Location: Thar Desert in Rajasthan

Highlights: Patwon Ki Haveli, Desert National Park, Jaisalmer Fort, Nathmal Ki Haveli

Best Time to Visit: October to March

How to Reach:
The nearest airport that connects Jaisalmer to other places via flights is located in Jodhpur at a distance of 300 kilometers. Jaisalmer has its own railway station and is connected to all major places nearby. A wide network of roads within and outside Jaisalmer makes sure that all tourist destinations are easily reachable.

Jaisalmer is one of the most frequented tourist destinations of India. This sleepy town is located in the center of the mighty Thar Desert of Rajasthan. Rawal Jaisal was the founder of the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan and thus it was named Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer means the "hill fort of Jaisal". This small place is famous for its stunning forts, havelis and palaces.

It was once an important trading center and was also known as Golden City. The city showcases the rich culture and lifestyle of Rajasthan in the most subtle yet prominent way. Jaisalmer tourism is fast catching and this place is emerging as one of the most sought after travel destinations in India. Read on to know what to expect when you travel to Jaisalmer.

Prime Attractions of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort
The golden - yellow sandstone of Jaisalmer Fort, over 800 years old, crowns the Trikuta Hill. Within its walls, defended by 99 turrets, lies the old city, nearly a quarter of modern Jaisalmer.

Desert Festival
Held in the months of January-February, the Desert Festival exudes a delightful spirit. For three days, the otherwise barren land of Jaisalmer comes to life and is clustered with hordes of colourfully dressed people.

Jain temple
This group of fine Jain temples were built in the 12th to 15th century within the Jaisalmer Fort. They are beautifully carved and dedicated to Rishabdevji and Sambhavnathji.

Havelis
The beautiful mansions built by Jaisalmer's wealthy merchants are known as 'havelis' and several of these fine sandstone buildings are still in beautiful condition. Patwon ki Haveli is the most elaborate and magnificent of all the Jaisalmer havelis.

Gadsisar Lake
Gadsisar Lake in Jaisalmer, the rainwater fed reservoir, was built in 1156 AD and rebuilt in 1367AD by Maharwal Garsisingh.

Govt Museum - Jaisalmer
The Government Museum in Jaisalmer is situated on Police Line Road near Moomal Hotel. It was opened in 1984. The large collection of wood and marine fossils in the museum gives an insight into the geological past of the area.

Manak Chowk
Outside the fort is the main market place called Manak Chowk, which is the centre of local activity. From Manak Chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved havelis are to be found. Each haveli's facade differs from other. Built mainly during the 18th and 19th centuries, the carving in the havelis of Jaisalmer is of a very superior quality.

Camel Safaris
These are conducted on many routes.

Folklore Museum
For anyone interested in seeing the culture of Jaisalmer on display through the ages, the Lok Sanskritik Sangrahalaya or the Museum of Folk Culture situated on the bank of Gadsisar Lake in Mehar Bagh Garden is a must.

Gadsisar Sagar Tank
Gadsisar Sagar is a scenic rain water lake with numerous beautiful shrines around. The lake is an idyllic spot for outings and picniking.

Gyan Bhandar or Library
Some of the oldest manuscripts of India are found in this library established as a part of Jain temples.

Kailana Lake
Bookmark this page Printer friendly version Email this page Located 11 kms off the Jaisalmer Road, Kailana Lake is a picturesque lake. One can witness the spectacular sunsets and cherish the beauty of the place.

Lodurva
The ancient capital of Jaisalmer, some vestiges of former glory remain.