The Golden City in the Desert - Explore Jaisalmer in Depth
Preparation
Jaisalmer is located in Rajasthan, India. The best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is relatively cool and comfortable. Before departure, apply for an Indian e-visa in advance and prepare comfortable summer clothes. Due to the large temperature difference between day and night, you should also bring a light jacket. Sunscreen, sun hats, and sunglasses are essential, and don't forget mosquito repellent, as there are many mosquitoes in the area.
Transportation Guide
• External transportation: You can fly to Jaipur, India first. There are flights between Jaipur and Jaisalmer, with a flight time of about 1.5 hours. There are many flights, making it easy to arrange your itinerary. You can also choose to take a train. The sleeper train from Jaipur to Jaisalmer offers a unique Indian train experience, but you need to book tickets online in advance. The journey takes about 12 - 15 hours.
• Internal transportation: In Jaisalmer, the most convenient way to get around is to rent a motorcycle. The rental fee is 200 - 300 rupees per day, allowing you to freely explore every corner of the city. Rickshaws are also a common choice. Be sure to negotiate the price before traveling to avoid being overcharged.
Attractions
1. Jaisalmer Fort: Known as the "Golden Fort," this building is a landmark of the city. The fort is made of yellow sandstone and glows golden in the sunlight. Entering the fort is like traveling back to the ancient Middle Ages. Stroll along the narrow, winding streets lined with exquisite handicraft shops and colorful fabric stores. There are also several ancient Jain temples inside the fort, with intricate carvings that showcase unique religious culture. When visiting the temples, be sure to take off your shoes and keep quiet.
2. Patwon Ki Haveli: This is a complex of five mansions, each with unique designs and exquisite carvings. The wood and stone carvings of the mansions are masterpieces, with intricate textures and vivid patterns that demonstrate the superb skills of the craftsmen of the time. Here, you can learn about the lifestyle of the former nobility of Jaisalmer and appreciate the charm of traditional Indian architecture.
3. Sam Sand Dunes: A trip to Jaisalmer is incomplete without a desert adventure. Join a desert camping tour organized by a local travel agency. Depart in the evening and take a jeep ride through the desert. Enjoy the desert sunset along the way, with golden rays casting a magnificent view on the sand dunes. Upon arrival at the campsite, savor traditional Rajasthani cuisine, enjoy folk music and dance performances, and lie on the sand dunes to gaze at the starry sky, experiencing the tranquility and vastness of the desert.
Gourmet Feast
1. Indian Curry: Curry is a must-try delicacy in Jaisalmer. The perfect blend of various spices, paired with rice or Indian flatbread, offers a rich flavor in every bite. Chicken curry and mutton curry each have their own unique characteristics, with spicy flavors that tantalize the taste buds and leave you wanting more.
2. Rajasthani Traditional Cuisine: Try the local specialty, Dal Baati Churma, a combination of baked dough (Baati) with lentil soup (Dal) and sweet dough balls (Churma). The Baati is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Dip it in the rich Dal and pair it with the sweet Churma for a rich and layered taste.
3. Street Snacks: Street samosas are a must-try delicacy, with crispy outer layers wrapped around spicy potato fillings, served with mint sauce or spicy sauce. One bite is pure happiness. There's also Jalebi, a sweet and crispy fried dough soaked in syrup, sweet but not greasy.
Shopping Recommendations
1. Handicrafts: Jaisalmer is famous for its handicrafts, such as exquisite wood carvings, intricate silver jewelry, and colorful textiles. You can find unique souvenirs in the small shops inside the fort. Haggling with the shop owners is also part of the shopping fun.
2. Spices: India offers a wide variety of spices. Here, you can buy various mixed spices, such as curry powder and masala, to bring home and cook authentic Indian cuisine.
Accommodation Options
1. Homestays inside the fort: If you want to experience the authentic atmosphere of the ancient city, homestays inside the fort are the best choice. Open the window to see the ancient streets and fort views. However, some homestays inside the fort may have relatively simple facilities, so be sure to check when booking.
2. Hotels outside the fort: There are many modern hotels outside the fort, offering more complete facilities, such as swimming pools and gyms. Prices vary depending on the hotel grade, so you can choose according to your budget.
Traveling in Jaisalmer allows you to experience the unique charm of this desert city, explore historical sites, taste local delicacies, and interact with locals. Every moment will become an unforgettable memory, making you fall in love with this mysterious place.