We walk away from the hustle and bustle of the metros into the desert towns to get you the inside story. There has been quite a stir in the ravines and no soul is untouched with the beauty and the peace it brings to one’s mind.The stories of kings and queens, of battles, of lost love and not to forget, of FOOD.
Our visit to Jaisalmer in Rajasthan brings us to exalt spiritual journey with our inner self
Jaisalmer is smaller in comparison to other cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur or Udaipur, but it fills your soul with its culture and of course, good food.There is a certain charm and romance in its air, which lures you back each time you think of the place.
We start the day by visiting the Jaisalmer Fort also known as the Sonar killa. Most forts in India, are either abandoned or converted to museums or hotels,but this is a living fort.
It is also called Trikoot Killa and has been a witness to many battles fought and won.The fort gets its name from the lion colored walls which have a honey-golden sheen when the sun sets.
The ruling family of erstwhile Jaisalmer state belongs to Bhati clan of Yadu Rajputs of Chandravanshi race who claim descent from Lord Krishna who ruled Dwarka. In 1156, Rawal Jaisal constructed this fort at Meru hill.
Jaisalmer, is also known as the Golden city and is quite close to Indo-Pak border and it is a treat in itself.One of the most popular tourist destinations, a world heritage site, yet one of the best kept secrets which awaits you to be discovered.
There are shops,hotels,temples,cafes and age-old havelis (homes) inside the fort where families continue to stay from centuries.
You walk away from present and then again to your past as you enter the majestic Raja Rani Mahal. There are guides as well as the audio tours, and you can see through the jharokhas at your own pace and study the history of the palace as you walk through narrow passages into history.
There is something majestic in the air yet you are so much at peace like you are its own.
You can see people selling their hand embroidered bed-sets,clothes as you walk in past that old door which one stood witness to numerous battles. An old man playing Rawal bhata providing you with all the drama which adds to the mystique of this living fort.
You can see a craftsman making beautiful puppets along the road next to the Ramdev Temple, some tribal ladies selling crinkets and bangles.
As you walk through the fortress, numerous, shops, artisans, Jain and Hindu temples await you. Its like a maze through the annals of history that you discover color of life in the dry and barren desert. People are friendly and helpful and life beckons you asking what do you seek more..
You can have tea at the stalls, shop around and wonder at the marvelous architecture which has stood the strength of time, the heat, the cold and still wonder at the city of gold .
It is home to many temples like Ranchodd ji temple, Chamunda Temple and Jain temples which can be visited in its bylanes.
Fortress is as beautiful like a new bride at moonlight.Its quite a sight to watch, as you sit down for dinner,you can look at its magic for hours together as it is a sheer piece of poetry.There is a chill in its air, yet its charm king size and warmth so endearing that you are captivated forever.
Yes, one of the best things about Jaisalmer, is the simplicity of the people and the colors it brings to your soul….
I liked your post so much. Its very nicely described. Embraced in the vast and mighty desert, Jaisalmer depicts the grandeur of the royal medieval era and holds great historic value. Check out best places to visit in Jaisalmer also.