Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (2024)

Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (1)

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Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (2)

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Jaisalmer found its roots in the 12th century when it was established by the Yadav king, Maharawal Jaisal Singh.The city was thus named ‘Jaisalmer’ after the erstwhile ruler who first created and maintained this desertcity in the midst of the Thar Desert.

Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (3)

Even today, it is fondly known as the Golden City of India owing to the extensive use of yellow sandstone in the construction of many of its houses, forts and buildings. The golden or yellow shade also refers to the never-ending desert in which the city is situated and flourishes. In spite of being in the midst of a dry arid region, the city has managed to attract hordes of tourists every year. A Jaisalmer tour package offers all the delights and attractions that define the rich culture and history of this Rajput state.When one looks to experience a cultural, historical and memorable journey along with a dash of folk music and dance, then looking for Jaisalmer holiday packages, is never far from their mind.

A city that looks golden, feels golden and lives golden! Jaisalmer is the shimmering golden hue in the palette of colours that is Rajasthan. Located in the heart of Thar Desert, this remarkable city is the prime example of how culture and royalty have seeped into the vast corners of this state. A Jaisalmer tour package gives you all the nuances of a rich princely region along with the arid landscape of the golden, never-ending desert. Prominent features of this sun-kissed land are the magnificently adorned havelis, monumental Jaisalmer fort, the rich culture, ancient traditions and the desert camels that define the very soul of our Jaisalmer holiday packages. Bathed in yellow sandstone from the forts to houses, from buildings to palaces, one gets to experience the golden yellow hues of this land in any of our Jaisalmer tour package. Rajasthani folk music and dance play a pivotal role in the shaping of this desert region and are essential highlights of any Jaisalmer tour package.

The Golden Rajasthan Culture

Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (4)

To understand the culture of Rajasthan, many scholars have spent their lifetime studying the unique attributes of this remarkable land. The priceless treasures of this land have been not only notable part of Rajasthan’s history but also a crucial aspect of the Indian heritage. Most of being so majestic that it rose up to be the imagery of India to the world outside! Architectural wonders, exquisite handicrafts, colourful culture and tempting cuisine are few of the many highlights of this magnificent state. Set amidst a vast desert, the magical land of Rajasthan is synonymous with royal romance and chivalry. Jaisalmer of which being the golden crown jewel of the majestic state. Situated in the heart of the Thar Desert, the city is an epitome of Rajput culture! Rajasthan festivals, funfairs, traditional events and religious occasions are all celebrated with great fervour and passion in this land. The city is synonymous with brilliant folk dances popularized as Rajasthani dance and Rajasthani instruments that are expertly played by many of the locals here. Our Jaisalmer holiday packages trace these factors and strive to make them a part of your Jaisalmer experience. The Kathputhli, a traditional puppet show, the Ghoomar dance, camel festival, desert tent stays etc. are all an integral part of the Rajasthani cultural experience which can go a long way in defining your quintessential Jaisalmer tour package. The numerous havelis, villages, forts, palaces, people and even the cuisines of this city sing of the ancient relics and tales of the bygone era. With our Jaisalmer honeymoon package, it is now easy to experience the range of different hues of the Rajput Marwad culture and enter the world of royal romance.

It is rightly said that ‘one can read, one can listen, one can talk about a place but when one actually experiences the place, that is when he truly understands it and lives it’. The experience of being and staying in the desert city is one that can be never forgotten. Every wall, lane and molecule of sand seems to reverberate the victorious takes of their beloved Kings and Queens. To be amidst a culture of such hospitable, courteous people who go about their day with a constant smile and a deep love for their traditions and art is truly an experience one should have once their lifetime. Here are few cultural and remarkable insights of the Golden land that you should know before you go!

Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (5)

Interesting Cultural insights of the Thar Dessert:

  • Rightly named as ‘The Great Indian Desert’, Thar Desert forms a natural boundary between India and Pakistan. Rich in culture and full of colour, it is a grand open-air museum that portrays art in vibrant shades.
  • The locals of Thar imbibe a great passion for music and poetry which is probably passed down in the genes of their ancestors. Till the night falls, the artistic passionate locals get together in their Rajasthani dress, as they play folk music and enjoy a Rajasthani dance.
  • Rajasthani folk music is often about the fables of the victorious Kings and the glories of their reign and memories of their Queens. With their unique cultural dance and music, they not only bring Rajasthan culture to life but display their pride in celebrating their heritage.Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (6)
  • The unique Rajasthan desert festival which is held once a year during winters is one of the most interesting festivals in India. The ‘ship of the desert’ play a very important role in the desert life and thereby its presence is honoured in the Desert Festival, Rajasthan folk and rich culture can be seen in this festival.
  • The stereotypical portrayal of India that the western world took, seems to be actually picked up from the Desert Festival. With snake charmers, folk performers, puppeteers, handmade art and handicrafts being the major attraction of the festival, it paints a perfect aura of Rajasthan
  • The traditional attire of this kingdom, the Rajasthani dress itself displays a lot of cultural significance. Bright colours, intricate designs, mirror works and beautiful artworks, all make a part of the single dress. The attire has established such unique identity that it’s easy to distinguish between the many!
  • The Thar Desert stores the evolutionary records of millions of years ago, literally! The Desert National Park of Jaisalmer treasures a valuable collection of fossils of the flora and fauna dating back to 180 million years old! Some fossils of Dinosaurs dating back to 6 million years have also been excavated from this area.

The Golden city of India is an amalgamation of places to visit in Jaisalmer with unique travel experiences! Be amazed and astounded by the many architectural wonders and delights that the city has to offer. Travel back in time and in the era of the reign of the crown. Feel their tradition and culture like your own! Right from the massive fort that guards the city with its 99 bastions to the golden sand dunes that highlight and elevate the beauty of this city, all the monuments and attractions are worth visiting and storing in your mind’s eye forever. Following are the popular picks from the many Jaisalmer tourist places and experiences that you should not miss!

Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (7)

Popular places to visit in Jaisalmer and its unique activities:

  • Jaisalmer Fort or Sonar Qila (Golden Fort) as it is locally called. The massive Jaisalmer fort is a popular landmark of the city with a huge complex, gigantic ramparts and settlements, shops being established inside the premises of the fort.
  • Visit the beautiful Jain Mandir followed by the magnificent Patwon ki Haveli – a five-story elegantly carved unique piece of architectural marvel. One of a kind museum which features intricate carvings, unique furniture and stunning artworks.
  • Witness one of the most notable architectural specimens of Rajasthan and an important one among the Jaisalmer tourist places, Nathmalji ki Haveli. This extraordinary piece of art and a fine example of artistic symmetry will redefine aesthetics for you!
  • Take an in-depth insight into the history and culture of this city, with a visit to the Jaisalmer Museum. Walk back to the time and witness what’s left back as its traces to be an immortal part of the history.
  • Experience the sun, sand and dunes at the Sam Sand Dunes of Jaisalmer. Get a real taste of Golden city of India, as you enjoy a joyful camel ride, a traditional puppet show, a beautiful folk dance and witness a breath-taking sunset over the dunes that etch an everlasting memory in our hearts and mind.
  • These spectacular experiences are followed by a delicious Rajasthani meal and a unique chance to be one with the desert by staying in tents amidst the sand dunes of Jaisalmer.
  • The amazing journey of the exploration of Jaisalmer tourist places is completed with a visit to the Jaisalmer War Museum that pays tribute to the bravery and courage of the Indian army brave hearts. Truly an eye-opening and enriching experience!

Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (8)

The Land of the Kings welcomes every visitor to walk through their legacy. Time simply turns back with Rajasthan and takes you directly to the heart of the royal era. The world of lavish, chivalrous Kings and gorgeous yet fearless queens, reverberates their immortal tales in all of the forts and palaces of Rajasthan. The land full of romance, royalty, spirituality and nature, is a vast and wonder-laced kingdom with treasures more sublime than those of fables. Explore luxurious palaces, witness vintage cars, enjoy camel safaris in golden sand dunes, a fun shopping time in bazarand embark on a tiger safari in the wild forests of the state. All of it will add a whole new charm to your Jaisalmer honeymoon package, in the lands of history that narrate the immortal royal love for ages! The Land of the Kings paints a bold image indeed! The sun-kissed forts, the vibrating handcrafts, the heart-warming people and the land of medieval beauty has always been the perfect choice for every kind of traveller. It’s a perfect escape from the fast-paced life of the cities, straight into the simplicity of the village culture and rich tradition. This simplicity nevertheless is bound with its unique kind of lavish royalty attached to the reputation of this land’s history. The enriching cultural heritage of the Thar Desert and the unique tourist places of Jaisalmer are the perfect royal solace for every kind of traveller! Plan your own trip to this kingdom as you travel back n time and walk on the trail of the victorious Kings and Queens and feel exactly what they felt in those eras!

India, Jaisalmer, Rajashthan, Travel Guide

Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (9)

Priyanka Tawde

A tripping traveller with twisted brains and a passion to express. Words may seem her forte but they are just tools for her art of expression. Pretty much a good weirdo sprinkled with stardust and space love. Mystery is what she follows and Curiosity is where you'll find her.

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Cultural Heritage of the Thar Desert and the Tourist Places in Jaisalmer (2024)

FAQs

What is the culture of Jaisalmer Rajasthan? ›

Furthermore, Jaisalmer's rich culture is reflected through its people, traditions, religions and festivals. The cosmopolitan city comprises of several religions of Jains, Hindus, Christians, Muslims, Sikhs. Almost all the native people of the town are Hindu; they follow Hindu customs and rituals.

What is famous about Jaisalmer? ›

This 'Golden City' is located close to the Pakistan border and in close proximity to the Thar Desert. The city's most prominent landmark is the Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Qila (Golden Fort). Unlike most other forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is not just a tourist attraction.

What is the history of Jaisalmer desert? ›

History of the Desert Festival Jaisalmer

In the year 1196, the prediction made by Lord Krishna came true when Rawal Jaiswal, a descendant of the Yadav clan, established his kingdom in Jaisalmer. Celebrations were organized throughout the kingdom, and eventually, the people came to know that the prophecy had come true.

Why is the Thar Desert famous? ›

The Thar desert of Rajasthan is known for its undulating dunes, which differ in size throughout the desert. Dunes are found within deserts all over the planet; Thar's dunes are notable for their constant movement.

What is the culture tradition and heritage of Rajasthan? ›

Rajasthan is famous for textiles, semi-precious stones, and handicrafts, as well as for its traditional and colorful art. Rajasthani furniture is known for its intricate carvings and bright colours. Block prints, tie and dye prints, Bagaru prints, Sanganer prints and Zari embroidery are famous.

What is Rajasthan cultural heritage? ›

A UNESCO World Heritage site, Chittorgarh Fort, built in the 7th century, is a testament to many brave warriors of Rajasthan, namely Ratan Singh, Rani Padmini, Meera Bai, and Rani Karnavati. With seven gates and several palaces, it's one of the largest forts in India.

Why do tourists visit Jaisalmer? ›

Situated amidst the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even though the name suggests so, Jaisalmer Fort is not just a fort but an entire complex comprising temples, houses, and shops. It is a massive fort that was built in 1156.

Why are tourists attracted to Jaisalmer? ›

This world heritage site boasts of huge yellow sandstone walls, owing to which, it is also known as Golden fort (Sonar Quila). Highly reminiscent of the Arabian night fables, the imposing fort stands mighty high right in the middle of the Thar, overlooking the whole city.

What are the unknown facts about Jaisalmer? ›

Rajasthan including Jaisalmer: Once Submerged Under Sea

Geologists have discovered fossils in parts of Rajasthan including Jaisalmer which indicate that the entire area was once submerged under the sea. Approximate timeline suggests this to be 50 million years ago before the India-Eurasia collision.

Is Jaisalmer a heritage city? ›

Chittorgarh, Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambore and Jaisalmer Forts are protected as Monuments of National Importance of India under the Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Declaration of National Importance) Act of 1951 (No. LXXI of 1951 (AMASR)) and the AMASR Amendment of 2010.

Why is Jaisalmer called Pink city? ›

The Pink City

The city wasn't a uniformly rosy hue originally, but a highly anticipated visit from Prince Albert in 1876 inspired the ruler to paint the town pink, which symbolizes hospitality in Indian culture.

What is the ancient name of Jaisalmer? ›

The ancient name of Jaisalmer is Mand. Hence, Option 2 is correct. The city is adorned with a number of lagoons, ornamental Jain places of worship, and lavish Havelis. Jaisalmer is also known for its offbeat desert safari experience.

What are three facts about the Thar Desert? ›

The Thar Desert covers some 77,000 square miles (200,000 square km) of territory. It is bordered by the irrigated Indus River plain to the west, the Punjab Plain to the north and northeast, the Aravalli Range to the southeast, and the Rann of Kachchh to the south.

What are the interesting facts about the Thar Desert? ›

Interesting facts about the Thar Desert

The Thar Desert is the 18th largest subtropical desert in the world. In contrast to the Sahara, which has one of the lowest population densities (1 person per sq. km), the Thar Desert is the most densely populated desert in the world (83 people per sq. km).

What is the cultural tourism in Rajasthan? ›

Also, since the culture of Rajasthan has an eternal bond with camels, the state hosts a number of events to commemorate this bond throughout the year. Kite Festival, Desert Festival, Pushkar Mela, and Jaipur Literature Fest are some of the most appealing and colourful annual festivals in this part of the country.

What are the cultural beliefs of Rajasthan? ›

Rajasthanis are predominantly Hindu, Muslims and Jains. However, regardless of their religious segments, Muslim, Hindu and Jain Rajasthanis mingle with each other socially. Most Rajasthani Hindus are vaishnavas, however, Durga and her avatars are equally worshiped throughout Rajasthan.

What is Rajasthan cultural symbol? ›

Chinkara is the official state Animal of Rajasthan.

What is the culture and tradition of Rajasthan with reference to food? ›

It is also known for its snacks like Bikaneri bhujia, Mirchi bada and Kanda kachauri. Other famous dishes include Dal Baati, malaidar special lassi (lassi) and Lashun ki chutney (hot garlic paste), Mawa lassi from Jodhpur, Alwar ka mawa, Malpauas from Pushkar and rasgulla from Bikaner, "paniya"and "gheriya" from Mewar.

What are the important art and culture of Rajasthan? ›

Rajasthani Paintings

Rajasthan Paintings including murals, frescoes and miniature paintings are popular crafts of the state.

Who are the traditional people of Rajasthan? ›

Rajasthani people or Rajasthanis are a group of Indo-Aryan peoples native to Rajasthan ("the land of kingdoms"), a state in Northern India. Their language, Rajasthani, is a part of the western group of Indo-Aryan languages.

Why is Rajasthan a unique tourist spot? ›

Rajasthan is known for its historical hill forts & palaces, it is claimed as the best place for tourism-related to palaces. Umaid Bhawan Palace: It is the largest Royal Palace in Rajasthan. It is also one of the largest private residences in the world.

Why is Rajasthan a famous tourist destination? ›

Rajasthan is home to the biggest number of forts, palaces, and havelis erected by Mughal and Rajput kings in India, many of which date back to the 12th century. Many of these structures have been awarded the UNESCO World Heritage Site title because of their historical and architectural importance.

What is the famous dance of Jaisalmer? ›

The most famous dance form in Jaisalmer is the Kalbeliya dance, also known as the snake dance, which is performed by the Kalbeliya tribe.

Why do tourists visit the desert? ›

The desert landscape takes your breath away especially when the sun starts to set. The slightest meteorological changes determine the most beautiful variations in the sky and on earth. In short, the ideal destination to break away from the routine and thus return home regenerated.

Why do people love visiting Rajasthan? ›

Its major attractions include ancient palaces and forts, renowned temples and the 'Great Indian Desert' close to the international border. Amber Fort, Amer Palace, Jaisalmer Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, Jaigarh Fort and Chittorgarh Fort are among the most visited places in Rajasthan.

What animal is in Jaisalmer? ›

Fauna: Birds – Great Indian Bustard, Falcons, Eagles, Vultures, Bee-Eaters, Shrikes, Larks, Demoiselle Crane, Macqueen's Bustard, Sandgrouse, Long-Legged, Honey Buzzards, chats, babblers, kites etc. Mammals – Camel, Desert Fox, Bengal Fox, Chinkara, Wolf, Desert Cat, Blackbuck, Hedgehog, Nilgai etc.

How many people visit Jaisalmer? ›

JAISALMER: Tourists have flocked Jaisalmer to celebrate New year specially in Sam Dunes. As per the information there were more than 20000 vehicles were gone in Sam Area and overall more than 1 lakh tourist in Sam and total 2 lakh tourist have enjoyed the new year in Jaisalmer.

How are people in Jaisalmer? ›

People of Jaisalmer are trust worthy and are really very great to preserve the heritage of Jaisalmer with great passion. They are famous for their hospitability and politeness. Even, the people of Jaisalmer always remain very eager to help the tourists and other people.

Which is the No 1 heritage city in India? ›

Explore India´s first World Heritage City, Ahmedabad, Gujarat. The city of Ahmedabad is endowed with a rich architectural heritage that is vital to the local identity and continuity of the place.

Which city is known as heritage city of Rajasthan? ›

Jaipur City, Rajasthan - UNESCO World Heritage Centre.

Which is the traditional village in Jaisalmer? ›

Kuldhara is an abandoned village in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan, India. Established around the 13th century, it was once a prosperous village inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins.

Why is Jaisalmer called the Golden City of India? ›

Jaisalmer means the Hill Fort of Jaisal. Jaisalmer is sometimes called the "Golden City of India" because of the yellow sandstone used throughout the architecture of both the fort and the town below, imbues both with a certain golden-yellow light.

What is the nickname of Jaisalmer? ›

Golden City of India - Jaisalmer Jaisalmer, a quaint city in Rajasthan, is known as the golden city. The entire town was built on the ridge of yellowish sandstone and so are the temples, forts and houses.

Which is white city in India? ›

Udaipur is called as 'White City of Rajasthan' which is located in the southern part of Rajastan. Large number of Rajput – style palaces, and the main City Palace built in the middle of the city. The Rajput kings built palaces made of marble.

What is the religion of the Jaisalmer? ›

Jaisalmer District Religion Data - Hindu/Muslim
DistrictJaisalmer
Hindu74.19 %
Muslim25.10 %
Christian0.13 %
Sikh0.26 %
5 more rows

Who founded Jaisalmer? ›

The town, noted for its buildings of yellowish brown stone, was founded in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal, a chief of the Rajputs (the warrior rulers of the historic region of Rajputana). In the 12th century Jaisalmer state reached the height of its power.

Who built the Jaisalmer? ›

Built in 1156 by King Rawal Jaisal, Jaisalmer Fort dominates the countryside in the far northwestern corner of Rajasthan, near the border of India and Pakistan.

What created the Thar Desert? ›

But catastrophe struck around 100,000 years ago when rainfall declined sharply and the already sluggish river system began shifting westward. Strong winds lifted sand and silt particles from alluvial sediments and deposited them in the region, and the true desert began to form.

Is Thar Desert the wealthiest desert in the world? ›

Why is the Thar Desert known as the wealthiest desert in the world? The Thar desert is called the world's wealthiest desert because it is the largest producer of wool in India and in the world. And there are some minerals found in the Thar desert like gypsum and kaolin.

What is the description of Thar Desert? ›

Thar Desert, or Great Indian Desert, Region of hot, dry desert, northwestern India and southeastern Pakistan. Its undulating surface is composed of sand dunes separated by sandy plains and low, barren hills. Several saline lakes are found there.

What is the largest desert facts? ›

The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, and the third largest overall after the Antarctica and the Arctic. The Sahara Desert covers an incredible 9.2 million km², which is almost the same size as China, and a total of 8% of the earth's land area.

Was the Thar Desert once green? ›

Thar Desert was once ever tropical forest, new fossil discovery reveals.

Which is the most useful animal in the Thar Desert? ›

Humans have used camels as a means of transport for thousands of years. Adapted to harsh desert conditions, camels made ideal pack animals.

Is the Thar Desert the largest desert True or false? ›

The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert is the largest desert in India. It spreads around 77,000 square miles of territory.

Is Thar Desert the smallest desert in the world? ›

The Thar desert though one of the smallest deserts in the world it harbours a wide array of flora and faunal species. It is only place where Rajasthan State Bird (Great Indian Bustard), State animal (Chinkara) and State tree (Khejri) and State flower (Rohida) are found naturally.

What is the main religion of Jaisalmer? ›

According to the 2011 census, Jaisalmer had a population of 65,471. Around 90% of the population is Hindu, 8.20% is Muslim and the remaining are Sikhs, Christians, and Jains.

What is the traditional dress of Jaisalmer? ›

Traditional Costume in Jaisalmer

The Odhni is a long piece of cloth, the size generally being 3 meters by 2 meters, is worn with Ghaghra Cholis or Lehengas and also teamed up with a Saree during special ceremonious occasions. The traditional dresses of males in Jaisalmer include Khol, Pachewara, Bugatari and Banda.

What is the religion in Jaisalmer? ›

Jaisalmer District Religion Data - Hindu/Muslim
DistrictJaisalmer
Hindu74.19 %
Muslim25.10 %
Christian0.13 %
Sikh0.26 %
5 more rows

What are the symbols of the unique culture of Rajasthan? ›

The colorful attires, the heavy jewellery, the palatial mansions and havelis, the diverse and joyous festivals and fairs, all are symbols of the rich and unique culture of Rajasthan.

What language is spoken in Jaisalmer? ›

Thali language, spoken in Jaisalmer, is part of Marwari language and has the influence of Dhatti and Marwari.

Which language is spoken in Jaisalmer district? ›

Jaisalmer is bounded on the north by Bikaner, on the west & the south-west by the Pakistani border, on the south by Barmer and Jodhpur, and on the east by Jodhpur and Bikaner Districts. The people of Jaisalmer usually speak Hindi and Marwari language and prefer to wear traditional dress.

Can I wear shorts in Rajasthan? ›

Skirts, shorts or dresses are no problem provided they fall below the knee. For your upper half, we recommend avoiding exposing the shoulders or chest area.

Which color is Jaisalmer? ›

Scattered across the desert territory, there's the “Pink City” of Jaipur, the “Blue City” of Jodhpur and the “Gold City” of Jaisalmer – each with its own story.

Which month is best for Jaisalmer? ›

Although October to March is considered the best time to visit Jaisalmer, each month offers something unique to the visitors here.

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