Rajasthan Tour
JAISALMER TOUR
Its like straight out of an Arabian Nights fable. The name
Jaisalmer induces a dramatic picture of utter magic and brilliance
of the desert. The hostile terrain not with standing the warmth
and colour of people is simply over whelming. One of the main
draws is the daunting 12th century Jaisalmer Fort. The beautiful
havelis which were built by wealthy merchants of Jaisalmer
are yet another interesting aspect of the desert city. And
you can let your eyes caress the sloppy sand dunes while you
ramble your way in a camel safari. The desert citadel is truly
a golden fantasy in Thar Desert. Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal
Jaisal, after whom the city finds its name, founded Jaisalmer
in 1156.
On advice of a local hermit Eesaal he chose the Tricut Hills
as his new abode abandoning his vulnerable old fort at Luderwa
just 16 kilometres northwest. In Medieval times, its prosperity
was due to its location on the main trade route linking India
to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The Bhatti
Rajput rulers lined their coffer with gains from traditional
taxes on passing by caravans and sometimes through illicit
gains by rustling cattle.
Ages have gone by and the monuments of Jaisalmer have withstood
the buffeting winds of the desert all through. Jaisalmer is
a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions,
together amounting to a memorable experience. The old city
was completely encircled by wall but much of it is now pulled
down sadly for want of building material in recent years.
The massive golden fort, which is the essence of Jaisalmer,
is entered through First Gate. Is a burrow of narrow streets
complete with Jain Temples and old palaces. The main market
the Bhatia Market is right below the hill. The bank, offices
and several shops are also located near the Amar Sagar Gate
to the west.
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