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Jaisalmer Tourism

Deep in the heart of the Thar Desert is Jaisalmer, one of the last princely
bastions in the region. Founded on what was the crossroad of lucrative trade
routes, this remote settlement came to be celebrated for the valour of its
rulers, and for the aesthetic sense represented by their palaces and havelis.
The rich merchants engaged stone-craftsmen who worked with great diligence
on the sandstone mansions they built, filling up facades with sculptural
filigree, screen windows, delicate pavilions and beautiful balconies. These
veritable art-museums are still inhabited, and their colourful celebrations
and festivals have placed Jaisalmer firmly on the world tourism map. It's
unique location in the midst of miles of sand dunes makes it India's most
popular destination for camel safaris.
Sam Sand Dunes
On your tour to Jaisalmer you can visit the famous Jaisalmer Fort, which
is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan after Chittaur, and commands the
desertscape from its 250 feet high pedestal on the Trikuta Hill. Three strong
walls protect the citadel. The fort has five palaces called Sarvottam Vilas,
Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal.
Jali or latticework screens of excellent craftsmanship shade interiors from
the fierce heat and desert winds. The Rang Mahal has some exquisite murals
painted on arches and spandrels. The fort contains one-third of the city's
population. Many houses provide budget accommodation to visitors and have
curio shops.

Jaisalmer cultural heritage takes you to the popular Jain Temples of Jaisalmer.
Three exquisitely sculptured Jain temples dedicated to Rishabhdevji, Sambhavanathji
and the Ashthapadi temple are located within the fort. Their ornamentation,
done in the style of the Dilwara temples at Mt. Abu, is marvelous.
The emerald icon of Mahavira here is an unparalleled gem. A trip to Jaisalmer
is incomplete without a visit to the most panoramic Dunes of Sam, where
the wind is unceasingly carving out scenic patterns on this desert Sand.
Truly the essence of the desert, the ripples of the Dunes create a enchanting
mirage. By visiting the Sam Sand dunes, it is possible to get an insight
into desert life from Jaisalmer itself! Camel rides on the sand dunes are
a thrilling experience, as is the brilliant sunset.