THE HILL FORT OF JAISAL : JAISALMER

INTRODUCTION

Ever thought of living in a world famous adventure fiction "The Alchemist " the same experience can be relived in desert city of India . Jaisalmer , also known as the "Golden City" of India for its yellow sandstone that is used in every architecture of the city that gives yellowish - golden shade to the city .The city is known for its desert culture and rich heritage, located on the westernmost frontier of India in the state of Rajasthan close to Pakistan border. It is usually far end of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan. This city is included in world heritage site.

The town and forts of Jaisalmer was founded by Maharawal Jaisal in the year 1156 AD after having shifted to its capital Ludharva (18 kms from Jaisalmer) to a safer place , " The hill fort of Jaisal " was another name that was kept in  remembrance of the king . The ruling Rajput family of former Jaisalmer state belongs to chandrawasnshi ( lunar )  race who claimed to be descend of lord Krishna ( Indian god )  . The former rajput family build forts in Kashi, Mathura , Pragvad , Gajni , Bhatner, Digam , Dirwal , Lodhurva and Jaisalmer. This city is considered to be a popular tourist destination in India. 

PLACES TO SEE

 Best time is to explore city from September to April . Jaisalmer city is a desert town which gives you the feeling of living in Disney movie " Aladdin ". Forts, Camels , Sand dunes etc are attractions in this town and there are many bewitching architectures in the city such as :

1) Jaisalmer Fort 

    This fort is also known as Golden Fort or Sonar kila for its beautiful structure made from sandstone. the fort exterior look itself is mesmerizing and it has many small shops for clothing , embroidery etc inside the fort . The carvings in the monument is so captivating , as Jaisalmer fort is in the center of city it gives a scenic view which is breathtaking.

2) Patawa Haveli 

    Patawa Haveli is one of the largest haveli's ( a traditional mansion ) in Rajasthan. The structural of haveli is five storey high and has a royal look in carvings .

3) Nathmal Ki Haveli

    It was built by two brothers named Lalu and Hathi for the prime minister at that time . Both of them started building across from each other sides which created a unique and ravishing architectural.

4) Gadisisar Lake

   An artifical man made lake which was used as a rain water harvesting in the olden days , has now become one of prominent attractions in Jaisalmer .

5) Sam Sand Dunes 

    One of the popular destination in Jaisalmer , this a great place for exploring the lively desert culture . 

6) Bada Bagh 

    Bada Bagh which means "big garden" in english is actually a place of a royal cenotaphs( an empty tomb of a person whose remains are elsewhere).

7) Thar Heritage Museum 

     The museum shows the history , culture , architecture of Thar Desert and also showcases old documents , coins and antiques which were found in Jaisalmer.  

8) Salim Singh Ki Haveli 

     Built in 1815 by Salim Singh , the structure of haveli was quite modern in that era and its uniquely designed balconies is dramatically beautiful for tourists. 

There are many other attractions in Jaisalmer and nearer to city are Khuri desert  , Kuldhara village , Desert National Park , Lodhuva etc. Many outdoor activities are excitable such as Dune Bashing , Camel Riding , Street Shopping, Quad Biking etc.

CULTURE, MUSIC AND FOOD 

Jaisalmer has a very rich culture heritage and traditional lineage from Maharawal Jaisal.  The city is filled with colorful and spirited ambiance ,  people celebrate hindu festivals and customs with great enthusiasm such as Teej festival, Ghangur pooja etc. The traditional music and dance in Jaisalmer is an element of culture. 

Folk music and dance has been performed since Jaiswal rule , some of the folk dance such as ghoomar and kathputli dance are popular and many restaurants or tourists places hire them for the amusement of people. Local food in Jaisalmer is one must eat , its rich flavors leaves you wanting to have more to satisfy your heart . One of the homely dishes are Ker Sangri , Dal Bati Churma , Gatte Ki Sabzi are go to in city. 

SHOPPING 

 From 16th to 18th century Jaisalmer was town that was established in silk route ( a trade route in which people exchange goods) . The city is famous for antiques, leather items , embroidery works , handicrafts , silver jewellery etc. Sadar Bazar , Manak Chowk , Pansari Bazar, Sonaron Ka Baas and Bhatia Bazar are famous shopping hubs.  

HOW TO REACH 

Regular flights from Delhi , Mumbai , Kolkata , Chennai  and many other cities are available to Jaisalmer. The majority of Jaisalmer destinations are done through connecting flights or you can either travel from train or private taxis and buses.