Jaisalmer, Rajasthan Travel Guide

Jaisalmer was historically the last outpost for the spice trade before the long crossing of the Thar desert and still today there are close connections between the desert and the city. It is while staying in Jaisalmer that most visitors experience a camel trek of differing lengths through the dusty shrub lands of the Thar and romantically sleep under the stars on sand dunes. The old city of Jaisalmer is contained within the low rise city walls that closely resemble that of a sand castle. This section of the city holds a mystical charm having not altered in hundreds of years and still clinging onto the traditional way of life, it is more often likely to meet a wandering cow than any form of transport.

The advent of mass tourism has starting to erode Jaisalmer's charm; touts and salesman are more forceful here than anywhere else in Rajasthan and the chronic sewage system is literally washing the city away. Sadly many visitors leave Jaisalmer with mixed views, what should be the jewel of Rajasthan is often ruined by the people associated with the tourist trade. To fully appreciate Jaisalmer you need thick skin, master bargaining skills and a peg for your nose!

Jaisalmer the sand castle fort