Cultural Heritage Of

The Thar Desert And

The Tourist Places In
Jaisalmer
A CASE STUDY OF CULTURAL AND
RESEARCH OASIS IN THE DESERT
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 desert city in the midst of the Thar
Desert.

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 city that looks golden, feels golden and lives
golden! Jaisalmer is the shimmering golden hue in the palette of
colours that is Rajasthan.
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. Rajasthani folk music and dance
play a pivotal role in the shaping of this desert region and are
essential highlights of Jaisalmer
The city is synonymous with brilliant folk dances
popularized as Rajasthani dance and Rajasthani
instruments that are expertly played by many of
the locals

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.
The unique Rajasthan desert festival which is
held once a year during winters is one of the
most interesting festivals in India
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 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.
CHAND BAORI
N’K MIP DESERT CULTURAL CENTER ,CANADA