The Jaisalmer “Golden City of Rajasthan”

Jaisalmer Rajasthan

The real Rajasthan can be seen only in Jaisalmer. A city where many of India’s histories are still seen in a living state.

A city where the smell of desert comes. Jaisalmer is one of the most historical cities not only in Rajasthan but in the whole of India.

Situated in the heart of the Great Indian Thar Desert, this beautiful magnificent city is one of the major tourist places in Rajasthan.

With yellow walls and buildings built with yellow sandstone and a gold-colored desert, Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City.

Being the closest city to the India-Pakistan border, it serves as a guard for western Rajasthan and the frontier of India.

With the construction of the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort on the Trikuta hills, the city’s founder found Jaisalmer as the safest place to build a palace.

Being one of the most attractive cities in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer’s glorious history is one of the major attractions of its travelers.

History still prevails with its towering grand forts and mesmerizing palaces, dazzling Havelis, captivating sand dunes, and marvelous architecture of Jain temples.

Along with tourist attractions, Jaisalmer has a lot to offer. Auto and tonga rides in the narrow streets, ethnic dress, and the geographical location of the city add to its charm.

With the major colorful festivals and fairs of the city, the charm of the city increases. The colorful desert festival of Sam Sand Dunes which features major cultural events including camel races, folk dances, and music performances reflecting the rich culture and heritage, and traditional yet luxurious camping is one of the tourist activities that Jaisalmer I should be looking for. Thus the city of Gold entices travelers from all over the world.

With its magnificent structures and characteristically Rajasthani decorum, Jaisalmer reflects the true morals and heritage of the state. One of the grandest constructions adding to the glamor of the culture is the Jaisalmer Fort. Built on a hill, the fort shines with every single ray of the sun.

Sam Sand Dunes Jaisalmer
Sam Sand Dunes Jaisalmer

History of Jaisalmer

The history of Jaisalmer is much more than the history of Rajputana. The city is said to have been founded by Raja Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput ruler, around 1156 A.D.

In legends, he did it at the behest of a local believed to be named Isal. The king selects Trikut hill as the new site for his fort. This was because he thought that his previous location at Luderwa (16 km from present-day Jaisalmer) was vulnerable to a potential enemy attack.

In medieval times, Jaisalmer remained the focus of the public because of its location on the way of one of two routes that connected Persia, Egypt, Africa, and India to the west.

The Bhatti Rajput rulers were still in line, they were the sole guardian of the city and this raised substantial funds through the taxes levied on the carriages, of which there was no dearth.

For many years, Jaisalmer was not bound by foreign rulers partly because of its location and partly because of its relief. In the middle of the thirteenth, the Turkic-Afghan ruler of Delhi, Alauddin Khilji, laid siege on the city.

He was apparently angry with the Bhatti Rajput rulers as he intercepted and robbed one of his caravels which contained the royal seafarer who was on his way to Sindh. The siege lasted for about nine years and when it was in decline, the Rajput women of the city made Jauhar (themselves captive to avoid humiliation).

It is said that Duda, the son of King Jai Singh, fought fiercely in the battle, but was outstretched after fierce hand-to-hand combat. He was killed fighting; his descendants continued to rule the city.

Although he had cordial relations with the Mughal rulers in Delhi, he was unsuccessful with Emperor Humayun. Emperor Shah Jahan authorized the rule of Sabala Sinha, who was a royal patron and showed remarkable valor in winning the battle of Peshawar.

In the modern era, Jaisalmer was still barely settled and was the last among the Rajputana royals to sign an ‘instrument of agreement’ with the British institution. Even this was achieved after long hours at the negotiating table and much enthusiasm from the British establishment in India. In 1947, the royals just signed an agreement to remain in independent India. Since then it has developed itself into a major tourist destination as well as a cultural center of Western India.

Jaisalmer is situated in the Thar Desert in the far west of India. They were founded by Rawal Jaisal, a descendant of Yaduvanshi Bhati, at the beginning of the middle period of Indian history, around 1178 AD. Jaisalmer was established. The great descendants of Rawal Jaisal till the transformation of India into a republic.

He ruled continuously for about 770 years without disturbing his lineage, which is a unique event in itself. In the history of about 300 years of the Sultanate period, this state was able to maintain its existence for about 300 years even after the Mughal Empire. Whatever the situation in India, the Mughals, and the British came and went, and the descendants of the state kept the importance of the pride of their dynasty intact.


Weather in Jaisalmer

It gets cold here till January-March when the temperature here reaches 0 degrees Celsius. From April-June, the summer here is extremely hot. The average temperature reaches up to 45 °C. In the middle of this season, when the sun is on the head, its rays fall on the desert of Dhar. Then the sand here looks golden in color.

It is a miracle of nature that somewhere, Jaisalmer attracts tourists for this reason. From October to December, you can enjoy both cold and rainy weather here during the monsoon and cool seasons.


Jaisalmer city layout

Jaisalmer city with narrow lanes is known for many high-rise, luxurious buildings, and Havelis. The Havelis here are reminiscent of the medieval royal kings. Jaisalmer is spread over such a small area that tourists can enjoy this golden crown of desert land very well while walking here.

Based on historical evidence, it is said that Jaisalmer was founded by Bhati Rao Jaisal in the 12th century. From a historical point of view, the city of Jaisalmer was attacked many times by Khilji Rathor, Mughal Tughlaq, etc. Despite this, the royal buildings of Jaisalmer are true companions of the Rajput style.


Famous food of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a desert place with centuries-old culture and tradition. The food of Jaisalmer is unique compared to other places in Rajasthan.

The cuisine of Jaisalmer reflects the richness of their culture and their proximity to the desert. You can easily find plenty of nutritious food here. Unlike other parts of Rajasthan, food wrapped in oil and butter is more common in Jaisalmer. The traditional food here includes Dal Bati Churma, Murg-e-Sabj, Panchdhari Laddu, Masala Raita, Poha, Jalebi, Ghotua, and Kadi Pakoda.

If you feel like eating snacks here then Hanuman Chalk is the best place, while if you want to taste the dessert items then there is no better place than Amar Sagar Pol. Here you will find all the food items related to dessert.


Features of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is situated in a place that has a different significance in Indian history. Due to the vast area of ​​this state on the northwest border of India, the rulers of Turkey not only tolerated the initial attacks but fought very well with them, pushing them back and leaving the rest of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Central India to the external invaders. preserved for centuries.

In the economic field, this state was a low-income and backward region, which is why the rulers here could never form a powerful army. Despite this, their neighboring states suppressed their vast territory and organized new states, which include Bikaner, Khairpur, Mirpur, Bahawalpur, and Shikarpur.

If we look more closely at the history of Jaisalmer, there are many historical and cultural sweet incidents related to the migration of the descendants of Yaduvansh and the descendants of Yaduvansh, the king of Mathura to the land of Punjab, Rajasthan, and the establishment of many states, etc.

This city was cut off from the cities of other states due to the lack of easy means of transport. In Jaisalmer, the original Indian culture, social beliefs for folk style, art, music, art, literature, architecture, etc. have retained the original form.


Information about the Desert Festival of Jaisalmer

The Desert Festival of Jaisalmer is a colorful festival held every year in February. You will see cultural programs, camel races, turban-tying tournaments, etc.

Not exciting enough! Take part in competitions to judge the man with the best mustache. Amidst the golden sands of the Thar Desert, everything is exotic at the Desert Festival.

The festival comes to its conclusion with the final musical performance of folk singers under the moonlit sky at Sam Ki Tibba, outside Jaisalmer, The rich culture of the region is on display during this three-day fest.

The desert festival in Jaisalmer started to attract foreign tourists, who always wanted to explore as many aspects of Rajasthan as they could due to the possible paucity of time.

The three-day event puts more emphasis on local elements and heritage. For example, this no-nonsense festival will only showcase Rajasthani folk songs and dances. These are presented by some of the best professionals in art.

Similarly, local customs like turban tying, etc. have been added to make it more exotic and colorful in its outlook.

The ‘mustache contest’ is very popular with foreigners. It is because of the surprise associated with this event. Foreigners can be seen posing with the winners for photographs. It really is worth preserving a moment.

You will never forget the wonders like the famous geers and fire dancers which are the major attraction of the desert festival.

The fun of the occasion adds up to interesting contests including the Ting contest and the Mr. Desert contest.

There’s a spectacular finale to a visit to Sam’s Red Dunes, where you’ll enjoy camel rides and spectacular performances by folk artists under the full moon against a backdrop of beautiful tunnels.

Rajasthan Tourism organizes the Jaisalmer Desert Fair/Festival and has a tourism support cell to specifically deal with the problems faced by foreign tourists.

The arrangements are monitored by the local administration and the medical van’s facility, which is equipped with the best medical facilities, remains vigilant.

If you are looking to buy gifts or souvenirs for your loved ones, this is the place to be. Not only around Jaisalmer and all over Rajasthan Mobile currency exchangers are there where you need to exchange currencies. is required. And if you run out of cash, guess what! Almost all kiosks have the facility to accept credit cards.


Architecture of Jaisalmer

If we look at the cultural history of Jaisalmer, then the architecture here has a different significance. The correct sequence of art established in Jaisalmer started with the establishment of the state with the construction of the fort, which continued continuously.

The architecture here continued to receive continuous support from both state and personnel. The architecture of this region is expressed by the forts, palaces, palaces, temples, Havelis, water bodies, umbrellas, and houses used by the common man.

Small forts are built in Jaisalmer every 20 to 30 kilometers. The history of the forts dates back 1000 years. They were very important in medieval history. These were made according to the immediate political circumstances of that time.

Along with the beauty of the fort, its strength and security were also kept in mind. At that time there was a tradition of having a main gate in the fort, the fortifications are mainly constructed of stone. But the forts of Kishangarh, Shahgarh, etc. are an exception to this, these forts are made of solid bricks. Four or more bastions were built in each fort. The main reason for this was, that it made the fort strong, beautiful, and endowed with strategic vision.


Jaisalmer Temple Architecture

The high peaks, grand domes, and Jain temples in Jaisalmer city, and the surrounding area have great importance from the point of view of architecture. Laxmi Narayan Temple is the first temple in Jaisalmer city. After this, a clear influence of Solanki and Baghel period temples of Gujarat can be seen in the Jain temple, awakening womb, main mandap, Gud mandap, Rangamandan pillar, Shekhar, etc. The ancient temple of about 850 AD of the folk deity and supreme cow devotee Bapuji is also worth seeing in Kariyap, about 15 km from Jaisalmer itself.


Jaisalmer painting

From the point of view of the painting, Jaisalmer has a special place of their own. The Sambhavanath Jain Temple is located in Jaisalmer city, and was built from 1402 to 1416 AD the Shantinath Jain Temple 1436-1440 AD and the Chandraprabhu Jain Temple which was built in 1480 AD, are worth seeing. Which shows the talent of the painters of ancient India.

Jaisalmer’s famous Haveli, built in the 18-19th century, is a unique example of architecture. The murals inside these Havelis are quite beautiful. The painting inside the haveli made by the famous Mehta family here is amazing. Along with this, Nathmal ki Haveli and Prasad of the fort and Badal Mahal made Jaisalmer’s paintings famous all over the world.


language of Jaisalmer

The main language of Rajasthan is Marwari. But two types of language are spoken in the Jaisalmer region, first number Thali which is spoken in the desert area of ​​Thar, and the second is Marwari.

For example: – In the area of ​​Lakha, Myajlar, Malini Ghat language is spoken as a mixed language. On the other hand, in the language of Pargana Sam Sehgarh and Ghotadu, a colloquial language consisting of a mixture of That and Hindi language is spoken. Among the Ganas on Visangarh, Khuhdi Nachana, etc., are attached to Bahawalpur Sindh.

Mad is a mixture of the Bikaneri and Sindhi languages. Similarly, there is a mixture of Ghat languages in the area of ​​Lathi, Pokaran, and Phalodi. A beautiful blend of Maad, Sindhi, Malani, Punjabi, and Gujarati languages, which is a mixture of all these dialects spoken in the Rajasthan capital.


Jaisalmer Literature

A symbol of desert culture, Jaisalmer has been the main center of art and literature. Vikram Samvat 1500, as per the instructions of Khatar Gachacharya Bhadra Suri, during the time of Maharawal Chakdev of Jaisalmer, the library of Paran Jain texts was established in the fort of Jaisalmer, Gujarat site. The total number of 1 text kept here is 2693, out of which 426 letters are written including dates.

The oldest available text on the copper plate is of Vikram Samvat 1117 and the handwritten text is from Vikram Samvat 1270. The language of these texts is Prakrit, Magadhi Sanskrit, Apabhramsa, and Braj Bhasha. Apart from Jain texts, some Jain literature was composed here, in which excellent works were created on many subjects like poetry, grammar, drama, Shringar number, Mimanas, Nyaya Vishwa Shastra, Ayurveda, Yoga, etc., which are still in the museum.


Music of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer has been a special place from the point of view of folk music. Here the oldest such melodious raga is sung, on which the tambura yantra is used. The artists here have composed very simple and mesmerizing music and songs that are mesmerizing.

music  of jaisalmer
music of Jaisalmer

In the composition of these songs, songs and music have been composed with the feelings of folk tales, puzzles, and poetry, as well as the feelings of rain, animals, birds, and social bonds. According to folklore experts, the folk songs of Jaisalmer are very ancient, traditional, and pure, and are sung in a tied form. Like “Come to my house, dear guest”


How to reach Jaisalmer from Jaipur?

  • The distance from Jaipur to Jaisalmer is 560 km.
  • It can take up to 10 hours to reach Jaisalmer from Jaipur by bus.
  • You can also come from Jaipur to Jaisalmer by railway route.
  • The airway facility is not present in Jaisalmer. If you still want to come, then you will have to travel from Jaipur to Jodhpur by air, after that you can come to Jaisalmer via a cab or bus. The distance from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer is 300 km.

How to reach Jaisalmer from Delhi?

  • From Delhi, you can reach Jaisalmer via railway or bus.
  • The distance from Delhi to Jaisalmer is about 760 kilometers and you have to travel 14 hours.
  • You cannot come to Jaisalmer by air, for this, you have to come to Jodhpur. Only after that, you will be able to come to Jaisalmer.

How to reach Jaisalmer from Ahmedabad?

  • You can use both bus and rail to reach Jaisalmer from Ahmedabad Gujarat.
  • You can come from Ahmedabad to Jaisalmer by traveling 530 km.
  • It may take you around 11 hours to reach Jaisalmer from Ahmedabad.

Jaisalmer Fort Information

Jaisalmer Fort is one of the major forts in India and has also been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Jaisalmer Fort is the most popular tourist place in the city of Jaisalmer, which is counted among the largest forts in the world.

The Jaisalmer Fort situated on the Tirukuta hill was built in 1156 by Rao Jaisal, one of the most powerful rulers of Jaisalmer. Being situated on the golden stretches of the Thar Desert, this fort is also known as ‘Sonar Quila’ or ‘Golden Fort’. Over the past few centuries, this fort has seen many battles and has successfully earned the distinction of being one of the most magnificent forts in Rajasthan.

Jaisalmer Fort Rajasthan
Jaisalmer Fort Rajasthan

Another interesting thing about Jaisalmer Fort is that a detective novel was based on Jaisalmer Fort, written by a famous Indian director Satyajit Ray, which was later adapted into a film called Sonar Quila.

The Jaisalmer Fort is not only a fort situated on the golden sands of the Thar Desert but a mini-town with houses, temples, shops, and restaurants. Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most attractive places to visit in Jaisalmer. Along with tourists, history also attracts Shokino.

History of Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort was built in the year 1156 AD by a Bhati Rajput ruler named Rawal Jaisal who conspired with the Sultan of Gaur to dethrone his nephew Bhojdev. The fort has served as the backdrop for many battles and wars. Rang Burj was added to the fort as a defense structure by Maharawal Jetasi in 1276 AD after two Muslim invasions by the Sultan of Delhi.

The fort was again attacked by Ala-ud-din-Khilji in the thirteenth century, forcing the Rajput women to self-deprecate. Rawal’s defiance against the Mughals finally broke after Humayun’s attack in 1541 and he married his daughter to Akbar who was Humayun’s successor. The Jaisalmer Fort became an important trade and commercial stop along the Silk Road in the medieval period.

Important facts about Jaisalmer Fort

  • Jaisalmer Fort boasts of both Muslim and Rajput architectural styles. By 1156 BC, the fort was in the hands of several Hindu and later Muslim kings, who contributed to its architecture.
  • The walls of the Jaisalmer Fort get pierced by the sun’s rays in the morning, making this huge palace invisible in the view of the Yellow Desert. It was used by the kings to protect the fort from their enemies.
  • Jaisalmer Fort is the only fort in India in which people live the premises of the fort and shops have been established for commercial purposes. There is also a hotel and an old haveli on the fort’s premises.
  • The walls of the fort have three main layers—the first wall had blocks of solid stone to reinforce the foundation, the second wall runs around the entirety of the fort to act as a defensive barrier, and the third wall was used by soldiers. This was largely done by throwing stones and pouring boiling oil or water on enemies who often got stuck between the second and third walls.

Jaisalmer Fort opening and closing timings

Jaisalmer Fort is open for tourists to visit from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Jaisalmer Fort Entry Fee

  • For Indian tourists: Rs 30 per person
  • For foreign tourists: Rs 70 per person
  • Here if you want to take the camera, then you will have to take a ticket of Rs 50 for that and Rs 150 for the video camera.

Best time to visit Jaisalmer Fort

Being located near the Jaisalmer Desert, November to January is considered the ideal time to visit Jaisalmer Fort, when you can enjoy the dazzling rays of the sun and the chill of winter. Which will make your journey more exciting. So you can plan a trip to Jaisalmer Fort for your winter holidays.


Popular Tourist Places Around Jaisalmer

If you are planning to visit Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer, then let us tell you that apart from Jaisalmer Fort, there are other famous popular tourist places in Jaisalmer that you must include in your Jaisalmer travel list –

  1. Salim Singh’s Haveli
  2. Akal Wood Fossil Park Jaisalmer
  3. Jaisalmer War Museum
  4. Longewala War Memorial Jaisalmer
  5. Nathmal Ki Haveli
  6. Laxminath Temple Jaisalmer
  7. Bada Bagh Jaisalmer
  8. Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer
  9. Jain Temple Jaisalmer
  10. Sam Sand Dunes
  11. Patwon Ki Haveli
  12. Desert National Park Jaisalmer
  13. Amar Sagar Lake
  14. Desert Culture Center and Museum
  15. Tazia Tower and Badal Mahal
  16. Vyas Chhatri Jaisalmer
  17. Salim Singh’s Haveli
  18. Kuldhara Village Jaisalmer
  19. Khaba Fort
  20. Indo-Pak Border Jaisalmer
  21. Shantinath Temple Jaisalmer
  22. Chandraprabhu Temple Jaisalmer
  23. lodrava jaisalmer
  24. Desert Safari Jaisalmer
  25. Tanot Mata Temple
  26. Ramdevra Temple Jaisalmer

Major Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer

1 Jaisalmer Fort

The Jaisalmer Fort is a massive yellow sandstone fort that maintains the Raj Mahal and several havelis, gates, and temples. The tawny-brown rampart that turns honey-gold at sunset, justifying the name “Sonar Fort”, is undoubtedly a bleak example of visual perception. The fort’s architectural design features carved windows, doors, and walls. In the midst of royal yellow sandstone architecture, the Jaisalmer Fort fortified many cities in Rajasthan housing a range of Italian, French and native cuisines.

2 Camel Safari

Being in the city of crossing sand dunes, you can’t avoid the saddle trip. A bumpy ride on a camel in the Thar Desert is one of the exciting things to do in Jaisalmer. It allows you to explore remote and isolated places trapped in the middle of the desert. Of course, the more time you dedicate to your safari, the more remote places you can visit, and the more you can enjoy the serenity of the desert.

Camel Safari Jaisalmer
Camel Safari Jaisalmer

3 Sam Sand Dunes

At a distance of about 42 km from the fort city of Jaisalmer, Sam Sand Dunes in the outskirts. sure are the best-recommended places to see in Jaisalmer. The breathtaking dunes, camel safaris with breathtaking vistas and troughs on the banks of the high troughs, and a completely different environment from the crimson horizon at sunset give you a pleasing nod. Don’t miss the rustic and earthy music and folk dances of the Gypsies depicting the rural culture of Rajasthani folk. The best time to visit SAM Sand Dunes is during the Jaisalmer Desert Festival, which is usually held every year in the month of February.

4 Gadi Sagar Lake

Gadi Sagar Lake is the best place for sightseeing in Jaisalmer, which is a popular tourist hangout today. The lake surrounds several temples, the most notable of which is the Krishna Temple, which is located above the Lion Gate. During the winter season, migratory birds flock to the area and bird watching becomes a favorite activity in Jaisalmer. Apart from this, a boat ride in Gadi Sagar Lake is another exciting thing to do in Jaisalmer. The best time to visit Gadi Sagar Lake is during the Gangrar Festival, which is usually held in March or April.

Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer
Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer

5 Salim Singh Ki Haveli

A different piece of architecture that you will come across in the city of Jaisalmer is the 17th-century Salim Singh ki Haveli with an extended arched ceiling in the shape of a peacock. It’s an incredible silhouette designed with 38 balconies, each with different design. Salim Singh ki Haveli is one of the heritage attractions when you are traveling to Jaisalmer.

6 Tanot Mata Temple

Your Jaisalmer travel guide is incomplete without Tanot Mata Temple which is located at a distance of about 150 km from Jaisalmer city and is situated close to the battle site of Longewala of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Presently this temple is maintained by the Indian Border Force. Tanot Mata Temple is one of the least explored tourist places in Rajasthan due to its remote location and hence you can make your holiday in Jaisalmer a penetrating one by visiting Tanot Mata Temple.

7 Mandir Palace

One of the finest examples of craftsmanship, with ornate balconies, canopies, and intricately carved screens, the Mandir Palace is a popular tourist attraction in Jaisalmer. It was built between the 9th and 10th centuries and was the residence of the rulers of Jaisalmer for more than 200 years. The Mandir Palace features the ‘Badal Vilas’, a tall sandstone structure beneath the hill town fort.


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