Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer
The
desert citadel is truly a golden fantasy in Thar Desert. Bhatti Rajput ruler
Rawal Jaisal, after whom the city finds its name, founded Jaisalmer in 1156.
On advice of a local hermit Eesaal he chose the Tricut Hills as his new abode
abandoning his vulnerable old fort at Luderwa just 15 kilometres northwest.
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 Bhatti
Rajput rulers lined their coffer with gains from traditional taxes and cess
on passing by caravans and sometimes through illicit gains by rustling cattle.
Duda son of Jaitasimha, a Bhatti hero also perished in the battle. Dudas descendants
continued to rule Jaisalmer. In 1541 they even fought Mughal Emperor Himayun.
Though their relations with Mugshal was not always hostile. Sabala Simha won
the patronage of Mughal Emperor Shaha Jahan for battle distinctions in Peshawar
and the right to rule Jaisalmer. In the days of Raj, Jaisalmer was the last
to sign the Instrument of Agreement with the British. Ages have gone by and
the monuments of Jaisalmer have withstood the buffeting winds of the desert
all through. Jaisalmer is a marvel of beautiful culture and harsh climatic conditions, together amounting to a memorable experience. The old city was completely encircled by wall but much of it is now pulled down sadly for want of building material in recent years. The massive golden fort, which is the essence of Jaisalmer, is entered through First Gate. Is a burrow of narrow streets complete with Jain Temples and old palaces. The main market the Bhatia Market is right below the hill. The bank, offices and several shops are also located near the Amar Sagar Gate to the west.
Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer. A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands with all its awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued city.
The city has an interesting legend associated with it, according to which, lord Krishna- the head of Yadav clan foretold Arjuna that a remote descendent of the Yadav clan would build his kingdom atop the Trikuta Hill, His prophecy was fulfilled in 1156AD.
When Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput abandoned his fort at Lodurva and founded a new capital Jaisalmer, perched on the Trikuta Hill
Bhatti
Rajputs of Jaisalmer were fedual chief who lived off the forced levy on the
caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed the territory enroute
Delhi-or Sind. These seems to be straight out of the "Tales of the Arabian
Night ' still enchants. The life within the citadel conjures up images of medieval majesty visible in its narrow lanes strewn with magnificent palaces, havelis, temples and of course skilled artisans and ubiquitous camels. the setting turn Jaisalmer into a beautiful golden brown is a spectacular sight. Select a holiday with us
