Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

One of Rajasthan's most alluring cities, Jaisalmer, deep in the heart of Thar Desert, abounds in ancient palaces, temples and quaint settlements. As the sun sets, the sandstone buildings emit a lustrous glow, that make Jaisalmer the "Golden City". Founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 A.D., the remote location of Jaisalmer, kept it almost untouched by outside influences, even during the days of the British Raj.

Very few cities can, even hope to match the sheer grandeur of this city. There is an undefinable aura of magic and mystery, that surrounds its famous desert-fortress - the yellow sandstone walls and bastions of which, take on a golden hue in the afternoon sun, which is why it is, so aptly, called Sonar Kila or the Golden Fort.

Places to Visit

Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is the most alive of any museum, fort or palace that you are likely to visit in India. It was built in 1156 by the Rajput ruler Jaisala. About a quarter of the old city's population resides within the fort walls. The fort is entered through a forbidding

Lodurva Jain Temple
15 km from Jaisalmer, are the deserted ruins of this town, which was the ancient capital, previous to Jaisalmer. It is an important centre of Jain pilgrimage. The temples at Lodurva exhibit fine examples of intricate craftsmanship on yellow stone. They have ornate carved arches at the entrance, and a Kalputra, the Divine - Tree, within. In the temple, is a hole from which, a snake is said to emerge every evening, to drink an offering of milk. Only the ' blessed' can actually see it, it is said.

Gadsisar Lake
Built by a courtesan, it used to be the main source of drinking water in the olden times. Today, an arched gateway leads to a small tank flanked by shrines and well laid out gardens and flower beds. A scenic rain water lake with numerous beautiful shrines around. The lake is an idyllic spot for outings.

Desert National Park
An extensive variety of desert birdlife, ranging from birds of prey to sandgrouse, doves, shrikes, bee-eaters, warblers and desert coursers, are to be found in the National Park. The most remarkable bird of the desert, the Great Indian Bustard can also be sighted here. Among the animals to be seen, are the desert fox, wolf, blackbuck, chinkara, nilgai, and the crusted porcupine.