Jaisalmer, also known as the Golden City, is a historic and cultural gem in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. It is famous for its magnificent sandstone architecture, rich heritage, and vibrant festivals. Jaisalmer offers a unique experience of desert life, adventure, and romance. Here are the top 10 places to visit in Jaisalmer that you should not miss. Visit during Jaisalmer One day tour By cab
Introduction
Jaisalmer is one of the most popular tourist destinations in India, attracting millions of visitors every year. It is located near the border of Pakistan and is about 575 km from the state capital, Jaipur. Jaisalmer was founded in the 12th century by Maharawal Jaisal Singh, a Rajput ruler, who built a fort on the Trikuta Hill.
The fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort, is the main attraction of Jaisalmer and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jaisalmer is also known for its havelis, or mansions, that showcase the exquisite craftsmanship and artistry of the local artisans. Jaisalmer is also a gateway to the Thar Desert, where you can enjoy camel safaris, desert camping, and cultural shows. Best 10 Places To Visit in Bhopal
Overview of Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a city of contrasts, where you can witness the ancient and the modern, the rustic and the luxurious, the serene and the lively. Jaisalmer has something for everyone, whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or an adventure seeker. Jaisalmer is also a city of festivals, where you can celebrate the colorful and vibrant traditions of Rajasthan.
Some of the famous festivals of Jaisalmer are the Desert Festival, the Gangaur Festival, the Teej Festival, and the Diwali Festival. Jaisalmer is also a city of cuisine, where you can savor the delicious and spicy dishes of Rajasthani cuisine. Some of the popular dishes of Jaisalmer are dal bati churma, ker sangri, gatte ki sabzi, and makhaniya lassi.
How to Reach Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer is well-connected by road, rail, and air to the major cities of India. The nearest airport to Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Airport, which is about 17 km from the city center. The airport has regular flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Jodhpur.
- The nearest railway station to Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Railway Station, which is about 2 km from the city center. The railway station has trains from Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ahmedabad, and Bikaner.
- The nearest bus station to Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Bus Station, which is about 1 km from the city center. The bus station has buses from Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur, and Bikaner. You can also hire a taxi or a car to reach Jaisalmer from the nearby cities.
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
- The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C during this period. This is also the peak season for tourism in Jaisalmer, as many festivals and events take place during this time. You can enjoy the Desert Festival in February, which showcases the folk music, dance, and art of Rajasthan. You can also witness the camel races, the turban tying competitions, the firework displays, and the cultural programs. The winter season is also ideal for exploring the desert and enjoying the camel safaris and the desert camping.
- The summer season in Jaisalmer is from April to June, when the weather is hot and dry. The temperature can soar up to 45°C during this period. This is the off-season for tourism in Jaisalmer, as many tourists avoid the scorching heat and the dust storms. However, if you are looking for a budget-friendly and less crowded trip, you can visit Jaisalmer during this time. You can also get discounts on hotels and travel packages. The summer season is also good for visiting the indoor attractions of Jaisalmer, such as the havelis, the museums, and the temples.
- The monsoon season in Jaisalmer is from July to September, when the weather is humid and rainy. The temperature ranges from 25°C to 35°C during this period. This is the least preferred season for tourism in Jaisalmer, as the rainfall is erratic and unpredictable. The rain can also hamper the desert activities and the sightseeing. However, if you are looking for a green and refreshing trip, you can visit Jaisalmer during this time. You can also enjoy the Teej Festival in August, which celebrates the arrival of the monsoon and the marital bliss of women.
Best Things to Do Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer offers a plethora of things to do for the tourists, ranging from sightseeing, shopping, dining, to adventure, entertainment, and relaxation. Here are some of the best things to do in Jaisalmer that you should not miss.
- Explore the Jaisalmer Fort: The Jaisalmer Fort is the most iconic landmark of Jaisalmer and is one of the largest and oldest forts in the world. It is also known as the Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort, as it is made of yellow sandstone and glows like gold in the sunlight. The fort is a living fort, as it houses many shops, hotels, restaurants, temples, and museums within its walls. You can walk through the narrow lanes and admire the architecture, art, and history of the fort. You can also visit the Raj Mahal, the Laxminath Temple, the Jain Temples, and the Palace Museum inside the fort.
- Enjoy the Camel Safari: The camel safari is one of the most popular and thrilling activities in Jaisalmer, as it allows you to experience the desert life and the culture of Rajasthan. You can ride on the back of a camel and traverse the sand dunes, the villages, the oases, and the wildlife of the Thar Desert. You can also witness the sunrise and the sunset over the horizon and enjoy the starry night sky. You can also opt for a desert camping, where you can stay in a tent, enjoy a bonfire, and watch the folk dance and music performances by the local artists.
- Visit the Havelis: The havelis are the mansions that were built by the wealthy merchants and nobles of Jaisalmer in the 18th and 19th centuries. They are the epitomes of the artistic and architectural excellence of the local craftsmen, who carved intricate designs and patterns on the sandstone walls, windows, and balconies. Some of the famous havelis of Jaisalmer are the Patwon Ki Haveli, the Salim Singh Ki Haveli, and the Nathmal Ki Haveli. You can marvel at the beauty and the elegance of these havelis and learn about the history and the culture of the people who lived in them.
- Shop at the Bazaars: Jaisalmer is a shopper’s paradise, as it offers a variety of items that reflect the rich and colorful culture of Rajasthan. You can shop for handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, leather goods, carpets, antiques, and souvenirs at the bazaars of Jaisalmer. Some of the best places to shop in Jaisalmer are the Sadar Bazaar, the Bhatia Bazaar, the Manak Chowk, and the Pansari Bazaar. You can also bargain with the vendors and get the best deals on your purchases.
- Dine at the Restaurants: Jaisalmer is a foodie’s delight, as it offers a range of dishes that tantalize your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. You can dine at the restaurants of Jaisalmer and relish the authentic and delicious cuisine of Rajasthan. Some of the dishes that you should try in Jaisalmer are dal bati churma, ker sangri, gatte ki sabzi, makhaniya lassi, and ghotua laddoo. You can also try the continental, Chinese, and Italian dishes at some of the restaurants. Some of the best restaurants in Jaisalmer are the Trio, the Desert Boy’s Dhani, the Saffron, and the Jaisal Italy.
Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer has many places to visit that showcase the beauty, the history, and the culture of the city. Here are some of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer that you should not miss.
Jaisalmer Fort: A Majestic Monument in the Golden City
Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest and oldest forts in the world, located in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. Jaisalmer Fort is also known as Sonar Quila or Golden Fort, because of its yellow sandstone walls that shine like gold in the sunlight. The fort was built in 1156 by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, and has witnessed many battles and sieges in its history. Today, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist attraction in Jaisalmer. visit during Jaisalmer Local Sightseeing. Location of Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer Fort is situated on Trikuta Hill, about…
Gadisar Lake: A Serene Oasis in the Desert City
Gadisar Lake is a man-made lake located in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. It was built in 1367 by the first ruler of Jaisalmer, Maharawal Gadsi Singh, as a water conservation reservoir to supply water to the arid city. Gadisar lake is surrounded by temples, shrines, ghats (steps), and chattris (cenotaphs) that add to its beauty and charm. The lake is also home to various migratory birds and aquatic animals that enhance its biodiversity. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a picnic spot in Jaisalmer. Visit during Jaisalmer Local sightseeing. Location of Gadisar Lake Gadisar Lake…
Bada Bagh: A Royal Necropolis in the Desert
Bada Bagh, which means “Big Garden”, is a historical site located about 6 km from the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. Bada Bagh is a complex of royal cenotaphs or chattris (memorials) of the former rulers of Jaisalmer and their family members. The cenotaphs are arranged in rows on a hill and are made of yellow sandstone. They have intricate carvings, pillars, domes, and inscriptions that depict the names and dates of the deceased. The site also has a dam, a tank, and a garden that were built by Maharawal Jait Singh II in the 16th century. Bada Bagh…
Patwon Ki Haveli: A Cluster of Magnificent Mansions in the Golden City
Patwon Ki Haveli, which means “Mansion of the Brocade Merchants”, is a historical site located in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. It is a complex of five havelis (mansions) that were built by a wealthy merchant family in the 19th century. Patwon Ki Haveli are made of yellow sandstone and have intricate carvings, latticed windows, and balconies that reflect the opulence and elegance of the era. The havelis also have paintings, murals, mirrors, and furniture that showcase the art and culture of Rajasthan. Today, the havelis are open to visitors and house various museums and shops. Patwon Ki…
Vyas Chhatri: A Tribute to the Sage of Mahabharata
Vyas Chhatri is a historical site located in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. It is a complex of chattris (memorials) that are dedicated to Maharishi Vyas, the sage who composed the epic Mahabharata. Vyas chattris are made of yellow sandstone and have intricate carvings, pillars, domes, and arches that reflect the Rajasthani style of architecture. The site also has a temple dedicated to Vyas and a pond that is believed to have healing powers. The site is also known as Bada Bagh II or Sunset Point, as it offers a spectacular view of the sunset over the desert.…
Tazia Tower: A Symbol of Religious Harmony and Diversity
Tazia Tower is a historical site located in the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. Tazia Tower is a five-storeyed tower that was built by Muslim craftsmen in the 19th century as a gift to the Hindu ruler of Jaisalmer, Maharawal Berisal Singh. The tower is made of wood and metal and has intricate carvings, balconies, and domes that reflect the Islamic style of architecture. The tower also has replicas of the tombs of various Muslim saints and prophets that are carried during the Muharram procession. The tower is also known as Badal Mahal or Cloud Palace, as it resembles…
Kuldhara Village: A Mysterious and Abandoned Village in the Desert
Kuldhara Village is a historical site located about 18 km from the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India. It is an abandoned village that was once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins, a prosperous and influential community. The village was established in the 13th century and had about 1,500 residents. The village was well planned and had houses, temples, wells, streets, and granaries. However, in the 19th century, the village was suddenly deserted by its inhabitants for unknown reasons. The village has remained uninhabited since then and has become a popular tourist attraction and a haunted site in Jaisalmer. visit during…
Salim Singh Ki Haveli: Best Glimpse into Rajasthan’s Architectural Heritage
Salim Singh Ki Haveli, an architectural marvel located in the heart of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, stands as a testament to the grandeur and opulence of the bygone era. Built in the 19th century by Salim Singh, the prime minister of Jaisalmer, this exquisite haveli is renowned for its intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and captivating facade, making it a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados alike. Visit during One Day Jaisalmer Sightseeing Trip By Cab Location of Salim Singh Ki Haveli: Salim Singh Ki Haveli Salim Singh Ki Haveli is situated in the historic city of Jaisalmer, in the state…
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FAQ
Here are some of the frequently asked questions about Jaisalmer and their answers.
Q: How many days are enough to visit Jaisalmer?
A: The ideal duration to visit Jaisalmer is 3 to 4 days, as you can cover all the major attractions and activities of the city in this time. However, if you want to explore the desert and the nearby places, you can extend your trip to 5 to 6 days.
Q: What are the best hotels to stay in Jaisalmer?
A: Jaisalmer has a variety of hotels to suit your budget and preference. Some of the best hotels to stay in Jaisalmer are the Suryagarh, the Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, the Hotel Rang Mahal, and the Hotel Rawal Kot.
Q: What are the best souvenirs to buy from Jaisalmer?
A: Jaisalmer is a great place to buy handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, leather goods, carpets, antiques, and souvenirs. Some of the best souvenirs to buy from Jaisalmer are the camel leather products, the embroidered fabrics, the mirror work items, the silver jewelry, the puppets, and the wooden boxes.
Conclusion
Jaisalmer is a city that will enchant you with its golden glory, its rich heritage, and its vibrant culture. Jaisalmer is a city that will thrill you with its desert adventures, its folk festivals, and its exotic cuisine. Jaisalmer is a city that will make you fall in love with its charm, its beauty, and its people. Jaisalmer is a city that you should visit at least once in your lifetime.
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