About : Famous Jaisalmer City
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Rajmahal Jaisalmer |
In medieval times, Jaisalmer continued to be on the focus of the masses because of its location. It falls in the way of one of the two routes, which connected India from Persia, Egypt, Africa and the west. The Bhatti Rajput rulers were still in line. They were the sole guardian of the city and thus mustered enough wealth through taxes levied on the passing caravans, of which there was no scarcity.
For many years Jaisalmer remained out of bound from the foreign rulers partly because of its location and partly because of its relief. In the mid Thirteenth century, Ala-ud-din Khilji, the Turk-Afghan ruler of Delhi laid the siege over the city. He was apparently upset with the Bhatti Rajput rulers because they stopped and looted one of his caravans containing royal coffer
which was on its way to Sind. The siege lasted for around 9 long years and when the fall seemed eminent the Rajput womenfolk of the city committed Jauhar (self Immolation to avoid disgrace).
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| Golden Fort Jaisalmer |
It is said that Duda, the son of Raja Jaisimha, fought vehemently in the battle but was overpowered after the fierce hand to hand combat. He died fighting. His descendants continued to rule the city. Though they had a cordial relation with the Mughal rulers in Delhi, they fought unsuccessfully with Emperor Humayun. Emperor Shah Jahan gave the right of governance to Sabala Simha, who had the royal patronage and had shown remarkable valor to win the Battle of Peshawar.
In the modern era, Jaisalmer was still a tough nut to crack and was the last among the Rajputana royals to sign the 'Instrument of Agreement' with the British establishment. Even that was achieved after long hours on the negotiation table and after much cajoling from the British establishment in India. In the year 1947, royals signed the agreement to remain in just independent India. Since then it has developed itself into a major tourist destination as well as a cultural hub of the western India.
Jeep Safari in Jaisalmer
If you think you are more on adventure side then try the Jeep safari to explore the Desert in Jaisalmer. These are done on 4X4 Jeeps that are really powerful machines customized in to 4-wheel drive. These Jeeps are open and are strict no-no in summers. The direct sunray in desert in the summers is very harmful to skin. There are chances that you will get heat stroke. But in winters, jeep safari in Jaisalmer is a thing worth trying. You can opt for short trips such as Fossil park or Desert National park that are situated in the radius of 50 odd Km. You can also opt for Sam Sand Dunes that is about 40 Km away. We suggest you to spend at least a night in the Desert Camp. Night stay charges for Jeep safari are negotiable, so settle for the best bet.If you want to go for a really long drive then opt for Padholi. This bird sanctuary is nearly 150 Km from Jaisalmer and thus Jeep will be the best possible mode of transport. Spend a night in any of the villages inside the Padholi sanctuary that are still untouched by the outside influence and feel the difference yourself!
Camel Safari in Jaisalmer
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Desert Safari Jaisalmer |
A number of travel agents and tour operators in Rajasthan organize camel safaris. Most of these are in the vicinity of Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Osian and Khimsar and stretch from anywhere between 2 to 7 days, with longer ones up to a month. There are shorter daylong camel safaris too, which give you a glimpse of the desert. The majority of camel safaris start from the desert fort town of Jaisalmer. In most cases, one camel is provided per person and a camel cart accompanies the entourage, laden with food, utensils and other supplies; it's also an option for anyone who gets sick of sitting on a lurching camel. Tents, food, mineral water, mattresses and an escort are invariably provided, and most operators will also make sure that you get a full dose of local entertainment in the evenings. For longer camel safaris, which are spread over a few days, camps are usually set up at night in the vicinity of villages.
Shopping in Jaisalmer
Shopping in JaisalmerYour Jaisalmer trip would be incomplete if you don't buy some typical Jaisalmer goods as souvenirs for your near and dear ones. A number of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts are available in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is famous for embroidery, Rajasthani mirror work, rugs, blankets, antiques and old stonework. There are lots of shops but try to venture in government owned and operated ones. This will save you extra dollars that would have gone in the pockets of guides in the form of commission. If you want to buy fabrics such as Tie-dye and other fabrics, try the government operated Khadi Gramuddyog Bhavan.
Shop for exquisitely carved wooden boxes in tiny curio shops. Traditional rugs, hand woven blankets and shawls in typical Rajasthani color and weave are also available. Don't miss to buy souvenirs for your dear ones. In that case, Mirror work, embroiders article silver jewelry, Trickles and Curios are must buys of Jaisalmer. The shopping spots are within the fort and include Sadar Bazar, Sonaron ka Bass, Manak Chowk, Pansari bazar, Gandhi Darshan, Seema gram, Rajsthani Govt. shop and Khadi Gramuddyog Emporium. Apart from these popular markets, you also have the option to send gifts to Jaisalmer online for occasions such as Rakhi, Diwali, Navratri and Holi.
Nightlife in Jaisalmer
Nightlife in JaisalmerJaisalmer has little nightlife, but plenty to keep you occupied in the form of traditional dances, a desert light show and the like. Most hotels have some form of evening entertainment for their guests too, so you are unlikely to get bored. Nearly all of them organise cultural programs in the evening. All the major high-end hotels have their private discotheques and are opened till late hours of night.
Where to Eat in Jaisalmer
Where to Eat in JaisalmerThe city of Jaisalmer has a rich cultural heritage and thus it boasts of a rich cuisine as well. The western part of India has a distinct food culture of its own and it is very different from the other Indian cuisines. If you have done with the oily and sticky dishes they serve in Delhi, try murgh-e-subz. The murgh-e-subz - succulent, boneless strips of chicken stir-fried with shredded vegetables -- is one not to miss. There are other options for non-vegetarians too. Alternatively, you can try the ker sangri (desert beans and capers), which is unique to a region that is traditionally vegetarian in its outlook. If you find your stomach to be very sensitive then its better you try kadi pakora; flour dumplings cooked in yogurt sauce, or bhanon aloo, potatoes stuffed with mint paste and simmered in gravy. All of it washed down with the coldest beers and beverages available in the state.
'Trio' is one of the most famous restaurants serving authentic Rajasthani cusienes. This unassuming eatery, with its open walls and thin cotton flaps providing a welcome through-breeze (not to mention views of the town and the maharaja's palace) is Jaisalmer top restaurant and one of the best in Rajasthan. Witness the traditional Rajasthani reception. It's not just that the food is delicious, but the chef brings a few interesting variations to signature Rajasthani dishes- a welcome relief to someone who has exhausted the almost standardized North Indian menu. 'Chokhi Dhani' is another famous restaurant, which can be trusted. Though it is not as good as 'Trio' but you will get a long list of cuisines to select from, under one roof. Besides, all major High-end Hotels have their own in house Restaurants.
As far as fast food joints are concerned, Jaisalmer has lots of them. Famous Indian fast-food chain such as Nirula's has already made its presence felt in the city. Other major fast foods joints such as Pizza Hut, Pizza Corner and Mc. Donald's etc have also opened their outlets in the city.
How to Reach Jaisalmer
How to reach JaisalmerJaisalmer is situated in the very heart of Rajasthan and a popular tourist destination therefore it is well connected to the rest of India and Rajasthan with airways, railways as well as roadways.
How to reach Jaisalmer by Airways
Though Jaisalmer is not directly connected to Airways as such, Jodhpur airport is 300 Km away. Jodhpur is connected to all the major metros of India by government owned as well as private airlines. From Jodhpur you can hire Cabs or take a train journey according to your wish and preference.
How to reach Jaisalmer by Railways
Jaisalmer is connected to major cities of India through broad gauge as well as meter gauge railway tracks. Direct trains from Jaisalmer are available to Jodhpur as well as Delhi. Jaisalmer is connected through both 'Broad gauge' as well as 'Meter gauge' tracks. You can also travel to Jaisalmer by Palace on Wheels.
How to reach Jaisalmer by Roadways
Jaisalmer is well connected to the rest of state by well-maintained roads. Due to its proximity to Indo-Pak boarder, special emphasis is given on its maintenance. Deluxe & Ordinary buses of Rajasthan Roadways & Private companies operate form Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner, Barmer, Mount Abu, Jalore, Ahemdabad etc, Roadways main bus stand opposite Railway station & Golden bus terminal near State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, Shiv road, Jaisalmer are the two major bus stands.
Local transportation in Jaisalmer
General transportation in Jaisalmer consists of auto rickshaw and bicycles because these are good means to get around. Auto rickshaw is a cheap mode of transportation but drivers might not be friendly all the times. It is recommended to take rickshaw when you take congested roads in order to avoid bottlenecks.
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