Located in the middle of the Thar Desert in the western Indian state of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer was once a major medieval commerce hub and a princely state. Known as the "Golden City," it stands out for its architecture made of yellow sandstone. Jaisalmer Fort, a vast hilltop castle supported by 99 bastions, dominates the skyline. The elaborately carved Jain temples and the ornate Maharaja's Palace are located behind its imposing walls.
Jaisalmer Fort
The Jaisalmer Fort is also known as Sonar Quila, or Golden Fort, since it appears to merge with the golden sands of the desert as it rises out of it. The fort is enchanted and veiled in mystery as the sun sets. The fort is built by local artisans in the traditional royal style. This fort is a World Heritage Site and serves as a major plot point in Sonar Kela (The Golden Fortress), one of Satyajit Ray's well-known Feluda stories and the film that goes with it.
Nathmal Ki Haveli
Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli was constructed in the 19th century by two architect brothers. They approached the haveli from two angles, and the result is a stunning fusion of the symmetrical design. Decorations include powerful tuskers cut from yellow sandstone and miniature paintings.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
A portion of this haveli, which was constructed in the first half of the 18th century, is still inhabited by the descendants of the original occupants. Brackets shaped like peacocks are sculpted to support the high arched roof. According to legend, it was tall enough to rival the Maharaja's palace with two more wooden stories, but he had the top floor removed.
Patwo Ki Haveli
This five-story building stands boldly in a tiny street and is one of Jaisalmer's biggest and most intricately carved havelis. There are still some paintings and mirror work art on the interior walls of the haveli, despite the fact that it has lost some of its original splendor.
Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh, also known as Barabagh (meaning Big Garden), is located roughly 6 kilometers north of Jaisalmer. The chhatris, or royal cenotaphs, of the Jaisalmer state's Maharajas, including Jai Singh II, are housed in this garden complex. The garden's location allows visitors to enjoy stunning sunset views.
Laungewala War Memorial
An uplifting story of bravery in the face of overwhelming odds, the Battle of Laungewala was one of the first significant battles fought in the Western sector during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. On December 4, 1971, the Battle of Laungewala made history when just 100 Indian defenders stopped the advance of over 2000 Pakistani soldiers and 60 tanks. It is a brilliant example of the bravery, heroism, and valor of the Indian soldiers. The Laungewala Was Memorial was built by the Desert Corps at Laungewala to honor the bravery and steely will of the Indian soldiers who prevented Pakistani forces from advancing far into the Indian Territory. This war memorial honors the bravery and ultimate sacrifice of our courageous warriors, making you feel proud when you visit. It is an inspirational place.
Tanot Mata Temple
In Rajasthan, India's Jaisalmer district, there is a Hindu shrine called Tanot Mata. The temple is situated near the Pakistani border, close to the site of the Longewala combat of the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. According to modern legend, the temple is responsible for the battle's successful conclusion.
Indo Pak Bawaliyanwala Border
An important landmark on the Indo-Pak border in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, which is situated inside the Thar Desert, is the Bawaliyanwala Border, also referred to as the Babliyan Border. It provides a journey across the enormous sand dunes and is around 20 km from Shri Tanot Mata Mandir. To enter this border, a special pass is needed.
Kuldhara Haunted Village
In Rajasthan, India's Jaisalmer area sits the deserted settlement of Kuldhara. Paliwal Brahmins lived in this affluent settlement, which was founded in the 13th century.
One must visit there in day time in order to explore.
Ghadisar Lake
In Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India, there is an artificial lake called Gadisar Lake. King Rawal Jaisal, the founder of Jaisalmer, constructed it in 1156 AD. Gadsi Singh Bhati renovated it in 1367 AD. The distance between the lake and Jaisalmer Fort is roughly 1.5 kilometers. It is reported that the city as a whole used to get its water from this lake.
