The name Jaisalmer evokes a vivid picture
of sheer magic and brilliance of the desert. The exotic,
remote and beautiful, Jaisalmer is a bit of a paradox.
So far west that it is in the heart of the desert,
one would expect barren near-desolation. Yet this
frontier town is today one of Rajasthan's best-loved
tourist destinations. Local colour and warmth prevail
over the inhospitable and forbidding terrain, imbuing
the medieval town with a special magic.
Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav Clan and
a Bhati Rajput, laid the foundation of this city in
1156 AD. Trikuta was the hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned
his old fort at Lodurva and established his new capital
here.
The Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs
who lived on the forced levy on the caravans that
crossed their territory en-route Delhi. These caravans,
laden with precious cargos of spices and silk brought
great wealth to this town. Because of its remote location,
Jaisalmer for years remained untouched by outside
influences and during the British Raj, the rulers
of Jaisalmer were the last to sign the instrument
of agreement with the British.
In medieval times, its prosperity was due to its
location on the main trade route linking India to
Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The glory
of Jaisalmer faded when sea trade replaced the old
land routes. But there is still an 'Arabian Nights'
quality about the town. The narrow streets in the
walled city preserve a traditional way of life: the
craftsmen still work at the ancient crafts of weaving
and stone carving, the making of silver jewellery
and embroidery. And the stately, nonchalant camel
is everywhere.
Just a walk through Jaisalmer, savoring the medieval
glory of old Rajasthan, is a marvelously rewarding
travel experience. Desert Festival, celebrated in
January/ February, is a must on any itinerary. The
desert seems to bloom in a thousand colours. There
are camel races and folk dances. Craft bazaar and
traditional balled singing. A sound and light spectacle
on the sand-dunes of Sam on the full moon night. And
all the colour and excitement of the best in Rajasthan.
The perfect time to visit the golden city is during
the Desert Festival every year when the city reverberates
to the sound of melodious tunes and rhythms. Folk
dances, exciting competitions and contest especially
the turban-tying contest, Mr.Desert contest and camel
races enlighten the festivities. Jaisalmer is a marvel
of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions,
together amounting to a memorable experience. This
is a city to be visited.
