Why visit Jaisalmer
- Beautiful sand dunes
- The Jaisalmer Fort
The Jaisalmer fort rises like a fabulous mirage out of the sands of the Thar Desert, the contours of its 99 bastions softened by the golden hue of the stone. Standing on the peak of the Trikuta Hill, in medieval times the entire population of Jaisalmer lived within the fort and even now thousands of people live here. The Royal palace, a cluster of exquisitely carved 15th & 16th Jain temples, mansions and shops are all contained within its walls. Outside the fort is the main market place called Manek chowk, from where a short walk takes you into the lanes flanked by beautifully carved havelis. A visit to SAM gives an insight into desert life, a place to see beautiful patterns carved by winds on the sand. Camel rides on sand dunes gives an experience of an unforgettable sunset. Approximately 160 kilometres south east of Jaisalmer lies Barmer, a remote desert town but a major centre for desert handicrafts such as wood-carvings, block-printed textiles, embroidery and carpet weaving. The mud huts that the villagers live in are beautifully decorated with geometric and floral patterns, bringing colour and beauty to the brown parched environs.
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