Colorful, vibrant with a touch of mystical history and desert mystery, that’s what Jaisalmer is all about.

Jaisalmer lies in the princely state of Rajasthan. Rawal Jaisal is the founder after whom the city has been named. The name Jaisalmer literally means "The Hill Fort of Jaisal". It was derived from the words Jaisal, who was the founder and ”Mer” which means hills.

The Havelis, the fort and its enclosed palaces are all made up of golden honey sandstone and hence the name “Golden City”. Jaisalmer has transformed into a major tourist destination. Situated amidst the picturesque Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is a favorite among Indian and foreign tourists alike.

Not only are the people rich in culture and tradition but also warm and are known for their hospitality. The strains of semi-classical and folk music can be heard all over the city.

History of Jaislmer

The city founded in 1156AD was named after the Bhati Rajput ruler, Rawal Jaisal. On the request of a hermit named Eessal, Trikuta Hill was opted as the location of his fort. Jaisalmer was an important trading route as it connected Persia, Egypt, and Africa with India.  Ala-ud-Din Khilji sieged and ruled this city in the thirteenth century. Later after numerous battles, Emperor Shah Jahan handed over the reins to Sbala Simha, a valiant warrior of Royal Patronage.

Tourism in Jaisamler

Jaisalmer Fort of Rajasthan known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort of Rajasthan is situated on Trikuta hills. It is a magnificent structure rising from the sand and is one of the largest forts in the world. This fort has witnessed many a battle scene that has taken place over the years. The Raj Mahal (Royal palace), Jain temples and the Laxminath temple are some of the main attractions inside the fort.

Government Museum is one of the prime attraction in Jaisalmer. A look at the statues of 7th-9th century AD creates a scenario of rich cultural heritage of the past times.                                                                

Deewan Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli one of the many attractive Havelis in Jaisalmer was built by two architect brothers. One concentrated on the right and the other on the left and the result was symmetrical masterpiece. The walls of the interiors have paintings in miniature style.

Rajput were known for their extravagant lifestyles, hence many palaces or Havelis are found in Jaisalmer like  Deewan Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Tazia Tower, Badal Mahal (Cloud Palace) 

Tourists who crave for a change of scenario from the forts and havelis can visit the Desert National Park, the Akal Wood Fossil Park, and Gadsisar Lake.

When you are in this area do not miss out on the great experience of camel safari in the desert. Find out what is so intriguing about life as a Bedouin.  Sit around the camp fire, listen to camel driver’s songs and watch the wonders of the night sky performing the biggest display right before your eyes.

Winters being the best time to travel to Jaisalmer, one should not miss the Desert Festival held somewhere between January to February. Rajasthan folk culture with its rich and colorful hues is showcased for three days here. Puppeteers, folk dances, turban tying competitions, camel races, camel polo etc are some of the attractions of this festival.

Missing Jaisalmer from your travel itinery would be a faux pas, so make sure to include this mystical, romantic desert land of Jaisalmer in your package tour to India.