The city of Jaisalmer shimmers like a mirage amidst the desolate beauty of the hot barren deserts of Rajasthan. It is a small city that can be covered within two hours of leisurely strolling through the lanes and by-lanes, and has an extraordinarily medieval feel and incredible atmosphere. The havelis (mansions of rich merchants) which are the pride of Jaisalmer’s architecture and a part of the national heritage should be seen and admired at an unhurried pace. The Jaisalmer Fort, perched atop the triangular-shaped Trikuta Hills, contains some gems of Jain temple buildings, while beautifully decorated havelis are scattered throughout the town. The city is also famous for its beautiful embroidery.

During the medieval times Jaisalmer made rapid progress due to its strategic location on the camel trade route between India and Central Asia. Even now, especially after the two wars with Pakistan, its strategic importance has led to the building of national highways, a railway track, and an airstrip, and brought Jaisalmer within easy reach of the people.


The Jaisalmer Fort rises above its city like a mirage from the sands. The second oldest fort in Rajasthan, it was built in 1156 by the Rajput ruler Jaisala. At the time the entire city lay within the fort but as the town prospered and its population grew it spilled out into the land below where merchants set up beautiful havelis. The most amazing thing though is the fact that till this day 25% of Jaisalmer's population resides within the fort, its temples and palaces are now monuments and part of heritage but the streets are packed with shops, people and children playing hopscotch. Its an extraordinary experience to walk around these still inhabited lanes and feel like you have somehow been transported back in time.

The Jain Temples Three exquisitely sculptured Jain temples dedicated to Rishabhdevji, Sambhavanathji and the Ashthapadi temple are located within the fort. Their ornamentation, done in the style of the Dilwara temples at Mt. Abu, is marvellous. The emerald icon of Mahavira here is an unparalleled gem.

The Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli is a magnificent edifice whose two upper storeys had to be demolished and yet whose surviving structure has unsurpassed splendor. Particularly noteworthy are the rows of peacocks below the jharokhas (projected arched balconies).

Patwon-ki-Haveli is near the city centre. Its five suites built between AD 1800 and AD 1860 are evidence of Jaisalmer’s legendary architectural wealth. The balconies are delicately chiseled, and oblique sunrays create enchanting and dramatic shadows. It is the grandest mansion in Jaisalmer, a veritable museum piece in the open.

Nathmal-ki-Havelii has two identical-looking portions, which are, in fact, two different parts united by a common façade. The projected balconies or jharokhas are a perfect example of jeweler’s art applied to stone carving.

The Gadisar Lake is an important historic symbol as it was once the only source of water for the kingdom of Jaisalmer. This soothing desert oasis has now become a popular picnic spot and pedal and paddle-boats are available on hire.

The Desert Culture Centre and Museum has a number of old coins, different kinds of textiles, traditional Rajasthani instruments, and some fossils that were discovered in the desert. It gives a visitor an insight into the history of Rajasthan.

How To Get There??
Air : The nearest airport is in Jodhpur about 300 kms away.
Rail :Jaisalmer has its very own railway station and is well connected with most major metro cities in India.
Road :Jodhpur is a comfortable six and a half hour drive from Jaipur, the Capital city of Rajasthan. RSTC buses and private luxury buses connect Jodhpur with almost all major places of Rajasthan.