Jaisalmer Sightseeing Tour Package: Discovering the Golden City of Rajasthan
Exploring Jaisalmer: A Tour of the Golden City
Jaisalmer is renowned for its beautiful sandstone structures that have earned it the name "Golden City." A sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer typically takes you through the historical sites, desert landscapes, and vibrant markets that define the essence of the city. A well-curated sightseeing tour package allows you to explore the city's key attractions, each offering a unique perspective of Jaisalmer’s rich past and culture.
1. Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)
The heart of any sightseeing tour in Jaisalmer is the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort. Built in the 12th century by Maharawal Jaisal Singh, the fort is one of the largest living forts in the world, with a significant portion of the city’s population residing within its walls. The fort’s golden sandstone walls shimmer under the sun, giving it a magical golden glow, especially during sunset. Visitors can explore the narrow lanes within the fort, where there are ancient temples, palaces, and havelis.
Some of the key highlights inside the fort include the Jaisalmer Fort Palace, the Laxminarayan Temple, and the Raj Mahal. The fort offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert and city, making it an essential stop on any sightseeing tour package.
2. Patwon Ki Haveli
Next on the sightseeing itinerary is the Patwon Ki Haveli, a magnificent architectural wonder located just outside the fort. This five-story mansion is one of the most prominent havelis in Jaisalmer and is a prime example of intricate Rajasthani architecture. The haveli is renowned for its detailed carvings and grandiose design, with ornate windows, balconies, and beautiful frescoes.
The haveli is a collection of five havelis, each built by different brothers, and visitors can explore the various rooms, each showcasing royal art and heritage. The Patwon Ki Haveli is a perfect example of how Jaisalmer’s affluent merchants lived during the city’s peak.
3. Sam Sand Dunes
No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a visit to the Sam Sand Dunes, located about 40 kilometers from the city. Situated at the edge of the Thar Desert, the sand dunes offer a surreal experience of the vast desert landscape. A sightseeing tour package in Jaisalmer often includes a camel ride through the dunes, allowing visitors to experience the desert in a traditional way.
During the tour, travelers can enjoy the stunning sunset over the golden sands, which is an unforgettable sight. Evening cultural performances of Rajasthani folk music and dance further enhance the experience. Many luxury desert camps are set up in the area, offering a chance to stay under the stars in royal-style tents, making it a memorable part of the sightseeing tour package.
4. Jain Temples of Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is also home to some exquisite Jain temples, which are known for their architectural beauty and intricate carvings. Located inside the Jaisalmer Fort, the Jain Temples are dedicated to Tirthankaras and date back to the 12th and 15th centuries. These temples are not only places of worship but also showcase some of the finest examples of stone-carving craftsmanship.
The Paraswanath Temple and the Shantinath Temple are the most famous Jain temples in Jaisalmer. The temples are adorned with beautiful marble carvings, intricate architecture, and detailed frescoes, making them a significant stop on a sightseeing tour.
5. Gadisar Lake
Gadisar Lake is a man-made reservoir situated at the southern entrance of Jaisalmer. The lake was originally constructed by Maharwal Gadsi Singh in the 14th century to meet the water needs of the city. Today, it is a peaceful retreat where visitors can enjoy boating and admire the beautiful temples and shrines that surround the lake.
A walk around the lake offers a chance to witness traditional Rajasthani architecture, and the sight of the sun setting behind the temples reflected on the water is truly breathtaking. It is a perfect spot for a relaxing evening after a day of sightseeing.
6. Bada Bagh
Located around 6 kilometers north of Jaisalmer, Bada Bagh is a serene garden complex that is home to royal cenotaphs (memorials) of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer. The cenotaphs are built in the Rajput style, and the intricate carvings on the stone structures tell the story of the royal family’s lineage. The site offers stunning views of the desert landscape and is a great place for photography.
Visitors to Bada Bagh can learn about the royal history of Jaisalmer while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.
7. Desert Cultural Centre and Museum
For those interested in learning more about the history and culture of Jaisalmer, a visit to the Desert Cultural Centre and Museum is a must. The museum showcases the lifestyle of the people of the Thar Desert, featuring exhibits on traditional Rajasthani music, dance, and culture. The museum also houses a collection of artifacts, costumes, and musical instruments used by local folk artists.
The museum hosts evening performances where visitors can watch traditional Rajasthani folk dance and music, making it a fun and educational addition to a sightseeing tour.
What to Expect from a Jaisalmer Sightseeing Tour Package
A typical Jaisalmer Sightseeing Tour Package includes guided tours to all the major attractions, such as the Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Jain Temples, Gadisar Lake, Sam Sand Dunes, and more. Tour packages often come with transport, such as air-conditioned cars or jeeps, making it convenient for tourists to explore the city without the hassle of navigation.
Many packages also offer a stay at heritage hotels or desert camps, allowing tourists to experience the royal hospitality of Jaisalmer. Packages can be customized to include camel safaris, cultural performances, and traditional Rajasthani meals, making the experience even more immersive.
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