Jaisalmer is the shimmering golden mirage deep in the heart of Thar Desert. This formidable double walled citade, deep within the desert has withstood the ambition of many a conqueror. Here the sunsets have a distinctively majestic glow. As the night gradually descends, the sky goes up in flames, which then fade leaving a few embers, till it becomes utterly dark. A breathtaking sight indeed.

The commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands with its entire splendor, dominating the amber-hued city. This fortress city of Jaisalmer has a fascinating legend associated with it, according to which, Lord Krishna-the head of the 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 1156 A.D. when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput, abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital - Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill. The Bahti Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs (Robber barons) who lived off the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed the territory enroute. These caravans earned the town great wealth.

For years Jaisalmer remained untouched by the outside influences. The rise of shipping trade and the ridged boundaries of India and Pakistan, saw the decline of Jaisalmer. But life within the citadel conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes strewn with magnificent palace, havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels. The perfect time to visit the golden fortress is during the Desert Festival, that is held every Jan/Feb. Surely a not-to-be missed event.

Just outside the fort is the main market place called Manak Chowk, which is the center of local activity. From Manak Chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved havelies are to be found. Each haveli's facade differs from other. Built mainly during the 18th and 19th centuries, the carving in the havelies of Jaisalmer is of a very superior quality. Patwon-ki-Haveli is one of the most exquisite havelis with a beautiful latticed facade.

Salim Singh-ki-Haveli is just three centuries old, and is still lived in. Well-excluded brackets in the form of peacocks hold up its arched roof. Two architect brothers built Nathmalji-ki-Haveli, each concentrating on opposite sides. Yellow sandstone tuskers guard the haveli.

Places of interest :

Lodurva (16 km) :
Lodurva is the ancient capital of Jaisalmer and an important pilgrim spot of the Jain community. Lodurva has some magnificent Jain temple. 'Toran' or the ornate arches at the main entrance and splendid carvings are noteworthy. A 'Kalptaru' or a divine tree within is the main attraction of the temple

Wood Fossil Park, Aakal (17 kms) :
Lying on the Barmer Road, this park takes you back to the Jurassic period (when the whole Thar region lay under the sea) with 180 million-year-old fossils - the geological landmarks for the study of the Thar Desert.

Sam Sand Dunes (42 km) :
No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a trip to the most picturesque dunes of Sam. The ripples on the wind -caressed dunes, that create an enchanting mirage, are surely a delight for a trigger -happy photographer. We organise a number of cultural programs here against the backdrop of these fascinating sand dunes. Exciting camel safaris allow you to get the real feel of the desert on the camel back.

Desert National Park (45 km) :
The landscape of the Desert National Park is dominated by rolling sand dunes and scrub covered hills. The prominent fauna of the park includes black buck, chinkara, desert fox and the great Indian bustard.

Amar Sagar (5 km ) :
A pleasant garden beside a lake with mango and other fruit trees. Beautifully carved Jain temples add to its splendor.

Bada Bagh (6km.) :
Bada Bagh is a fertile oasis on the bank of an artificial lake. Much of the city's fruits and vegetables are grown here. Surrounded by dense trees are the royal cenotaphs with beautifully carved ceilings and equestrian statues of the former rulers.