Jaisalmer is spectacular. The drive to Jaisalmer is rarely dull. Approaching it from the desert, it seems suddenly to rise out of the desert haze, a magnificent stretch of massive yellow sandstone walls and bastions bathed golden in the afternoon Sun.

Rawal Jaisal laid the foundation of this city in 1156. Trikuta was the hill chosen and Jaisal abandoned his old fort at Lodurva and established this new Capital. The Bhati Rajputs of Jaisalmer were feudal chiefs who lived on the forced levy on the caravans that crossed their territory en-route Delhi. These caravans, laden with precious cargoes of spices and silk brought great wealth to this town. Because of its remote location, Jaisalmer for years remained untouched by outside influences and during the British raj, the rulers of Jaisalmer were the last to sign the instrument of agreement with the British.

The glory of Jaisalmer faded when sea trade replaced the old land routes. But there is still and 'Arabian Nights' quality about the town. The narrow streets in the wallled city preserve a tradtional way of life. The craftsmen still work at the ancient crafts of weaving and stone carving, the making of silver jewellery and embroidery and the stately, nonchalant camel is everywhere. Just a walk through Jaisalmer, savouring the medieval of old Rajasthan, is a marvelously rewarding travel experience. Winter is the perfect time for Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer's desert festival, celebrated in January/february, is a must on any itinerary. The desert seems to bloom in a thousand colours. There are camel races and folk dances. Craft bazaar and traditional balled singing. A sound and light spectacle on the sand-dunes of sam on the full moon night of purnima and all the colour and excitement offer the best in Rajasthan.

Outside the fort is the main market place called Manak Chowk which is the centre of local activity. From manak chowk, one can walk into the lanes where the famous carved havelies are to be found. Each haveli's facade differs from other. Built mainly during the18th and 19th centuries, the carving in the havelies of Jaisalmer is of a very superior quality. Patwon-ki-Haveli is one of the most exqusite havelis with a beautiful latticed facade. Salim Singh-ki-Haveli is just three centuries old, and is still lived in. Its arched roof is held up by well excluded brackets in the form of peacocks. Nathmaliji-ki-Haveli was built by two architect brothers, each concentration on opposite sides. yellow sandstone tuskers guard the haveli.