Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer or the 'Golden City' is located in the heart of the Thar Desert. Gold is synonymous with richness and Jaisalmer is aptly known as the golden city, for it is rich in heritage. It was founded by Rao Jaisal in 1156 A.D. Bhati Rajputs ruled here in the past. Most of the known structures of Jaisalmer which have historic importance had been built in yellow sandstone. In the bygone era Jaisalmer has served as an important part of the trade route connecting India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. At one point of time the merchants of Jaisalmer became more powerful than the rulers. Rich merchants even built several huge and stunning Havelis.

Jaisalmer Fort is most impressive; located in the huge Thar Desert, its fairy- tale like beauty draws a lot of tourists. It is also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden fort as it spreads over a long stretch of golden colored sand. The medieval era is clearly reflected in the unique architecture of the fort. There are five Jain temples inside the fort.

Patwon Ki Haveli is known for its remarkable lattice work.

Salim Singh Ki Haveli is one the oldest havelis in Rajasthan. Its beautiful arched roofs with carved brackets in the form of peacock deserve special mention.

Desert National Park: Desert, sand dunes, rough rocks, pavements and wood fossils form the topography of the Desert National Park. Population of the fauna is quite good here encompassing blackbuck, chinkara, wolf, Indian fox, desert fox, hare, desert cat and great Indian bustard. The topography also supports the existence of spiny-tail lizard. Avian species found here are sand grouse, gray partridge, quails, peafowl and some insects eating birds like bee-eaters, shrikes, orioles, drongos, warblers and babblers. The park has played an important role in their preservation.

Desert Festival is one of the most colorful festivals organized on the golden sand of Jaisalmer. It is celebrated between January to February. Traditional musicians and dancers set the stage on fire with their mind blowing performances. Camel dances, camel races, and camel polo, competitions for the best decorated camel, tug-of-war between muscle men, a turban tying competition and a 'Mr. Desert' contest are the main highlights of this festival.

The bazaars of Jaisalmer offer a great collection of rugs, bedsheets, table cloth with mirror work. Leather items like bags, hats, purses, jutties with embroidery. Silver jewelry is also available in numerous designs.