ARCHITECTURE:

The beauty of the architecture and great antiquity of this golden city are fabled. Much of the grand fresco, mural and paintings, the carved ceilings, exquisite window shutters and doors remain preserved within buildings although they have sadly suffered neglect.

The havelis of Patu, Salam Singh and Diwan Nathamal are highly imposing Massive city gateways, open courtyards; and par row lanes lend jaisalmer a majestic atmosphere .Houses that rise high, cluster in close rows along the cobbled streets. Domes, pillars, arches, walls, balconies almost everything is carved out geometrically and ornamental with floral representational patterns that have animal, bird and human figure.

The most exquisite and unique and architectural features of these are the steraobatic ground floor columns ,symmetrical friezes supported by brackets and bosses; projecting balconies, kiosks; platforms having corvette moldings;accutate entrance, plasters and columns ; criels having foliated arches. Besides these there are carved cornices and hemispherical domes; harmoniously moulded ridges of roofs, having either crenellated parapets or architectures crowned with balustrades.

Among the tanks the most notable is Garrison, which looks like an ephemeral lake. It was excavated during Gadsi Rawal’s time in the 14th century. There are Hindu temples, Charis and picnic spots on the banks ,and artificial islets, amidst the water .The entrance has resplendent domes built by a rich courtesan, Tilon-ki-Pol. Royal palaces, gardens and forts have received the impact of the Imperial Mughal influence which reached this region during the early 15th century.

Jaisalmer, in the heart of the Thar Desert, has a golden glow blending with the yellow sands. The sunset here, when the heavens seem to be a flame, leaving behind an unforgettable experience.

Legend traces the origin of this city to a prediction of Lord Krishna himself that a descendants of the Yadava shepherded clan would rule it .In 1156 Rawal Jaisal moved his capital here built forts, palaces and temples.

Jaisalmer’s richy carved buildings are of the co lour of golden sands, in contrast to the colourful dresses of the people. Amazingly, many private homes of even the ordinary people date back to the 15th centuries and remain unchanged and unspoilt.

What to see

THE FORT
The fort is situated within the precincts of the walled town built in the 12th century. It has ninety nine yellow stone bastins.Bathed by the rays of the setting sun, they have a golden translucence. From the ramparts the vista of the town is a blaze molten gold.

The majestic monuments are entirely inhabited. The steep, cobbled, inclined slope leads through four gates-Akhay, Suraj, Ganesh and Hawa Priols. Within the fort, the royal palace sprawls in a haphazard manner, as there were additions to the structures during the different eras.

The imposing wings of the building are:
Sarvattam Vilas, built by Maharwal Manohardas (A.D 1634);
Akhay Vilas, built by Maharwal Akhay Singh (A.D 1714-63)
And Gaj Vilas built by Maharwal Gaj Singh (A.D 1820-46).

Here there are delicately carved symmetrical arcades, opaque and transparent jails.

The Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal, built by Maharwal Mooleaj II (1763-1820), are embellished with paintings, murals and mirror-studded panels.

The archaic style of the monuments and of the ghats (embankments or tanks), reflect the characteristics of Indian temple architecture.

Immaculately chiseled shikharas, torans, pillars, columns and innumerable sculptures fill the temple complexes. Through unique to this region, modes of building derive from the neighboring Indian styles.

The historical spot, Satiyar-ka-Pagthiya, is before the entrance to the palace. Johar, the act by many a courageous royal lady during the fall of the fortress in A.D 1294.

HINDU TEMPLES AT THE FORT

Laxminath Temples
Embossed doors and paneling beautify the sanctum of Laxminath which dates back to 1428 A.D. Both the lacquered dome of the vestibule and the resplendent white marble deity bedecked with a charmed atmosphere.

Surya Temple
This 15th century temple has a metallic image of Surya and his chariot wrought with extraordinary skill.

Kushal Raj Rajeshwari temple
Facing the fact this temple was erected in the early 20th century. It has fine
stone carving on its walls.

Tikamji temple
Behind the Kushal Raj Rajeshwari temple is the dedicated to Lord Tikamji.Through erected in A.D.1695 its main idol is said to be much older.

Jain Temple at the Fort
There are eight Jain temples clustered together at the fort. The Vridhi Ratna Mala, a Jaina text, and thousands of idols are to be found at this spot.

Parshwanath Temple (1403)
Curved pillars with graceful arches and Friezes forming Torans embellish the entrance and poach. There are lavishly ornamented with female figures. Meditating Tirthankaras form the finial portion. The dome of the twelve pillared mandapa, or assembly hall, has an amazing carving depicting a human figure at its centre, which radiates five pairs of limb. Viewed separately the head seems to fit each pairs of limbs. The outer walls of the sanctum are richly carved from base to spire. The sculpture shows the superb mingling f the sublime and the sensuous. Hindu deities like Shiva-Parvati, Laxmi-Vishnu, Krishna, Gandharva, Apsaras and Bhairvav frequently appear among the Jain icons, signifying the intermingling of the two different creeds.

The Sambhavanath Temple (1438-1441) domes has a lotus medallion in the centre, which is surrounded by female figures playing musical instruments and dancing figures. Like the Parshawanath temple, the temples dedicated to Shital Nath.Shanti and Kunthunath (A.D 1423 and 1480) have ornate shikharas.They are distinguished for their lion, elephant and horse bands.

Jain Bhandar
The library, established by the Jain Monk Jin Bhadrasuri (1444 A.D.) is housed in the basement of Sambhanath temple. Approximately 3,000 manuscripts written on palm leaves and paper, composed between the 11th and 13th centuries are stored here. The multifarious subjects include literature, history, astrology, philosophy and religion. There are also illustrated and painted manuscripts.

INTERESTING STRUCTURES IN JAISALMER TOWN

Patva Havelis:
Five Patva havelis were built in 1835 A.D. by the Bafna family, situated in the heart of the town. They form a beautiful conglomeration. One of them has sixty six balconies of varied perforated patterns.

Salam Singh-Ki-Haveli
The 18th century monuments dedicated to Diwan Salam Singh looms like a sky scraper Which towers over the town. A projecting gallery runs around the top storey. Semi circular pentroofs and a dome above every arch give it an exalted air.

Nathmal-Ki-Haveli
Nathmal’s Haveli (built towards the end of the 19th century) has the typical jharokha (balcony), carved out of a single stone, which has the appearance of delicate exquisite lace. At the entrance, elephant figures serve as Dwarapalas. The perpendicular eaves are richly carved with animals and human figures. Parts of the interiors of these mansions are gaily arnamented with intricate murals, paintings and carved window shutters.

Mandir Palace
Adjoining the Amarsagar gate, which is one of the main entrance to the town, is Mandir Palace built during the era of Moolraj II .The prominent wings of the palace are Badal Vilas, Jawahir Vilas, Darikhana and Janana, Darikhana and Janana Mehlal

Badal Vilas has a tempering tower, which, curiously enough is shaper like a Tazia Mohammedan term for tower. A double corniced frieze supports the arcaded rectangular balcony, while the structure in between in surmounted by a turret.

Jawahir Vilas was built by Maharawal Jawahir Singh {A.D. 1914-1949}. It has a prominent jharokha (balcony) in the centre, flanked on both sides by fretwork railings and newel on the staircase.

Jawahir Niwas Palace
The Royal Guest house, built in the early 20th century, stands opposite the government tourist bungalow on Amarsagar Road .Numerous carved panels, kiosks, pavilions, canopied domes and a circulars staircase enrich this structure. The interior is furnished in modern style.

HINDU TEMPLES IN THE TOWN

Vaishnav Temples
Giridhariji temple, Banke-Bihari temple and Sita Ram temple at the Mandir Palace and were erected during A.D. 1763-1803. Their style corresponds with the other surrounding Hindu monuments.

Krishna Temples
Situated in the heart of the town, the temples of Madan Mohan and Milap are dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Hanuman Temple
Near the hospital, this temple houses a gigantic image of Hanuman.

Ganesh Temples
It is Amarsagar Gate.

Shiva Temple
There are various temples dedicated to Lord Shiva. Some like Gaj Mandir and Amareshwar Mahadeo are erected on the Ghats of Garsisar and Amarsagar tanks respectively.

Doongri
The cenotaphs of Doongri or Byas Chatri are erected above a ridge on Bara Baug Road.

Garisar Tank
The notable tank Garisar is on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur Road. It was excavated during the reign of gadasi Rawal in the 14th century. A huge Trimurti possibly dating from the 7th century was discovered during excavation and it is now placed in one of the temples on the bank. There are Hindu temples, Chatris and picnic spots on the Ghat (bank) and small artificial islests within the tank. The enteance has resplendent domes built by a courtesan talon, during the 19th century. it is named Tilon-Ki-Pol.

Gajroop Sagar
Situated beyond kishan Ghat-Ki-Pol is the embanked lake Gajroop Sagar which is a beautiful spot for picnics. The ridges on top have Devi temoles and Ashram (hermit’s dwelling).

Excursions

Amarsagar
Built by Maharwal Amar Singh (A.D. 1661-1702), the garden resort palace Amarsagar is 7 kms. From the town. There are step wells, chatris and a ghat on the bank, which itself has walls that are round, with enormous domes and carved with animal motifs.

Jain Temples in Amarsagar
Flawless Jain temple architecture, characterized by screened walls and Gavakhshas (balconies), line the bank of Amarsagar tank, which faces the palace. There three temples were built by patvas in A.D. 1772, 1841 and 1847, dedicated to Adeshwar Nath. One of the balconies, carved in white marble, contrasts happily with the golden yellow stone structure.

Moolsagar
Built by Maharwal Moolraj II .This cool garden resort is on a road which deviates from the Amritsar Road, at the distance of 9 kms.from Jaisalmer. Situated in it is a palace, pillared loggia Situated in it are a palace, pillared loggia (balcony having twelve pillars) and miniature Shiva temples
scattered in the garden .Jhalra has a square pool, tiers of steps gradually slopping down around the central wall.

Lodarva
15 kms. From Jaisalmer along the Amritsar Road is the ancient the capital of Lodarva. Standing in solitary splendour is the Lodarva temple by Thoru Shah in 1619 A.D.Around it lie the ruins of this legendry city. The image of Parshwanath is protected by Sahastranaga, the serpent with a thousand hoods. The unique Kaipa-Vriksha (the celestial tree believed to be the bestower of boons to devotees)etched on copper, is perched high on a pillared chatri.

The images installed in the main sanctum of all the Jain temples at jaisalmer are of white and black marble, yellow stone and bronze. Simplicity and arnate design of multipartite spires have been harmoniously juxtaposed, so as to evoke a sense of solemnity.

Munificient and devout Jains commissioned these magnificent temples. Among them were the Rankas, Chopras, Degas, Shahs, Saklechas and Beedas. Figures of these benefactors, mounted on the elephants are visible at the entrances of these temples.

Kandiala and Akal
The fossil remains at Kandiala, 20 kms. From Jaisalmer, resemble dry fruits, nuts and sea shells. Those at Akal Fossil Park, 17 kms.from Jaisalmer, on Barmer Road, appear like logs of wood.

Ramgarh and Sam
Far away from the bustle of life lies the uttery barren desert, somewhat beyond the Ramgarh 65 kms. Northwest of Jaisalmer and Sam, 144 kms. West of Jaisalmer. The stark beauty of these stretches lies in the stillness of the vast desert, with its mirage horizons.

Pokaran
At a distance of 113 kms. From Jaisalmer, Pokaran is the largest sub-district. It served as a remain terminus up to 1966.There are a few Jain temples also the Rathore clan of Rajputs who once ruled over Pokaran.

The Old Remains
The ruins of Lodarva and Moomal-ki-Medi, nearby, are believed to be a thousand years old. Bikampur fort and Tanot fort and temple belong to the second and eighth century respectively. At Sirwa, a hall resting on thirty two pillars is said to have been erected in 820A.D.The medieval pillars in the front of Balak Nath Temple at Pokaran, as also the pillar at Baisakhi bear inscriptions. Goverdhan pillars at Ola of 11th century are among important antiquarians remains. A hovel near Garsisar tank bears an inscription in Persian, narrating the visit of Emperor Akbar’s Ambassador.

WILD LIFE SANCTURIES DESERT NATIONAL PARK

Sudasari
It is a part of Desert National Park on Sam Khuri road which is 70 Kms. from Jaisalmer 30 kms Sam Sand dunes. Great Indian Bustard, Usser Lesses Indian Bustard, Chinkara, Desert Fox Desert Lizard can be seen .Jeep, taxis can be hired from Jaisalmer for Sudasari. D.N.P. Department have some Hutsat Sudasari which can be booked in advance .Tourist can stay in tourist Dhani at Sam Sand dunes. Tents can be fixed near Sanctuary.
Foreigners have to obtain special permit from District Magistrate & all other have to obtain permit to enter Desert National Park area from D.N.P. office Jaisalmer .After depositing the entrance fee, Camera fee, taxi fee etc.

Akal wood Fossils Park Timings (8 a.m.to 6 p.m)
Akal Wood Fissils Park is located on Jaisalmer Barmer N.H No 15, 17 Kms. from Jaisaimer.Wood fossils discovered by Geologists here are said to be 18 million years old. Jeep taxies can be hired from Jaisalmer or one can explore by riding on the camel back also.

Camel Safaris
Camel Safaris are the main attraction in Jaisalmer for Foreigners as well as domestic touristics.Few hours to few days Camel ride is very common .Most popular Camel safari is for 4 days & 3 nights which covers Sam sand dunes and many desert villages & tourists interest places around Jaisalmer.

Special Permits for foreigners
Foreigners’ tourists require to obtain a special permit from District Magistrate, Jaisalmer to visit tourist places and villages which are located in the western side N.H. No. 15 with exception Jaisalmer town, Lodarva, Amar Sagar, Sam Sand dunes, Akal fossils Parks.

Camel Safari
Many visitors, who come to Jaisalmer, want to go on a camel safari into the desert around Jaisalmer.It is a great way to see the desert, villages, temples ,ruins ,dry rivers ,fossils, cenotaphs, animals, birds and the traditional life of the people.

You constantly come across the field of millets, groups of black-buck, chinkara, nilgai, large, group of cows at calves, goats, sheeps and camels are found around the villages. In Jaisalmer every village has at least one well or tank where women brightly dressed in a brilliant range of colours can be seen in the morning and evening, streaming to and from the well or tank with metal and earthen water vessels on their head.

On the night of the full moon when all are silent, the air is cool and sweet, and the moon light is streaming down of the sand dunes no words can truly capture the desert beauty. It is almost beyond one’s imagination. Sleeping under the sky with thousands of stars shining down, one is sure to have sweet dreams.

Standard sightseeing Tours:
Fully in the heart of the Thar, the burnished sandstone is an intricately moulded wonderland. A full day sightseeing tour to visit this city of guilded magic. See the Citadel, the fort built by Rawal Jaisal and where a fourth of the populations live: Jain Temples of the 12th to the 15th Centuries Patwon ki Haveli, a five storey mansion with carved pillars and murals: Salim Singh and Nathmalji Ki Haveli.