Jaisalmer is truly a 'land of wonders', its exuberant past, culture, nature and its heritage gives us a lot to explore. Fondly known as 'The Golden City of India', Jaisalmer is a dynamic city in the heart of the Thar Desert. Every nook and corner of this city has something to boast and amaze us. Jaisalmer has seen it all, from being a thriving trade centre to a popular tourist place in Rajasthan! So, here are some kick-ass reasons for you to visit Jaisalmer. Have a look!
Jaisalmer City View
Photo Courtesy: michimaya
Trade Centre Like Mumbai?
Did you know that Jaisalmer served as the gateway to Arabian countries? Yes, once upon a time it was a thriving trade centre which had a business relationship with Persian countries. It is the reason for the existence of havelis and bungalows apart from structures built by local kings.
Sadly, during the British time the business hub was shifted to Mumbai and Jaisalmer lost its significance. You can check out the luxurious Havelis and Mansions of those times!
Jaisalmer Fort
Photo Courtesy: Adrian Sulc
How About Staying Inside a World Heritage Site?
The Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort (Jaisalmer Fort) is one of the living forts in India. Meaning, half of the city lies inside the fort. Interestingly, it is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites where you can stay! Tourists can get several accommodations inside the fort. While you are at Jaisalmer, don't miss out on experiencing the life at a fortress. It is one of the interesting facts about Jaisalmer that makes us eager to explore.
Thar Desert
Photo Courtesy: Sanjoy Ghosh
The Thar Desert, A Beauty!
Jaisalmer is known as the 'Golden City' because of its sand. The Thar Desert in Jaisalmer plays a significant role in tourism. Travellers not only get to the Great Indian Desert but also experience desert camping, camel safari, dune-bashing and desert life! Isn't it exciting to see the large golden sand dunes?
Kuldhara Village
Photo Courtesy: timeflicks
Get-Set For a Haunted Trail
Have you heard of the deserted Kuldhara Village? Well, the stories of this place are spooky and creepy for sure. You not only get to explore the haunted Kuldhara Village but also many similar villages which have been deserted overnight. If you are bold enough, do check out the haunted regions of Jaisalmer.
Merasi Music Community
Jaisalmer lies near to Indo-Pak border, and there are several cultural exchanges between the borders. The tales of Merasi community is a great example of such a cultural and religious exchange. Merasi is a Muslim community of musicians who sing songs on Hindu Gods! Yeah, they are said to be Muslim converts who were Hindus. Merasi musicians are very much part of Jaisalmer culture, and their music has a great significance in the region.
Film Shooting in Jaisalmer
Lights Camera Action
Jaisalmer is one of the favourite film shooting locations in Rajasthan. If you are lucky, you might find some film stars or TV actors in action here!
Wind Turbines
Photo Courtesy: Ashwin Kumar
Windy Jaisalmer
Don't be surprised by the windmills at Jaisalmer. It is one of the largest wind farms in India.
Some Old Haveli
Photo Courtesy: Tomas Belcik
Havelis and Heritage Hotels
Rajput Kings ruled the region, so it is no surprise to find several heritage hotels and Havelis. Do try to explore some of the exquisite Havelis in Jaisalmer.
Longewala
Photo Courtesy: Akkida
Longewala - Battlefield
Longewala was the battle ground for Indo-Pakistan War that happened in 1971. You can see a Pakistani War Tank at this site. Interestingly, the Battle of Longewala was the major base for the famous Hindi movie 'Border'!
Folk Dancer
Photo Courtesy: Ana Raquel S. Hernandes
Dance to the Folk
Rajasthani folk songs and dances are vibrant and soothing. A folk dance and music show is a must on your travel to Rajasthan. Even Jaisalmer is known for the folk music and dance!
Palace on Wheels
Photo Courtesy: Rainer Haeßner
Palace On Wheels
Palace On Wheels is one of the luxury trains in India. It takes around the tour of Rajasthan and Jaisalmer is one of the major cities that is covered by Palace On Wheels!
Pokhran
Photo Courtesy: Archan dave
Pokhran
Pokhran is a famous place in Jaisalmer; it was first test site of India's nuclear weapon explosion. Pokhran is located between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.
Sunset at Jaisalmer
Photo Courtesy: Tarun R
Best Time To Visit Jaisalmer
October to January is the best time to visit Jaisalmer as the climate will be pleasant.
Bada Bagh
Photo Courtesy: Daniel Villafruela.
Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer
Tanot Mata Temple, Jaisalmer Fort, Patwaon-Ki-Haweli, Jaisalmer War Museum, Gadsisar Sagar Lake, Bada Bagh, Pokhran Fort, are the some of the famous tourist places in Jaisalmer.
Accommodations
Jaisalmer is a well-developed city and several kinds (luxury, moderate and cheap) of accommodations are available.