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JAISALMER - The Golden City
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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 its entire awesome splendor,
dominating the amber-hued city. 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. Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer
were feudal chiefs who lived off the forced levy on the caravans laden with precious
silks and spices that crossed the territory enroute Delhi or Sindh. These caravans
earned the town great wealth.
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For years Jaisalmer remained untouched by the outside influences. The rise of shipping
trade and the port of Mumbai saw the decline of Jaisalmer. But the desert fortress,
that 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 palace, havelis, temples and of course skilled
artisans and ubiquitous camels. The setting sun turning 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 contests especially the turban-tying contest. Mr. Desert contest and camel races
enliven the festivities. Colourful craft bazaars are set up for the occasion and
a sound and light spectacle is organized with folk artist performing against the
splendid backdrop of the famous Sam sand dunes on the full moon night. Surely a
not-to-be missed event.
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The fort of Jaisalmer, which resembles a gigantic sandcastle, is home to several
thousand people. Crowned over the Trikuta Hill, the golden yellow Jaisalmer Fort
dates back to more than 800 years. The fort has many gates including Ganesh Pol,
Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. In addition to this, it also has a number of
beautiful havelies and a group of Jain temples that make it a special place to explore.
The huge Gadsisar Tank was once the main source of water supply to the city. In
winters, a variety of birds flock here and make the whole environment enchanting.
The beautiful arched gateway across the road down to the tank adds to its attraction.
A number of exquisite temples and tanks located around the lake add to its pristine
beauty.The huge Gadsisar Tank was once the main source of water supply to the city.
In winters, a variety of birds flock here and make the whole environment enchanting.
The beautiful arched gateway across the road down to the tank adds to its attraction.
A number of exquisite temples and tanks located around the lake add to its pristine
beauty.
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