Jaisalmer Tourism

Jaisalmer is where you need to journey. The Wood Fossil Park or Aakal is located about 15 kilometres away from the city. Here, one can discover and trace geologic tragedies that occurred in the Thar Desert 180 million years ago. The city of Jaisalmer also acts as the guard to western Rajasthan (and India’s) frontier. This 'Golden City’ is located close to the Pakistan border and in close proximity to the Thar Desert. The city’s most prominent landmark is the Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Qila (Golden Fort). Unlike most other forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is not just a tourist attraction. It houses shops, hotels and ancient havelis (homes) where generations continue to live.

Jaisalmer traces its inception to the 12th century. History tells us of Rawal Jaisal, the eldest heir of the Rawal of Deoraj, was passed over for the throne of Lodurva and a younger half-brother was crowned king. Rawal Jaisal went looking for a new location to set up his capital when he came across sage Eesul. The sage told him about Krishna’s prophecy which said that a descendant of his Yaduvanshi clan would found a new kingdom at this same spot. It was in 1156 that Rawal Jaisal constructed a mud fort, named it Jaisalmer after himself and declared it his capital.

Jaisalmer Fort
The Jaisalmer Fort is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan after Chittaur. It commands the desertscape from its 250 feet high pedestal on the Trikuta Hill. Three strong walls protect the citadel. The fort has five palaces called Sarvottam Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal. Jali or latticework screens of excellent craftsmanship shade interiors from the fierce heat and desert winds. The Rang Mahal has some exquisite murals painted on arches and spandrels. The fort contains one-third of the city's population. Many houses provide budget accommodation to visitors and have curio shops.

The Jain Temples
Three exquisitely sculptured Jain temples dedicated to Rishabhdevji, Sambhavanathji and the Ashthapadi temple are located within the fort. Their ornamentation, done in the style of the Dilwara temples at Mt. Abu, is marvellous. The emerald icon of Mahavira here is an unparalleled gem.

Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli
The Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli is a magnificent edifice whose two upper storeys had to be demolished and yet whose surviving structure has unsurpassed splendor. Particularly noteworthy are the rows of peacocks below the jharokhas (projected arched balconies).

Patwon-ki-Haveli
Near the city centre is the Patwon-ki-Haveli. Its five suites built between AD 1800 and AD 1860 are an evidence of Jaisalmer's legendary architectural wealth. The balconies are delicately chiseled, and oblique sunrays create enchanting and dramatic shadows. It is the grandest mansion in Jaisalmer, a veritable museum piece in the open.

Nathmal-ki-Haveli
This haveli has two identical-looking portions, which are in fact, two different parts united by a common fa?ade. The projected balconies or jharokhas are a perfect example of jeweler's art applied to stone carving.

Desert Culture Centre and Museum
The Desert Culture Centre and Museum has a number of old coins, different kinds of textiles, traditional Rajasthani instruments, and some fossils that were discovered in the desert. It gives a visitor an insight into the history of Rajasthan.

Desert Festival of Jaisalmer
In the month of February, every year, Jaisalmer organizes the 3-day Desert Festival. One can enjoy the rich cultural songs and dance to the tunes. Sponsored by the Rajasthan State Tourism Corporation, the festival has snake charmers, folk performers, acrobats and puppeteers.