Jaisalmer

Camels in the Thar Dessert

Jaisalmer is named after Maharawal Jaisal Singh, a Rajput king who founded the city in 1156 AD. “Jaisalmer” means “the Hill Fort of Jaisal”. Jaisalmer is sometimes called the “Golden City of India” because the yellow sand and the yellow sandstone used in every architecture of the city gives a yellowish-golden tinge to the city and its surrounding area.

Jaisalmer, nicknamed “The Golden City”, is a town in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is located 575 km west from the state capital Jaipur. The town stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, crowned by a fort, which contains the palace and several ornate Jain temples. Many of the havelis and temples are finely sculptured. It lies in the heart of the Thar Desert and has a population of just over 100,000.

JAISALMER FORT – Jaisalmer fort is also known as “Sonar Qila”. Colourful shades of the setting sun and golden hues of the desert ambience give a fairy tale look to this mega structured fort. The interior of this fort is amazing. It is a ‘working fort’ meaning that unlike every other fort in India, there are people living and working within its walls. Tourists can also visit many havelis of rich merchants, which are also having a touch of great classical interior and design.
There are numerous lookouts (at least five) within the fort that give a great view out across the city and desert.

SUNSET POINT

Here you have a superb sunset view of the fort and the city that lies below.