JAISALMER TOUR PLACES

INTRODUCTION

Experiences Divided by Attractions, JAISALMER as the name is commonly referred to, is a city that is one of the most fascinating visiting places in India. The city is situated in the center of Thar Desert and is typically characterized by golden sandstones, splendid forts and distinct desert culture. Jaisalmer was established by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD as a major trading hub along the ancient routes of the caravans connecting India with Central Asia and Middle East. To date, tourists that visit Jaisalmer tour places can still experience the centuries-old heritage and traditions that have been well maintained.

Jaisalmer is an attractive city with ancient forts, elaborately carved havelis, serene lakes, and expansive deserted natural vistas. The city provides the tourists with an opportunity of experiencing royal buildings, folk traditional culture and adventure in the desert. A stroll in the small streets of the ancient city gives the people who may be on a visit a chance to discover ancient structures, bustling markets and the houses constructed using golden sandstone.

To tourists who want to visit the most beautiful Jaisalmer touring sites in a comfortable, and easy way, it is strongly suggested that they engage a reliable travel company. Rajasthan Tour and Packages assists tourists in planning their tour and has structured itineraries, qualified travel guidance, and tours, which enable tourists to experience all the heritage and desert adventure in Jaisalmer.

Forts and Heritage architecture in Jaisalmer.

1.Jaisalmer Fort- The Living Golden Fort.

Jaisalmer fort is a very spectacular historic site in Rajasthan and is commonly referred to as Sonar Quila, which means the fort made of Gold. This giant fort was erected on Trikuta Hill in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal who was the founder of Jaisalmer and who overlooks the whole city. The yellow sandstone is an element used to build the fort and it is the reason why it looks golden when the sun rays on its walls and this makes it look spectacular to the naked eye, particularly during the sunrise and the sunset.

The only difference that Jaisalmer Fort has is that it is among the few living forts throughout the world. Thousands of people are still living within the fort walls and houses, temples, shops and traditional markets are located in the area even today. Taking a stroll through the small streets of the fort enables the visitors to gain the historical lifestyle of the city.

There are very well-sculpted Jain temples, ancient palaces, and heritage houses located in the fort that display the artistic brilliance of medieval Rajasthan. The fort is also situated where one can have a panoramic view of the desert landscape around the city. Due to its historical significance and distinctive culture of living, Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most popular symbols in Rajasthan.

2.Patwon Ki Haveli A Masterpiece of Merchant architecture.

One of the most well-known heritage buildings in Jaisalmer is Patwon Ki Haveli and reflects the prosperity and artistic inclinations of the merchant community that used to reside in the city. This complex is actually five beautifully designed havelis constructed by a very rich trader by the name Guman Chand Patwa in the early 19th century to serve his sons.

Patwon Ki Haveli is an amazing architecture. In the whole building, there are elaborate stone carvings, decorative balconies and well-designed windows called jharokhas. These carvings reflect the great artistry of the local artisans who dealt with sandstone to carve elaborate patterns.

Visitors are allowed to view various rooms, courtyards and galleries inside the haveli which show artifacts, paintings and decoration items of the past. Such exhibits provide the visitors with a glimpse of the luxurious world of the rich traders who previously dominated the trading routes that went through Jaisalmer.

Due to its outstanding design and historical value, Patwon Ki Haveli has become one of the best relics of the traditional Rajasthani merchant houses and a key tourist attraction site that Jaisalmer tourists go to discover the city’s heritage.

3.Nathmal Ki Haveli- One of a Kind Architecture.

The other interesting heritage site to visit in Jaisalmer is Nathmal Ki Haveli which has a peculiar architectural style. This haveli was constructed in the 19th century and it was the home of Diwan Nathmal who was a significant minister to the royal court of Jaisalmer.

The most striking aspect of Nathmal Ki Haveli is that it has a symmetrical structure and this was designed by two brothers who were also the architects. History tells of how the brothers had started to build the haveli on both sides. Consequently, the two faces of the building are a little different yet they still merge together in an exquisite architectural masterpiece.

The haveli is carved in detail in flowers, animals and traditional designs that bring out the artistic innovativeness of the craftsmen. The building has splendidly decorated rooms, balconies, and pillars, which portray the grace of traditional Rajput architecture, which a visitor can view in the building.

Today Nathmal Ki Haveli is one of the representatives of artistic craft and architectural creativity. The site boasts of some of the most complicated carvings and historical value, with the visit of tourists being one of the greatest heritage sites in Jaisalmer.

4.Badal Vilas Fort (Tazia Tower Area) – Royal Architecture having Cultural Influence.

Another historic architectural site of Jaisalmer and the one that is closely related to the royal palace complex is Badal Vilas Fort. The building is also characterized by the Tazia Tower, a distinctive 5-storey tower exhibiting a combination of the Rajput and the Islamic architectural style.

All the floors of the tower were constructed by Muslim artisans who made it in the shape of the traditional tazia that are used during Muharram processions. This renders the building a fascinating piece of Indian harmony and artistic diversity in the Jaisalmer architecture.

The tower is located in the complex of palaces and provides the visitors with a chance to see various carvings, decorative balconies, and historic pieces of design that reflect the artistic capabilities of the masters.

Tourists who come to this place are delighted by the opportunity to tour around the palace area and understand the architecture that had an impact on the creation of the historic buildings in Jaisalmer.

5.Salim Singh Ki Haveli - A Unique Peacock-shaped mansion.

Jaisalmer is rich with many unique heritage buildings and Salim Singh Ki Haveli is one such structure. The haveli was constructed in the early 19 th century by Salim Singh who was the prime minister of Jaisalmer kingdom due to the distinct design and intricate architecture.

The haveli has upper levels that resemble a peacock with spread wings and hence the building looks spectacular. The building has over thirty well-designed balconies which make up a vast aesthetic outlook on the building.

Tourists who visit the haveli have an opportunity to see its decorative brackets, carved pillars and pretty architecture which indicates the wealth and power of Salim Singh. The structure reflects the artistic innovativeness of the craftsmen of Jaisalmer and the affluent lifestyle of royal officials at that period of time.

Due to its strange design and historical significance, Salim Singh Ki Haveli is definitely considered as one of the most fascinating heritage sites of the tourists in Jaisalmer.

Lakes and Scenic Heritage Sites To Visit In Jaisalmer.

Even though Jaisalmer is situated in the centre of Thar Desert, the city is also characterized by a number of historic lakes and heritage landscapes, which were also significant in sustaining life in the desert. These reservoirs and picturesque places, had been meticulously constructed by the Jaisalmer rulers centuries ago to gather and store water in a land where rainfall is very low. These locations today are calm tourist spots where tourists get to enjoy the beauty of historical places and desert sceneries.

1.Gadisar Lake -Jaisalmer Historic Water Reservoir.

The lake of Gadisar is among the most beautiful and historical water bodies in Jaisalmer. The site was initially constructed in the 14 th century by a ruler called Maharawal Gadsi Singh and he was in charge of the area. The lake was designed to serve as a water saving structure to supply drinking water to the city, which is of significant essence in the desert setting.

Gradually, the lake came to be a major meeting point among the travelers and pilgrims as well as the locals. The environment was embellished with temples, shrines and well carved gate ways that were the architectural style of Rajasthan. The Tilon Ki Pol, which is an ornamental archway created by a royal courtesan called Tilon, is one of the most popular constructions at the entrance of the lake.

Gadisar Lake is currently a serene tourist spot where individuals can have a boat trip as they view the old buildings adjacent to the lake. The serene atmosphere, old fashioned buildings and scenery reflection of temples in the lake makes it an ideal photography and relaxation center. It is believed to be a very beautiful experience to watch the sunrise or sunset at Gadisar Lake which is regarded as one of the most beautiful things that can be done in Jaisalmer.

2.Bada Bagh- Royal Cenotaphs and historic Memorial Site.

Bada Bagh is a curious heritage site that is a few kilometers away in Jaisalmer. Bada Bagh translates to Big Garden and this place is most often known by the large group of royal cenotaphs constructed there in honor of the Jaisalmer rulers. These buildings were built between 16 th century and 20th century and they were the cenotaphs locally referred to as chhatris, dedicated to the kings of the Bhati dynasty.

Every cenotaph is constructed using yellow sandstone and has highly carved pillars and domed top. These structures have been styled in the old Rajput style of architecture and they signify the honour of the royal ancestors of this land.

The place of Bada Bagh on a hill in the desert offers a magnificent panoramic sight of the landscape all around. The contrasting desert and historic monuments of the area makes the photo scenery special to the eyes of photographers and history lovers.

Visitors particularly love coming to see the Bada Bagh at sunset when the structures made of golden sandstones are beautiful due to the play of colors in the sky. This serene historical location provides the tourists with an opportunity to explore the historical and natural beauty of Jaisalmer.

3.Amar Sagar Lake A serene heritage Lake.

Another ancient water reservoir that is far from Jaisalmer is Amar Sagar Lake. Maharawal Amar Singh constructed it in the 17th century to aid in the accumulation of water to serve the city and its environs. Similar to most lakes in desert areas, Amar Sagar was a project under a water management system, which guaranteed the existence of the communities during the dry seasons.

The Amar Sagar Palace is a gorgeous palace constructed by the royal family near the lake. The lake and the palace form a picturesque place which depicts the lavish life of the rulers that used to rule the area.

Amar Sagar Lake has one of its distinctive features in the form of carved pavilions and steps which are used to descend to the water. These architecturally built structures show how attentively water structures were planned in Rajasthan in order to integrate functionality and artistic beauty.

Amar Sagar Lake is a quiet and less busy tourist place nowadays. Tourists are able to experience the serene environment, ancient environment, and the scenic landscape which gives them a soothing experience when they move out of the crowded city centers.

4.Jaisalmer-Desert and Safari Experiences.

Among the most thrilling activities of visiting Jaisalmer, safari tours and cultural experiences in the great Thar Desert are included. The deserts will provide the tourist with an opportunity to visit golden sand dunes, ancient desert villages, and wild animals which represent the special ways of life of the desert inhabitants of Rajasthan. The tourists that visit the desert regions of Jaisalmer have the opportunity to experience camel riding, jeep tours, cultural nights, and wildlife tours. Through these experiences, tourists are able to observe the beautiful sunsets at the dunes and listen to the traditional Rajasthani music, dance, and food at the desert camps.

Some of the most popular Desert safari experiences in Jaisalmer are explained in a structured manner as explained below.

Sam Sand Dunes -Camel Safari and Cultural Desert Camps.

The most popular desert attraction in the area of Jaisalmer is Sam Sand Dunes and is approximately forty kilometers away. The Thar Desert has sand dunes which are large and beautiful creating one of the best sites where the visitor can experience the beauty of the desert. Mostly tourists come during the afternoon hours near the end of the day to watch the sunset on the dunes.

One of the key activities on Sam Sand Dunes is camel safari. Tourists in the UAE ride camels around the desert as they view the immediate environment and the traditional villages. Jeep safaris are also preferred by many tourists who want to get a thrilling ride at a higher speed through the dunes.

Desert camps provide cultural evenings after sunset where the tourists can listen to traditional folk music and dance performances performed by the locals and taste local food under the open sky.

Activities Available

• Camel Safari
• Jeep Safari
• Performances of Cultural Dances.
• Desert Camping

Approximate Price

• Camel Safari: ₹500 – ₹800 per person
• Jeep Safari: ₹1500 – ₹2500 per vehicle
• Desert Camp Package 2500- 5000/ per head.

Timings

Best Time to Visit: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Khuri Sand Dunes -Tranquil Desert Village Tour.

Another scenic desert attraction is Khuri Sand Dunes which are situated approximately 50 kilometers off Jaisalmer. Khuri is more relaxing and serene compared to Sam Sand Dunes. The village is enclosed with old mud houses and palm trees which make it an original rural desert.

Dune camel riding will allow visitors to visit the nearby desert villages. The serene environment ensures that Khuri is an ideal destination among those tourists wishing to have a taste of the traditional desert without the presence of many tourists.

Cultural programs are also organized in many desert camps in Khuri where the tourists are allowed to watch the local folk shows and sample traditional Rajasthani cuisine cooked by the locals.

• Activities Available
• Camel Safari
• Village Walks
• Cultural Performances
• Overnight Desert Camps

Approximate Price

• Camel Safari: ₹600 – ₹900 per person
• Desert Camp Stay: ₹2000 – ₹4500 per person

Timings

Best Time to Visit: 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM

Desert National Park- Wildlife Safari Experience.

One of the largest national parks in India, which is situated near Jaisalmer and Barmer, is Desert national park. The park was founded to defend the wildlife and environment of the Thar Desert that is unique. Tourists may go around the park by using the jeep Safari which enables them to view desert fauna and bird species.

The park is best known for the Great Indian Bustard, which is among the rare birds in the world. The other wildlife present here is desert foxes, chinkaras and other reptiles which have adapted to life in the desert.

The Desert National Park landscape comprises sand dunes, rocky terrain and salt lakebeds which form an interesting setting to the wildlife lovers and photographers.

• Activities Available
• Jeep Wildlife Safari
• Bird Watching
• Nature Photography

Approximate Price

• Safari Entry Fee: ₹250 – ₹500 per person
• Jeep Safari: ₹2000 – ₹3500 per vehicle

Timings

Morning Safari: 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM

Evening Safari: 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM

Such desert safari tours can make Jaisalmer one of the most thrilling destinations in Rajasthan, that can provide any traveler with the rare experience of adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Tourists who visit the Thar Desert usually share such experiences with the best moments they ever have in Jaisalmer.

What not to do in the Visiting of Jaisalmer Tour Places.

Jaisalmer is a very distinctive tourist attraction in Rajasthan and it has some desert scenery, ancient forts and cultural heritage. Nevertheless, when visiting Jaisalmer tour places, one must take into consideration some factors to guarantee that the traveling experience would be comfortable and respectful. Knowing what not to do can assist the visitors not to make the typical errors and have a nice trip.

1.Do Not Travel in the Desert without Preparation.

The desert may experience extreme weather conditions particularly in the daytime. Some desert safaris and long walks in the dunes should never be taken by the visitors without water, sunscreens, and proper clothing. It is rather essential to keep hydrated and avoid the sun during the desert exploration.

2.Do Not Disregard Local Culture and Traditions.

Jaisalmer boasts of a rich cultural heritage and the city and the fort is home to several historic temples and religious locations. To respect local traditions, tourists are required to dress modestly and conduct themselves in a way that is respectful to the locals when visiting these places.

3. Do not Book desert safaris with Unverified vendors.

The city has a good number of vendors who offer tours of the desert safari, and a tourist ought to avoid unvetted or unlicensed companies. Always prefer to select reputable tour operators to be on the safe side, offer fair prices and have an enhanced experience.

4. No Littering in Desert or Heritage sites.

The heritage of Jaisalmer includes historic monuments and deserts. To conserve the natural beauty of a particular place, visitors are expected not to dispose of plastic bottles or any waste in the desert or surrounding historical sites.

5. Do Not Visit Deserts too late in the night.

Despite the evening activities offered by desert camps, it is not advisable that tourists go out in the remote desert areas during the late time of the night without the guides or without any arrangements. It is wiser to remain in specially marked camping sites.

6. Do Not Hurry Past Monuments of History.

Most tourists attempt to see a few of the Jaisalmer tourism spots within one day. Nevertheless, doing it in a hurry one places monuments such as forts, havelis, and temples in a kind of a rush and is unable to fully value their historical values. Visiting such places will also enable the travelers to appreciate the city culture.

7. Do Not Travel in the Busy Season without Planning.

Jaisalmer summers are very hot and the temperature soaring beyond 45 o C. In summer, tourists are not to plan the sightseeing activities in the afternoon hours, but plan them either early morning or in the evening.

These are the basic traveling tips that can guide people in the exploration of the Jaisalmer tour places in a safe way without violating the culture, environment and historical background of this lovely desert town.

To Sum it up- Top Tourist Sights in Jaisalmer Tour.

Jaisalmer is indeed one of the most incredible places to see in Rajasthan because it has a special kind of history, culture and desert adventure. Listed to the grand Jaisalmer Fort and carved heritage havelis to quiet lakes and expensive sand dunes of gold, the city gives the tourists wonderful memories. The exploration of these tour places in Jaisalmer enables the visitor to experience the royal legacy in the area as well as having thrilling desert experiences like camel safari, jeep ride, and cultural shows in the traditional desert camps.

Jaisalmer has a very rich and ancient architecture, colorful traditions and warm people, that is why it is so attractive. Strolling along the small aisles of the ancient city, sightseeing around the historic buildings, and observing the sunset in the Thar Desert are some moments that will be remembered by the travelers throughout their lifetime. All these tour places in Jaisalmer are unique and the city is a destination of history lovers, adventure seekers and a cultural tourer.

Travelers who desire to enjoy the Jaisalmer tour places  comfort and devoid of travelling pressures can find it easier to settle on a trusted travel partner who will ensure the journey is made easier. Having thought-out programs and trained traveling services, Rajasthan Tour and Packages allows tourists to see the most gorgeous sites of Jaisalmer and experience the most pleasant and comfortable experience in desert traveling.