Jaisalmer, The Golden City

Some More Pictures Of Patwon Ki Haveli

2009-03-09T08:47:00.000-07:00

Patwon Ki Haveli From Outside

2009-03-09T08:37:00.000-07:00

Pictures Of Patwon Ki Haveli

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One Of The Rooms Of Patwon Ki Haveli

Opium Paraphernalia

Inner View Of Patwon Ki Haveli

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An Insight To Patwon Ki Haveli

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Inner Courtyard Of The Haveli

Patwon Ki Haveli

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Location: In a narrow lane near Patwa Complex

How to reach: Take a rickshaw, better if you walk the distance

Attraction: Architecture and miniatures, balconies

Timings: Early morning till 5 P.M.

Description Of The Haveli:
The Patwon Ji ki Haveli is an interesting piece of Architecture and is the most important among the havelis in Jaisalmer. This is precisely because of two things, first that it was the first haveli erected in Jaisalmer and second, that it is not a single haveli but a cluster of 5 small havelis. The first among these havelis was commissioned and constructed in the year 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa and is the biggest and the most ostentatious. It is believed that Patwa was a rich man and was a renowned trader of his time. He could afford and thus ordered the construction of separate stories for each of his 5 sons. These were completed in the span of 50 years. All five houses were constructed in the first 60 years of the 19th century.
The havelis are also known as the 'mansion of brocade merchants'. This name has been given probably because the family dealt in threads of gold and silver used in embroidering dresses. However, there are theories, which claim that these traders made considerable amount of money in Opium smuggling and Money-lending.
This is the largest Haveli in Jaisalmer and stands in a narrow lane. This haveli is presently occupied by the government, which uses it for various purposes. The office of the Archeological Survey of India and State art and craft department is situated in the haveli itself.
Nevertheless, even after these encroachments and abuse you can find a good amount of paintings and mirror-works on the wall. The other important aspects are its gateways and arches. You will notice individual depictions and theme on each and every arch. Although the whole building is made yellow sandstone, the main gateway of the Patwon Ji ki Haveli is in brown color.

Pictures Of Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli

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Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli

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Nathmal Ji Ki HaveliLocation: In the heart of Jaisalmer

How to Reach: Take a rickshaw or just walk the distance

Attraction: Architecture and miniature

Timings: Early morning till 5 P.M.

Description Of The Haveli:
This Nathmal Ji ki haveli was commissioned to serve as the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. Maharawal Beri Sal commissioned the construction of this Haveli. The architects of this haveli were Hathi and Lulu who happened to be brothers. There is a very interesting story regarding its construction. It is said that the two brothers started building different facets of haveli simultaneously. In those days there were no such instruments, which could keep a track on continuity and thus when this building came up finally it had irregular shape.
Barring that, this haveli is still considered the best in Jaisalmer in terms of grandeur. There are other minute details worth appreciation. For example there are two Elephants made of yellow stone. These life-size replicas have been put in front of the main entrance so that it looks as if they are guarding the Haveli. Other than these, there are pictures engraved on pillars and walls. These consist of Horses, Cattle, and depiction of Flora among other things. But the most interesting aspect of this haveli is the drawing of modern amenities such as cars, fans etc. It is said and believed that the Architect brothers dint see these things ever in their life and engraved it with mere help of their descriptions given by people who had seen it.
Thus the architecture present in this haveli is quite different from the one popular in other parts of Jaisalmer. The workmanship of Jaisalmer havelis is an amalgam of both Rajput architecture as well as Islamic art that was imported via the traders' caravan through the desert.

Some More Pictures Of Salim Singh Ki Haveli

2009-02-27T02:37:00.001-08:00

Outer View Of The Haveli

The Guarding Elephant At The Entrance

Decorative Piece In The Haveli

Pictures Of Salim Singh Ki Haveli

2009-02-27T02:31:00.000-08:00

The Other Side Of The Haveli With A Bunch Of Ruins

Remnants Of Grander Days Are On A Display In One Of The Rooms

Salim Singh Ji Ki Haveli

2009-02-26T03:44:00.000-08:00

Location: In the heart of Jaisalmer near Railway station
How to reach: Take a rickshaw ride to avoid traffic jam
Attraction: Architecture, chiefly balconies
Timings: Early morning till 5 P.M.

Description Of The Haveli
Salim Singh ki haveli has been built on the remains of an older haveli built in the late 17th century. The new building was built in the year 1815 and was occupied by the Mehta family of Jaisalmer. They were the most influential family of their time. This haveli was commissioned by Salim Singh, the then Prime Minister of the kingdom when Jaisalmer was the capital.
The haveli has a distinct architecture. The roof has been constructed in the form of Peacock. The haveli is situated beside the hills near the Jaisalmer Fort. People claim that Salim Singh made two additional floors in order to make it as high as the fort but the Maharaja did not take this attempt in good spirit. He ordered the extra floors to be torn down. Nevertheless we do not find enough evidence to corroborate the story.
Like other havelis in Jaisalmer, this too has tuskers guarding the gateways. These are made of sand stones and look very close to the original in appearance. The haveli consists of as many as 38 balconies and they all have distinct designs for themselves. The front facet of the haveli resembles ship stern and thus this haveli is also sometimes referred as Jahazmahal.

Cuisines At Jaisalmer

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The colourful land of Rajasthan also offers lots when it comes to cuisines and traditional food. As a vivid traveller you must try out various traditional Rajasthani dishes and food that are easily available in this beautiful desert city as well. The city of Jaisalmer has a rich cultural heritage, which is very well reflected in its rich cuisine. The western part of India has a distinct food culture of its own, which is so very different from the North Indian cuisines.
The murgh-e-subz succulent, boneless strips of chicken stir-fried with shredded vegetables, is one not to miss. Alternatively, you can try the ker sangri (desert beans and capers), which is unique to a region that is traditionally vegetarian in its outlook. If you have a hearty appetite, the tandoor thali tops: two chicken preparations (including the ubiquitous but delicious tikka), vegetable kebab, mint sauce, and naan. Sensitive stomachs can opt for the kadi pakora, flour dumplings cooked in yogurt sauce, or bhanon aloo, potatoes stuffed with mint paste and simmered in gravy. All of it washed down with the coldest beers and beverages available in the state.
Where to Eat in Jaisalmer:
'Trio' is one of the most famous restaurants serving authentic Rajasthani cusienes. This unassuming eatery, with its open walls and thin cotton flaps providing a welcome through-breeze (not to mention views of the town and the maharaja's palace) is Jaisalmer top restaurant and one of the best in Rajasthan. Witness the traditional Rajasthani reception. It's not just that the food is delicious, but the chef brings a few interesting variations to signature Rajasthani dishes- a welcome relief to someone who has exhausted the almost standardized North Indian menu. 'Chokhi Dhani' is another famous restaurant, which can be trusted. Though it is not as good as 'Trio' but you will get a long list of cuisines to select from, under one roof. Besides, all major High-end Hotels have their own inhouse Restaurants.
As far as fast food joints are concerned, Jaisalmer has lots of them. Famous Indian fast-food chain such as Nirula's has already made its presence felt in the city. Other major fast foods joints such as Pizza Hut, Pizza Corner and Mc. Donald's etc have also opened their outlets in the city.

Entertainment In Jaisalmer

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Kalbeliya Dance

Ghoomar Dance

Puppet Show

Entertainment In Jaisalmer

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Gair Dance

Puppetry Show

Jaisalmer has a lot of options for entertainment. Because of its rich composite culture it boasts of various songs and dances. If you are not a culture vulture then you can opt for modern centers of entertainment such as Cinema theatre and discotheques.
Music:

Rajasthani folk music has a long history. It is very soothing and earthy. Traditionally rulers had bards in their courts that sang tales of the heroic deeds of kings. Though the tradition is long dead nevertheless these ballads called "Rasos" can be heard even today. The legend of King Prithviraj Chauhan and his bard Chand Bardai who composed the Prithviraj Raso, a ballad, which details the brave deeds of Prithviiraj though exaggerated at times, is well known.
Dance:

Rajasthani folk dances are an eye-catching sight. People of Rajasthan must be given the credit to save their heritage for this long. Lissome women wearing colorful clothes decorated with mirrors and embroidery, balancing a column of brass pots on their heads, sway in time to the music of a traditional melody. During your stay, you will notice that, Rajasthan is a place where every thing is very earthy and close to the masses. That is why folk culture here is very flourishing. Some of the popular folk dances in Rajasthan, which are a great source of entertainment are Bhavai, Chari, Ghair, Ghoomar, Kacchi Ghodi where a dancer wears a costume resembling a horse, Kalbeliya, performed by the women of the snake charmer community and Teerahtali, where women perform with 13 cymbals tied to their limbs.
Puppetry:

Want to try something different, go for the Puppetry show one of the evenings. Puppetry is a traditional art form and source of entertainment in Rajasthan. Tales from the epics, folk tales and social commentary are conveyed through the medium of colorful puppets. The most famous among these is the depiction of Mahabharata, the grand epic.These little puppets are also popular souvenirs for tourists who visit Rajasthan on an Indian Holiday.
Cinema Theatres:

There are quite a few cinema theatres in Jaisalmer but none of them are up to the international standard. The acoustic are not up to the mark and projections, too are hazy. Stick to the inhouse facilities in the hotels.

Shopping In Jaisalmer

2009-01-31T02:29:00.000-08:00

Your Jaisalmer trip would be incomplete if you don't buy some typical Jaisalmer goods as souvenirs for your near and dear ones. A number of traditional Rajasthani handicrafts are available in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is famous for embroidery, Rajasthani mirror work, rugs, blankets, antiques and old stonework. There are lots of shops but try to venture in government owned and operated ones. This will save you extra dollars that would have gone in the pockets of guides in the form of commission. If you want to buy fabrics such as Tie-dye and other fabrics, try the government operated Khadi Gramuddyog Bhavan.
Shop for exquisitely carved wooden boxes in tiny curio shops. Traditional rugs, hand woven blankets and shawls in typical Rajasthani color and weave are also available. Don't miss to buy souvenirs for your dear ones. In that case, Mirror work, embroiders article silver jewelry, Trickles and Curios are must buys of Jaisalmer. The shopping spots are within the fort and include Sadar Bazar, Sonaron ka Bass, Manak Chowk, Pansari bazar, Gandhi Darshan, Seema gram, Rajsthani Govt. shop and Khadi Gramuddyog Emporium.

Nightlife In Jaisalmer

2009-01-30T03:52:00.000-08:00

Jaisalmer has little nightlife, but plenty to keep you occupied in the form of traditional dances, a desert light show and the like. Most hotels have some form of evening entertainment for their guests too, so you are unlikely to get bored. Nearly all of them organise cultural programs in the evening. All the major high-end hotels have their private discotheques and are opened till late hours of night.
Pubs and Bars in Jaisalmer:

All the major hotels have their private pub and offer a variety of liquor to choose from. You can find some of the finest French wines, both red and white, in the premiere ones. Most of the pubs are opened till the late hours.

Communication In Jaisalmer

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General transportations in Jaisalmer are Auto rickshaw and bicycles as these are a good way to get around. Auto rickshaw is a cheap mode of transportation but drivers might not be friendly all the times. You need to take rickshaw when you take congested roads in order to avoid bottlenecks.
Cabs are also available both government and private operated. If you have some extra dollars left you can opt for Cabs that are costly to hire and a lot of dickering takes place with the cab drivers. If you are low on cash then opt for City tour and site seeing buses, which are downright cheap.
Telephones:

Jaisalmer is well connected to the places in India and the world through its network of STD and ISD calling services. The charges are as per the government norms and networks are generally congestion free. Cellular services too are available in Jaisalmer with at least 4 to 5 players in the market including the government owned and operated BSNL service.
Internet:

Jaisalmer has good Internet facility with private cyber cafés all around the city. Nearly all high-end hotels provide Internet facilities in the room itself. It has both dial up as well as broadband Internet facility with the fastest one going as high as 10 mbps.
Newspapers and Magazines:

All the major newspapers and magazines published in India are available in Jaisalmer. Most of these are vernacular but a number of them are in English too. Newspapers in other language such as Hebrew, Spanish as well as French can be made available on request, in high-end hotels.

Access To Jaisalmer

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Jaisalmer is situated in the very heart of Rajasthan and is a popular tourist destination therefore it is well connected to the rest of India and Rajasthan with airways, railways as well as roadways.
By Air:

Though Jaisalmer is not directly connected to Airways as such, Jodhpur airport is 300 Km away. Jodhpur is connected to all the major metros of India by government owned as well as private airlines. From Jodhpur you can hire Cabs or take a train journey according to your wish and preference.
By Rail:

Jaisalmer is connected to major cities of India through broad gauge as well as meter gauge railway tracks. Direct trains from Jaisalmer are available to Jodhpur as well as Delhi. Jaisalmer is connected through both 'Broad gauge' as well as 'Meter gauge' tracks. You can also travel to Jaisalmer by Palace on Wheels.
By Road:

Jaisalmer is well connected to the rest of state by well-maintained roads. Due to its proximity to Indo-Pak border, special emphasis is given on its maintenance. Deluxe & Ordinary buses of Rajasthan Roadways & Private companies operate form Jaisalmer to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Bikaner, Barmer, Mount Abu, Jalore, Ahemdabad etc. Roadways main bus stand is opposite Railway station & Golden bus terminal near State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, Shiv road, Jaisalmer are the two major bus stands.
Local transportation:

General transportation in Jaisalmer consists of auto rickshaw and bicycles because these are good means to get around. Auto rickshaw is a cheap mode of transportation but drivers might not be friendly all the times. It is recommended to take rickshaw when you take congested roads in order to avoid bottlenecks.

Some Of The Pictures Of The Desert Festival

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Decorated Camels At The Festival

Men With Long Moustaches

A Camel Rider Is Silhouetted Against The Setting Sun At Festival

Men Performing Traditional Dance During Festival

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Desert Festival Of Jaisalmer

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Camel Parade

Desert Festival of Jaisalmer is a colorful festival held in February every year. You will get to see Cultural events, camel races, turban tying competitions etc. Not exciting enough! Attend the contests to judge the man with the best moustache. Everything is exotic in the Desert festival, amidst the golden sands of the Thar Desert. With a final musical performance by folk singers under the moonlit sky at the dunes in Sam, just outside Jaisalmer, the festival comes to its end. The rich culture of the region is on display during this three daylong extravaganza.
The desert festival in Jaisalmer was started to attract foreign tourists, who always wanted to explore as many facets of Rajasthan as they could in the possible crunch of time. The three-day event stresses more on local elements and heritage. For example, this no-nonsense festival will only showcase Rajasthani folk songs and dance. These are presented by some of the best professionals of the art. Similarly, local customs such as Turban tying etc have been added to make it more exotic and colorful in its outlook. 'The moustache competition' is very popular among foreigners. This is simply because of the surprise value attached to this event. Foreigners can be seen posing for pictures with the winners. This is truly a moment worth preserving.
You will never forget marvels like the famous Gair and Fire dancers that are the major attraction of the desert festival celebrations. Interesting contests including a tying competition and a Mr. Desert contest further enhance the fun of the occasion. A trip to the Sam sand dunes marks the grand finale, where you will enjoy camel rides and brilliant performance by the folk artist under the full moon against the backdrop of picturesque dunes.
The Rajasthan tourism organizes the Jaisalmer Desert fair/festival. There is tourist help cell to deal specially with the problems faced by foreign tourists. The arrangements are monitored by local administration and state of the art Medical vans, equipped with the best of medical amenities, are kept on alert. If you want to buy gifts or souvenirs for your dear ones, this is the place to be. For this place not only have items from and around Jaisalmerbut of the whole Rajasthan. Mobile money exchangers are there in case you need to exchange currencies. And if you run out of cash, Guess what! Nearly all the kiosks have the facility to accept credit card.

Hotel Garh Jaisal

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The Entrance Of The Hotel

Beautiful Balconies Outside The Rooms Overlooking The City

Traditionally Decorated Rooms

Hotel Chain:

None
Rooms:

7
Hotel Description:

On the ancient trade route, in the heart of the Thar Desert is Jaisalmer, a remote settlement populated by palaces and havelis. Sandstone architecture is predominant with abundant rooftop vistas, charming facades and winding streets and pathways.
The golden Jaisalmer Fort, over 800 years old, crowns the Trikuta Hill. Within its walls, defended by 99 turrets, lies the old city. From the city, to view the fort is almost identical to what was seen by merchants on their overland camel caravans to central Asia.
The fort stands almost 30 metres over the city and houses an entire living area within huge ramparts. Seven years in the making, the fort's newest abode is your home in the desert, welcome to Garh Jaisal!
Jaisalmer is famous for embroidery, rajasthani mirror work, rugs, blankets, antiques and old stone work. Tie-dye and other fabrics are made and color abounds everywhere.
We bring you inspired creations by local artisans and encourage you to immerse and have fun with our culture and creativity.
Each of the seven rooms is built with the most thoughtful of appointments and comfort. Contemplate your moment in time overlooking this medieval city ~ sipping a nicely spiced chai from your window seat.
All rooms feature a king size bed with quality linens, private bathroom with hot water shower, beautiful rich wood furniture and comfortable seat pillows to enjoy the view below your palatial retreat.
Restaurant:

Available.
Bar:

Not available.

Room Facilities:

Attached Bath with Hot and Cold Running Water.

Other Facilities & Services:

Doctor on Call, Tour & Travel Service, Car Rental, Camel Safari, Ayurveda Spa Treatment.

Address:

Hotel Garh Jaisal

On Fort, Kotri Para,

Jaisalmer – 345001, Rajasthan (India)
Access:

Airport - 03 km

Railway Station - 02 km

Bus Stand - 02 km

Hotel Jaisal Castle

2009-01-23T02:44:00.000-08:00

Inside Of The Hotel

Beautiful Interior

Well Equipped Rooms

A Serene Sit-Out

Hotel Chain:

None
Rooms:

11
Hotel Description:

Hotel Jaisal Castle is one of the largest and most elaborate haveli in Jaisalmer. The hotel is situated behind the Jain Temple on the fort. The location of the hotel is marvelous and it is easily accessible from the bus stand and the railway station. The hotel offers a good view of the golden city of Jaisalmer.
Accommodation:

Jaisal Castle Hotel offers 11 well-maintained and spacious rooms. All the rooms are equipped with all modern facilities and amenities. Attached bathrooms, hot & cold running water, direct dial phones, cable- television, round the clock room service are some of the convenience that goes with the rooms.
Amenities & Services:

24 hours room service, travel assistance, doctor on call, laundry and dry-cleaning service, television sets, 24 hours running hot and cold water, vehicle parking facilities, money exchange, direct dial telephones.

Address:

186, On Fort,

Jaisalmer - 345001, Rajasthan, India.
Access:

Airport - 03 km

Railway Station - 02 km

Bus Stand - 02 km

Hotel Jawahar Niwas Palace

2009-01-22T02:17:00.000-08:00

Hotel View From Outside

Swimming Pool

Reception

A Peaceful Sit-Out In The Courtyard

Well Furnished Rooms

Restaurant

Hotel Chain:

None
Rooms:

22
Hotel Description:

Maharawal Shri Shalivahan Singh Ji of Jaisalmer built the Jawahar Niwas Palace in golden sand stone in 1899 A.D. The palace stands proudly as a symbol of grace and regal charm. The present Maharawal Shri Brijraj Singh Ji converted the Jawahar Niwas Palace into a heritage hotel. The decor of the hotel has been done in the lines of old ambience and the royal splendor with many Jharokhas and Chhatries.
Accommodation:

Jawahar Niwas Palace Hotel offers 22 rooms categorized into 15 Deluxe Rooms and 7 Suites. The suites are elegantly furnished and equipped with facilities like direct dial telephones, attached baths with hot and cold running water and color television. Some room offers the scenic view of the grand Jaisalmer Fort.
Amenities & Services:

Doctor on call, laundry and dry cleaning, gym, horse riding, travel desk, swimming pool, conference facilities, luggage storage, baby sitting, currency exchange and wake up services, barber shop, courier service, front desk, parking, safe deposit box, h/c running water, telephone, horse riding, camel ride.

Address:

Hotel Jawahar Niwas Palace

No.1, Bada Bagh Road,

Jaisalmer - 345001, Rajasthan, India.
Access:

Airport - 1.5 km

Railway Station - 2.5 km

Bus Stand - 0.5 km

Hotel Killa Bhawan

2009-01-20T02:11:00.000-08:00

Hotel View From Outside

Inner Look Of The Hotel

Well Accommodated Rooms

A Beautiful Roof-Top Sit-Out

Hotel Chain:

None
Rooms:

09
Hotel Description:

The Desert City of Jaisalmer was built of dry stone in 1156. Jaisalmer is known for its magnificent sandstone palaces, ornate Jain temple, the finely wrought manors of the palace and a Hotel Killa Bhawan. Hotel Killa Bhawan is said to be the best place to stay in town. It comprises of two converted town houses built right into the fort walls, with rooms decorated in vivid shades of crimson and orange. It’s three terraces command the Jaisalmer finest sunset views Hotel Killa Bhawan has a simple charm that suits its remote, romantic Arabian Night setting in the desert town of Jaisalmer. Its glorious roof terrace covered with Indian floor cushions offers a spectacular view of the town fort and desert beyond. So, if you are looking for a delightful and affordable vacation, the picturesque city of Jaisalmer is waiting for you.
Restaurant:

The restaurant of hotel Killa Bhawan serves Traditional Rajasthani & Indian Cuisine.

Room Facilities:

Attach Bath With Hot Cold Water, Television, Working Desk, Direct Dialing Telephone, Central air conditioning.
Hotel Services:

Safe, Credit Cards, Restaurants and Bars, Doctor On Call, Child Care Centre, Indoor Games, Shopping Arcade, Money Exchange, Coffee Shop, Beauty Saloon.

Address:

Killa Bhawan Resort Pvt. Ltd.

On Fort, 445 Kotri Para,

Jaisalmer - 345001
Access:

Airport - 1.5 km

Railway Station - 02 km

Bus Stand - 01 km