Jaisalmer is one of Rajasthan's most exotic and unusual towns. "A living museum" and the "Golden City" are just two descriptions which has been applied to the desert put-outs. Places of visit are beautiful mansions built by Jaisalmer's wealthy merchants known as Havelis. Gandhi Sagar Tank, was once the water supply of the city. Jaisalmer, the city of the Golden Fort is a fantasy in yellow sandstone in the heart of the Thar Desert. The city was founded in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput King.


Sightseeing at Jaisalmer -
The Jaisalmer Fort : In the enchanting city of Jaisalmer the 800-year old Golden Fort towers over the Trikuta Hills. Within its walls, defended by 99 turrets is the old city. The Jaisalmer Fort is almost 30 mtrs over the city. It is entered through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. Within the fort, you will find many beautiful havelis and a group of Jain Temples dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries. The fort has five palaces called Sarvottam Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal, all interconnected behind the seven - storied façade.

Jaisalmer Havelis : There are three havelis (painted houses) of 19th century that are outstanding sites to visit. Foremost among which is the Patwon-ki-Haveli, built by a wealthy merchant named Guman Chand for his five sons. The carved stone decoration is the major attraction of the havelis. Salim Singh Haveli is situated at the eastern end of the city and was named after its owner Diwan Salim Singh Mohta. Its pavilions are the most impressive that reflect truly Indian style of architecture. The last of the great havelis is Nathmal Haveli, built in 1885 by two brothers named Hathi and lalu.

Gadisar Lake : Earlier it was the chief water source for Jaisalmer and was excavated in the mid 14th century by Rawal Ghat Singh. Now, it is a charming picnic spot, surrounded by small temples and shrines.

Sam Sand Dunes : However, we don’t want to dissuade you too much from visiting the area – the Sam dunes are also the most picturesque spot around Jaisalmer, and perhaps the whole of western Rajasthan. Sitting there in the evening with the sun setting, listening to the ballads of the legendary lovers Moomal and Mahendra (see Moomal Ki Meri for details) on the jew’s harp or the narh (a traditional musical instrument), you might feel that time has come to a grinding halt. The silken smooth sands of Sam look like a tale out of the Merchant of Venice and camel safaris are much in vogue here. An overnight trip to the area is a must if you really want to enjoy all the sights and sounds, the ruins and the temples. Sleeping out in the open, stretched out on the sands while facing the twinkling sky is an out of the world experience. Many a tourist has fallen in love with the haunting beauty of the dunes – there is a definite aura of romance about it.

Havelis : Built by the Patva brothers in 1800, these havelis are open to the public. The interior of the other three havelis can also be seen with an offer of small fee to the present residents. The Nathamal Ki Haveli was built by two brothers. The design of the havelis are remarkably harmonious. The Salim Singh Ki Haveli is a six-storied structure with 38 balconies and elaborate carvings.


Fairs-Festivals in Jaisalmer -
Jodhpur celebrates the Marwar festival with great fun and joy. It is a two-day program of fun, folk music, folk dance and folklore. Nagpanchami, the worship of the king of the serpents, is also celebrated with enthusiasm.


Reaching Jaisalmer -
By Air : The nearest airport is at Jodhpur, which is well connected to Delhi.
By Rail : Jodhpur is the nearest railhead from here.
By Road : Well connected by road with all the major cities of India. Direct bus services to Udaipur, Mount Abu, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Barmer, Ajmer and Jaipur. Also to Ahmedabad and Bhuj in Gujarat.