Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Golden City Of Rajasthan

Area: 126.27 Sq Km
Population: 2,324,319 (2001)
Altitude: 250 m above sea level
Languages: Marwari, Hindi, English
Religion: Hinduism, Islam
STD Code: 02992

Jaisalmer, popularly referred as the "golden city of India", is one of the most alluring tourist destinations in Rajasthan, India. Founded by a Rajput king, Rawal Jaisal, in 1156 A.D Jaisalmer is also known as "the Jewel of the Desert," as the yellow sandstone city is located deep in the heart of the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is popular for its centuries old magnificent forts, palaces havelis (mansions) and amber-hued houses. Jaisalmer is also known for its exotic sand dunes, offering exciting and unforgettable camel safaris. Jaisalmer is also famous for its rich cultural heritage and its vivid and colorful festivals are major attractions for tourists visiting the city. Visit and discover this fascinating city of Rajasthan on your Palace on Wheels Tour and get enchanted with its unique charm.

Tourist Attraction in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort: The 12th century Jaisalmer Fort has been regarded as one of the most magnificent and invincible forts in Rajasthan. Built over the Trikuta hill, Jaisalmer Fort is 250 ft tall structure surrounded by a 30 ft high sandstone wall with 99 bastions. The Fort houses the famous Jain Temple, a place worth visiting on your Jaisalmer tour.

Jaisalmer Havelis: Built by the wealthy merchants, the havelis (mansions) of Jaisalmer are famous for their exclusive cutwork, yellow and red stone treatment and the bracket-shaped decoration of peacocks. The splendid havelis like the Patwon-ki-Haveli, Salim-Singh-ki-Haveli and Nathmalji ki haveli are major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer.

Gadsisar Sagar Tank: Gadsisar Sagar Tank is one of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. A famous picnic spot, the Tank attracts hundreds of migratory birds during the winter season.

Desert Cultural Center : Jaisalmer tours are near incomplete without a trip to this fascinating museum that showcases the culture of Rajasthan in an interesting and delightful manner.

Bara Bagh: Baba Bagh is an oasis on the bank of Gadsisar Sagar Tank. It has greenery all around to give a much-needed relief to the local people.

Tazia Tower: The Pagoda like Tazia Tower rises from the Badal Mahal (Palace of Clouds). Each storey of this five-tiered tower has a beautifully carved balcony.

Gadsisar Lake : Gadsisar lake is a must visit site in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. This Lake is one of the major tourist attractions of Jaisalmer.

Desert National Park: Situated near Jaisalmer, The Desert National Park is one of the largest national parks in India, covering an area of 3,100 sq km. The Park is known for its fragile ecosystem and unique flora and fauna.

Sam Sand Dunes: Situated at the edge of the Thar Desert, Sam Sand Dunes are major tourist attractions near Jaisalmer. Enjoying Camel safaris on the sand dunes are truly an unforgettable experience. Sam Sand Dunes is also famous for its breathtakingly beautiful sunset.

How to Reach

By Air: Jaisalmer is well linked by air with New Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur. The Jaisalmer Airport, located at 5 km from the city center, is managed by the Indian Air Force and is operational only from September to March.

By Rail: Jaisalmer is well connected by rail with Jodhpur, which is well connected to many major cities of India including Agra, Jaipur, New Delhi and Mumbai.

By Road: Jaisalmer has a good network of roads and is well connected to major cities of Rajasthan including Jaipur, Jodhpur and Bikaner.