Much has been
written about Jaisalmer, but nothing can prepare the visitor for
the sheer magic and brilliance of this Desert City. Very few
cities can boast of the magnificence, which surrounds Jaisalmer.
Here is a fort that seems to rise out of desert haze, its yellow
sandstone walls and bastions taking on a golden hue in the
afternoon sun. Rawal Jaisal laid the foundation of this city in
1156 after consulting a local hermit by the name of Eesul. Tricuta
was the hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Lodurva
and established this new capital. The Bhatti Rajputs of Jaisalmer
were feared bandit chiefs who lived off the forced levies on the
great caravans that crossed their territory enroute to Delhi.
The caravans, laden with precious cargoes of spices and silk,
brought great wealth to this town. Not only the princes but also
even the merchants prospered and their riches are displayed on the
exquisitely carved and ornamented havelies which they built.
Because of its remote location, Jaisalmer for years remained
untouched by outside influences and during the British Raj, the
Ruler of Jaisalmer was the last to sign the instrument of
agreement with the British. Akbar, the great Mughal Emperor, was
born in Amarkot, now in Pakistan, but close to Jaisalmer. This
remote desert citadel is today famous for its carved havelies, its
cobbled streets and its ancient Jain temples.
Places of Interest
Jaisalmer Fort
The fort stands
almost 100 meters over the city and also houses an entire
living area within its huge ramparts. It is approached through
Ganesh Pol. Suraj Pol, Bhoota Pol and Hava Pol is other main
entrance, which guard the Megh Durbar and Jawahar Mahal. Also
in the inner enclosure are a group of Jain temples dating from
the 12th to the 15th Centuries.
Aakal
Aakal - 16 kms
from Jaisalmer, is a Fossil Park where 180 million years ago
stood a forest. The fossil tree trunks lie scattered in this
part.
Manek Chowk - Outside the fort is the main market place called
Manek Chowk, which is the centre of local activity. From Manek
Chowk one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved
havelis are to be found. Patwon-ki-Haveli, Nathmali-ki-Haveli
and Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli are among the better- known havelies
here. Built mainly during the 18th and 19th century, the
carving in the havelies of Jaisalmer are of a most superior
quality.
Other
Other areas of
interest are the Gadisar Lake, Bhattiani Sati-Rani, and the
royal cenotaphs at Bara Bagh. Lodurva is located 16kms north
west of Jaisalmer and is an important Jain pilgrimage. Also to
be found are ruins of the ancient township. From Jaisalmer it
is possible to get an insight into desert life by visiting
Sam. Camel rides on the sand dunes are an unforgettable
experience are the sunsets.
Jaisalmer is also the location of the famous Winter Festival,
which brings together musicians, dancers and other performers
of this region.
