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Jaisalmer Tourism Guide
Jaisalmer Tourism Guide
Its like straight out of an Arabian Nights fable. The name Jaisalmer
induces a dramatic picture of utter magic and brilliance of the desert.
The hostile terrain not with standing the warmth and colour of people
is simply over whelming. One of the main draws is the daunting 12th
century Jaisalmer Fort. The beautiful havelis which were built by
wealthy merchants of Jaisalmer are yet another interesting aspect
of the desert city.
And you can let your eyes caress the sloppy sand dunes while you ramble
your way in a camel safari. The desert citadel is truly a golden fantasy
in Thar Desert. Bhatti Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, after whom the city
finds its name, founded Jaisalmer in 1156. On advice of a local hermit
Eesaal he chose the Tricut Hills as his new abode abandoning his vulnerable
old fort at Luderwa just 15 kilometres northwest. In Medieval times,
its prosperity was due to its location on the main trade route linking
India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The Bhatti Rajput
rulers lined their coffer with gains from traditional taxes and cess
on passing by caravans and sometimes through illicit gains by rustling
cattle.
Over the years the remote location of Jaisalmer kept it almost untouched
by outside influences. In the 13th century Ala-ud-din Khilji Emperor
of Delhi besieged the fort for nine years in an effort to take back
the treasure taken by the Bhatti Rajput from his imperial caravan
train. When the fall of the fort was imminent the women of the fort
committed Jauhar, an act of mass self-immolation, while men donned
saffron robes and rode to their certain death.
Duda son of Jaitasimha, a Bhatti hero also perished in the battle.
Dudas descendants continued to rule Jaisalmer. In 1541 they even fought
Mughal Emperor Himayun. Though their relations with Mugshal was not
always hostile. Sabala Simha won the patronage of Mughal Emperor Shaha
Jahan for battle distinctions in Peshawar and the right to rule Jaisalmer.
In the days of Raj, Jaisalmer was the last to sign the Instrument
of Agreement with the British. Ages have gone by and the monuments
of Jaisalmer have withstood the buffeting winds of the desert all
through.
Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions,
together amounting to a memorable experience. The old city was completely
encircled by wall but much of it is now pulled down sadly for want
of building material in recent years. The massive golden fort, which
is the essence of Jaisalmer, is entered through First Gate. Is a burrow
of narrow streets complete with Jain Temples and old palaces. The
main market the Bhatia Market is right below the hill. The bank, offices
and several shops are also located near the Amar Sagar Gate to the
west.
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the
city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands
with all its awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued city.
The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to
which, lord Krishna- the head of Yadav clan foretold Arjuna that a
remote descendent of the Yadav clan would build his kingdom atop the
Trikuta Hill, His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156AD.
When Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput abandoned his fort at Lodurva and
founded a new capital Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill Bhatti
Rajputs of Jaisalmer were fedual chief who lived off the forced levy
on the caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed
the territory enroute Delhi-or Sind. These seems to be straight out
of the "Tales of the Arabian Night ' still enchants.
The life within the citadel conjures up images of medieval majesty
visible in its narrow lanes strewn with magnificent palaces, havelis,
temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels. the
setting turn Jaisalmer into a beautiful golden brown is a spectacular
sight.
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
and contest, especially the turban raying contest.
Mr. Desert contest and camel races enliven the festivals colorful
craft bazars are setup for the occasion and a sound and light spectacle
is organized with folk artistes performing against the spledid backdrop
of the famous sam sand dunes on the full moon night. Surely a not-to-be-missed
events.
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