Jaisalmer, being founded in 1156, is a medieval town in western Rajasthan with a glorious past of acrimonious battles. Once the main trade route to rest of the world in medieval time, it appears today a city with age-old charm where residues of ruthless climate and mauling winds of the desert can be seen. A visit to Jaisalmer promises a backward journey to this once princely state where culture and traditions still charm you no end!
The Jaisalmer Fort is the most prominent tourist attraction here for its rich past and marvellous architecture. Situated atop a 250 high hill, the fort is among the oldest in the state-the second oldest- that offers a spectacular vista of the desert below. Encompassing five palaces within, the fort has enticing murals paintings and four huge poles to lend it lustre.
Besides the renowned fort, other tourist attractions in Jaisalmer include the Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli- a testimony to side-by-side symmetry- and the Salim Singh Ki Haveli, a 300-years old design with an arched roof. If the Patwon Ji Ki Haveli attracts tourists for its sheer size and intricate design and the Tazia Tower, for its five-tiered tower designs, then the Gadsisar Lake- a 14th century structure- charms for its historical value.
By Air
The airport is Jaisalmer- managed by the Indian Air Force- remains in operation only from September to March each year, thus, the Jodhpur airport, at 285 Kms, would be a good option.
By Rail
Regular train services connect Jaisalmer to many major cities of India, including Jodhpur, Jaipur, Agra, Delhi and Mumbai.
By Road
Jaisalmer has a good network of roads that connects it well to rest of India.
Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest forts in the world located in the Jaisalmer city in Rajasthan, India. Also known as the Sonar Kila of Rajasthan or 'Sone Ka Quila (Golden Fort)', this imposing fort was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rao Jaisal. This magnificent fort stands majestically in the heart of the endless golden sands of Thar Desert and remains a major draw for tourists from across the world.
Now a UNESCO World Heritage S...
Jain Temple Complex
Jain temple, Jaisalmer situated within the Jaisalmer fort is one of the central tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. The Jain temples have been constructed in the likeness of the Dilwara temples. The Jain temples possess the idols of the gods Rikhabdevji and Sambhavnathji.The Jain temples were constructed in the 12th century. They are known for their exquisite work of art and architecture. The walls are built out of yellow sandstone and have intrica...
Desert National Park
The Desert National Park located near the city of Jaisalmer and Barmer in Rajasthan, is one of largest national parks spread over an area of 3162 sq. kms. of the Thar Desert. This park is home to many species of animals and birds including the highly endangered ‘The Great Indian Bustard (GIB)’. According to a 2014 survey, The Thar Desert has witnessed 38 GIBs, which is the highest population of these birds among all the Bustard Sanctu...
Wood Fossil Park
To go beyond the history and take a piece of the prehistoric Jurassic era, you need to be at the Wood Fossil Park – some 15 km off Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Once here, you get to a place that still has remains as old as 180 million years! You visit this fossil park where the forest once submerged in to the sea and took the shape of fossils.
Once you visit the Wood Fossil Park, you can see fossil trunks lie strewn all over this amaz...
Sam Sand Dunes
Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is perhaps the best and most exciting place in India to enjoy a desert safari. This is the reason why Sam Sand Dunes are now a major attraction in the city as it brings the wonderful opportunity to feel the true essences of 'The Great Thar Desert'. A splendid stretch of sweeping dunes welcomes here in the midst of virtually sparse or no vegetation.
Sam Sand Dunes bring an enticing prospect of joining a camel caravan and ri...
Tazia Tower
Tazia Tower is a famous structure in the heart of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan that reflects as much history as architectural finesse. Located near the famous Badal Palace, it’s a major tourist attraction in a city dominated by various Rajputana architecture. The tower is a five-storied structure with each story having some significance attached to it. Each floor of the tower has a balcony known for their unique and distinctive designs.
The Tazia ...