Key attractions in Jaisalmer:
_Sonar Quila (Golden Fort)_: One of the world’s largest desert forts, it is known as ‘Sonar Quila’ because it glows like gold when sunlight strikes it. Built in 1156 AD by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, the fort stands atop a hill.
_Patwon Ki Haveli_: In the 19th century, the wealthy merchant Guman Chand Patwa commissioned this cluster of five mansions for his five sons. The intricate carvings on the yellow sandstone leave visitors from around the world in awe.
_Gadisar_: A beautiful and historic water reservoir built by Rawal Garsi Singh. In the past, it served as the primary water source for the entire city of Jaisalmer.
_Kuldhara_: Known as the ‘Ghost Village’ or ‘Mysterious Village,’ it was once a prosperous settlement of Paliwal Brahmins in the 13th century. However, driven to despair by the tyranny of the state’s Diwan, Salim Singh, the residents abandoned the village overnight, leaving behind a curse that it would never be inhabited again. Since then, the village has remained completely desolate and deserted.
_Tanot Mata Temple_: Located near the India-Pakistan border, this temple is considered miraculous. During the Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971, hundreds of bombs fell within the temple complex, yet not a single one exploded. Following this miracle, the responsibility for the temple’s upkeep and worship rituals has been entrusted to the soldiers of the Border Security Force (BSF).
Jaisalmer is a stunningly beautiful and historic city in Rajasthan, often referred to as the ‘Golden City’ due to its golden sands and yellow sandstone architecture.
