The 'Golden City' was founded in 1156 A. D. by Rao Jaisal. Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, few cities in the world can match its magnificence. It was the domain of Bhati Rajputs, who were known for their valor and chivalry. They levied taxes on the caravans laden with precious silks and spices that crossed the territory en route Delhi on Sind. Jaisalmer soon became rich, so much so that the merchants, who also served as ministers in the royal courts, came to command more power than the rulers themselves. No wonder the large mansions of the merchants, built adjacent to each other in the nature of medieval desert cultures, are so profusely decorated that the palace, in comparison, appears to pale. Traces of this former opulence are seen in the majestic buildings built here in luminous sandstone. While the havelies and the palace, along with the temples, will warrant the mandatory visits, Jaisalmer is incredible for the experience it brings alive of a medieval township caught in a time warp, as you move up its ancient cobbled streets. For most part, its incredible sculptors were Muslim cragsmen show were induced, on their journeys to the patrons in others parts of India, to stay. The results are an architectural purity that, because of Jaisalmer's incredible isolation, is not seen elsewhere.
Sonar Qila
Built in 1156 A.D. by the Rawal Jaisal the Fort (often called sonar qila) crowns the 80m high Trikuta Hill. About a fourth of the old city's population resides within the fort walls; the fort has 99 bastions around its circumference. There is a group of five Jain Temples within the fort built between the 12th and 15th centuries.
Patwon Ki Haveli
It is the most elaborate and magnificent, best known for its latticed facade.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
It was built about 300 years ago and is still lived in. It has a beautiful arched roof with carved brackets in the form of peacocks.
Ghadisar
It had once supplied water to the city; the temples and archways around it have been built by a courtesan. Puppet shows are held her in the evenings.
Sam Dunes
Camel Safari, Mud houses and Desert solitude. The sand dunes offer you a memorable experience in the land of the Rajputs. Enjoy the ride on camel back and let the place itself take you to its mesmerizing heights.
Get closer to the local way of living with a close view of thatched straw roofs, camels, narrow streets and the local bazaar. Shop at Rajasthali - the only Rajasthan Govt. emporium, for fine pattu shawls, mirror work & embroidered articles, wooden boxes, trinkets, silver jewellery and curious. At the evening, organize a campfire with the fellow of Rajasthani folk dances and songs.