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Jaisalmer offers a host of places to visit with each taking pride in its beauty and grandeur. A city where history meets class, where the desert comes to life with intriguing events, where architecture leaves you spellbound and activities keep you on your toes, where local and international cuisines are a treat and not to forget the visit to the local markets that have a range of handicrafts to pick from. The beautiful city has remarkable things to offer to one and all. Preserving its tradition yet offering a taste of modernity, Jaisalmer offers several tiny gems to explore.
Located on the Trikuta hill, the fort is an ancient beauty that is still home to human kind. Named after the owner Rawal Jaisal, the fort was part of the important ancient trade routes. Standing tall, this huge structure is artistically carved in yellow sandstone and has four gateways that guard the fort. The intricately done balconies are charming and the traditional Rajasthani murals at different corners makes this a beautiful site to visit. The major attraction being the Raj Mahal palace, other interesting points include Moti Mahal, Beda Vilas etc. Jain temples and scriptures are a part of this fort too.
What can be more fun than exploring the spectacular Thar desert on the back of a camel? This ship of the desert has been the reliable transport in the desert from ancient times. The Great India Desert ideally deserves a two-day stay, allowing you to explore the golden beauty well. The silence in the desert is soothing and offers a much-needed break from city life. Between the ride do take a pit stop to learn about the village life in the vast desert and enjoy a sundowner at...
This man-made lake is a refreshing site to visit amidst the sand dunes. This sparkling beauty was built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh and has been a tourist attraction for years. Going by history it is said this lake used to once provide water to the entire city. The lake is surrounded by beautiful temples and historical sites, get on a hand rowed boat to explore the surrounding scenic points.
Havelis are lavish mansions which were owned by royalty and the high ranked courtsmen from the royal courts. Jaisalmer has some of the most beautifully structured havelis. One of the popular haveli, Kothari Patwa, depicts architecture which is inspired by the Victorian, Rajput and Mughal eras. Each pillar, balcony is carved stunningly and decorated with expensive artefacts imported from various countries in those times. Apart from this, Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli, The Salim Singh Haveli, Nachana, and Jawahar Nivas Palace are some of the marvellous architectural beauties to check out.
A visit to Jaisalmer is truly incomplete without visiting the market streets that offer a range of handicrafts products to shop from. There are several bazaars that display ethnic jewellery, footwear and crafts made from camel leather, textiles, traditional footwear, puppets, colourful fabrics, bags and numerous decorative pieces to adorn your home. Sadar Bazaar, Bhatia Bazaar, and Pansari Bazaar are some of the well-known places to go street shopping.
Bada Bagh, which literally means a big garden, was built for the Maharajas and their family. It has a collection of several beautifully constructed monuments referred to as chhatris. Built in yellow sandstone, they are decorated with sculptures and inscriptions. Watching the sunrise from this historical place is a perfect way to start your day. The golden light that spreads across the intricately carved structure is a sight to behold.
Experiencing the desert at night under the blanket of stars is a mesmerising moment. Sam Sand Dunes is the right spot to live in the desert at night and enjoy folk performances of local artists. If you are an adventure lover, the mornings here have amazing safaris and activities for you. Explore the sandy terrains with quad biking. Zooming around the dunes on these bikes has its own thrill and is one of the best activities to indulge in.
Going by the fables, this abandoned village got destroyed due to a curse. Back then, Kuldhara was a thriving community, unlike today, where it stands deserted with no traces of human life. It is a popular choice among tourists as they get to explore the mysterious location and hear the tales passed on by generations. To get a sneak peek into the ancient lives of villages, this spot is a must-visit. A guide will always come in handy as they can help you navigate through the lanes with ease.
The dancing puppets are a show-stopper in Jaisalmer. Dressed in typical Rajasthani style, the puppets narrate stories or dance to folk tunes. They certainly are an attraction for kids and adults. Although puppet shows are easily seen at various events and tourist sites, you can also choose to visit Desert Culture and Museum. A great entertainment, you must surely stop and witness the puppets come alive.
The desert comes alive with the Jaisalmer desert festival, where people flock every year in the month of February to sing, dance and take part in several activities. Some of the interesting competitions include camel race, turban tying, tug of war, and person with the longest moustache. Winning the Mr. The Desert Pageant title is the most attractive event that attracts a large crowd both local and internationally. The desert festival is a flamboyant event that lets you relish local cuisine, shop some of the best handicrafts and...
