Jaisalmer is about as far west as most people get in India. It’s incredibly dry, hot, and isolated. So what is it that brings people to a city a stone’s throw away from the Pakistan border? The ‘Golden City’ as it has come to be known as a majestic place. A huge fort sits atop a hill in the center of the city, overlooking the sun-kissed houses. Sand dunes not far from the city are a tourist hotspot for camel safaris and jeep tours. There are so many great little spots I discovered and awesome things to do in Jaisalmer, the ‘Golden City’ of India.
Boating in the Gadisar Lake
The Gadisar Lake is a man-made reservoir built in 1367 by Maharawal Gadsi Singh, after whom it has been named. This stately tank served as Jaisalmer’s vital water supply until 1965. Since it was so important and vital to the people of Jaisalmer, small temples and shrines were built around it that exist to date.
The Tilon-ki-Pol gateway that lines the road to the lake was said to be constructed by a famous prostitute of that area. Fearing that the Maharawal would tear it down, considering it to be beneath his dignity, she added a Krishna temple on the top. Also, Jaisalmer hotel bookings need to be made in advance as the place is a popular tourist attraction.
Patwa Ki Haveli
This traditionally, ornately decorated haveli is one of the most famous buildings in Jaisalmer. Situated in a narrow lane, the haveli overshadows the relatively modest surroundings. But people there do not seem to mind, because it does greatly enhance the aesthetic of the locality. The haveli was built between 1860 and 1865 and is divided into five sections. The exteriors are quite impressive, and the first of the five sections of the haveli is privately owned. Kothari’s Patwa ki Haveli museum, which gives us an insight into the lives of the royals in the nineteenth century is a must-visit.
Jain Temples
Nestled between the maze of the fort walls, these interconnecting Jain temples form a beautiful vision. Built from yellow sandstone and dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, these temples carry with themselves the memories of the bygone eras. Time has not been able to impact their spiritual relevance, and neither has it obliterated the intricate carvings that decorate the insides of the temple walls. These temples are extraordinarily beautiful with architecture that resembles the marble Jain temples found in Mount Abu and Ranakpur. Also, Jaisalmer hotels near the temple can be found in abundance.
Sam Sand Dunes
Located at a distance of 41kms from the main city of Jaisalmer, these silky sand dunes are one of the most popular excursions from the city. They are spread over an area of 2 km and form one of the most beautiful sights that can be seen by human eyes. From late afternoon until the evening, the atmosphere of the place suddenly changes. It ceases to be a beautiful, lonely place, rather it turns into a big extravagant carnival with food, fun, and frolic all around. If you want to immerse yourself in a complete desert experience, stay in one of the several tent resorts near the dunes.
Tanot Mata Temple
Situated on the Indo Pak border, the Tanot Mata Temple is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Jaisalmer. Located close to the battle site of Longewala, It is believed that the deity worshipped here has magical powers that protect this village from Pakistani intrusions. In order to visit this area, travelers need prior permission and permit passes from the Indian Armed Forces. The best hotels in Jaisalmer are around this temple.
Admire the Wildlife at Desert National Park
Desert National Park, sprawled over an area of 3162 square km, is an exciting place for lovers of flora and fauna. The lush green surroundings, and an impressive number of birds, animals, and plant species found here, make this place one of the major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. Desert National Park is also home to the state bird of Rajasthan- The Great Indian Bustard.
Kuldhara Village
19kms west of Jaisalmer lies the mysterious abandoned village of Kuldhara. The Paliwal Brahmins, who were the inhabitants of the village, abandoned it more than 200 years ago. They had to bear the burden of heavy taxes, their property was looted, and a daughter of one of the families was kidnapped. Their complaints fell on deaf ears, hence they left the village one night, never to return. According to the legend, they had plenty of wealth and gold, which they were unable to carry with them. This myth has attracted a lot of treasure hunters to this area. While most of the houses are in a dilapidated state, some of them have been restored for use as film sets for popular Bollywood movies.