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Jaisalmer

The Medieval Indian City of Gold

For everyone looking for the True Indian Desert Experience, Jaisalmer is the place to be. Jaisalmer is a medieval city in the heart of the Thar desert, and is referred to as the ‘City of Gold.’ It is called the ‘City of Gold’ because of the structure across the city are built from yellow sandstone. The Jaisalmer Fort stands out prominently on top of the hill, and behind its massive walls is the King’s Palace. Jaisalmer was an important trading center during the medieval times and was founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD. The name Jaisalmer means the Hill Fort of Jaisal.

Jaisalmer is a city decorated by the majestic Fort and beautifully sculpted Jain Temples, and all of this happens between the magic of the Yellowstone’s golden glow. Jaisalmer truly is the Medieval Indian City of Gold.

History of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer had historically been an important port on the trade route from Central Asia and Northern India to Arabian Sea coasts in India and henceforth to Persia, Egypt, and Arabia. This made Jaisalmer a good economic center and presented a brilliant opportunity for the ruling clan to impose taxes for the passageway.

According to ancient Hindu mythology, Lord Krishna and Bhima had come to this spot (which had a massive triangular rock) to perform a ceremony. Lord Krishna had a vision that one day this place would be established into a great kingdom by the descendant of the Yadhuvanshi clan. Rawal Jaisal, a Yadhuvanshi Bhati prince, wanted to set up his capital in this place and chanced upon the Trikuta (massive triangular rock), where he met a sage. The sage told him about the prophecy and showed him the rock where it was carved.

In 1156 Rawal Jaisal established Jaisalmer and thus began the rule of Jaisalmer by the Bhati Rajput clan. During their reign, the capital was besieged by the Alauddin Khilji and by Firoz Shah Tughlaq but was reclaimed by the Bhati Rajput clan within a few years.

Jaisalmer remained the seat of power during the British Raj; however, the severe drought in 1895 that lasted five years really hit the economy of the kingdom hard. Over the years, Jaisalmer has become the city of legends and has the capability of transporting you back in time to the glorious past of the Bhati Rajput clan.

Demographic

Jaisalmer is spread over an area of 5.1 square kilometers and has over 670,000 inhabitants. The economy of Jaisalmer is majorly driven by Tourism, and its musician and dancer are world-renowned.

Weather
Jaisalmer has the arid desert weather and sees extremes of temperature. Winter temperatures can fluctuate between 5°C to 25°C, and in summers can fluctuate between 25°C to 49°C. Jaisalmer experiences very little rain over the year, with just over 8 inches of rain annually.

However, the beauty of the desert is like no other, and anyone who wants to experience it needs to visit Jaisalmer. The spectacular views of the Fort and the Desert are enough to make any traveler’s heart yearn for Jaisalmer.

Culture

Jaisalmer has a very rich cultural heritage and has been known for its valiant and colorful history. The lifestyle of the people of Jaisalmer has been curated by its medieval inhabitants and their socio-cultural practices.

The predominant religion practiced in Jaisalmer is Hinduism and has a huge Marwari community. Music and dance have been a very important part of the culture of Jaisalmer, and it has produced a large number of world-class musicians and dancers. Thus, all festival celebrations and cultural shows include singing and dancing. In fact, the Kalbeliya dance form comes from Jaisalmer.

There are strong influences of medieval indigenous people in the art and architecture of Jaisalmer. The presence of fine craftsmanship can be seen in the building and its walls, ceiling, and pillars. And all these beautiful aspects of Jaisalmer come together during their cultural events, particularly The Desert Festival of Jaisalmer. This is perhaps the grandest and most awaited festival of Rajasthan

The cultural extravaganza - Jaisalmer still holds on strongly to its medieval culture and heritage and has the power to transport you back into the times when the Bhati Rajputs ruled upon Jaisalmer. The tales of their valor and courage still echo through the lanes of Jaisalmer.

Language
Hindi and Marwari are the primary languages spoken in Jaisalmer. However, you will find some people using the Mewari, Dhundhari, Mewati, and Harauti dialects too. However, Jaisalmer could possibly have many other languages spoken in India due to its huge cultural mix of people from anywhere across the country. English is spoken in the city, and it is easy to spot someone who can speak in English comfortably.

When to Go?
Jaisalmer is a very popular tourist destination in the winters, but some travelers prefer to go to Jaisalmer during the spring and autumn as the city is less crowded, and the temperature is also not a deterrent. Summers tend to become rather hot and scorching in Jaisalmer, with temperature touching almost 50°C.

So, in short, Jaisalmer is definitely a destination for the cooler months of the year for travelers. However, days tend to be warm throughout the year in Jaisalmer.

How to Get There?

The roads to Jaisalmer are one of the most spectacular to ride or drive on. Through the myriads of sand dunes, a thin, long road traverse across the ‘Sands of Time,’ almost resembling an eternal snake. Some say that when traveling to Jaisalmer, it is not only about the destination but also the glorious journey to this city of the yesteryears.

Jaisalmer is closest to Jodhpur and Bikaner, both being about 270 kilometers away from it. The airport of Jaisalmer is about 17 kilometers away from the city, and for people who would want to drive from New Delhi to Jaisalmer should be prepared for a 14-15-hour journey.

Places to See in Jaisalmer

The Jaisalmer Fort
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Jaisalmer Fort is the crown of the Indian city of gold and is a mini-city with temples, houses, and shops. The fort is surrounded by 30 feet tall walls and was formerly known as ‘Trikut Garh’ as it stands on top of the Trikuta Hills.

The Fort was built in the year 1156, which also marks the beginning of the city of Jaisalmer. The fort is a must-see and must-visit place in Jaisalmer and is a pleasure for all history, architecture, culture, and religious buffs. The fort is in itself a destination to explore, and travelers should spend a great deal of time here.

Jain Temples of Jaisalmer Fort
The Jain temples inside the Jaisalmer Fort have tremendously religious and cultural significance. The temples are dedicated to the much revered Tirthankas (Jain hermits), Rikhabdevji, Chandraprabhu, Parsvanath, and Shambhadevji, and are carved in the world-famous Dilwara style architecture. In totality, there are seven interconnected temples. There is also a library that was founded in 1500 with some ageless manuscripts and is called the Gyan Bhandar.

This is the high point for all architecture and history buffs and should not be missed at any cost.

Kuldhara Village
This abandoned village with an eerie vibe stands in between the desolate desert and is the source of a lot of folklore. Kuldhara is situated 20 kilometers away from Jaisalmer and is the ruins of a once-populated village. The story goes that a tyrant who controlled this village caused such great agony to the people that they all evicted the village overnight. There are also many ghost-stories that originate out of Kuldhara. It is also a great place to do some photography and makes for some mind-blowing shots.

Desert National Park
A massive national park and one of its kinds in India, it covers almost an area of 3200 square kilometers. The National Park has unique terrain and a variety of wildlife like foxes, camels, deer, wolves, and birds. This park also has prehistoric significance as there has been a lot of fossil discovery that dates back to 180 million years.
This park is a must for all nature and paleontology lovers.

Gadisar Lake
Built-in the 14th century, the Gadisar Lake was built by Tilon ki Pol, for providing water to his settlement in the middle of the Thar desert. It is a beautiful lake with amazingly scenic views and must be visited during Sunrises and Sunsets. With birds flocking this water body from dusk to dawn, it is impossible not to get some spectacular shots.
It is perfect for spending some quiet time alone or some romantic time with your partner here. Situated very close to the fort, one should take some time out of the schedule to pay a visit.

Tazia Tower and Badal Palace
The Tazia Tower, made from wood and paper, and of the complex design, was built in honor of many imams of the Muslim religion. The Tazia tower was created by Muslim craftsmen and was gifted to the royalty of the Badal Palace. This five storey high tower has intricate designs and juts out of the cloud-like Badal Palace. The Badal Palace has the most exquisite carving on its walls and has the current Royal Family of Jaisalmer living in it.

Patwon ki Haveli
Built by the Patwa family, who were very wealthy merchants in the 19th century, the complex consists of five Havelis. The Haveli now comes under the Archaeological Survey of India and has tremendous architectural and historical importance. It is also the largest mansion in the city with superb mirror and mural work.

Bada Bagh
A large cluster of golden cenotaphs set in between a garden is what is Bada Bagh. Literally meaning the Big Garden, it is a huge garden in between the arid desert. Each cenotaph is dedicated to a Rajput Kings of the Jaisalmer Family and has cenotaphs for each of them for the last six centuries. And the cherry on the icing is perhaps the windmill set in a distance.

Another great place in Jaisalmer for photography, the garden appears to be a mirage from a distance owing to the color of the cenotaphs matching that of the color of the sand all around.

Akal Wood Fossil Park
A National Geographical Monument of India; this a prehistoric wood fossil park is 17 kilometers away from Jaisalmer and spread over 20 hectares of barren land and rock. There are many signs in the area to prove that it was indeed under the sea at some point in time, like the Gastropod shells. The place is a dream destination for any archaeology fans and has way too much history there.

Things to Do in Jaisalmer

Sam Sand Dunes
Around 40 kilometers away from Jaisalmer, rising up to 60 meters above the ground is the Sam Sand Dunes. Located at the border of the Desert National Park and in the middle of nowhere in the Thar desert, the Sam Sand Dunes are a marvel of nature. Spread over an area of 2 kilometers, it is the perfect place for watching the sunrise and set.

There are many other activities that can be engaged in, as it is a very popular tourist area.
Travelers should definitely try:

Camel Desert Safari
Jeep Desert Safari
Backpacker’s Desert Safari
Moon Safari
Dune Bashing
Quad Biking
Parasailing
Camping
Stay in Royal Tent in the Desert with Authentic Rajasthani Cuisine
Cultural Shows

Desert Festival of Jaisalmer
The most important and eagerly awaited event of the year (in Rajasthan) is the Desert Festival of Jaisalmer. The vibrant and colorful culture of the true Rajasthan comes to light in this annual event. Held in front of the Jaisalmer Fort in the month of February, the festival is the best way to immerse into the cultural heritage of Jaisalmer and soak up its vibrant past.

Artistes from all around Rajasthan come to attend the festival and showcase their talents in folk dance and music. There are also many games, competitions, and performances at this event. The highlights though, are the camel shows and events.

This is also the best time to visit Jaisalmer, as the weather is pleasant and to experience the city in its former glory and beauty. The Desert Festival of Jaisalmer is a magical experience that is surely worthy of being on anyone’s bucket list.

Desert Culture Centre and Museum
A repository of history, cultural heritage, and artistry of Jaisalmer is the Desert Culture Centre and Museum. With a massive collection of antique artifacts of the medieval era, this place is like a candy store for the history and antique fanatics.

India-Pakistan Border near Jaisalmer
With the proper permission taken from the Indian Army, one can see the India Pakistan Border near Jaisalmer. Very close to the Tanot Mata Temple, one can see the ‘No Man’s Land’ and Pakistan from this spot.

The place has a magical ability to bring out the nationalism and patriotism in every Indian’s heart. The tales of bravery, valor, and tragedy can soften the toughest hearts.

Other Places to be Explored
Some other places to be explored around Jaisalmer are:

Nathmal ki Haveli
Salim Singh ki Haveli
Mandir Palace
Vyas Chhatri
Amar Sagar Lake
Khaba Fort
Jaisalmer Government Museum
Jaisalmer War Museum
Thar Heritage Museum
Ramdevra Temple
Shantinath Temple

Places to Eat in Jaisalmer

The Trio
Near the Mandir Palace, this regal restaurant reminds you of the bygone era of Jaisalmer. The authentic Rajasthani cuisine offered here is unlike any other place. The view of the market adds to the rustic charm of the environment, coupled with the high ceiling, makes your meal a tad bit more princely.

Recommended Items: Dal Tadka and Chane ka Acchar

Jaisal Italy
This fine-dining Italian restaurant on top of the Jaisalmer Fort’s boundary wall has the most majestic view of all of the city. The cuisine is exquisitely Italian and focuses on the subtle flavors and wholesome experience.

Recommended Items: Pizza (Veg/Non-Veg) with Chardonnay

Café the Kaku
This rooftop restaurant is built atop an 850 years old bastion and offers multiple international cuisines like Japanese, Mexican, Chinese, and Indian. A pastoral setup completed with Khats (rural style beds) and hookahs. This place is perfect for watching the sunset with scrumptious food and your family. This place, too, has a mesmerizing view of the city.

Recommended Items: Rajasthani Cuisine

Desert Boy’s Dhani
This strictly vegetarian rooftop restaurant ensures the decadent experience you are looking for. Dinners are usually coupled with cultural performances and puppet shows. Candle-light dinners with folk music are definitely meant for that perfect you wanted.

Recommended Items: Bajre ki Chapati and Malai Kofta

Milan Restaurant
This quaint restaurant focuses only on their food and has done a brilliant job at it. The traditional food here is loved by the locals and has much to offer is both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Recommended Items: Lal Maas and Chicken Tangdi; Vegetable Kebabs

Killa Restaurant
Killa in Hindi means a Fort, and the restaurant’s ambiance lives up to its name. A laidback setup with folk music is perfect for enjoying a quiet dinner with family after a long day of sight-seeing.

Recommended Items: Paneer Kissa and Seekh Kebabs

Places to Stay in Jaisalmer

The best options to stay in Jaisalmer are:

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa
Overlooking the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer Marriott is perhaps the most visit resort in the city. Marriott’s world-class hospitality is unmissable, and when you add the royal ways of Jaisalmer, then the result of the combination is always princely.

Suryagarh Palace
One of the best resorts to stay, The Suryagarh Palace, is redefined luxury with complete absorption of their guests into the exotic Rajputana heritage and their princely ways. Plan a stay to feel how the kings and queens lived in the yesteryears.

Nirvana Nature Resort
Set in between the desert, this resort is perfect for getting away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Great for guests of all ages, solo travelers can camp here, and newly married couples can really enjoy some alone-time too.

Desert Tulip Hotel & Resort
This resort is great for group female and solo travelers. The resort has a mind-blowing service and offers a world-class luxury experience. The facilities in this resort meet the standards of the most demanding customers.

Club Mahindra Jaisalmer
The resort is located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer and is built like a princely Haveli with all the modern amenities one could ask for. The resort offers amazing views of the desert and provides rest to tired souls.

Heritage Queen Sam Desert Camp
If you are searching for decadence in between the desert, then the Heritage Queen Sam Desert Camp is the place to stay in. Right in between the desert is a unique setup is the true experience of the desert. However, none of the luxuries have been compromised upon. Well, when in Jaisalmer, one should be expecting luxury everywhere, just like the Maharajas and Maharanis did.

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