Jaisalmer’s greatest claim is, without a doubt, its strength. And, unlike the rest of the forts found in this land of kings that is Rajasthan – one of the 29 states that make up India – this city oozes life from all four sides. Far from having become a tourist attraction devoid of soul, The citadel continues to be inhabited today. Inside, time seems to have stopped, returning several centuries ago to a scene in which narrow alleys, camels, Jain temples, palaces, cows and street vendors coexist with hotels, shops and restaurants for tourists.
© Nacho Calonge / Alamy Stock PhotoOn the caravan route, the strategic location of this city of the India It made the city rich and many merchants and merchants found it the ideal place to settle. Their fortunes materialized in luxurious havelishomes profusely decorated as a symbol of power, wealth and ostentation, such as Nathmal Ji Ki, which has one of the most unique facadessince it was sculpted by two brothers who worked both sides independently, without following any joint pattern. Salim Singh Ki’s stands out for its 38 balconies.
© Roop Dey / Alamy Stock PhotoAnother spectacular one is Patwon Ki Haveli, masterfully carved and composed of five different homes that make up an impressive architectural complex.
© Juergen Ritterbach / Alamy Stock PhotoSome of the numerous fortresses, palaces and havelis of Rajasthan offer an unmatched experience for live a few days like authentic maharajas, Well, these ancient homes of the masters and lords of northern India have been converted into fabled hotels in which evoke the thousand and one nights. On the slopes of Jaisalmer is Suryagarh (suryagarth.com), a luxurious palace that, considered one of the best hotels in India, It delights the most demanding.
© @suryagarhFar from the hustle and bustle of the city, Jaisalkot (jaisalkot.com) covers 10 hectares and is located inside a majestic fortress where you can breathe a atmosphere of luxury, elegance and tranquility.
© @jaisalkotVery different, but also luxurious is living a unforgettable experience in the desertsuch as staying at The Serai (sujanluxury.com/the-serai) which, with luxury stores, suites with private garden, swimming pool and spa, It was one of the first Indian properties to become a member of Relais & Châteaux.
© @thesujanlifeThe wonders near Jaisalmer do not end here. Towards the west, about 7 kilometers, is the Amar Sagar Lake, that gives a beautiful image thanks to the reflection of the small temples, sanctuaries and pavilions that surround its calm waters. On its shore stands the beautiful Amar Singh Palace.
© Michele Falzone / Alamy Stock PhotoVyas Chhatri, one of the most beautiful examples of Rajasthani architecture, It is also almost next to Jaisalmer. It is an old cemetery full of royal cenotaphs made of golden sandstone and covered by delicate carvings, which is, furthermore, one of the most coveted places to witness the sunset. It is not surprising, from here you get spectacular views of Jaisalmer which, like an enormous dune emerging from the heart of the desert, seems to light up with the sunset light, honoring its name. nickname of the “Golden City”.
© Cavan Images / Alamy Stock PhotoGeology lovers prefer Wood Fossil Park to trace moments that occurred 180 million years ago, when what is now a desert was a lush forest that was submerged in the sea. In the park, of 21 hectares, there are multitude of fossilized trees that give clues about the Jurassic era in the area. While the Desert National Park shows the ecosystem of the Thar desert, with rolling dunes and jagged rocks and a varied wildlife.
You cannot leave the desert without being seduced by what, without a doubt, will be the most precious experience of this ocean of dunes: spend a night enjoying an immensely starry sky. Before, camel caravans, little white adobe villages and women dressed in brightly colored fabrics They mark the way.
© Mint Images Limited / Alamy Stock PhotoFor those who do not want to miss the experience of letting themselves be rocked by the movements of an imposing camel crossing the desert, Khuri is the place for them, since most safaris to see the sunset from the dunes They start from this small town of white houses decorated with colorful geometric figures.
© Roop Dey / Alamy Stock PhotoAbout 18 kilometers from Jaisalmer awaits the enigmatic ghost town of Kuldhara. Historical sources assure that the city was abandoned by its inhabitants at the beginning of the 19th century in the course of a single night. With nearly 90 villages around, it remains a mystery how no one saw them leave; In fact, to this day, it remains unknown where they went. The place, with fame of haunted, It remains in ruins and allows you to get an idea of how people lived in the place two centuries ago.
© Garima Agarwal / Alamy Stock PhotoPRACTICAL GUIDE
How to get there
Air India offers the only direct link between Spain and India, from Madrid to New Delhi. To get to the desert, you can opt for the train or the flight that Spicejet operates between the capital and Jaisalmer. Different agencies organize trips from Spain that focus on the state of Rajasthan. You can also arrive on your own and then take a tour through the desert by hiring it at the hotels, as well as camel excursions. The most advisable way to get around Jaisalmer is by rickshawmotorized version of the traditional two-wheeled carts pulled by people. They are economical, although prices must be negotiated in advance.
When to go
It is advisable to avoid the months of April, May and June due to their high temperatures. The rest of the year is perfect, although if you want to make a tour more complete by visiting other places in the country, it is worth keeping in mind that In December and January fog can accompany Delhi, Agra and Jaipur, while the rains occur in July and August.
