Jaisalmer Tourism

Jaisalmer Tourism | Jaisalmer Tour Packages | Tourist Places Jaisalmer | Jaisalmer Tourism Packages - The city of Jaisalmer is named after Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput ruler. He founded the city in 1156. A local hermit advised him to set up his new residence on the Tricut Hills, abandoning the old fort at Luderwa. During the medieval times, Jaisalmer served as the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The 13th century saw the Jaisalmer fort being besieged for 9 years by the emperor of Delhi, Ala-ud-din Khilji. When the defeat of the fort seemed impending, the women folk committed Jauhar (self immolation).

The battle with Ala-ud-din Khilji resulted in the death of Duda, son of Jaitasimha and a Bhatti hero. Jaisalmer continued to be ruled by the descendants of Duda afterwards. The year 1541 saw another battle in Jaisalmer, with Mughal Emperor Himayun. Later Sabala Simha ruled Jaisalmer under the patronage of Mughal Emperor Shahajahan. He earned this right as a reward for battle distinctions in Peshawar. During the British rule, the state of Jaisalmer was the last to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British.

The city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India is divided into two parts - the old city and the new city. Once surrounded by a now battered wall, the old city has seen ages coming and going on. Amongst the many attractions of the city, the main one is Jaisalmer fort. Built in the 12th century, this fort provides a magnificent view of the golden desert below. The other attractions include massive havelis built by wealthy merchants of Jaisalmer. Also, a desert safari of the city, providing a glimpse of sand dunes, will leave you with a sight forever etched in your memory.

Withstanding the harsh climate and battering winds of the desert, the city of Jaisalmer has kept its age-old charm. Jaisalmer travel and tourism will take you back to the royal bygone era of the once princely state. The age-old traditions and culture of the city makes it a unique experience. This desert city weaves magic on you, leaving you speechless and mesmerized. The hostile terrain of the city fades in front of the warmth and hospitality of its people.

Jaisalmer Desert Festival: The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival, held in Jan/Feb. every year, when the city reverberates to the sound of melodious tunes and rhythms. Folk dances, exciting competitions an contests, especially the turban-tying contest. Mr. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivities. Colorful craft bazaars are set up for the occasion and a sound and light spectacle is organized wit folk artists performing against the splendid backdrop of the famous Sam sand dunes on the full moon night. Surely a not-to-be missed event.

Sonar Fort (Jaisalmer Fort): Jaisalmer, Rajasthan sightseeing tour must include a visit to the Jaisalmer fort. Jaisalmer fort is the second oldest fort in the state of Rajasthan. It hovers on a 250 feet high hilltop, providing an amazing view of the vast desert below. The fort has five palaces namely, Sarvottam Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal. Exquisitely carved jail screens were put up to protect the interiors of the palaces from the desert storms and sweltering heat. The arches and spandrels of the palaces have been painted with mesmerizing murals. The fort has four namely, Akhai Pole (Ganesh Pole), Suraj Pole, Bhuta Pole and Hawa Pole. There is also an umbrella, Meghadamber, perched on the highest point of the place that represents Lord Krishna.

Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli: Nathmal ji ki haveli was the result of the efforts of two architect brothers. Built in the 19th century, the haveli is an epitome of side-by-side symmetry. Standing as guards to the haveli are huge tuskers carved out of yellow sandstone. The attractions of the haveli include miniature style paintings adorning the walls on the inside.



Salim Singh Ki Haveli: Salim Singh was the Prime Minister of the princely state of Jaisalmer. The haveli is named after him only. It is located just below the hill. Built about 300 years ago, the haveli has an arched roof with carved brackets in the form of Peacocks. A portion of the haveli is still occupied. It is said that at one point of time the haveli had two additional wooden stories. It made the haveli as high as the Maharaja's palace. However, the maharaja got the upper story demolished.

Patwon Ji Ki Haveli: This five story high haveli is one of the largest and most intricate havelis in Jaisalmer. The haveli is beautifully and extensively carved. The haveli is divided into six apartments. Two apartments are taken over by Archaeological Survey of India, two by families operating craft-shops and two are converted into private homes. Some of the inside walls still contain paintings and mirror work.

Tazia Tower: Some Muslim craftsmen constructed the Tazia tower to give as a gift to their royal benefactor. Rising from Badal Mahal (Cloud Palace), the five-tiered tower looks splendid. A skillfully carved balcony beautifies each story of the tower.

Gadsisar Lake: Gadsisar is an artificial lake built by Maharawal Gadsi in 14th century. This rainwater lake served as the main source of water for entire town at that time. The embankments of the lake house numerous small temple & shrines. The road to the lake has a beautiful gateway arching across it. It was built by a royal courtesan Tillon in the latter half of 19th century.

Climate
The climate of Jaisalmer is very hot and dry. Jaisalmer weather in the summer season is pretty warm. Lasting from April to October, summers experience an average temperature in the range of the 41.6° C (max) to 25° C (min). At times, the temperature may even rise to 45° C. The climatic conditions of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan in winters are windy and chilly. The average temperature varies between 23.6° C (max) to 7.9° C (min).Jaisalmer does not receive much of rainfall. The annual average rainfall is approximately 15 cm. Best time to visit Jaisalmer is during the period of October to March.

How to Reach Jaisalmer
By Air: The nearest airport is the Jodhpur airport, 285 Km away from Jaisalmer. There is an airport at Jaisalmer also but that is managed by the Indian Air Force and is operational only from September to March. The Jodhpur airport, about 285 km from Jaisalmer is a good option.
By Rail: Jaisalmer is well connected by rail network with Jodhpur as well as other major cities of India such as Jaipur, Agra, New Delhi and Mumbai.
By Road: Jaisalmer has a well-developed network of roads and is very well connected to other cities of Rajasthan such as Jaipur, Jodhpur and Bikaner and other cities of India.