Known
as SONAR QUILA or the Golden fort, rising from the sand , the mega structure
merges with the golden hues of the desert ambience and the setting suns in
its most colourful shades gives it a fairy tale look. Its simply a magic,
the bastions envelops a whole townships that consist of palace complex various
security sources and the havelis of rich merchants carved with an incredibly
light touch, several temples and the residential complexes of the armies and
traders placed strategically on the trade route, from where the ancient caravans
passed en-route passing all the riches for the prosperity to an otherwise
non source full kingdom.
These merchants served and acquire a great deal of power and noble status
in the royal courts of Bhatti Rajputs who founded the state in the 12th century
and proceeded further. But the rich merchant inspired by the classic style
of the royals , constructed huge mansions (havelis) adjacent to each other
in the nature of medieval culture and profusely decorated walls and ceilings
and intricately carved outdoors and interiors. The colourful art forms and
some how side kind the royal heritage and made it appear more pale in comparison
. The craftsmen were usually muslims who were induced on their journey to
exhibit their skills. The results was architectural purity that cannot be
seen elsewhere.
Deep in the heart of the Thar Desert is Jaisalmer, one of the last princely
bastions in the region. Founded on what was the cross -
road of lucrative trade routes, this remote settlement came to be celebrated
for the valour of its rulers, and for the aesthetic sense represented by their
palaces and havelis.
The rich merchants engaged stone - craftsmen who worked delicately on the
sandstone mansions they built, filling up facades with sculptural filigree,
screen windows, delicate pavilions and beautiful balconies. Today, these veritable
art - museums are still inhabited, and their colourful celebrations and festivals
have placed Jaisalmer Fort firmly on the world tourism map.
The fort stands almost 30 metres over the city and houses an entire living
area within huge ramparts. Walking through the narrow lanes is an experience
worth savouring.
It is approached through Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. Also,
within it are many beautiful havelies and a group of Jain temples dating from
the 12th to the 15th centuries.
Being part of the Desert Triangle and the venue of Desert Festival, the place
is accessible by rail, road and air and has tourist accommodation ranging
from high budget to low budget. The city is also covered by the "Palace
on Wheels" a train-cum-road package, which needs no description. This
place too witnesses large flow of tourist traffic in winters.
