The Desert Dairies: Jaisalmer

The Desert Dairies: Jaisalmer

The real beauty of Rajasthan indeed lies in the deserts, and Jaisalmer would be a treat for you, and it’s aptly named as "The Golden city", for its truly that royal to look at!

9 Things that you must do when in Jaisalmer:

1. Experience Dune Bashing and Offroading

 If you are still thinking, dune bashing is a popular adventure sports of the Gulfs and the Arabs, you should think again! Thar Desert areas near Jaisalmer are also considered as ideal locations for dune bashing and off-roading as well. The Sam Sand Dunes are thronged by thousands of adventure junkies who have a yearning for these two sports and make it part of their Jaisalmer trip.

2. Camel ride and desert safari

You miss a big chunk of the fun that can be experienced in  Jaisalmer  if you do not go for the thrilling desert safari. The biggest attraction and the closest place to the Thar Desert, Sam is widely stretched without any vegetation. You can also enjoy the camel hump rides in the desert, and then experience the awesomeness of the sunset, that paints the sky in amazing hues.

And spending a night in the camp is too good to be put into words. You have to be there to experience it.

The camel ride would cost you around Rs.300 per person for a nearly 2 hours ride, through the desert to the sunset point.

The cost of Camping (including dinner and breakfast) is Rs. 1500 per person.

3. Patwan-o ki haveli

The Patwon ki Haveli is considered to be one of the most important Havelis of Jaisalmer because of two important things: it was the first Haveli to be ever built in Jaisalmer and it is a cluster of 5 different havelis making it one of the biggest Havelis. The other name given to this Haveli is the “mansion of brocade merchants” because the Patwa family used to deal in gold and silver.

Currently, the Haveli is taken care of by the Rajasthan government. The gateways and arches of this Haveli are also masterpieces. The entire Haveli is made of yellow sandstone and the main gateway of this Haveli is brown.

 And if you are looking for shopping, then this is the place to be!

4. Salim Singh ki Haveli

This Haveli is slightly different from the other Havelis in terms of art and sculpture. The roof of this Haveli has been built in the form of a peacock. At the entrance of the Haveli, there are tuckers made of sand stones guarding the haveli.

This haveli has 38 balconies and each balcony has its own artistry. The name given to this Haveli is Jahaz mahal because of the front of the haveli resembling ship stern. It’s a perfect example of the taste of the Rajputs.

5.  Gadsisar Lake

Gadsisar Lake is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Jaisalmer. Leaving the crowd away, there is Gadsisar lake, which is the symbol of peace and prosperity. It was once a water reservoir to the whole of Rajasthan.

The major tourist attraction of the Gadsisar Lake is the lake surrounding temples and migratory birds. If you are lucky enough you might just be able to spot a migratory bird. There are a number of temples around it making it a famous pilgrimage spot.

6. Bhaang-and a Little more!!!

well, I don't know about any other place, but Jaisalmer has a legalized Bhaag store, where you get Bhaang laddoos and lassi. So, next time when you are in Jaisalmer, you don't need a holi-diwali excuse, but get a bit trippy, no one is going to stop you!!!

7. Kat-Katha, The puppet's tales

Jaisalmer has a lane full of the colourful Rajasthani puppets, and the stories of the puppet shows ranges from tales of history, to Bollywood stories. And of course, you can carry one couple back as souvenir.

8. The Jaisalmer Fort

Last but not the least, the main attraction of Jaisalmer is the fort, famously known as "Sonar kella" (The Golden Fort).

A five-storied structure constructed in a traditional Rajasthani method. The rich heritage of the Jaisalmer fort can be seen portrayed in the novel written by Satyajit Ray which was later turned into a movie. The architectural pattern this fort is divided into three layers of walls. The outside layer is made up of solid stone blocks. The forts of Rajasthan are very intricate in nature.

The second layer goes around the fort. The inward partition is the third layer which was used by Rajput warriors to hurl boiling water, oil, blocks of rocks on the enemies. This enigmatic structure is sure to keep your eyes wide open.

9. If you are a BONG, then here you go!!!! 

Posted in: Rajasthan