WALK THROUGH CITY

Jaisalmer "The Golden City", is a town in the Indian state of Rajasthan. The town stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone, crowned by a fort, which contains the palace and several ornate Jain temples. Many of the houses and temples are finely sculptured. It lies in the heart of the Thar Desert

Maharawal Jaisal founded the fort & town of JAISALMER in the year 1156 AD after having shifted his capital from Ludharva (18 Kms away from Jaisalmer) to a safer place. The ruling family of the erstwhile Jaisalmer State belongs to Bhati Clan of Yadu Rajputs of Chandrawasnshi (Lunar) race who claim descent from Lord Krishna,the defied hero who ruled at Dwarka. The historical origin of Bahttis can be inferred from the couplet which says that the Yadu Rajputs ruled and constructed Forst at Kashi,Madhura, Pragvad, Gajni,Bhatner,Digam,Dirwal,Lodurva and ninth in Jaisalmer. (Gajni is in Afganisthan and Dirawal is now in Pakistan).

CROWN OF THE DESERT


The Golden Fort or "Sonar Kila", built of sandstone of the jurrassic period on the Trikuta Hill ( the tripple peaked hill ). It grows out of a rock in an undulating sea of sand. The imposing fort is awe-inspiring protected by rugged high walls,approachable through four successive gates, the Akhaiy Pol, the Ganesh Pol, the Suraj Pol and the Hawa Pol. The palaces of the rulers built atop the main entrance, from an imposing edifice crowned by a huge umbrella of metal mounted on a stone shaft. The fort also houses many old Hindu as well as Jain temples and beautifully carved havelis. The entire living area is well protected within the ramparts of the fort.

STONE SAYS SOMETHING


Jaisalmer is world renowned for its magnificently carved latticed havelis with conspicuous facades. The important ones are :

                                                                                                                           PATWA HAVELI
      

One of the most exquisite buildings in the walled city, which truly exemplifies the architectural style typical of erstwhile Rajputana. It is five storeys high and the extensive corridors and chambers are supported by intricately carved pillars.

 

 

NATHMALJI KI HAVELI

Carved by Lalu and Hathi, two brothers for the Prime Minister of State, Nathmalji in 19th century. The most interesting fact is that the brothers worked separately, one on the right side and other on the left side, the result is a absolute symphony epitomising the side by side symmetry during construction. The haveli is richly carved and the inner chambers are decorated with miniature paintings.

 

 

 

 

 

  SALIM SINGH KI HAVELI

The five stroryed structure dominates the skyline of the walled city due to its form. It was built some 200 years age by Salim Singh, a powerful Chief Minister of Jaisalmer. The haveli begins with a narrow dimension below with an elaborate projecting balcony on the top storey. It is distinguished by the blue cupola roof.

 

 

 

  BADAL VILAS - MANDIR PALACE

The excellent palace complex located near Amar Sagar gate , is the house of former royal family. The Tazia Tower rising from the palace is the landmark for the town. The building forms are interesting and the facades are richly carved.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

GADISAR

This rainwater lake was once the major supplier of potable water in the town. Today it is a big attraction for the picnickers in the desert city. Sacred shrines and well-laid gardens flank the lake. A varied collection of beautiful brides can be observed fluttering about over here.