Jaisalmer is a medieval fortress town in the remote desert of Rajasthan. Because it was located on the caravan routes between Egypt, Arabia, Persia and India, it became an extremely prosperous town. By the 19th Century however, the opening of ports such as Bombay, caused the caravan trade to dwindle. After the partition of India and Pakistan in 1947, this remote desert area became a military area and an area of camels, sheep and cattle.
Jaisalmer fort was built in 1156 and is the second oldest in Rajasthan. Two hundred and fifty feet tall and reinforced by an imposing crenellated sandstone wall 30 feet high, it has 99 bastion, 92 of which were built between 1633 and 1647. Wells within the fort still provide a regular source of water.
Today the fort has a population of merchants and shop owners living within its walls. Small, winding lanes are packed with houses, temples, and shops. Jaisalmer fort is alive with people going about their daily routines. Many tourists make it to this exotic town where camel safaris are popular as is the annual desert festival in February.
The Havelis or mansions built by the wealthy merchants in the 19th century are famed for their exquisitely carved sandstone facades. Today, many have been converted into shops or hotels. However, one has been preserved as a museum.
Garsisar lake is an artificial water tank dating to 1156 when the fort was first built. It was the main source of water for Jaisalmer until 1965 when tube wells were built in the surrounding area. Built by the first monarch of Jaisalmer, King Jaisal, it was later renovated by Maharawal Garsi Singh. The lake is surrounded by small temples and shrines. It's main entrance, Teelon ki Pol, is an exquisite archway built by a courtesan, Teelon, in an effort to immortalize herself.
About four miles outside of Jaisalmer in the desert is Bara Bagh. Here, clusters of beautiful cupolaed marble cenotaphs of the maharawals of Jaisalmer sit on a small hill. A small shrine to women who have committed sati here can be found within the complex.

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