Founded by King Jaisal of the Ghati dynasty, Jaisalmer, situated in the heart of Thar desert is popularly known as the golden city! With its cityscape cast in yellow sandstone, Jaisalmer sparkles gold as we walk around its picturesque streets. Jaisalmer is a very small place compared to some of the bigger cities around. It’s a short drive of 29 mins from the international airport to the main town.
The main town is essentially built around the Jaisalmer fort. In a way you could say civilization has pretty much remained stable in these parts. While the political power changed hands quite a few times, the life in the village continued to be the same. If you see the map below pretty much everything that is there to see is there in this single map image. Everything is close to each other. A tuk tuk for the whole day should see you through the day trip 😊
Everything is close to each other
Golden Fort of Jaisalmer
The first halt in our venture was the famous Sonar Kella or the Golden Fort, the only fort in the country made of yellow sandstone. The name Sonar Kella earned its title from a very popular Bengali film by the same name made by Oscar winning director Satyajit Ray. The fort even now houses a special spot inside the fort called Mukul’s House where Ray shot parts of his film.
The film acquired such a cult following, that about 50% of the tourists who visit hail from Bengal (A province in India). Another interesting fact about the fort is that it is one of the few living forts in the country. With more than 5000 people staying inside the fort even to this day.
The entry fee for Indians is INR 50 and for our friends from outside its INR 250/USD $ 3.5. Camera will cost you an additional INR 100/ USD $1.5. The fort timings for visitors are 0600 hours to 1700 hours.
Mukul's House
The view from the fort is simply stunning. The fort also has a few “must be” explored places, like the royal palace, Jain temples and Baari Haveli - an old restored Haveli that belonged to an old Raj Purohit (Priest) of the royal family.
Along with these you could also visit a souvenir shop inside the fort called light of the east which contains a good collection of unique rare and natural stones, not for sale but is recommended by some famous International journals.
Patwa Ki Haveli
Patwan ki Haveli is not a single Haveli but a cluster of Havelis. The haveli structure was built in the early 18th century by Ghuman Chand Patwa to gift his five sons - separate and elaborate mansions, that would face the Jaisalmer fort. The legend goes that the family came upon a curse which stated that the family prosperity would be threatened if they ever stayed in those houses. So, they left town to set up their empire elsewhere and left the house to caretakers.
With a ticket of INR 70 USD $1 you can take a grand tour around the haveli to get a glimpse of the lavish Patwa lifestyle.
Kothari’s Patwa Haveli
This is the first of the five Patwa havelis and also the largest, full of artistic works like carved pillars and intricate Jharokhas. Inspired from the murals and interiors of Rajput, Mughal and Victorian architecture, the haveli holds artifacts from all over the world.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Was built in the late 17th century, commissioned by Salim Singh, the then Prime Minister of a small kingdom of which Jaisalmer was the capital. Known for its distinct roof shaped like a peacock, the haveli is situated beside hills near Jaisalmer Fort. Adorned with as many as 38 balconies, the front facia of the haveli resembles the stern of a ship and is sometimes referred as Jahaz mahal (Ship Villa)
Nathmal-Ji-Ki-Havelli
Famous for its beautifully carved exterior, interiors of the Nathmal Ji-Ki Haveli is decorated with miniature paintings. There’s no entry fee to enjoy this architectural beauty carved with yellow sandstones.
Kuldhara and Khaba Fort
Kuldhara is an abandoned village in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan, India.
Established around the 13th century, it was once a prosperous village inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins. Deserted for unknown reasons the site with remains of households and inscriptions on temple walls is now a known tourist destination. The fort is also notorious for being haunted, So, if you are an adrenaline junkie this place might be interesting for you!
Ruins of Khaba Fort
An integral part of the Kuldhara village is the Khaba Fort which is mostly a ruined citadel set amid a barren desert village. Once upon a time the prime focus of a bustling town the fort lies abandoned today but still glorious in all its architectural splendour. The intricate latticework, turreted towers and elegant windows are a mark of superior architectural talent of its residents.
Bada Bagh
The name means big garden and literally it is a big garden is around 6km north of Jaisalmer, built by Maharawal Lunkaran Singh son of Rawal Jait Singh is adorned with Chattris of Maharajahs of the state of Jaisalmer. The Bagh currently holds around 104 Chattris - each attributed to an individual. Each of these Chattris carved in sandstone is of a different size and belongs to a ruler, a prince, a princess and other royal family members.
Entry fee for Indian INR 50 and foreigners USD $1.50 . Timings 0800 hours to 1800 hours.
Gadisar Lake Boating Experience
Constructed by the first ruler of Jaisalmer, Raja Rawal Jaisal, Gadisar lake is a man-made water reservoir. It was the only source of water for the Jaisalmer city in the olden days. Surrounded by temples and Ghats the lake’s surrounding is quite serene and calm, where tourists often choose to spend evenings boating in the lake.
The entry fees of boating at Gadisar lake is Rs. 100.0 per person for a bi-pedal boat, 200.0 per person four-seater Pedal, 300.0 per person for a Six-seater row boat. The entrance ticket price to the lake and the surrounding garden area is free.
Mandir Palace
The Mandir palace is an experience one must not miss while in Jaisalmer.
From enjoying a rejuvenating message to a heart-warming Rajasthani meal from their kitchen. The palace owned by Raj Kumar (King) Dr. Jitendra Singh II of Jaisalmer also offers a free tour to get a glimpse of the stone carvings, antiques and artifacts in the Palace museum and also an insight into the history of the palace.The entry fee is INR 160/ USD $2.
Amar Sagar Jain Temple
The Jain Temple is located adjacent to the famous Amarettos Sagar Lake and is dedicated to the Lord Parshwanath. Built in 1928 the temple is situated around 5-6 km from the city limit and is a very sought-after location for photographers. With its golden walls and blue sky the temple serves as the perfect subject and is one of Jaisalmer’s most famous tourist attractions.
Photographers love this huge complex
Royal Family's Personal garden - This was a surprise! The royal family of Jaisalmer took a liking to us and we found ourselves having a good time in the King's personal Garden. It’s a stunning visual delight. The view overlooks the famous Ananth Jain Temple and Lake!
Mumal Ki Medi
Lastly, we end our adventure at Mumal ki Medi. The story of Mumal and Mahendra is just as famous as that of Romeo and Juliet. Bestowed by the tales of her beauty, Mahendra was smitten by Moomal and would go on his camel cheetal’s back to meet her every night. The ruins of Mumal’s haveli still stand in Lodhurva near Jaisalemer, next to a river bed where the river Kak once flowed. A broken wall, small platform and a single window are the only remains of this monument now. A reminder of the long-gone days of rivers gushing in full glory and lovers crossing the dessert to spend few moments with their beloved.
With this we draw close to the end of our adventure in Jasalmer. But I hope you have a few here someday. If you wish to know anything about the place do feel free to reach out via the comments. I will try my best to share.
