People often have to choose between going to the mountains or the beach for vacation.
Mountains offer breathtaking views, thrilling hikes, and the serenity of nature. Beaches provide warm sand, soothing waves, and the opportunity for relaxation.
But what if you had to choose between mountains, beaches, and deserts? Deserts are beautiful in their own way, with their unique scenery and the opportunity to see a lot of stars at night. This extra choice makes the decision even harder because everyone has different things they enjoy.
Growing up in the tropics within this state, I’ve always been comfortable in warm temperatures.So, the idea of traveling to Jaisalmer, a place I’d only seen in Bollywood movies, was both exciting and a little daunting. I had to go there for work, but I was eager to experience the real Jaisalmer.
After wrapping up work in Jaipur, my cousins and I extended our Jaisalmer stay to maximize our desert adventure. We planned to spend the New Year exploring this desert wonderland, eager to experience the unique sights and sounds of this legendary region.
The crisp morning air, a biting 12 degrees, made our early departure for Jaisalmer a true test of willpower. A last-minute booking for three of us had thrown our plans into a whirlwind, and the thought of an early wake-up call was less than thrilling. Yet, we embarked on our journey, the promise of Jaisalmer’s golden beauty urging us onward.
Stepping off the train in Jaisalmer, we were greeted by a delightful contrast: a cool breeze whispering against our skin while the desert sun warmed our faces. The lack of an airport added an unexpected layer of charm to our arrival, a gentle reminder that true travel often unfolds at a more leisurely pace.
Our first stop was a restaurant about 150 kilometers outside of Jaisalmer. We enjoyed a cup of tea there, and what truly captivated me was the way the restaurant owners so beautifully preserved and respected their local culture. None of us spoke the local language, so our driver, who also served as our guide, kindly helped us understand the significance of everything.
For example, the magnificent horse we saw wasn’t just any ordinary horse. It belonged to Lord Ramdevji, a revered local deity. The restaurant owners kept it at the entrance as a symbol of protection and blessing.
The frame that held the picture was crafted from warm, natural wood. It had a simple, elegant design that made the photo within look even more special. I knew right away that I had to get a similar frame for Munchie one’s first artwork. The thought of their precious creations displayed in such a beautiful, handcrafted frame brought a smile to my face.
As we arrived in Jaisalmer in the afternoon, the imposing Jaisalmer Fort immediately commanded our attention. This isn’t just a historical relic; it’s a bustling, living fort, a vibrant hub of activity. Stepping inside, we were met with a kaleidoscope of colors and sounds.
The fort is a treasure trove for shoppers. Everywhere you turned, there were stalls overflowing with enticing wares. This wasn’t entirely unexpected, given that I come from a tourist destination myself. However, the sheer variety was still impressive.
From intricately woven handmade shawls and exquisitely carved wooden home decor items to charming magnets, dazzling jewelry, and unique collectibles, the fort offered a feast for the senses. It was a delightful experience to wander through the maze of alleys, soaking in the atmosphere and discovering hidden gems among the countless treasures on display.
The Jaisalmer Fort stands majestically, its walls a warm tapestry of yellow sandstone. This golden hue, characteristic of the region, not only gives the fort its iconic look but also provides a testament to the resilience of the local architecture. Jaisalmer, with its harsh desert climate, demands structures that can withstand the test of time, and the sandstone, renowned for its durability, perfectly fulfills this requirement.
What truly captivates is the meticulous craftsmanship evident in the fort’s construction. The intricate details and the harmonious blend of form and function are a testament to the skill of the builders. And perhaps most astonishing is the fact that this is not just a relic of the past. The fort is a living entity, still inhabited by locals, a vibrant reminder of the enduring spirit of this ancient city.
The path to the viewpoint winds its way upwards, a bit treacherous with loose stones and uneven ground. You have to proceed cautiously, almost gingerly, as there are stretches without any defined steps. But the effort is undeniably worth it. Once you finally reach the summit, a breathtaking panorama unfolds before you. The entire city of Jaisalmer, with its golden sandstone buildings shimmering in the sunlight, lies spread out like a magnificent tapestry below.
The Laxmi Nath Ji Temple is a historical shrine steeped in antiquity. Unfortunately, it was closed during our visit, preventing us from experiencing its spiritual ambiance firsthand. However, even from the outside, the intricate beauty of the temple’s architecture was undeniable. The intricate stonework of the jarokhas (window openings) was particularly striking, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of the artisans who created them. These delicate features, though partially obscured, hinted at the grandeur that lay hidden within the temple walls.
Inside the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, I stumbled upon a fascinating sight. Within its ancient walls, nestled amongst the intricate stonework, was a shop dedicated to showcasing the very essence of the fort itself.
The shop offered a unique collection of carefully crafted items, each a testament to the fort’s architectural grandeur. There were miniature replicas of the fort’s towers and bastions, meticulously sculpted from the same golden sandstone that gives the fort its iconic hue. Pieces of the original stone, weathered and worn by time, were displayed as cherished relics, offering a tangible connection to the fort’s history.
It was as if the shop itself was a microcosm of the fort, a place where you could experience its essence – its architecture, its history, and the very stones that have witnessed centuries of time.
Raja ka Mahal – this translates to “King’s Palace,” a grand and historic structure. To experience its magnificence from within, visitors must purchase entrance tickets priced at 600 Indian Rupees. Unfortunately, due to the overwhelming number of people eager to explore the palace, coupled with long queues, we were unable to secure tickets on that occasion.
Just inside, another temple stood, its doors sadly closed. This temple, along with the impressive BA-RI- Haveli, were located very near to each other.
These cloth bags truly caught my eye. There’s something incredibly interesting about their design. They somehow remind me of vintage matchbox covers, evoking a sense of nostalgia. It’s as if they’ve captured the spirit of a bygone era, making them feel both unique and familiar.
I met a new friend, and there was a group of people making unique, personalized wristbands. I couldn’t resist getting one! The girl making them was incredibly cute. When she suggested I choose pink, I immediately agreed. I explained that she looked lovely in her pink dress, and I wanted a wristband that matched her charming style.
After two hours of immersing myself in the intricate beauty of Jaisalmer Fort, a wave of hunger washed over me. Just outside the imposing walls, I stumbled upon a charming cafe, its ambiance radiating a sense of effortless cool. Despite my rumbling stomach, I decided to indulge in a refreshing juice, a welcome respite from the desert heat. The cool, sweet liquid was exactly what I needed to revive my spirits and prepare for the rest of my adventures.
The cafe had a charming, unexpected touch. Right outside, a small herd of cows grazed peacefully. It was a delightful surprise, adding a touch of rustic charm to the urban setting. The sight of these gentle creatures leisurely enjoying the afternoon sun created a truly unique and memorable atmosphere.
After a long day of exploring ancient forts, we set off on a journey across the landscape towards the mesmerizing sand dunes. This stretch of road, about 25 kilometers from the fort, was a true wilderness. Be prepared for a sense of isolation – you won’t encounter any shops or signs of civilization along the way. It’s just you, the open road, and the ever-shifting sands.
We decided to stay in the sand dunes because it’s a must-do experience when you’re in Jaisalmer. Staying in a tent right in the desert is something truly unique. We chose Shivam Resorts, and it was a memorable adventure.
We left our luggage behind and embarked on an exciting adventure – a Jeep Safari followed by a thrilling camel ride. These thrilling experiences were included in our stay at the Sand Dunes. The Jeep Safari itself was a highlight, taking us to the designated spot where we would later mount the camels.
My first camel ride was a bit nerve-wracking. I’m not usually afraid to try new things, like if you asked me to ride a banana boat, I’d be all for it! But this was different. I’d never even sat on another animal before. I kept talking to the camel the whole time, trying to stay calm. It was walking along, looking around at everything, and I kept saying, “Don’t get distracted!”
After an exhilarating day exploring the desert – a thrilling camel ride followed by an adventurous Jeep Safari – we returned to the resort, eager to experience the vibrant local culture. As the sun began to set, anticipation grew as we prepared for the evening’s cultural extravaganza. From 7 pm onwards, a captivating array of talented artists would grace the stage, showcasing their unique skills and traditions.
The evening at Shivam Resort began with a delightful snack. In the crisp, 12-degree air, the warm snack and a cup of steaming tea were a much-needed treat. It was the perfect way to start the evening, providing a cozy and comforting feeling as the temperature dipped.
The artists were performing in their native tongue, a language I wasn’t familiar with. While I couldn’t grasp the meaning of the lyrics, their voices were truly captivating. Their talent was undeniable, as they effortlessly conveyed emotion and artistry through their music.
The melody, the rhythm, and the sheer passion in their performance were mesmerizing. Even without understanding the words, I could feel the depth of their expression, the joy, the sorrow, the stories they were weaving through their music. It was a truly enriching experience, a reminder of the universal power of music to transcend language and connect with the soul.
The most captivating part of the performance was undoubtedly the man in the vibrant yellow outfit. He proceeded to astound the audience with a series of breathtaking fire stunts. I was absolutely mesmerized, as I had never witnessed such a mesmerizing display of skill and daring before.
The girls danced to lively Rajasthani music in the biting cold. It was a captivating sight, but what truly caught my eye was a young boy playing the dhol. He was absolutely adorable, his face beaming with joy as he kept the rhythm. While everyone else was mesmerized by the graceful dancers, I couldn’t take my eyes off this energetic little musician.
Dinnertime at Shivam Resorts was a highlight of my day. The resort provided purely vegetarian meals, and the food was truly exceptional. It felt like a home-cooked feast, brimming with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor. Every bite was a reminder of the importance of nourishing my body with healthy, delicious food.
Get ready for an unforgettable second day in the enchanting city of Jaisalmer! Prepare to be captivated by the golden hues of the desert, the grandeur of ancient forts, and the vibrant spirit of this unique place.
Day 02 in Jaisalmer promises a continuation of magical experiences.
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