Sightseeing in Jaisalmer – you certainly need to know about the famous attractions here. Jaisalmer is also known as the Golden City is located at the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. The city looks like a perfect mirage of the golden sandstone and looks like a scene out of the famous fable Arabian Nights. If you are planning for Sightseeing in Jaisalmer, you certainly need to plan your trip well in advance to avoid any hassles.
One of the most popular royal cities of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is also called as the gateway to the dessert here and tourists throng this place to witness the beauty of the yellow stone architecture and the Jaisalmer Fort. The city is also the most visited places of Rajasthan and the months from October till February are known to be the best months for Sightseeing in Jaisalmer.
If you are planning for a holiday to Jaisalmer, and are confused about the places you need to visit, the list below will certainly be of great help. So, know a little about each of the attractions you need to visit before you start packing the bags for the next vacation.
Sightseeing in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort
A popular attraction, Jaisalmer Fort was built way back in the 12th century by Rao Jaisal, a Bhati Rajput ruler. The fort has a fortification made using yellow sandstone and this is what helps maintain the Havelis and the temples located inside. The fort that has an Earthen brown color during daytime turns into a bright honey gold color at the time of sunset. This is one view you certainly need to see if you are in Jaisalmer. The fort also has the name “Sonar Quila” which means a golden fort. This is one of the reasons why the place is known as one of the best places for sightseeing in Jaisalmer.
The architecture of the fort to is well appreciated, and the windows, doors and the walls here have very intricate carvings over them, which showcases the rich culture of the country. The fort is located on the Trikuta Hill and overlooks the huge Jaisalmer city and one can have a panoramic view of the city from the two vantage points located here. You can also find a good number of eateries here that serve the best of Indian cuisine along with that of Italian, Chinese, and French.
Camel Safari
If you are in Rajasthan and are on your way for sightseeing in Jaisalmer, you might have already heard stories about the shifting sand dunes here. Anyone who hears such stories would love to try on one saddle journey at least. Even those who do not like bumpy journeys often enjoy a ride on a camel in the Thar desert. A camel ride in the Thar desert is one of the things that you can do in Jaisalmer. You can visit some remote places when you opt for the camel safari here while enjoying the tranquility of the desert.
Sam Sand Dunes
The Sam Sand Dunes are located at a distance of 42 kilometers from the Jaisalmer city and it tops the list of must-see places here. The place is quite popular with tourists from India and aboard, thanks to the exanimate ambiance and the sweeping dunes. You can witness the crimson horizon during the time of the sunset and enjoy an evening ride on the camel along with crests and the toughs.
If you are lucky enough during the sightseeing in Jaisalmer you can also experience the rural culture and the magic of Rajasthani folk. The earthy music and the Rajasthani folk dance is something you cannot miss. The best time to visit this place is during the month of February, as you can be a part of the Jaisalmer Desert Festival that is conducted every year.
Gadi Sagar Lake
Gadi Sagar Lake is a water conservation tank that was built way back during the 14th century and is one of the best sightseeing places in Jaisalmer. The lake also has a number of temples nearby and the popular of them is the Krishna Temple that is located over the Tilon Gate.
If you visit the place during winters, you can also see various species of migratory birds which flock this region every year. If you love bird watching or photography, you would for sure love visiting this place. You can even enjoy boat riding or be a part of the Ganguar Festival which is held during the months of April or March and you can have the best time during your trip of sightseeing in Jaisalmer.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Salim Singh Ki Haveli is known for its architecture and has been built during the 17th century. The Havelis have an arched roof which resembles the shape of peacock and has about 38 balconies, each of which again has a very distinct design. Known as a popular heritage attraction, this is one of the best sightseeing places you can explore on your visit to Jaisalmer.
Patwa Ki Haveli
As mentioned, the royal city of Jaisalmer has a good number of forts or Havelis you can visit, each of which has its own unique design. One such attraction is the Patwa Ki Haveli that was built in the 19th century. This is one of the must-visit places in the city as it has some very fine wall paintings, and very beautiful jharokha, as well as archways, welcome you inside. Patwa Ki Haveli is special as it is a cluster of five of the most grandiose havelis given as a gift by the Patwa to his sons. The history also states that the havelis were later left at the mercy of the workers here, who after years became its owners. The first havelis were later sold off to Mr. Jeevanlalji Kothari, after which it was renamed to be called as Kothari’s Patwa Haveli.
The Jain Temple
The city of Jaisalmer is also famous for ancient temples and one such temple is the Jain Temple. There are two Jain temples here, each of which can be dated back to the 12th Century and the 15th Century. These temples have a Dilwara styled architecture and yellow sandstone was used in their construction. Both the temples are also dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras and are known for their very detailed architecture. You can find carvings of the animal as well as human figures on the walls of these temples.
Well, the above-mentioned are just a few of the prominent places to visit when you are Sightseeing in Jaisalmer.