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Guide » Jaisalmer Travel Guide
Jaisalmer Travel GuideIts
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 15 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 and cess on passing by caravans and sometimes through
illicit gains by rustling cattle.
Over the years the remote location
of Jaisalmer kept it almost untouched by outside influences. In the 13th century
Ala-ud-din Khilji Emperor of Delhi besieged the fort for nine years in an effort
to take back the treasure taken by the Bhatti Rajput from his imperial caravan
train. When the fall of the fort was imminent the women of the fort committed
Jauhar, an act of mass self-immolation, while men donned saffron robes and rode
to their certain death.
Duda son of Jaitasimha, a Bhatti hero also perished
in the battle. Dudas descendants continued to rule Jaisalmer. In 1541 they even
fought Mughal Emperor Himayun. Though their relations with Mugshal was not always
hostile. Sabala Simha won the patronage of Mughal Emperor Shaha Jahan for battle
distinctions in Peshawar and the right to rule Jaisalmer. In the days of Raj,
Jaisalmer was the last to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British. 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.
Rising from the heart of the Thar
Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched
in yellow sandstone stands with all its awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued
city.
The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according
to which, lord Krishna- the head of Yadav clan foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent
of the Yadav clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill, His prophecy
was fulfilled in 1156AD.
When Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput abandoned
his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta
Hill Bhatti Rajputs of Jaisalmer were fedual chief who lived off the forced levy
on the caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed the territory
enroute Delhi-or Sind. These seems to be straight out of the "Tales of the
Arabian Night ' still enchants.
The life within the citadel conjures
up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes strewn with magnificent
palaces, havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels.
the setting turn Jaisalmer into a beautiful golden brown is a spectacular sight.
The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival
held in Jan/Feb. every year, when the city reverberates to the sound of melodious
tunes and rhythms. Folk dances, exciting competitions and contest, especially
the turban raying contest.
Mr. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivals colorful craft
bazars are setup for the occasion and a sound and light spectacle is organized
with folk artistes performing against the spledid backdrop of the famous
sam sand dunes on the full moon night. Surely a not-to-be-missed events.
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