Golden City of India, Know the City Name

Golden City of India

Nestled in the heart of the captivating Thar Desert, Jaisalmer, a remote Indian city, beckons to travelers with its enchanting golden architecture, ancient temples and captivating monuments. This remarkable city, home to a modest population of around a hundred thousand, has a deep-rooted history dating back to its founding in 1156 AD by Maharawal Jaisal Singh, a respected Rajput leader. Jaisalmer proudly boasts the esteemed UNESCO World Heritage Site status and it has rightfully earned its nickname, “The Golden City of India,” due to its stunning sandstone structures that radiate a warm, golden-yellow hue.

Historical Significance of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer’s history is a tapestry of valor, culture and architectural brilliance. The city was founded by Maharawal Jaisal Singh, who established it as a stronghold in the heart of the Thar Desert. The strategic location of Jaisalmer made it an important center for trade routes that traversed the desert. Its golden sandstone structures used in building houses and edifices, have earned the city its iconic golden hue.

Jaisalmer Fort, The Crown Jewel

At the heart of Jaisalmer stands the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Qila. This living fort is an evident to the city’s enduring heritage and houses hotels, shops and ancient homes still inhabited by families. Within the fort’s imposing walls, you will find a royal palace and a labyrinth of narrow lanes that exclude the charm of a bygone era. The fort is further fortified by ninety-nine bastions, adding to its grandeur.

Top Attractions in Jaisalmer

Some of the top attractions in Jaisalmer are:

1. Bada Bagh: A sprawling garden complex with cenotaphs of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer, offering a serene and picturesque setting.
2. Patwaon-Ki-Haveli: A cluster of intricately carved havelis, showcasing the opulent lifestyle of the merchant class during the Rajput era.
3. Jain Temples: A group of exquisitely sculpted Jain temples adorned with intricate marble work, providing a glimpse into the city’s religious heritage.
4. Jaisalmer War Museum: A tribute to the valor of Indian soldiers, displaying military artifacts and memorabilia.
5. Kuldhara Abandoned Village: A ghost town with a mysterious past, believed to have been abandoned overnight by its inhabitants centuries ago.
6. The Thar Heritage Museum: A repository of artifacts, textiles and historical items that shed light on the cultural and traditions of the Thar Desert.
7. Maharaja’s Palace: An architectural marvel with its ornate facades and lavish interiors, showcasing the grandeur of Rajput royalty.
8. Mandir Palace: A beautiful palace converted into a heritage hotel, offering a glimpse into the regal lifestyle of the past.
9. Tanot Mata Temple: A sacred temple located on the India-Pakistan border, known for its miraculous history and spiritual significance.

Find More General Studies News Here