In the remote westernmost corner of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is the quintessential desert town, its sand-yellow ramparts rising out of the arid Thar like a scene from the Arabian Nights. It is popularly known as India’s “Golden City” because of its yellow sandstone architectures. The streets of Jaisalmer are flanked with numerous pale honey-colored facades, covered with lattice work and floral designs, but the city’s real showpieces are its havelis, or elaborately decorated mansion.
Jaisalmer provides an irresistibly romantic chance to cross the barren sands and sleep under one of the starriest skies in the world. As arranged we just left some of our things in the hotel and after lunch we prepared on our trip to the great Thar Desert . We departed at 3PM and planned to return the next day at noon. We are heading to Sam, about 40 kilometers west of the town. A jeep ride will brought us inner into the desert before riding the camels.
On our way we were caught in the middle of a sandstorm for 15 minutes that seemed like an eternity. That was the first time we all experienced something like that. It was cold and scary but thrilling also. It was followed by a rain which according to our guide was the first time in three years.
The barren desert terrain around Jaisalmer harbors some unexpected monuments, dating back from the Rajput era when the area lay on busy caravan routes. Six kilometers north of Jaisalmer, in the fertile area of Bada Bagh, a cluster of cenotaphs built in memory of Jaisalmer’s rulers stands mighty on a hill amidst a cluster of modern wind turbines. The green oasis below is where most of the area’s fruit and vegetables used to be grown.
Part 6 Manali
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