JAISALMER

Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, one of Rajasthan’s famous towns is also most exotic and unusual towns of India. Situated at the desert breast of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is also known as the ‘Golden City’ and the ‘living museum’. In fact, travellers who make the effort to visit the town never get disappointed in this medieval looking place, as they see something right out of the tales of the Arabian Nights. Centuries ago Jaisalmer’s strategic position on the camel train routes between India and Central Asia brought great wealth to the town. During that period the merchants and townspeople built magnificent houses and mansions – all exquisitely carved from the golden yellow sandstone. From the big shops to the magnificent palaces and temples in the fort, the whole town glows in the same golden colour. Even today new buildings are designed to match in with the old buildings.

The Old City is completely surrounded by a lofty fort wall and within this a hill rises with more fortified walls. Jaisalmer’s Jain Temples and the old palace are one this hilltop. Built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, the Jaisalmer Fort crowns the 80 mts high Trikuta hill. You can have the very fine view of the old city from the fort walls. Jaisalmer’s seven storey palace stands just within the first entrance of the fort. Within the fort walls there are carved balconies and cupolas and the Satiyon ki Sidhiyan where women became satis. Just below the hill is the central market where you will find a variety of items. Jaisalmer is famous for embroidery, Rajasthani mirror work, rugs, blankets, old stone work and antiques. At Kadi Bundar, situated to the north of the city, tie dye and other fabrics are made.

Jaisalmer is known for its havelis (mansions) which are built couple of centuries back. Built by Jaisalmer’s wealthy merchants these fine sandstone buildings are still in good condition. Patwon ki Haveli is the most elaborate and magnificent of all the havelis in Jaisalmer. Salim Singh ki Haveli was constructed about 300 years ago and is partially lived in. Built in late 19th century, Nathmal ki Haveli was a also a prime minister’s house. Besides havelis, another attraction of Jaisalmer include Gadi Sagar Tank.

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