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Much has been written about Jaisalmer, but nothing can prepare the visitor for
the sheer magic and brilliance of this Desert City. Very few cities can boast
of the magnificence, which surrounds Jaisalmer. Here is a fort that seems to
rise out of desert haze, its yellow sandstone walls and bastions taking on a
golden hue in the afternoon sun. Rawal Jaisal laid the foundation of this city
in 1156 after consulting a local hermit by the name of Eesul. Tricuta was the
hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Lodurva and established this
new capital. The Bhatti Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feared bandit chiefs who
lived off the forced levies on the great caravans that crossed their territory
enroute to Delhi.
The caravans, laden with precious cargoes of spices and silk, brought great
wealth to this town. Not only the princes but also even the merchants
prospered and their riches are displayed on the exquisitely carved and
ornamented havelies which they built. Because of its remote location,
Jaisalmer for years remained untouched by outside influences and during the
British Raj, the Ruler of Jaisalmer was the last to sign the instrument of
agreement with the British. Akbar, the great Mughal Emperor, was born in
Amarkot, now in Pakistan, but close to Jaisalmer. This remote desert citadel
is today famous for its carved havelies, its cobbled streets and its ancient
Jain temples.
Places of Interest
Jaisalmer Fort - The fort stands almost 100 meters over the city and also
houses an entire living area within its huge ramparts. It is approached
through Ganesh Pol. Suraj Pol, Bhoota Pol and Hava Pol is other main entrance,
which guard the Megh Durbar and Jawahar Mahal. Also in the inner enclosure are
a group of Jain temples dating from the 12th to the 15th Centuries.
Aakal - 16 kms from Jaisalmer, is a Fossil Park where 180 million years ago
stood a forest. The fossil tree trunks lie scattered in this part.
Manek Chowk - Outside the fort is the main market place called Manek Chowk,
which is the centre of local activity. From Manek Chowk one can walk into the
lanes where the famous carved havelis are to be found. Patwon-ki-Haveli,
Nathmali-ki-Haveli and Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli are among the better- known
havelies here. Built mainly during the 18th and 19th century, the carving in
the havelies of Jaisalmer are of a most superior quality.
Other areas of interest are the Gadisar Lake, Bhattiani Sati-Rani, and the
royal cenotaphs at Bara Bagh. Lodurva is located 16kms north west of Jaisalmer
and is an important Jain pilgrimage. Also to be found are ruins of the ancient
township. From Jaisalmer it is possible to get an insight into desert life by
visiting Sam. Camel rides on the sand dunes are an unforgettable experience
are the sunsets.
Jaisalmer is also the location of the famous Winter Festival, which brings
together musicians, dancers and other performers of this region.
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