One
of Rajasthan's most alluring cities, Jaisalmer, deep in the heart
of Thar Desert, abounds in ancient palaces, temples and quaint settlements.
As the sun sets, the sandstone buildings emit a lustrous glow, that
make Jaisalmer the "Golden City". Founded by Rawal Jaisal
in 1156 A.D., the remote location of Jaisalmer, kept it almost untouched
by outside influences, even during the days of the British Raj.
Jaisalmer
Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is the most alive of any museum, fort or palace
that you are likely to visit in India. It was built in 1156 by the
Rajput ruler Jaisala. About a quarter of the old city's population
resides within the fort walls. The fort is entered through a forbidding
Lodurva Jain Temple
15 km from Jaisalmer, are the deserted ruins of this town, which
was the ancient capital, previous to Jaisalmer. It is an important
centre of Jain pilgrimage. The temples at Lodurva exhibit fine examples
of intricate craftsmanship on yellow stone. They have ornate carved
arches at the entrance, and a Kalputra, the Divine - Tree, within.
In the temple, is a hole from which, a snake is said to emerge every
evening, to drink an offering of milk. Only the ' blessed' can actually
see it, it is said.
Gadsisar Lake
Built by a courtesan, it used to be the main source of drinking
water in the olden times. Today, an arched gateway leads to a small
tank flanked by shrines and well laid out gardens and flower beds.
A scenic rain water lake with numerous beautiful shrines around.
The lake is an idyllic spot for outings.
Desert National Park
An extensive variety of desert birdlife, ranging from birds of prey
to sandgrouse, doves, shrikes, bee-eaters, warblers and desert coursers,
are to be found in the National Park. The most remarkable bird of
the desert, the Great Indian Bustard can also be sighted here. Among
the animals to be seen, are the desert fox, wolf, blackbuck, chinkara,
nilgai, and the crusted porcupine.
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