Cities in India 

Jaisalmer

Population                     : 43,400
Main Languages             : Rajasthani, Hindi.
Telephone area code     : 02992
Best time to visit            : October to March

Rising from the heart of Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according of which, Lord Krishna – the head of Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendant of Yadav clan would build his kingdom atop Trikuta hill. This prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 A.D when Rawal Jaisal, a descendant of Yadav Clan and a Bhatti rajput, abadoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital – Jaisalmer.

Bhatti rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs who lived off the forced levys on the caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed the territory enroute Delhi or Sind which earned the town great wealth.

The rise of shipping trade and the port of Mumbai saw the decline of Jaisalmer. But the desert fortress, that seems to be straight out of “Tales of the Arabian Nights” still enchants.

Places of Interest
The Fort
The golden hued fort is a sentinel to the bleak desertscape from its 80m high perch on the hill, housing the entire township with its ramparts. It has an enchanting cow-web of narrow lanes dotted with lovely havelis, three beautifully sculptures Jain temples of the 12^th-15^th century and five interconnected palaces. The fort is approached by four gateways – Akhaiya Pol, Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol and Hava Pol.

Gadsiar Lake
A scenic rain water lake was once the water supply of the city and there are many small temples and shrines around it.

Havelis
Some of the most exotic mansions or havelis, all intricately latticed are strewn all over Jaisalmer. The notable ones are Nathmalji ki Haveli, built in late 19^th century  has intricate architecture – a display of sheer craftsmanship; Patwon ki Haveli, the most elaborate and magnificent of all the Jaisalmer havelis, it has exquisitely carved pillars and extensive corridors and chambers; Salim Singh ki Haveli, is a 300 year hold haveli of Jaisalmer’s Prime Minister to Maharaja Rawal Gaj Singh and has a beautiful blue cupola roof with superbly carved brackets in the form of peacocks.

Lodurva
At a distance of 16 kms from Jaisalmer is the ancient capital of Jaisalmer and an important pilgrim spot of the Jain community with some magnificent Jain temples

Sam Sand Dunes
42 kms from Jaisalmer, Sam is the last point of Indo-Pak frontier. No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a trip to the most picturesque dunes of Sam. The ripples on the wind caressed sand dunes, that create an enchating mirage, are surely a delight for a photographer.

HOW TO REACH
By Air
Flights ex. Delhi, Jaipur but Jodhpur (285 kms) is more convenient airport.

By Train
Connection with major cities through Jodhpur.

By Road 
285 kms from Jodhpur, 333 kms from Bikaner.