Jaisalmer - The Golden City

The ‘ Golden City’ as it has come to be known as a majestic place.

Situated right in the heart of Thar desert, it gets the name Golden City due to its bounteous, Sandstone Buildings, Sadar Bazaar and Royal Havelis.

One of the very living Forts in the world, half of the population still resides inside and you can get a chance to experience the same. Royal Havelis (Nathmal Ki Haveli) are beautifully carved stone doorways, balconies and turrets. Throughout Jaisalmer fort it is possible to discover and admire many of them and it is these Havelis intricately carved in the golden yellow sandstone which gave the Jaisalmer the nickname ‘The Golden City’.

There are several impressive gates traditionally used to enter the fort, the most famous of which is the Surya Gate, whose beautiful carved facade is definitely worth seeking out.

The fact that restaurants and boutique hotels have been created inside the fort is endangering its survival, as it is collapsing onto itself – to the point that the city council invites tourists to actually opt to stay outside.

The beautiful seven-storey palace where the former rulers of Jaisalmer used to live is partially built on top of the fourth fort gate.

It’s possible to take audio guided tour of the palace (they last around 90 minutes) that also go into the gorgeous Rang Mahal, the mirrored and painted room of 18th century ruler Mulraj II.

Among the things to Buy in Jaisalmer, there are beautifully embroidered spreads; oil lamps; antiques; and even traditional and less traditional clothing like sarees and cotton shirts. I recommend Eating local food as it is bound to taste amazing.