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Sonar Fort (Jaisalmer Fort):
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan sightseeing tour must include a visit to the
Jaisalmer fort. Jaisalmer fort is the second oldest fort in the
state of Rajasthan. It hovers on a 250 feet high hilltop, providing
an amazing view of the vast desert below. The fort has five palaces
namely, Sarvottam Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti
Mahal. Exquisitely carved jail screens were put up to protect the
interiors of the palaces from the desert storms and sweltering heat.
The arches and spandrels of the palaces have been painted with
mesmerizing murals. The fort has four namely, Akhai Pole (Ganesh
Pole), Suraj Pole, Bhuta Pole and Hawa Pole. There is also an
umbrella, Meghadamber, perched on the highest point of the place
that represents Lord Krishna.
Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli: Nathmal ji ki haveli was the result of
the efforts of two architect brothers. Built in the 19th century,
the haveli is an epitome of side-by-side symmetry. Standing as
guards to the haveli are huge tuskers carved out of yellow
sandstone. The attractions of the haveli include miniature style
paintings adorning the walls on the inside.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli: Salim Singh was the Prime Minister of
the princely state of Jaisalmer. The haveli is named after him only.
It is located just below the hill. Built about 300 years ago, the
haveli has an arched roof with carved brackets in the form of
Peacocks. A portion of the haveli is still occupied. It is said that
at one point of time the haveli had two additional wooden stories.
It made the haveli as high as the Maharaja's palace. However, the
maharaja got the upper story demolished.
Patwon Ji Ki Haveli: This five story high haveli is one of
the largest and most intricate havelis in Jaisalmer. The haveli is
beautifully and extensively carved. The haveli is divided into six
apartments. Two apartments are taken over by Archaeological Survey
of India, two by families operating craft-shops and two are
converted into private homes. Some of the inside walls still contain
paintings and mirror work.
Tazia Tower: Some Muslim craftsmen constructed the Tazia
tower to give as a gift to their royal benefactor. Rising from Badal
Mahal (Cloud Palace), the five-tiered tower looks splendid. A
skillfully carved balcony beautifies each story of the tower.
Gadsisar Lake: Gadsisar is an artificial lake built by
Maharawal Gadsi in 14th century. This rainwater lake served as the
main source of water for entire town at that time. The embankments
of the lake house numerous small temple & shrines. The road to the
lake has a beautiful gateway arching across it. It was built by a
royal courtesan Tillon in the latter half of 19th century. |
