There are just a few ‘living forts’ existing in the world and Jaisalmer fort is one of them. A good amount of the city’s population lives in and around it. The fort is located in the city center and holds a glorious 800-year history. You will need a whole day to explore the entire fort with its museums. The fort is also a shopping hub for many. You will find several merchants selling various handmade items of stone, brass, and iron. Also, there are dozens of shops of Indian ethnic wear for men and women.
Constructed by the first ruler of Jaisalmer ‘Raja Rawal Jaisal’, Gadisal lake is situated just one kilometer away from Jaisalmer’s Sonar Fort. This lake fulfills the water requirements of the entire city. At the bank of this lake, you will find several temples and holy shrines.
Boating is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer. The picturesque Gadisar Lake and its artistically carved entrance is something that you will fall in love with. This artificial like is of the best places to escape from the hectic city life. In winters, you will find several species of beautiful migratory birds.
Kuldhara is an abandoned Indian village that lies 15 km away from Jaisalmer. This place is famous as a haunted village and narrates several inspiring and fascinating tales. This ghost village is marked as a heritage site and is protected under the authority of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Established around the 13th century, this village was prosperous at the time. Over the years, it acquired a tag of a haunted destination. Therefore in 2010, the Government of Rajasthan decided to develop the place as a tourist spot.
Tanot Mata Temple is situated 38 km away from the Longewala border and 120 km from Jaisalmer City. The story of this temple is associated with a miraculous tale of the border fight between India and Pakistan. The legend says that the local deity Tanot aka Awad Mata didn’t let any Pakistani shell explode in the region. In the war of 1965 and 1971, Indian soldiers who were certain of death and defeat went on to crush the Pakistanis.
Over 3000 bombs dropped in the region or on the temple but none of them exploded. Those bombs can be seen by people in the museum built by BSF inside the temple premises.
Built-in 1815 with a peacock-shaped roof, Salim Singh Ki Haveli has 38 gracefully carved balconies. It stands out of other havelis in Jaisalmer in terms of art and sculpture. It is one of the must-visit places in Jaisalmer for the one who loves to explore the beautiful artistry.
This haveli is located 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station. The unique feature of this mansion is that it is not created with cement and mortar but with stones that are coupled with strong iron rods.
Jaisalmer is a popular destination among tourists, with nearly 95% of visitors opting for desert safari tours. These tours are typically scheduled in the early morning or evening to escape the intense heat. Following the safari, guests can indulge in a delightful meal accompanied by a traditional gipsy musical dance performance at the desert camps in Sam. A visit to Jaisalmer is incomplete without experiencing the desert safari, adding an extra element of enjoyment and lasting memories to the trip.
Bada Bagh, also known as the ‘Huge Garden’, was built during the reign of Maharawal Jait Singh in the early 16th century. After his demise, his son Lunakaran took charge and completed the construction. This garden holds great significance as it served as a memorial for the cremation of nobles and their families. With its breathtaking view, Bada Bagh is a secluded destination that promises unforgettable moments, especially during sunrise and sunset, which are simply irresistible to capture.
Located in the heart of the city, Patwon-Ki-Haveli stands as a testament to the architectural brilliance of Guman Chand, a renowned trader, and his sons. This magnificent five-story structure boasts five lavishly adorned suites, each showcasing intricate artwork. The expansive corridors and intricately decorated walls serve as exquisite examples of the prevailing art form. Crafted entirely from yellow sandstone, this construction exudes grandeur and contributes immensely to the city’s cultural heritage. Among the five havelis, one has been transformed into a museum, while the third haveli proudly displays the masterpieces of local craftsmen from a bygone era.
Nathmal Ki Haveli was constructed by two Muslim jeweler siblings instead of stone carvers under the direction of the former prime minister. The siblings commenced their work on opposite ends of the structure, resulting in a symmetrical yet not identical left and right side. In addition to its remarkable exterior carvings, this haveli is renowned for its exquisite interiors adorned with paintings and furnished with contemporary amenities. Blending Islamic and Rajputana architectural styles, Nathmal Ki Haveli is rightfully considered one of the most stunning havelis in Jaisalmer.
Situated within the premises of Jaisalmer Fort, the Jain temples encompass a collection of sacred shrines devoted to Jain Tirthankaras, with their origins dating back to the 12th century. Renowned for their unique architectural design inspired by the Dilwara temple of Mt. Abu, these temples exhibit exquisite carvings and seamless connectivity. A sight to behold, these temples are entirely constructed using yellow materials, adding to their captivating allure.
The Vyas chhatri stands as a remarkable structure amidst the sandy landscape, showcasing the distinctive architectural style of Rajasthan. This monument, dedicated to sage Vyas, the author of the Hindu epic Mahabharata, represents Rajasthan’s unique contribution to architectural wonders. Additionally, it is renowned as one of the finest spots in Jaisalmer to witness a breathtaking sunset.
Barmer is adorned with historic structures and ancient temples. The renowned Barmer Fort, Chintamani Parasnath Jain Temple, Kiradu Temples, and Rani Bhatiani Temple showcase remarkable architectural brilliance. Additionally, the Mahabar Sand Dunes provide an ideal destination for a family outing, offering breathtaking sunset vistas. Despite being located in a desert, the city’s core exudes vibrancy and charm. Embark on a delightful journey exploring these nine captivating attractions in Jaisalmer, and rest assured, every moment of your stay will be cherished.