Jaisalmer, also known as the "Golden City" of Rajasthan, offers a blend of rich culture, history, and stunning architecture set against the vast Thar Desert. Here are some of the top things to do in Jaisalmer:
1. Visit Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)
- The Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world. Built in the 12th century, its golden sandstone architecture is a marvel. Explore the narrow lanes, temples, and palaces inside the fort. Don't miss the panoramic views of the city from the fort walls.
2. Explore Patwon Ki Haveli
- This architectural masterpiece consists of five havelis and is known for its intricate carvings, balconies, and historical significance. It's one of the most beautiful havelis in Jaisalmer.
3. Camel Safari in the Thar Desert
- No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without experiencing a camel safari in the Thar Desert. You can ride camels through the sand dunes, especially during sunset or sunrise, for a truly magical experience. Overnight desert camps are available, offering a chance to sleep under the stars.
4. Sam Sand Dunes
- Located about 40 km from the city, Sam Sand Dunes is the perfect spot to experience the desert landscape. Enjoy a camel ride or jeep safari, and in the evening, you can participate in cultural performances like Rajasthani folk dance and music.
5. Visit Gadisar Lake
- A serene man-made lake surrounded by temples and shrines. It’s a peaceful place to take a boat ride and enjoy the tranquility. The lake is surrounded by ornate gateways, making it a popular spot for photography.
6. Jain Temples in Jaisalmer Fort
- Inside the Jaisalmer Fort, you’ll find some beautiful Jain temples that are known for their intricate architecture and carvings. These temples are dedicated to Tirthankaras and are an important part of the city’s history.
7. Kuldhara Village
- Located about 20 km from Jaisalmer, the abandoned village of Kuldhara is an intriguing place to visit. Known for its mysterious past, this ghost village is now a popular tourist attraction. It’s said that the village was abandoned overnight by its residents in the 19th century.
8. Desert National Park
- This park, located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, is home to unique wildlife adapted to the desert environment. You can spot species like the Great Indian Bustard, chinkara, and desert fox. It's an excellent spot for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
9. Shopping in Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer is famous for its traditional handicrafts. You can shop for items like bandhani (tie-dye fabric), handmade carpets, silver jewelry, and brassware. The Bhatia Bazaar and Sadar Bazaar are popular markets to find these items.
10. Sunset Point
- For a breathtaking view of the desert landscape, head to Sunset Point. The golden hues of the desert at dusk make it one of the most popular places to watch the sunset.
11. Cultural Performances
- Jaisalmer offers an array of cultural performances in the evening, especially at desert camps. You can enjoy Rajasthani folk music, Kalbeliya dance, and other traditional performances that offer insight into the local culture.
12. Visit the Thar Heritage Museum
- A museum that showcases the history and culture of Jaisalmer and the Thar Desert. The exhibits include artifacts, old photographs, and historical documents, offering a deeper understanding of the region's past.
13. Nathmal Ki Haveli
- Another architectural gem in Jaisalmer, this haveli is famous for its beautifully carved facades and intricate architecture. The haveli is still privately owned, but visitors can explore its exterior and enjoy its fascinating design.
.Jaisalmer, located in Rajasthan, is well-connected by road, rail, and air, making it accessible from various cities in India.
By Air:
The nearest airport to Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Airport (IXJ), located around 17 km from the city center. The airport has limited connectivity, with flights primarily operating from Jaipur and Delhi. For more frequent flight options, Jodhpur Airport (about 285 km away) is a better alternative, with good connections to major cities in India. From Jodhpur, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Jaisalmer.
By Train:
Jaisalmer is well-connected by rail to cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Mumbai. The Jaisalmer Railway Station is around 1-2 km from the city center. Popular trains to Jaisalmer include the Golden Temple Mail (from Amritsar) and Sampark Kranti Express (from Delhi). Train journeys offer a comfortable and scenic way to reach the city.
By Road:
Jaisalmer is well-connected by road to nearby cities. From Jaipur, it's approximately 575 km (9-10 hours by car), and from Jodhpur, it's around 285 km (5-6 hours). Buses are also available from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, offering an affordable travel option.
Comments
Post a Comment