Jaisalmer Trails

Morning: After breakfast, set out for a captivating city tour of Jaisalmer. Havelis Exploration:

1. Patwaon Ki Haveli:
   • Start with Patwaon Ki Haveli, the most elaborate and impressive of Jaisalmer’s mansions. Constructed between 1800 and 1860 by five Jain brothers, this haveli is renowned for its stunning frescoes and intricate carvings.
2. Salim Singh Ki Haveli:
   • Continue to Salim Singh Ki Haveli, known for its unique architectural style and ornately decorated façade featuring peacock motifs.
3. Nathmal Ki Haveli:
   • Visit Nathmal Ki Haveli, notable for its detailed stonework and the unique blend of architectural influences brought by the two brothers who designed it.

Jaisalmer Fort:

• Jaisalmer Fort:
  • Built in 1156 by the Bhatti ruler Jaisal, this fort stands majestically atop the 80-meter-high Trikuta Hill. Enclosed by three walls and 99 bastions, the fort has been a strategic fortress through numerous battles involving the Bhatti Rajputs, Mughals, and Rathores of Jodhpur. Explore the fort's complex, including the exquisitely carved Jain temples constructed between the 12th and 15th centuries. The temples house priceless ancient manuscripts, astrological charts, and the Jain equivalent of the Christian Shroud of Turin.

Afternoon:

• Spend the afternoon wandering through the colorful and bustling bazaars of Jaisalmer. This is a great time for personal exploration and shopping for local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs.

Overnight Stay:

• Return to your hotel for an overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with the rich heritage and unique charm of Jaisalmer.

Morning: After breakfast, depart for a full-day excursion. 1. Tanot:

• Journey: Drive approximately 120 kilometers from Jaisalmer to Tanot, passing through the scenic landscapes of the Thar Desert. En route, stop to see the Ramgarh Village and the towering TV Tower, which once held the title of the tallest in India. You'll also cross the Indira Gandhi Canal, the longest canal in India and a significant irrigation project.
• Tanot Mata Temple: Upon arrival, visit the Tanot Mata Temple. This site is renowned for its role during the Indo-Pakistani War, where, despite heavy shelling, the temple and nearby areas were protected. Many unexploded shells are displayed as a testament to the miraculous protection.
• Interaction with Soldiers: Spend 2 to 3 hours interacting with the Indian soldiers stationed here, learning about their experiences and the historical significance of the area.

Optional Visit:

• Babliyon Border: With prior permission, you can visit the India-Pakistan border, located 20 kilometers from Tanot. (Note: Carry at least two original ID proofs, as only Indian nationals are allowed.)

2. Longewala:

• Journey: Continue your drive to Longewala, approximately 50 kilometers from Tanot. The route is characterized by expansive desert scenery.
• Longewala War Memorial: Visit the Longewala battlefield and war memorial, famous for the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. Spend 2 to 3 hours here, interacting with soldiers and paying homage to the brave heroes of the battle. This location offers a chance to relive the history depicted in the film "Border."

Afternoon: 3. Sam Sand Dunes:

• Journey: Drive 120 kilometers from Longewala to Sam Sand Dunes. Along the way, enjoy glimpses of local village life with friendly villagers and traditional mud houses.
• Activities: Arrive at Sam Sand Dunes, located 42 kilometers from Jaisalmer. Here, you can experience the vast expanse of the desert, with its shifting sands and unique patterns. Enjoy a camel ride and witness the stunning sunset over the dunes. Engage in evening desert activities and explore the dunes at your leisure.

Evening:

• Overnight at the Camp: Conclude your day with an overnight stay at a desert camp, surrounded by the serene and expansive desert landscape.

Morning: 1. Gadsisar Lake:

• Visit: Begin your day with a visit to Gadsisar Lake, a scenic rainwater reservoir surrounded by numerous shrines. The lake, with its beautiful arched gateway, is an ideal spot for relaxation and picturesque outings. Enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the charm of the surrounding architecture.

2. Lodhurva:

• Journey: Drive 16 kilometers from Jaisalmer to Lodhurva, the ancient capital of the Bhatti rulers.
• Explore: While mostly in ruins, Lodhurva is renowned for its exquisite Jain temple. The temple features intricate jail work screens, a grand ceiling, and a magnificent triumphal arch at the entrance. The original deity carriage from 1675 is preserved here, and the mythical Kalpataru, a tree of wish fulfillment, adds to the temple’s allure. The area is also known for its peacocks that add vibrant color to the stony landscape. Hear the local legend of princess Momal and prince Mathendru of Amarkot, whose tragic romance is celebrated in folk songs. The river Kak, once flowing here, is said to have ceased when the lovers perished.

3. Amar Sagar:

• Journey: On your way back to Jaisalmer from Lodhurva, stop at Amar Sagar.
• Explore: Amar Sagar features a grand artificial reservoir, a temple, and a scenic promenade along the banks. The area is known for its historical significance and picturesque setting.

Afternoon:

• Free Time: Return to Jaisalmer and enjoy some free time in the afternoon. Explore the colorful and bustling bazaars for personal shopping and to experience the local culture.

Evening:

• Overnight Stay: Head back to your hotel in Jaisalmer for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, the day is free until transferred to Airport for your onward journey to the next destination.