Jaisalmer Sightseeing : Places to visit in destination Jaisalmer

Places to visit in the city Jaisalmer

JAISALMER FORT - Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer fort is the main attraction of this picturesque desert city of Rajasthan. Located on the top of the Trikuta Hill, it is visible from a distance of about 15 kilometres. The ramparts, bastions and the long-stretching walls of the fort dazzle gloriously during early morning and at sunset. You can also have a look at a cultural programme organised by Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation (RTDC) at the local Poonam Stadium, just below the fort. Camel rides and camel races are a common sight in the Jaisalmer festivals. The parade of the gaily-caparisoned camels presents a spectacular sight. The characteristic colourful turban tying competitions of the locals, the camel décor competitions, tug-of-war along with a prize for the most impressive moustache are some of the many interesting events that will not only thrill you but also make you come here again and again.

PATWON-KI-HAVELI - Jaisalmer

The life within the citadel gives you a clear picture of the medieval majesty with its magnificent palace, havelis, temples and the skilled artisans and camels all around. Among the havelis made by Jaisalmer/’s wealthy merchants include the Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli and Nathmal ki Haveli. The Patwon ki haveli is the grandest mansion in Jaisalmer, having ceiling supported by exquisitely carved pillars. The delicately chiselled balconies and extensive corridors and chambers of this haveli also present an impressive sight.

DESERT CULTURE CENTRE AND MUSEUMS - Jaisalmer

The Desert Culture Centre and Museum is another important place to visit in Jaisalmer. You can see a good collection of historical as well as contemporary objects of interest here giving you a clear insight into past and present of the place. The museum has a good collection of old coins, different kinds of textiles, traditional Rajasthani instruments and some fossils discovered in the desert.

JAIN TEMPLES - Jaisalmer

The Jaisalmer Fort has three exclusive Jain temples. These three Jain temples are supposedly dedicated to the three Jain tirthankars namely Rishabhdevji, Sambhavanathji and the Ashthapadi. The library located just by these temples holds one of the oldest manuscripts of India.

SALIM SINGH KI HAVELI - Jaisalmer

Located at the eastern end of the city, the Salim Singh ki Haveli is an interesting site to visit in Jaisalmer. Built around 300 year ago, this haveli belonged to Salim Singh, the Prime Minister to then Maharaja of Jaisalmer, Maharaja Rawal Gaj Singh. The Salim Singh ki Haveli is characterised by yellow stone that is covered with intricate carvings, elaborate balcony and beautiful blue cupola roof.

NATHMAL-KI-HAVELI - Jaisalmer

Nathmal-ki-Haveli is the third of its kind supposedly built in AD 1885. Characterised by intricate architecture and craftsmanship, it belonged to later-day prime minister Nathmal, who gifted it to the Rawal. The haveli has two wings left and right, which were carved by two brothers with splendid miniature paintings. The jharokhas are the speciality of the haveli as they seem to emerge from a book of poetry because of the fine stone carvings.

GADSISAR LAKE - Jaisalmer

Gadsisar Lake is another important site to visit in Jaisalmer. A scenic rain water lake surrounded by some beautiful shrines makes it a photographer/’s delight. A good number of people visit this lake which also is a favourite outing spot for locals as well.