Jaisalmer

Traveler’s Facts

About Jaisalmer: Also know as “Golden City”.
Famous for: Exotic sand dunes, the Fort, friendly people and interesting lifestyle.
Should I Visit: Yes, it is a must visit destination in Rajasthan.
Location: Situated in the western Rajasthan amid Thar Desert. 575 km west from the state capital Jaipur.
Founded by: Raja Rawal Jaisal
Founded in: 1156 A D.

About Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is one of the most important tourist destinations in Rajasthan. It is located in the desert region of Rajasthan. Known as The Golden City, It was founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 A.D. He was a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput. The Desert festival of Jaisalmer is very popular among the tourists. Colorful craft bazaars are set up for the Desert festival and a sound and light spectacle is organized wit folk artists performing against the splendid backdrop of the famous Sam sand dunes on the full moon night. Jaisalmer is a town of Havelis and forts.

Camel Safari at Jaisalmer

History

The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which, Lord Krishna-the head of the Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of the Yadav Clan would built his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 A.D. when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital – Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill.

Bahti Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs who lived off the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed the territory enroute Delhi-or-Sind. These caravans earned the town great wealth.

Tourist Places

Jaisalmer Fort
Gadsisar Sagar Lake
Patwon Ki Haveli

Getting Around

Rajasthan Tourist Development Corporation sets up a special ‘Tourist Village’ at the time of Desert Festival. The festival takes place between late January and mid – February, depending on the lunar calendar.

Fair & Festivals

Desert Fair

How to Reach

By Air
The nearest airport that caters to Jaisalmer – bounded travelers is at Jodhpur. Jodhpur is connected to many other Indian cities by air.

By Road
Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe & air-conditioned buses from Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner. The roads are very good and fairly comfortable.

By Train
Trains from Jaisalmer are available to other destinations. The nearest railway station that caters to Jaisalmer – bounded travelers is at Jodhpur. Jodhpur is connected to many other Indian cities by train.