Dreamz Jaisalmer Golden City of Rajasthan also called Sonar Qila

5 (275 Reviews)

03D/02N

Rajasthan, India

highlights

Jaisalmer, often referred to as the "Golden City," is a captivating destination in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India.
Hightlight:
Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Qila): Explore the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world. The fort's golden sandstone walls glow in the sunlight, earning it the nickname "Sonar Qila" or "Golden Fort." Within the fort, you'll find intricately carved havelis (mansions), temples, shops, and bustling narrow lanes.
Patwon ki Haveli: Visit this cluster of five elaborately carved havelis, which is one of the largest and most exquisite haveli complexes in Jaisalmer. Admire the intricate facades, delicate jharokhas (balconies), and beautiful frescoes depicting scenes from Rajputana life.
Desert Safari: Experience the magic of the Thar Desert with a camel safari or a Jeep safari. Explore the vast expanses of golden sand dunes, witness breathtaking sunsets, and immerse yourself in the desert's serene beauty. Many tour operators offer overnight camping experiences under the starlit sky, complete with traditional Rajasthani music, dance, and cuisine.
Gadisar Lake: Take a tranquil boat ride on Gadisar Lake, an artificial reservoir built in the 14th century. Admire the picturesque surroundings, including intricately carved chattris (cenotaphs), temples, and ghats (steps) along the lake's banks.
Jain Temples: Visit the beautifully sculpted Jain temples located within Jaisalmer Fort. These temples, dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras (spiritual teachers), boast exquisite architecture, intricate carvings, and ornate ceilings adorned with stunning artwork.
Kuldhara Ghost Village: Explore the abandoned village of Kuldhara, located about 18 kilometers from Jaisalmer. Legend has it that the village was deserted overnight by its inhabitants, who cursed the land before leaving. Today, the village remains in a state of eerie desolation, attracting curious visitors interested in its mysterious history.
Desert Culture Centre and Museum: Learn about the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan at the Desert Culture Centre and Museum. The museum showcases artifacts, textiles, weapons, m

Overview

Jaisalmer, often referred to as the "Golden City," is a captivating destination in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India. Here's a brief overview of its history and what makes it unique:

History:

Foundation: Jaisalmer was founded in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, a Rajput ruler, who established it as the capital of his kingdom.
Strategic Location: Situated on the ancient trade routes that crossed the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer grew wealthy from its position as a key trading center for caravans moving between India, Persia, Egypt, and Central Asia.
Architecture: The city is renowned for its stunning architecture, particularly its sandstone buildings that shimmer golden in the sunlight. The centerpiece of Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Qila or the Golden Fort, which stands atop Trikuta Hill and dominates the skyline.
Trade and Prosperity: Jaisalmer reached the peak of its prosperity during the medieval period when it was a flourishing center of trade, attracting merchants from distant lands.
Decline and Resurgence: With the decline of traditional trade routes and the rise of maritime trade, Jaisalmer's fortunes waned. However, in recent decades, tourism has breathed new life into the city, drawing visitors from around the world to marvel at its architectural wonders and experience its rich culture.

Key Features:

Jaisalmer Fort: One of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world, Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of Rajput architecture. It houses palaces, temples, havelis (mansions), and vibrant markets within its walls.
Havelis: Jaisalmer is renowned for its exquisite havelis, or traditional mansions, adorned with intricate carvings, ornate facades, and stunning frescoes. Some of the most notable havelis include Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli, and Nathmal ki Haveli.
Desert Landscape: The golden sands of the Thar Desert surround Jaisalmer, offering visitors the opportunity to experience the magic of the desert through camel safaris, jeep excursions, and camping under the stars.
Cultural Heritage: Jaisalmer is a treasure trove of Rajasthani culture, with its vibrant music, dance, cuisine, and festivals. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich heritage of the region through cultural performances, traditional cuisine, and interactions with local artisans.

HOW TO REACH HERE

Jaisalmer has the civil airport facility and has direct air connectivity from Jaipur, delhi, mumbai, Banglore and surat in jaislmer.
Jaisalmer is connected to Jodhpur, Bikaner and Jaipur by bus and taxi.
There is a direct train service between Jaisalmer and Delhi, with a few trains connecting the two cities.

Jaisalmer Fort: Begin your exploration of Jaisalmer with a visit to the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Qila or the Golden Fort. Explore the narrow lanes, ornate havelis, and panoramic views of the city from this iconic landmark.
Patwon ki Haveli: After the fort, head to Patwon ki Haveli, a cluster of five elaborately carved mansions. Admire the intricate facades, delicate balconies, and exquisite frescoes depicting scenes from Rajputana life.
Gadisar Lake: Take a serene boat ride on Gadisar Lake, an artificial reservoir surrounded by temples, ghats, and chattris. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and capture the stunning sunset views over the lake.

Desert Safari: Embark on a thrilling desert safari adventure in the vast expanse of the Thar Desert. Choose between a camel safari or a Jeep safari to explore the golden sand dunes, witness breathtaking sunsets, and experience the traditional lifestyle of desert communities.
Cultural Evening: Return from the desert safari to enjoy a cultural evening filled with Rajasthani music, dance, and cuisine. Experience the vibrant energy of folk performances like Kalbeliya dance and enjoy traditional Rajasthani dishes served under the starlit sky.

Jain Temples: Begin your final day in Jaisalmer with a visit to the beautifully sculpted Jain temples within Jaisalmer Fort. Marvel at the intricate architecture, exquisite carvings, and serene ambiance of these sacred shrines.
Kuldhara Ghost Village: Explore the mysterious ruins of Kuldhara, an abandoned village located near Jaisalmer. Hear the legends and stories surrounding this deserted village, which is believed to be haunted, before heading back to Jaisalmer.
Shopping: Before departing from Jaisalmer, indulge in some shopping at the local markets. Browse through vibrant textiles, embroidered fabrics, leather goods, and handicrafts, and take home souvenirs to cherish your memories of Jaisalmer.