Sights in the Golden City of Jaisalmer

 Popularly known as the golden city of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is best known for its sand dunes.

 

Although most people are confined to the sand dunes, there is a lot to do in and around Jaisalmer. So I made a list of all the activities and places to explore here.

 

1. Fort Jaisalmer

 

The sprawling yellow stone fort built by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal is located in the center of the city. In ancient times, this abandoned city was only limited to the limits of the fort. Today the city limits have been expanded due to the increase in population. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and possibly the only "living fortress" in the world. The descendants of the royal family and other caste communities that help the ruler still live here to this day.

 

2. Patwon ki Haveli

 

Havelis or palaces were common in Jaisalmer. Guman Chand Patwa was an affluent banker and sovereign minister who started building his mansion but failed to finish it. He later ended up with his 5 children and hence the name, Patwon ki Haveli. I think the reason is pretty clear. As you walk down the alley leading to Havelis, you will be amazed at the complexity of the jharokhas (windows) and the heavily carved yellow stone balconies.

 

3. Lake Gadisar

 

Lake Gadhisar is only one kilometer from the Amar Pole (gate) of the fort. This is another famous tourist spot. You can do many things like boating, feeding the catfish, and visiting the sunset point. Historically, this small lake supplied the entire city of Jaisalmer with water!

 

4. Salim Singh ki Haveli

 

Salim Singh ki haveli is one of the few ancient structures that was erected outside the fortifications. According to legend, a minister of the kingdom, Salim Singh, had a disagreement with the ruler and decided to build his own haveli further away from the city. The special thing about this Haveli is the construction of the roof in the shape of a peacock. Descendants still occupy space in this Haveli. They offer a contribution-based tour that explains interesting facts about the history and the people.

 

5. Sam's sand dunes

 

These are the most famous sand dunes located only 40-45 km from Jaisalmer city. In February, you can also see camel races as part of the annual desert festival. You can participate in the cultural safari in the desert camp, where you stay in luxury tents or makeshift cabins. However, for a richer desert experience, consider trying the Wild Desert Safari. This takes you into the deepest dunes, away from the crowds.

 

Also read: Jaisalmer sightseeing tour | Jaisalmer sightseeing taxi

Tourism and accommodation in Jaisalmer

 Are you looking for accommodation in Jaisalmer? There are many options available. For all types of travelers, whether on a budget or a spendthrift, finding the right place to stay is not difficult in the Golden City of India. Jaisalmer is a popular tourist option around the world. You can visit forts, temples and strategic points in the vastness of the Thar Desert. The fascinating beauty of the desert city steals your heart and you get lost in the many natural splendors that this part of Rajasthan has to offer.

 

Jaisalmer got its nickname "city of gold" due to the buildings made of yellow sandstone. Here you will find ancient fortresses and structures made of beautiful sandstone that reflect the sun's rays and have a golden hue to the region. One is amazed by the tenacity and hard work of the builders who have taken on this seemingly impossible task of building a magnificent facade in the middle of a hostile desert. Among the many tourist attractions is Gadsisar Lake in Rajasthan, which attracts several visitors. There are several hotels near this lake.

 

Tourism in Jaisalmer:

 

The tour of this desert city consists of a visit to the historic Jaisalmer Fort, a magnificent structure built in yellow sandstone on behalf of the pioneer ruler Jaisal. Several temples within the fortress are important from a tourist point of view. Camel safaris to various points in the Thar Desert are a particular tourist attraction, especially for foreign visitors.

 

Gadsisar Rajasthan Lake is a rainwater lake excavated in 1361 as the main source of drinking water for the citizens of this city. There are shrines and temples around the lake. Some of the other attractions are Bada Bagh, Desert National Park, Sam Dunes and Amar Sagar. A camel ride to Sam Dunes is especially popular with travelers during the desert festival. You can stay in tents in the middle of the desert and enjoy the cultural programs of local artists.

 

Hotels in Jaisalmer:

 

Accommodation in Jaisalmer is not a problem as long as you book a hotel in advance. Being a popular tourist spot, it becomes difficult to find a suitable place if it is not planned in advance. There are different types of lodging excursions for every type of trip, from budget places to mid-range resorts, luxury hospices and historic hotels.

 

Based on personal preferences and available budget, one can find a perfect resort while staying in Jaisalmer. Today it is possible to book hotels yourself through an online medium. If not, contact a travel agent, share your needs and ask them to book rooms on your behalf. This is an easy way to enjoy a Jaisalmer tour without having to worry about the complexity.

A vacation to Jaisalmer sightseeing tour is a once in a lifetime experience, so plan your trip months in advance.

 

The author is an experienced writer in the travel and tourism industry. He has written many books and articles on travel guides for accommodations in Jaisalmer and Gadsisar Lake Rajasthan.