The name Jaisalmer evokes a vivid picture of sheer magic and brilliance of the desert. The exotic, remote and beautiful, Jaisalmer is a bit of a paradox. So far west that it is in the heart of the desert, one would expect barren near-desolation. Yet this frontier town is today one of Rajasthan's best-loved tourist destinations. Local colour and warmth prevail over the inhospitable and forbidding terrain, imbuing the medieval town with a special magic.

Visit Rajasthan 

Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhati Rajput, laid the foundation of this city in 1156 AD. Trikuta was the hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Lodurva and established his new capital here. 


The Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs who lived on the forced levy on the caravans that crossed their territory en-route Delhi. These caravans, laden with precious cargos of spices and silk brought great wealth to this town. Because of its remote location, Jaisalmer for years remained untouched by outside influences and during the British Raj, the rulers of Jaisalmer were the last to sign the instrument of agreement with the British.

January/ February, is a must on any itinerary. The desert seems to bloom in a thousand colours. There are camel races and folk dances. Craft bazaar and traditional balled singing. A sound and light spectacle on the sand-dunes of Sam on the full moon night. And all the colour and excitement of the best in Rajasthan.

The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival every year when the city reverberates to the sound of melodious tunes and rhythms. 

Folk dances, exciting competitions and contest especially the turban-tying contest, Mr.Desert contest and camel races enlighten the festivities. Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions, together amounting to a memorable experience. This is a city to be visited. 

PRIME ATTRACTIONS
FORTS AND PALACES
The Jaisalmer Fort: 

The golden - hued Jaisalmer Fort 'Sonar Kila' can be seen miles away before reaching the town.
Manak Chowk and Havelis: - A main marketplace outside the fort leads to the narrow lanes dotted with famous 'havelis'. 

Havelis: Some of the most exotic mansions or 'havelis', all ntricately latticed, are stretched all over Jaisalmer, each with a different facade.

LAKES
Gadsisar Sagar Tank: - A scenic rain water lake with numerous beautiful shrines around. The lake is an idyllic spot for outings.

TEMPLES
Jain Temples: - The fort has three exquisitely carved Jain Temples dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras - Rishabhdevji and Sambhavnathji. 

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

RAJASTHAN TRAIN TRAVEL
PALACE ON WHEELS 

Ever wondered what luxury in the royal times was all about! Welcome to Palace On Wheels, a luxury train that carries with it an ambience of the Rajputana era and an exciting fairytale journey, which takes the visitor to the imperial cities of Rajasthan every single day. The coaches also carry out an image of the Rajput states with beautiful interiors. Last but not the least the "Royal Treat" for the passengers on board include saloons, bar lounges & libraries in every coach as well as restaurant and organized shopping facilites. 

EXCURSIONS
CITIES

Akal (16 kms from Jaisalmer) : It looks like a army frozen in its tracks, standing petrified in the forest of Aakal, in a bare hillside of mica, and red and yellow stone. It is a fossil park where 180 millions years ago stood a forest. The fossil trunks lie scattered in this part.

Barmer (153 kms from Jaisalmer ) : It is famous for wood carvings, embroidered fabrics and block printed textiles.


Lodurva (17 kms from Jaisalmer) : The ancient capital of Jaisalmer, some vestiges of former glory remain.