa Haveli, also called Patwon ki Haveli, is a famous group of five big, fancy houses in Jaisalmer, India. A rich trader named Guman Chand Patwa built them for his sons in 1805. These houses are known for their beautiful design, with lots of detailed carvings and balconies. They’re made of yellow sandstone, which is common in Jaisalmer. One of the houses is now a museum where you can see how people lived back then. You can see old furniture, artwork, and even how they used to store their valuables. Patwa Haveli is a popular place to visit in Jaisalmer because it shows off the city’s rich history and the amazing skills of the people who built it.
The Patwa Haveli, also known as the Kothari’s Patwon Ki Haveli, is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved haveli in Jaisalmer. The haveli is a popular tourist attraction in Jaisalmer and it is known for its intricate carvings, furniture, and artwork. Here are some additional details about the Patwa Haveli –
- The haveli has five floors and a central courtyard.
- The ground floor contains a large courtyard, a prayer hall, and a reception room.
- The upper floors contain bedrooms, living rooms, and dining rooms.
- The haveli also has a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of the city and the fort.
- The Patwa Haveli is now a museum that displays a collection of antique furniture, paintings, and other artifacts.
- The haveli is open to the public from 9:30 AM to 6:30 PM daily.
- The entry fee is Rs. 50 for Indians and Rs. 200 for foreigners.
Gadisar Lake (Gadi Sagar Tank)
Gadisar Lake, also known as Gadi Sagar Tank, is a beautiful man-made lake in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. It was built in the 14th century by Maharawal Gadsi Singh to provide water to the city.
Surrounded by temples, shrines, and ghats, the lake is a serene and picturesque spot. The most famous structure here is the Tilon Ki Pol, a magnificent gateway that leads to the lake. You can also see the beautiful sandstone architecture of the Jaisalmer Fort reflected in the lake’s waters. Gadisar Lake is a popular spot for boating, and you can rent a paddleboat or rowboat to explore the lake at your own pace. The lake is also home to a variety of birds, making it a great place for birdwatching.
Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the city or a place to enjoy the natural beauty of Rajasthan, Gadisar Lake is a must-visit destination during the trip to Jaisalmer.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Salim Singh Ki Haveli is a beautiful mansion built in the 19th century by Salim Singh, the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. It is located in the heart of Jaisalmer city and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
The mansion is known for its unique architecture, which is a blend of Rajput and Islamic styles. It is made of yellow sandstone and decorated with intricate carvings. The mansion has 35 balconies, each of which is unique in design. The most striking feature of the mansion is its peacock-shaped roof.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli was built as a symbol of Salim Singh’s power and authority. It is said that he built the mansion even higher than the Maharaja’s palace, but the king ordered the top two floors to be demolished.
The mansion is now a popular tourist point and is open to the general public. It is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Jaisalmer.
Nathmal ji ki Haveli
Nathmal Ki Haveli, located in the heart of Jaisalmer, is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. Built by two brothers, Hathi and Lulu, the haveli showcases a unique blend of Rajput and Islamic architectural styles. The intricate carvings on the exterior walls and the delicate jharokhas (balconies) are a testament to the craftsmanship of the artisans of that era. The Havili’s interior is equally impressive, with beautifully decorated rooms and courtyards. Today, Nathmal Ki Haveli is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Jaisalmer.
The Thar Heritage Museum
The Thar Heritage Museum, established in 2006 by Laxmi Narayan Khatri, is a captivating cultural center in Jaisalmer. It provides a fascinating glimpse into the rich heritage of the Thar Desert. The museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts, including folk art, traditional clothing, musical instruments, and ancient fossils.
Visitors can explore exhibits detailing the region’s history, customs, and the daily life of its people. The museum also highlights the unique art and crafts of the area, as well as the geological history of the Thar Desert. It’s a must-visit for those seeking to understand the cultural and historical significance of this remarkable region.
Vyas Chhatri
Vyas Chhatri, in the Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, is a striking collection of cenotaphs. These domed structures, called chhatris, commemorate the sage Vyasa, writer of the Mahabharata. They showcase the area’s rich cultural heritage and impressive architecture.
The detailed carvings and the golden sandstone construction of the chhatris create a beautiful scene, especially at sunrise and sunset. The site provides wide views of Jaisalmer Fort and the desert landscape, making it a favorite spot for photography and sightseeing. It’s a place where history, architecture, and spirituality come together, giving visitors a taste of Rajasthan’s magnificent past.
Light and Sound Show at Jaisalmer Fort
The Light and Sound show at Jaisalmer Fort is a captivating spectacle that brings the fort’s rich history to life. Through a dynamic combination of colorful lights, evocative music, and compelling narration, the show recounts the tales of the fort’s rulers, battles, and cultural heritage. Projected onto the fort’s majestic walls, the lights highlight its architectural grandeur while the narration weaves together historical facts and local legends. The experience offers a unique and immersive way to learn about Jaisalmer’s past, making it a memorable highlight for visitors.
Places near Jaisalmer City
Discover the wonders beyond the golden walls of Jaisalmer with these short drives to attractions near Jaisalmer. Visit ancient temples and historical sites, such as the serene Amar Sagar Lake and the Bada Bagh. Experience the local culture and crafts in nearby villages, which offer a glimpse of rural Rajasthani life. These short drives around Jaisalmer will leave you awestruck. Let’s check –
Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh, meaning “big garden,” is a captivating site located a few kilometers north of Jaisalmer. It’s not your typical garden with flowers and trees, but rather a complex of royal cenotaphs, or chhatris, built to commemorate the Maharajas of Jaisalmer.
These intricately carved sandstone structures stand on a hill overlooking a now-dry lake, creating a dramatic and serene atmosphere. Each chhatri is unique in size and design, reflecting the status of the ruler it honors. Bada Bagh offers a glimpse into the history and architecture of Jaisalmer, and it’s a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset when the golden light bathes the structures in a warm glow.
Amar Sagar Lake
Amar Sagar Lake, is a scenic oasis in the arid desert landscape. Though often dry, when it does have water, the lake offers a tranquil escape and a beautiful contrast to the surrounding desert. Visitors appreciate this lake’s peaceful environment. People call the series of stairs leading to the lake Amar Sagar Pol.
The lake complex also includes a small, historic Shiva temple and some old wells, adding to its charm. While not always filled with water, Amar Sagar Lake and its surrounding structures provide a glimpse into the region’s history and the ingenuity of desert dwellers in managing scarce water resources. It’s a pleasant spot for a quiet visit, offering a sense of serenity amidst the desert’s grandeur.
Desert Experiences In Jaisalmer
Explore the serene sand dunes of the Thar Desert, perfect for camel safaris and stunning sunsets. Best time to visit Jaisalmer is Maru Mahotsav.
Thar Desert of Jaisalmer
A large arid region in the western state of Rajasthan is known as the Thar Desert. It is the Thar Desert that holds Jaisalmer in its heart. During a visit to this desert, you will notice that the temperature here remains very high.
The main attractions of the Thar Desert are sand dunes, beautiful sunrises and sunsets, thorny vegetation and some desert animals. The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including camels, desert foxes and various bird species.
To explore the Thar Desert, camel safaris on the dunes and camping under the stars at night are very beneficial. Adventure lovers can also enjoy roaming the sand dunes in a jeep or quad biking. This gives you a glimpse of this vast and serene desert.
Whether you are looking for adventure, want to learn about some culture or just want to have a unique vacation, a trip to the Thar Desert is a trip you will never forget.
Suryagarh (Luxury Desert Resort)
Suryagarh, a breathtaking luxury hotel in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, stands as a modern-day desert fortress. Its design, crafted from the same golden sandstone as the famed Jaisalmer Fort, evokes a sense of regal grandeur. The hotel masterfully blends traditional Rajasthani architectural elements with contemporary luxury, showcasing intricate carvings, expansive courtyards, and imposing ramparts. Guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of opulence from the moment they arrive.
Beyond its architectural splendor, Suryagarh offers an unparalleled experience. Lavish rooms and suites, each thoughtfully designed with modern comforts, provide stunning views of the surrounding desert landscape. A variety of dining options cater to every taste, from authentic Rajasthani cuisine to international delicacies. Guests can indulge in relaxation at the spa, refresh in the pool, or stay active at the fitness center. Furthermore, Suryagarh curates unique experiences, allowing guests to explore the desert through camel safaris, cultural performances, and visits to local attractions, creating lasting memories.
Further from Jaisalmer | Day Trips
Kuldhara (Abandoned village)
Kuldhara, a deserted village near Jaisalmer, tells the tales of a vanished community. The Paliwal Brahmins once flourished here, but the village mysteriously deserted, leaving behind only ruins. Legends of a tyrannical ruler and a curse tell the tale of the horrifying history of Kuldhara. Even today, remains of houses and temples can be seen. Perhaps these remains can unravel the mysteries of this haunted village.
Desert National Park
The Desert National Park, located near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, protects the unique ecosystem of the Thar Desert. It is a haven for diverse wildlife including the Great Indian Bustard, desert fox and chinkara. The landscape of the park consists of sand dunes, rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, reflecting the unmatched beauty of the desert. Visitors can explore the park through jeep safaris, experiencing the thrill of exploring the desert and spotting wildlife.
Akal Wood Fossil Park
Akal Wood Fossil Park showcases fossilized remains of a 180-million-year-old forest. Explore petrified tree trunks and learn about the Jurassic period. It’s a National Geological Monument, revealing the ancient past of Thar Desert. The park offers a unique glimpse into prehistoric life and a changing environment.
Tanot Mata Temple
Tanot Mata Temple, located near the India-Pakistan border in Rajasthan, is a revered shrine. Devotees believe the goddess Tanot Mata protects the region and its people. During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, bombs miraculously failed to detonate near the temple, strengthening its reputation. Visitors can still see some of these unexploded bombs on display within the temple complex. The temple’s remote location and historical significance make it a unique pilgrimage site.
Longewala War Memorial
The Longewala War Memorial commemorates the Battle of Longewala, a pivotal moment in the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. It stands as a tribute to the bravery and resilience of the Indian soldiers who defended the post against a much larger enemy force. Visitors can see preserved tanks, jeeps, and other war artifacts from the battle. The memorial provides information about the battle strategy and the heroic actions of the soldiers. It serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made and the importance of national pride.
Jaisalmer War Museum
The Jaisalmer War Museum showcases the bravery and sacrifices of Indian soldiers in the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars. It displays captured Pakistani tanks, weapons, and other war artifacts. The museum honors the war heroes and provides insights into the battles fought in the region. Visitors can learn about the strategic importance of Jaisalmer during these conflicts. It serves as a tribute to the courage and resilience of the Indian armed forces.
Ramdevra Temple
1. Ramdevra Temple, near Jaisalmer, is a revered shrine dedicated to Baba Ramdevji, a folk deity of Rajasthan.
2. Hindus consider him an incarnation of Lord Krishna, while Muslims revere him as Ramshah Pir.
3. The temple marks Baba Ramdevji final resting place, where he took Samadhi (conscious exit from the mortal body).
4. Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner built the temple in the early 1900s, honoring the saint’s legacy.
5. Devotees from various backgrounds visit the temple to seek blessings and pay homage to Baba Ramdevji.
6. The annual Ramdevra Fair, held in August-September, attracts thousands of pilgrims with vibrant celebrations and cultural performances.
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