Jaisalmer
Overview

The
desert city of Jaisalmer came to exist when Raja Jaisal, after whom the city
is named, found his earlier capital Lodurva too susceptible to foreign
invasions. The city was founded in the 12th century. It is no wonder that
even today you can be witness to the city's glorious past as you start
exploring its forts and palaces. Age-old forts, impressive havelis and
alluring sand dunes make up for a richer medieval experience. Don't miss to
interact with the locals and undertake a camel safari through the dunes to
make your experience one of its kind.
Climate & Best Time
Jaisalmer has a typical desert type of climate with hot summers and
bitter-cold winters. Days during summer are scorching hot while nights are
cool. Day temperature could shoot up to 50 degrees centigrade; 41 degrees is
the average summer temperature. Dust and sand storms can be experienced in
the daytime. There's scanty rainfall (barely 15 cm annually). Winter records
an average temperature of 23 degrees. For tourists, October to March is
ideal time to make a trip here.
Places to Visit
The golden city of Jaisalmer presents to its visitors a tapestry of sights
through its forts, palaces, havelis, sand dunes, camels and exotic people.
Attractions you should never miss are as follows.
» Jaisalmer Fort
This 12th century fort is positioned in the Trikuta Hills and has the
distinction of being one of the most formidable in Rajasthan. A 30-feet-high
wall runs around the fort which measures 250 feet in height.
» Gadsisar Sagar Lake

The
picturesque lake, apart from being an important picnic spot, is known to
shelter hordes of migratory birds during the winter season. You can also
choose to spend some quality time in the lush gardens of Bara Bagh, located
on the banks of the lake.
» Havelis of Jaisalmer
These havelis are grand mansions and are known for their rich artistic
designs and embellishments. The havelis were built by the merchants of
Rajasthan. Famous havelis include Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli
and Nathmalji Ki Haveli.
» Tazia Tower
The soaring tower rises from the palatial structure of the Badal Mahal or
the Palace of Clouds. The intricately carved balconies of the tower are
worth watching for travellers.
Stay Options
Jaisalmer has an abundant number of hotels to cater to the needs of
tourists. Hotels of the city range from luxury and budget to government
approved. Staying at its heritage hotels has a charm of its own. You can
plan your stay at hotels like Fort Rajwada (4 Star), Heritage Inn (3 Star),
Gorbandh Palace Hotel (3 Star), Narayan Niwas Palace (Heritage), Jawahar
Niwas Palace (Heritage) etc.
Getting There
Jaisalmer's airport is located at a distance of 5 km from city centre. The
airport has connecting flights to New Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur. As the
airport operates only between September and March, the Jodhpur Airport (285
km) is the convenient option for air-travel. By rail, Jaisalmer is linked
with places like Agra, Jaipur, New Delhi and Mumbai. The city is also easily
accessible through road routes from Jaipur, Jodhpur and Bikaner along with
other key destinations of the country.