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Oh! I cannot forget the Jaisalmer city of Rajasthan. Probably, I had my
best time over there as I resorted to desert safari that enabled me to
understand the culture of the city in a better way. As we were moving
towards Jaisalmer, I had a long talk with Ranvir, my guide, who told me
that due to family problems, he had to take up this profession for an
extra income. He was completing his Masters in History (hons) from
Rajasthan University. No doubt!... that is why he is perfect about the
history of the cities and monuments. Some how knowing about him made me
closer to him.
As when I entered the city, Ranvir told me that the city was founded by
Prince Jaisal, a Krishna Vanshi rajput in 12th century, the city was
named after him. Till date the very name of Jaisalmer induces a vibrant
picture of enthralling and serene desert in mind.
In fact, I didn't had any problem coming to Jaislamer as the nearest
airport is in Jodhpur and the city is well connected through rails and
roads.
Exploring Jaislamer!
The first place that I popped in was the Jaisalmer Fort. Unbelievably!
Jaisalmer is known the Maharajahs of yesteryear. I was quite shocked to
see that the fort has not one but for this fort. I was quite impressed
to see the fort that depicted the traditional lifestyle of the
Maharajahs of yesteryear. I was quite shocked to see that the fort has
not one but many gates that were worth watching. We, Ranvir and I,
entered the courtyard of the fort through the Ganesh Pol and then I came
face to face with the royal grandeur of the historic past. Oh! the other
gates like the Suraj pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol left a deep impression
on my mind. Made in golden yellow sandstone, it is adorned with
sculpture filigree, screen windows, delicate pavilions and beautiful
balconies.
There was an entrance fees of Rs. 50/- per person. There was an extra
fee for Camera Fee Rs.50/- and the Video Camera Rs.100/-
After exploring the Manak Chowk, a market place, we headed towards the
famous Havelis that is in close vicinity. To name a few Patwon Ki Haweli
and Nath mal ji ki haveli. Apart from these there are few more havelis
that a tourist could visit.
Oh! I adored the Patwon-Ki-Haveli. It is the grandest mansion in
Jaisalmer, its ceiling supported by exquisitely carved pillars and its
delicately chiselled balconies surely leave you mesmerized. But I had to
pay an entrance fees to view the magnificent haveli. It charged Rs. 40/-
Per Person, and the Camera Fee Rs.20/- and for Video Camera Rs.50/-
I also explored the Nathmalji-Ki-Haveli and the Gaddisar lake. Oh! Yes,
Ranvir also told me about the desert festival in Jaisalmer, that usually
start in January and Feburary. The desert festival showcases a
performing art of the region. “ Sir, many competitions like Mr
Desert and the turban tying contest”, as Ranvir enlighten me with
his knowledge.
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Jaisalmer
