| THE
CITY 
Oh! I cannot forget the Jaisalmer city of Rajasthan.
Probably, I had my best time over there as I resorted
to desert safari that enabled me to understand the culture
of the city in a better way. As we were moving towards
Jaisalmer, I had a long talk with Ranvir, my guide,
who told me that due to family problems, he had to take
up this profession for an extra income. He was completing
his Masters in History (hons) from Rajasthan University.
No doubt!... that is why he is perfect about the history
of the cities and monuments. Some how knowing about
him made me closer to him.
As when I entered the city, Ranvir told me that the
city was founded by Prince Jaisal, a Krishna Vanshi
rajput in 12th century, the city was named after him.
Till date the very name of Jaisalmer induces a vibrant
picture of enthralling and serene desert in mind.
In fact, I didn't had any problem coming to Jaislamer
as the nearest airport is in Jodhpur and the city is
well connected through rails and roads.
Exploring Jaislamer!
The first place that I popped in was the Jaisalmer Fort.
Unbelievably! Jaisalmer is known the Maharajahs of yesteryear.
I was quite shocked to see that the fort has not one
but for this fort. I was quite impressed to see the
fort that depicted the traditional lifestyle of the
Maharajahs of yesteryear. I was quite shocked to see
that the fort has not one but many gates that were worth
watching. We, Ranvir and I, entered the courtyard of
the fort through the Ganesh Pol and then I came face
to face with the royal grandeur of the historic past.
Oh! the other gates like the Suraj pol, Bhoot Pol and
Hawa Pol left a deep impression on my mind. Made in
golden yellow sandstone, it is adorned with sculpture
filigree, screen windows, delicate pavilions and beautiful
balconies.
There was an entrance fees of Rs. 50/- per person.
There was an extra fee for Camera Fee Rs.50/- and the
Video Camera Rs.100/-
After exploring the Manak Chowk, a market place, we
headed towards the famous Havelis that is in close vicinity.
To name a few Patwon Ki Haweli and Nath mal ji ki haveli.
Apart from these there are few more havelis that a tourist
could visit.
Oh! I adored the Patwon-Ki-Haveli. It is the grandest
mansion in Jaisalmer, its ceiling supported by exquisitely
carved pillars and its delicately chiselled balconies
surely leave you mesmerized. But I had to pay an entrance
fees to view the magnificent haveli. It charged Rs.
40/- Per Person, and the Camera Fee Rs.20/- and for
Video Camera Rs.50/-
I also explored the Nathmalji-Ki-Haveli and the Gaddisar
lake. Oh! Yes, Ranvir also told me about the desert
festival in Jaisalmer, that usually start in January
and Feburary. The desert festival showcases a performing
art of the region. “ Sir, many competitions like
Mr Desert and the turban tying contest”, as Ranvir
enlighten me with his knowledge.
LOCAL HUES AND COLORS
The most famous of the local festivals is the camel
fair that is held during the winter season of the year.
Camel dances, camel races, folk dance, and music are
some of the major attractions of this place. It is also
known as the desert festival.
BARGAINS
Jaisalmer is famous for its embroidery,
Rajasthani mirror work, rugs, blankets and the finely
cut antiques. The market in and outside the fort is
famous for the bargain of local products. There is another
famous marketplace crystals and rare minerals outside
the Jain temple.
GETTING THERE
Jaisalmer is well connected to the nearby
towns and cities. The nearest city is Jodhpur. To visit
this place by air, one has to take the flight operated
by Indian Airlines between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. To
get there by train there is a meter-gauge train that
connects this place with the rest of the small and big
places. Government and private buses are also available.
Besides these, one can also hire jeeps to visit this
place. Tour operators give jeeps for hire at a nominal
price.
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