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Like
all desert cities of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer hides within, a glorious
past of valour, chivalry and a peculiar joie de vivre that emanates
out of triumphing over the relentless desert. The battle scarred
forts stand mute testimony to the numerous battles and sacrifices
that saved the trading out post. Yet, the gentle, poetic side is
also reflected in the artistic havelis that teem with exquisite
facades with sculptural filigree, screen windows, delicate pavilions
and beautiful balconies. Wander around its palaces for breathtaking
grandeur and whimsical charm, its riotous colors and even its
romantic sense of pride and honor. And you will come face to face
with the living masterpieces of havelis –which families inhabit even
now.
How to Get Here:
Numerous airlines are linked well between Jaisalmer and Jaipur,
Jodhpur, Delhi and Mumbai. Jaisalmer is connected by rail with
Jodhpur, on meter gauge which in turn is connected with major cities
and towns in India on broad gauge. It is well connected by a good
road network to Jodhpur, Bikaner via Pokhran, and Barmer via Devikot
with luxury AC and economical local state buses
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Places to visit |
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Jaisalmer Fort
Crowning the
Trikuta Hill, The golden - yellow sandstone spectacle of
Jaisalmer Fort, is over 800 years old. It defends an entire
old city, nearly a quarter of modern Jaisalmer- by its 99
turrets and towers almost 30 meters over the city and
houses.
After gaining entrance through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot
Pol or Hawa Pol, discover an entire living area within the
huge ramparts. Marvel at many enthralling havelies and a
group of Jain temples dating from the 12th to the 15th
centuries. Even walking through the narrow lanes is an
enchanting experience. |
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Gadi Sagar
Once the fount
of the entire city, it was the key to the town water supply.
The inhabitants of this arid city paid homage by setting up
numerous small temples and shrines. Walk through the
beautiful yellow sandstone gateway arching across the road
down to the tank –viz Tilon-ki-Pol .It carries an
interesting legend. |
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Havelis
The mansions
built by the wealthy merchants are still in a relatively
good condition and give an inimitable glimpse of the
lifestyles of the rich and wealthy in the past. The
resplendent craftsmanship is beyond imagination. Some like
the Patwon-ki-Haveli and Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli are
remarkable for their exclusive cutwork, yellow and red stone
treatment and the bracket-shaped decoration of peacocks. |
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Patwon - Ji -
Ki - Haveli
One
of the largest and most elaborate Haveli in Jaisalmer, it is
five storeys high and is extensively carved. It is divided
into six apartments, it also has a treasure of paintings on
some of the inside walls as well as some mirror work. |
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Museum: Desert
Culture Center and Museum
Desert Culture
Center and Museum provides an acute insight into the life in
the splendorous desert town. It displays a number of old
coins, different kinds of textile, traditional Rajasthani
instruments, and some fossils that were found in the desert. |
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Bara Bagh
Bara Bagh is an
oasis at the bank of a man-made dam. It has greenery all
around to give a much-needed relief to the local people. |
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Unique Shopping
Shop for exquisitely
carved wooden boxes, traditional rugs, hand-woven blankets and
shawls in typical Rajasthani color and weave. Mirror work,
embroidered articles and silver jewelry, Trinkets and curios are
other buys of Jaisalmer. It is famous for embroidery, Rajasthani
mirror work, rugs, blankets, antiques and old stone work. Tie-dye
and other fabrics are made at the Khadi Gramudyog Bhavan. Puppets-
excellent souvenirs -and joothies are other popular items. You can
also shop for a host other products which include textile, camel
leather items, woven jackets, wooden boxes and ornaments. The
shopping spots are within the fort and include Sadar Bazar, Sonaron
Ka Bass Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazar, Gandhi Darshan, Seema Gram,
Rajsthani Govt. shop and Khadi Gramodyog Emporium. Browsing through
the bazaars of Jaisalmer, one can observe the basic habits and way
of life of people.
Eating out
Jaisalmer does not equal
any major metro city but offers a wide range like peanut butters,
pancakes with maple syrups as dishes for breakfast. All different
continents’ cuisines like Chinese, Italian, Mexican, Tibetan and
whole lot of Indian dishes are available here. Restaurants meeting
all budget sizes can easily be discovered . Daal, Baati, Churma with
desert grown herbs called “Kair Sangri” with Bajra Roti makes a
perfect traditional Rajasthani meal .Wash down with buttermilk or
the various flavored Lassi’s.
Do’s and Don’t’s
- Don’t get fleeced by
the locals while shopping or looking for an accommodation.
- Must get reservations before in hand as this city is packed from
October-March.
- It is a safe city for travelers especially for women but just be
aware.
- Camp safari is an experience. So don’t miss it.
- Keep a check on the meter when hiring a cab.
- Try Masala Chai made of camel’s milk. |
