Jaisalmer tourism- Explore the golden city
The enchanting city of Jaisalmer in the state of Rajasthan is a very popular tourist destination for both local and international tourists. Its strategic location close to the desert of Thar adds to its popularity as a tourist destination.
Once known as the Jaisalmer State, the city is located on a yellow sandstone ridge and is fringed by a fort housed inside which are several palaces and temples. Apart from the yellow sandstone ridge, majority of Jaisalmer’s buildings are also yellow in colour, lending the city the name ‘Golden City’.
Jaisalmer is situated 575 km from the state capital Jaipur and is probably one of the most popularly visited cities in the state. Known for its rich culture and heritage, Jaisalmer is a city with varied sightseeing options. The numerous havelis, palaces, forts and the exotic desert safaris are the gems of Jaisalmer tourism and what attracts so many to this magnificent city.
Jaisalmer Fort is the most popular and magnificent one of all the forts in Jaisalmer. The fort is called the Sonar Quila owing to its golden colour and was built by the Bhati Rajput ruler Jaisal in 1156. The city of Jaisalmer gets its name from this very same ruler Jaisal. Set on the Trikuta Hill, the fort has witnessed many an important battle and is rightfully called the Pride of Jaisalmer. This fort still houses about a quarter of the city’s population.
The city is Jaisalmer is also very famous for its spectacular havelis which are also a must visit for anyone visiting this city. The famous havelis in Jaisalmer are Patwon-ki-Haveli and Nathmalji-ki-Haveli. Jaisalmer tourism also includes many religious centres such as Sambhav Devji Temple, Rikhabdev Temple and Ashtapadi Temple that are prominent Jain temples dedicated to the Jain Tirthankars.
Another prominent feature of Jaisalmer tourism is a trip to the 14th century lake in Jaisalmer known as the Lake of Gadsisar. This lake is essentially an enormous water conservation tank that was constructed by the then Maharaja of Jaisalmer, Maharwal Gadsi Singh. It was built to supply water to this arid city in its time of need. The lake is also famous for Its proximity to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, which is visited by ardent bird lovers and animal enthusiasts. The lake’s proximity to the sanctuary also makes it a favourite spot for many local and migratory birds.
Among the other interesting attractions here are Amar Sagar Lake, Bada Bagh Jaisalmer, Desert National Park, Wood Fossil Park, Khuri Sand Dunes, Lodurva and Mool Sagar. A trip to the Sam Sand Dunes, where one can indulge in camel or jeep safaris riding up and down the dunes is a much sought after activity.
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