Jaisalmer, the golden Fortress place, where practically every stone, wall or building turns to the color of the desert sand, is a princely state in western Rajasthan and the paradise of the desert kingdom. The splendid Jaisalmer is nestled in the foothills of Trikuta, standing in pride with its colossal forts, palaces and havelis. Jaisalmer showcases the artistic sense of the Rajput kings beautifully capturing the allure of the desert.

Location
Jaisalmer, a prominent city of Rajasthan lies 285kms from Jodhpur city. To the west of Jaisalmer is Pakistan, and to its south is Bikaner, another beautiful Rajput heritage city.

Climate
Extreme climate prevails in Jaisalmer, summers are hot while winters give some relief to the travellers. The best time around the year to visit Jaisalmer is between October to February. Normal temperature stays above 45°C in the hot seasons. Rainfall is scarce with dusty storms in the daytime in summer seasons.

Tourist Attractions

Jaisalmer Fort - The Jaisalmer Fort stands about 100 m over the city, and in fact, houses a citadel within its massive ramparts. Walking down the narrow cobbled stone lanes, one can feel and sense the true magic of Jaisalmer. Several entrances called Pols, including the Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoota Pol and the Hava Pol guard the Megh Durbar and the Jawahar Mahal which were occupied by the royal family. Outside the fort is the main market place called Manek Chowk. From Manek Chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved havelis are to be found. The Jaisalmer Fort is popularly known as the Golden Fort for its amber hue, which mesmerizes every tourist coming to the place.

The Havelis of Jaisalmer - The intricately designed Havelis of Jaisalmer are a major attraction for the tourists. Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Salim Sing ki-Haveli, Nathmalji-ki-Haveli, all with exquisite lattice work are worth visiting.

Jain temples - The Parswanath Temple, one of the oldest Jain Temple, where the walls of the sanctum are carved with animal and human figures, is a beautiful architecture. There is a small dome which is crowned by an amalak and a waterpot containing a lotus flower.

Sam Sand Dunes - The trip to Jaisalmer is incomplete without experiencing the most picturesque dunes of Sam.The ripples on the wind-caressed dunes, that create an enchanting mirage, are surely a delight for the adventurous photographer. Against the backdrop of these sand dunes, are held various cultural fests. Exciting camel safaris allow you to get the real feel of the desert on their back.

Akal Wood Fossil Park - This 21-hectares preserved area known as the Akal Wood Fossil Park takes you back to the Jurassic period when the whole Thar region lay under the sea. Fossilized logs of trees trunks lie exposed to view. Innumerable trunks lie buried deep under sand, while few are seen above the ground. The largest log is seven meters in length and 1.5 meters in width.

Shopping in Jaisalmer
Traditional carvings are best seen in little wooden boxes which are intricately pierced in exciting patterns and motifs. Also woollen, cotton rugs, blankets, embroidered fabrics, silver jewellery and trinkets spell the uniqueness of the place. The main shopping areas are Sadar Bazaar and Sonaron Ka Bas, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar.

Accommodation

Overlooking the town of Jaisalmer, Hotel Rawal Kot presents the best of modern amenities while maintaining a medieval charm. Perched above the town and seemingly rising out of the rocks, the hotel commands a vantage view of the fort and the town. Another one, the Jawahar Niwas Palace offers a breathtaking view of the fort, the surrounding city and rooftop view of the sunset, keeping in mind the old ambience and regal splendour.