Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City because of its numerous golden sand dunes and castles constructed of golden honey sandstones. It is located in the northwestern part of the Indian state. A number of lagoons, ornate Jain temples, and magnificent havelis may be found throughout the city. However, this is just one side of the story. The unconventional desert safari experience in Jaisalmer is also well-known. The city offers comfortable accommodations in the heart of the enormous Thar desert, as well as a variety of adventure activities to make your stay truly unforgettable. The city also has a plethora of vibrant handicraft markets that will transport you back in time and provide you with an insight into Indian culture and heritage. During your vacation to Jaisalmer, you can participate in a variety of desert activities that are both exciting and enjoyable. A safari journey in a car or on a camel through the sands is an unforgettable experience. You'll have a wonderful evening at the campsite, seeing traditional music and dance performances. The campgrounds are also famed for serving up some of the most delicious traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

Ancient History of Jaisalmer

In the ninth century, the Bhati Rajputs dominated Jaisalmer. Their main adversaries were the Rathore families of Jodhpur and Bikaner. Clan wars were common in this area. The throne was passed down to Rawal Jaisal in the 12th century, who gave the fort his name. Alauddin Khilji, a Turkic monarch, invaded Jaisalmer in 1294. For 8 years, the Bhatis guarded the fort. When they were on the point of defeat, they performed a rite known as 'jauhar,' in which 24,000 women committed suicide by setting themselves on fire on a funeral pyre. Firuz Shah Tughluq besieged Jaisalmer in the 14th century. The Bhatis retook control of the city in the 15th century and ruled for the rest of the century. Rawal Lunakarn fought with Mughal emperor Humayun during the Mughal dynasty. When the Mughal Empire fell to the Marathas in the 18th century, Jaisalmer became a princely state under the British after the third Anglo-Maratha War in 1818. On May 15th, 1949, Jaisalmer joined the Indian union after the country's independence. Trade links to Pakistan were cut off after India was partitioned. The establishment of the border gave the location strategic significance, and it now serves as a significant army base.

Culture of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer's rich culture is a throwback to another time. Traditions and culture are still respected by the locals. Folk music and dance have been passed down through the generations and play an important role in their lives. Popular dances include Kalbeliya, Ghoomar, and Kathputli. Intricate needlework, silver jewelry, leather goods, and stone carving are among the crafts of Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer Fort, in particular, is well-known for its medieval architecture. Parsvanath Jain Temple, Chandraprabhu Temple, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, and other places of interest are also worth seeing. The walls, pillars, and ceilings of antique buildings feature incredible lattice work. Every year, the Desert Festival allows people to showcase their talents through music concerts, puppet plays, and folklore performances.

Cuisines of Jaisalmer

Rajasthani cuisine has an unique taste. It's typically fiery, peppery, and grilled. Due to a lack of vegetables in the area, gourmet food focuses on gram  and lentil preparations. A traditional Rajasthani lunch consists of four courses, beginning with a refreshing lassi or buttermilk served chilled in large glasses and savouries. Ker Sangri, a combination of dried khejri tree berries and sangri, a green bean, is served as the main dish. The inhabitants' favourite dishes are Lal Mas, which is mutton cooked with a variety of spices, and Gatta Kari, a yoghurt-based stew.

Things to do when in Jaisalmer

• Boat Ride - The filled-to-the-brim Gadisar Lake, on the borders of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan's dry state, is like an oasis in the desert. The lake, which is close to Jaisalmer's fort, is frequented by Indian and foreign visitors alike. The eastern sky is blood red and the sun rises, striking its rays on the upper floors of Jaisalmer Fort, providing breathtaking views from all sides of Gadisar Lake.
• Desert Safari - Almost all of the guests embark on desert safari tours, accounting for over 95% of the total. To avoid the blazing heat, these visits are conducted early in the morning or late in the evening. After completing the safari excursion, guests can have a delectable supper while seeing a gipsy musical dance performance at one of Sam's desert camps.
• Dune Bashing - Dune bashing is one of Jaisalmer's most distinctive and unique activities. This is an activity you should absolutely try if you have an adventurous streak. Even if you are safely seated in the automobile with safety belts secured, you will feel your adrenaline rush as you raft through the dips and falls of the gorgeous golden desert.
• Jeep Safari - Desert national park, located near Jaisalmer, is one of the country's largest, covering 3162 square kilometres. The park appears to go on forever, stretching from Jaisalmer/Barmer to the India-Pakistan border. The fascinating site has everything a desert ecology should have: jagged rocks and compact salt lake bottoms, intermedial spaces, and fixed dunes.
• Camping and Culture Evening - Jaisalmer is a wonderful spot for camping and cultural evenings because of its golden fort, sand dunes, and stunning palaces. A camping trip should be on the bucket list of anyone who wants to get a better understanding of Rajasthan's true nature. It is one of Jaisalmer's must-do activities. Many travel companies offer camping as well as safaris, parasailing, and paramotoring, among other activities. Another fun sport is riding a desert camel through the dry environment.
• Quad Biking - Quad Biking is another one of Jaisalmer's most exciting and exhilarating activities. On what are known as ATV Bikes, the adrenaline-pumping sport promises a dreamlike journey. The exercise is carried out under the close observation and guidance of a professional. You can live your 'heroic' moment by riding your high-speed bikes over the enormous desert.

Places to visit in Jaisalmer

• Jaisalmer Fort - The Jaisalmer Fort, often known as the 'Golden Fort' and locally as the 'Sonar Quilla,' is an iconic landmark of the city. This is one of the world's largest forts, built by Rajput king Rao Jaisal. The fort, which is located on the Trikuta Hill in the Thar desert, has seen many wars. From the exterior, the distinctive fort, built of yellow sandstone and nestled among the golden dunes of Thar, is truly stunning.
• Salim Singh Ki Haveli - The Salim Singh Ki Haveli in Jaisalmer, which was established in 1815, was built on the foundations of a 17th century Haveli. The Mehtas' Haveli was commissioned by then-Prime Minister Salim Singh, after whom the Haveli is named. The Haveli, which was built in a unique design, has unique elements such as a peacock-inspired roof and elephant-sculpted entrances.
• Bada Bagh - The royals' last resting place is Bada Bagh, which translates to "great garden," and the different cenotaphs serve as quiet witnesses to the passage of time. The cenotaphs, which are likewise made of yellow sandstone and symbolize the end, are a stunning representation of artistic craftsmanship. During the day, the exquisite work on the walls is mesmerizing, and it's also an excellent spot to watch the sunset.
• Gadsisar Lake - The Gadisisar lake, located outside of Jaisalmer city, is a serene area worth visiting. The lake was built in 1400 A.D. as a water source for the entire city and is located on the outskirts of the city. Many temples and shrines surround the lake, bringing pilgrims from all around India. The lake is lovely in its own right, reflecting the surrounding area's starkly contrasted colors.
• Khaba Fort - Khaba in Jaisalmer appears to be another haunting location. The Khaba fort, like the deserted ruins of Kuldara, is a popular tourist attraction. It was once inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins before being abandoned one night. There are relatively few people going around the fort, which is quite silent. There are many peacocks in the nearby areas, which are maintained by the government.
• Patwon Ki Haveli - The Patwon Ki Haveli, which has captivating architecture, is one of Jaisalmer's most important Havelis. The majestic edifice is actually a collection of five havelis erected for each of Guman Chand Patwa's five sons by the wealthy trader Guman Chand Patwa. The entire edifice was constructed over a period of 50 years! You may see wall murals and mirror work that hint to the earlier splendor, in addition to the stunning architecture.
• Thar Heritage Museum - The Thar Heritage Museum in Jaisalmer, located near Gandhi Chowk, houses an interesting collection of historical artifacts. The museum, which is a must-see for all history buffs, houses a diverse collection of items including musical instruments, fossils, and birth and death traditions, among others. The guided tour led by historian LN Khatri can bring the museum's past to life.

How to reach ? 

• By Air - Jaisalmer is well connected to all of Rajasthan's destinations by road. Standard and deluxe buses to Jaisalmer are provided by both state transportation and commercial tour operators. Jaipur, India's capital, is 568 kilometers distant.
• By Train -  Direct trains run between Jaisalmer and Delhi and Jaipur. Broad gauge trains run to all of India's main cities. Jaisalmer is also visited by the IRCTC's 'Palace on Wheels' service.
• By Air - The Jaisalmer Airport is largely utilized by the military, with just a few chartered commercial planes flying in and out. Jodhpur (278 km) is the closest commercial airport, with domestic and international flights to major cities.