Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is famously known as Golden Fort of Rajasthan. It was constructed by Raja Jaisal,
Rajput ruler in the year 1156 AD. It ranks amongst the largest forts in the world. The golden and
yellow mixed sandstone offer magical look to the Fort. Rising from the desert sands like a mirage,
the fort is a real sight with its 99 turrets during night. The Fort stands tall and proud displaying
the magic of Rajasthani architecture.
Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh means ‘Huge Garden’. Maharawal Jait Singh’s period saw its construction, which was in the
beginning of 16th century. His son Lunakaran completed the construction after the death of his
father. The garden served as a memorial where the nobles and their families were cremated. The garden
offers a stunning view. The place is isolated. If you visit the place during sunrise and sunset, you
are guaranteed of beautiful moments, which you cannot avoid clicking.
Patwon-Ki-Haveli
Patwon-Ki-Haveli is located in the main city. It was built by a famous trader named Guman Chand and
his sons. This massive five-storied construction has five intricately decorated huge suites. The
large corridors and the decorated walls are excellent representations of the art form that prevailed.
The entire construction is made of yellow sandstone. The grandeur and the architecture of the
monument add immense value to the cultural heritage of the city.
Sam Sand Dunes
To have a feel of the desert, you need to undertake Desert Safari.Sam Dunes Safari camp is the ideal
location to set off for the Desert Safari. You will love the safari on camelback that would take you
along crests and troughs and you could watch the picturesque sunset on the desert. Jeep safaris are
available as well. Desert festival is organized in the months of February and March.
Gadisar Lake
Gadisar Lake is located a kilometer away from the fort. It was constructed by the first ruler of the
land, Raja Rawal Jaisal and later reconstructed by Maharawal Garsi in the year 1367 AD. The people of
the desert city depended on this tank for their water needs. You will find temples, Holy shrines and
Chattris around the banks of this lake. The artistically carved entrance made of yellow sandstone
offers breathtaking view.
Nathmal-ki-Haveli
Nathmal Ki Haveli was built by two Muslim jeweller brothers not stone carvers on the order of the
then prime minister. The brothers started working on the opposite sides of the building which lead to
a similar but non identical left and right side. Apart from its extraordinary outer carvings, this
haveli is known for its beautiful interiors filled with paintings and equipped with modern
facilities. An amalgamation of Islamic and Rajputana architecture, Nathmal Ki Haveli is well
justified as being one of the most beautiful haveli in Jaisalmer.
Jain Temples
Located inside Jaisalmer Fort, Jain temples are a series of temples dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras
and can be traced back to the 12th century. The temples are are known for their distinctive
architectural style modelled after the Dilwara temple of Mt. Abu. Beautifully carved and well
interconnected, these temples are a vision to behold and are completely made up of yellow sandstone.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Among all the havelis in Jaisalmer, Salim Singh Ki Haveli is known for its distinctive and eye
catching architecture. It was built by the then minister, Salim Singh who wanted to make as high as
the fort but was prohibited by the king. It has 38 balconies with their own distinctive style of
architecture and a peacock shaped roof. This haveli provides a good glimpse in the past and the
photographs taken here would be awe inspiring.
Kuldhara
An abandoned ghost town, Kuldhara was once a prosperous town occupied by Paliwal Brahmins. The
reasons for why a whole city was abandoned within a night is not clear but the popular belief holds
the then state minister Salim Singh responsible for the same. The minister wanted to marry the
village chief's daughter and therefore delivered an ultimatum to the village chief to accept his
demands or let the whole community face dire consequences.
Desert National Park
A small village famous for its sand dunes, Khuri has scenic sunset viewpoints and offers a good look
in Thar’s ecosystem due to its location. This is an affordable substitute to Sam Sand dunes and would
be ideal for people looking forward to relaxing among lesser crowds. Camel riding, Desert camping are
some of the activities that can be done here.