The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which, Lord Krishna-the head of the Yadav Clan, foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of the Yadav Clan would built his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill. His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156 A.D. when Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and a Bhatti Rajput,abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital - Jaisalmer,perched on the Trikuta Hill.

Desert Fair

About the Fair

Jaisalmer exercise immense charm, but with the staging of the annual Desert Festival (January - February), it has also become one of the more important events on the annual calendar. Essentially, it is a showcase of the performing arts of the region on the stretching sands around this desert citadel. A number of amusing turban tying competitions and camel races.

The perfect time to visit the golden city is during the Desert Festival, held in Jan/Feb. every year, when the city reverberates to the sound of melodious tunes and rhythms. Folk dances, exciting competitions an contests, especially the turban-tying contest. Mr. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivities. Colorful craft bazaars are set up for the occasion and a sound and light spectacle is organized wit folk artists performing against the splendid backdrop of the famous Sam sand dunes on the full moon night. Surely a not-to-be missed event.

(Click on the image for larger view)

The golden hued fort is a sentinel to the bleak desertscape from its 80 metre high perch on the hill, housing the entire township within its ramparts. It has an enchanting cow-web of narrow lanes dotted with some lovely havelis, three beautifully sculptured Jain Temples of the 12th-15th century A.D. and five interconnected palaces.The fort is approached through four gateways-Akhaiyal Ganesh Pol Suraj Pol and Hava Pol.

The most elaborate and magnificent of all the Jaisalmer havelis. It has exquisitely carved pillars and extensive corridors and chambers.One of the apartments of this five storey high haveli is painted with beautiful murals.

A scenic rain water lake with numerous beautiful shrines around and a spectacular avian variety. The lake is an idyllic spot for outings.

The fort has three exquisitely carved jain temples dedicated to the Jain Tirthankars-Rishabhdev,Sambhavnath and Paraswanath.Gyan Bhandar or Library: Some of the oldest manuscripts of India are found in this library established as a part of Jain temples.

This haveli was built in late 19th century with elaborate architecture a display of sheer craftsmanship. The left and right wings of the mansion, which were carved by two brothers are not the same but very similar and balanced in design. The interior walls are elaborate with wonderful small paintings.

No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without a trip to the most picturesque dunes of Sam situated 42km from Jaisalmer. The waves on the wind -caressed dunes, that create a charming mirage, are surely a delight for a trigger -happy photographer

Khuri is situated 40 km southwest of Jaisalmer out in the desert near Pakistan border. It is a peaceful area with houses of mud.

Flights are not the best way to reach Jaisalmer. Jodhpur is the nearest airport at a distance of 500 km. Indian Airlines has a twice-weekly service to Jodhpur from Delhi.

From Jodhpur there is a direct train to Jaisalmer for overnight journey, except on Wednesday. The journey takes approximately ten hours. The Palace on Wheels is the most luxurious way to travel to Jaisalmer, recreating within the coaches the ambience of the legendary palace comforts. Advance reservation required.

Jaisalmer is 897 kilometers from Delhi; 638 kilometers from Jaipur; 285 kilometers from Jodhpur; 500 kilometers from Ajmer, and 330 kilometers from Bikaner. Most of these places are connected to Jaisalmer by National Highway No 15.