Rund's Halloween Makeup TutorialOct.27.2020
Jaisalmer is known as “The Golden City”. This is in part due to its impressive bits of architecture built using brilliant yellow sandstone. It’s located right in the heart of the sprawling and beautiful Thar Desert. Safaris and fun on the dunes are certainly a draw for the region. But, there’s also plenty of wonderful sight-seeing to be had if you’re not looking to spend too much time in the desert. There’s forts, temples, and some gorgeous havelis (mansions) that are well worth exploring. Rooftop restaurants abound and offer fabulous atmospheres, stunning views, and excellent coffee and food. Have we piqued your interest yet? Here’s some must hit spots in Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer was once a medieval center of trade. As such, it needed ample protection. Enter the sprawling Jaisalmer Fort. This huge citadel sits perched on a hilltop and is impossible to miss. The fort is still functioning to this day, with many people still actively living within its impressive walls. Inside you’ll find not only a museum, but temples, guesthouses, stores with handmade items, hotels, eateries, and even a former maharaja’s palace. There is a fee to enter, and expect to pay extra if you want to bring a camera. There are self guided audio tours available, but you can also find some local guided tours. Make sure to avail yourself of the gorgeous views while walking its battlements. There is a lot to see within the fort, so give yourself ample time there.
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It can get hot in Jaisalmer. So, it’s no surprise that this lovely lake gets a fair share of visitors. The lake is man-made and was the sole water supply for the city up until 1965. The reservoir is named after the man who built it way back in 1367, Maharawal Gadsi Singh. You can rent paddle boats and row boats here to get out on the water and enjoy the gorgeous scenic surroundings. Paddle your way past a myriad of small shrines and temples. Enjoy the view of the sunset as it throws thousands of sparkles across the water’s surface. Also be on the lookout for the catfish that inhabit the lake. Rumor has it they love to be fed. Honestly, the spot is absolutely beautiful and almost feels as if you’ve taken a step back in time.
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Gals who love to pick up something local on their travels will be pleased to know that there are several fantastic bazaars in Jaisalmer. The oldest one is the Pansari Bazaar. Here you’ll stroll stalls featuring various ethnic and cultural goods. Things like textiles, bells, wall hangings, puppets, and various knick-knacks are found here in profusion. Though Pansari is the oldest bazaar, it’s not the only one. If you haven’t gotten your fill of shopping you’ll also want to check out the Sadar, Manak Chowk, Sonaron ka Baas, and the Bhatia bazaars.
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Jaisalmer is home to some absolutely gorgeous mansions. Size is one thing, and trust us, some of these things are the very definition of palatial. But it’s the architecture that really stands out. Ornate and breath-taking, there are many found within the fort and outside of it. The biggest in the city is the Patwa Haveli. It was built in the 19th century by a wealthy trader and his sons. It’s technically a complex of five mansions, and it is really something to behold. It is now a museum, and there is an entry fee.
Other haveli you won’t want to miss include the Salim Singh Ki Haveli with its 38 intricately carved balconies. There’s also the Nathmal Haveli which sports beautiful gold paintings in the interior. Some other havelis in the area can only be seen from the outside. Others may offer you a peek within, for a price.
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