10 reasons why you should visit the desert city of Jaisalmer

The desert city of Jaisalmer is defined by its golden fort. This grand structure was built by Rawal Jaisal, a ruler of the Bhatti clan of Rajputs, from the 12th century onwards, and later expanded and consolidated by subsequent rulers. Jaisalmer was also an important trading centre for caravans passing through the desert. Today, there are plenty of fairytale sights in and around the city to keep both tourists and their cameras busy. Jaisalmer Fort Perched on top of a small hill, this large fort makes for a mesmerising sight. Also known as the Golden Fort, it is surrounded by a 30 foot high wall, and has over 99 bastions and some imposing gateways or pols. Jain temples This set of seven Jain temples lies inside the walls of the Jaisalmer Fort. They are connected to each other, and are all adorned with intricate carvings of mythological and dancing figures. Patwon-ki-Haveli This ornate haveli is among the most splendid in Jaisalmer. It consists of a set of five houses, which were built by five Jain merchant brothers in the 19th century. Sam Sand Dunes These shifting white sand dunes, located close to the village Sam, are a great way to explore the Thar desert. Salim Singh-ki-Haveli This haveli was built by Salim Singh, the prime minister of Jaisalmer in the 19th century. Its most eye-catching feature is its beautiful arched roof with carved brackets shaped like peacocks, and pretty balconies below it. The haveli is also distinct because it’s been constructed entirely of stone, without the use of cement or mortar. A part of the haveli is still occupied, but it’s worth a visit primarily for its exquisitely designed exterior. Bada Bagh This garden, located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, contains the cenotaphs of the Rajpur rulers. These are pyramidal and domed in shape, and have beautiful carved ceilings and equestrian statues of the rulers. Each chhatri also has inscribed tablets recording the death of the Maharawals. There’s also a set of windmills nearby, which make for a picturesque sight. There are several other attractions close to Bada Bagh. Amar Sagar consists of a beautifully-carved Jain temple located on the banks of a water reservoir. Lodhurva, the former capital of the Bhatti Rajputs, is now in ruins but it still has magnificent Jain temples with a gorgeous gateway. The main temple contains several beautiful sculptures and a silver image of Parsvanath, the 23rd tirthanakara. Gadsisar Lake The beautiful rainwater lake is surrounded by numerous temples and pavillions, and offers magnificent views of Jaisalmer Fort. Jaisalmer Folklore Museum This small museum is located next to the Desert Culture Centre, and is also founded by local historian NK Sharma. Nathmal-ji-ki-Haveli This 19th century haveli was built by two architect brothers, who designed their sections independently but with remarkable harmony. Desert Culture Centre and Museum This museum is a good introduction to the way of life in the state. It exhibits everything from traditional textiles, musical instruments, utensils, coins to rare manuscripts and fossils. It also organises daily puppet shows during the evenings. Crossworld Holidays gives the best  Crossworld Holidays Tours & Travels (IATA approved) Ground Floor, Ram Smruti, Opp. to New English School, Ram Maruti Road, Cross Road, Thane (W) - 400602, India Tel:+91 - 22 - 4038 4747  Fax:+91 - 22 - 2542 3427 E-mail: crossh@gmail.com