Jaisalmer Diaries

Hi everyone!

The excitement of writing a travelogue cannot be compared with anything else. The good thing about travelogues is that I get to relive those precious moments and you get to travel to a new destination (that too free of cost). So get your cup of chai and embark on this journey through words with me.

Hellooo from Jaisalmer Fort!!

This is the 2^nd post in the Rajasthan series. I went to the Blue City, Jodhpur and blogged about it, here it is. And now it’s time to take you to the Golden City, Jaisalmer. This time around we were really adventurous and travelled in a bus. (If you know me, you’ll know bus travel is nothing short of an adventure for me). Crossing the barren landscape listening to Ambarsariyaaaa, gorging yummy kachoris in Pokhran and laughing the loudest in the bus, we finally reached.

Visit to Gadisar Lake should be a must on your itinerary. It’s such a pretty peaceful place. But its heart breaking to see the lake and the vicinity littered with plastic.

Sooo pretty!

Please be responsible travelers and don’t litter. Also I highly recommend you to take a guide for all the history lessons and ease of travelling.

The lake is the place where the king used to come for leisure. You have to be here to get a glimpse of royalty.

The journey under the midmorning sun continues and leads us to the next stop – Patwon ki Haweli. (If you are a true bibliophile, you’ll understand the pun in the last statement. Let me know if you have guessed it and I’ll be impressed). The haweli is an example of the royal past of the region.

So my guide told me this, a popular saying - जहाँ ना पहुंचे माल गाडी, वहां पहुंचे मारवाड़ी 

It is a cluster of 5 hawelis. These were built by Guman Chand Patwa for his 5 sons. The construction started in 1805 and it was completed over 50 years. It is a major tourist attraction of the city and the architecture is gorgeous.  

Being Touristyy!

The intricate carvings and the detailed work is so mesmerizing. And it is more astonishing to know that all this was done by a wealthy merchant and not any king. The aura of Patwon ki Haweli engulfs you.

Magnificence Personified!

Nachana Haweli is the next destination. Located in the heart of the city, this is the residence of the royal family of Jaisalmer. The haweli shares its boundary with the royal palace – Mandir Palace. The architecture is a great mix of Mughal and Rajput styles and it spells royalty. It is a typical haweli with lots of balconies, courtyards and princely vibes. A part of the complex is converted into a hotel, so you can also be a part of the royalty. The place is also known as Mirchi Seth ki Haweli, after it was featured in the famous Bollywood flick - Sarfarosh. Remember - ज़िन्दगी मौत ना बन जाये सम्भालो यारों. And ASP Ajay Singh Rathod! 

The royal residence...

Jaisalmer Fort is where I am taking you next which stands out in the city skyline. Popularly known as the Golden Fort, it is one of the largest fortifications in the world. You’ll be amazed to see that the fort is the residence for a large part of the population of the city.

There are four entrances, one of which is guarded by a canon. There are huge gateways, chambers, LaxmiNarayan Temple and the royal palace (Raj Mahal). The walk up the stairs to the terrace is totally worth it, you get a panoramic view of the entire city and the dunes beyond.

That's the design of Jaisalmer Fort on a stone!

If you go to Jaisalmer in winters, you can enjoy whiling away time at one of the many rooftop restaurants. Delicious food, picture perfect view and memories to ponder on, recipe for a super vacation!

After a laid back afternoon, it is time to head to Sam Sand Dunes for an alluring sunset. 
PS - Stay tuned for the next travel post where I'll share an amazingly daunting village walk experience...

आज जाने की ज़िद्द ना करो!

Let me tell you from Jaisalmer almost all roads lead to our neighbor country, yes it’s that close to the border. (You can also visit the Longewala War Museum). 

Drive along the rustic roads, listening to interesting stories (the drivers are the best people to chit chat with and know about the place). Keep your cameras ready because soon you’ll be greeted by wind mills! They are all over the place and make a perfect backdrop for a profile picture.

Sam is a small village in Thar Desert, which has now become a popular tourist attraction. It is our desi Dubai. Take a camel cart or a jeep to reach the dunes and spend time admiring the arid beauty. A great place for a family picnic, or some mushy romance!

#burinazarwaleteramoohkala

Until next time........

During winters (October to March) you can stay in the tents as well. Sleeping under the stars is also very popular. Your guide would make the tent for you and provide food, and voila! adventure begins. Go for a village walk, spend time in photography or just soaking up the vibe to take back home.

Train rides and all the drama!!

Where all have you been in Jaisalmer and what was your favorite place, let me knowww.

I’ll see you soon with something intriguing! Love XoXo