A guide to Jaisalmer

Steeped in stories of valour, gallantry, vows, battles, sacrifices, and royalty, Jaisalmer is the ‘Golden City,’ known for its tawny landscape. A guide to Jaisalmer would include its magnificent glories of a time gone by, enriching the traveller with myriad experiences. For as far as the eyes can see, the city, surrounded by vast expanse of amber sand of the harsh and arid Thar Desert, glows in a golden hue, due to the rampant use of yellow sandstone in its fort, many havelis, temples, and chhatris. Colouful pagris of heavily moustached men, women in sequined and mirrored lehengas, delectable authentic flavours of local cuisine wafting from wayside food stalls, the intricate details of jalis and jharokhas of its yellow sandstone architecture, the overflowing shops of leather mojris, block-printed scarves, and miniature art, overwhelm and transport the inquisitive intrepid visitor to a bygone era.

Bordered by Pakistan on its western and south-western side, Jaisalmer, a ‘UNESCO World Heritage Site,’ is named after the Rajput king Maharawal Jaisal Singh, who established it in 1156 AD. Jaisalmer literally translates to Hill Fort of Jaisal or the fort for King Jaisal Singh. It is not only one of the largest districts in Rajasthan, but also in the country.
There are several places to visit in Jaisalmer that symbolise the city's rich history and culture.