Jaisalmer is on the edge of India, about 120 km from the border of Pakistan, and inside the Thar Desert. It is a laid back town with lots of different things to see and do. One of them being a camel, or dromedary rides or overnight camping excursions.
The city is dominated by the Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Qila (Golden Fort). Unlike most forts in India, the Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort, meaning people have homes and businesses inside and have done so for many generations. Other forts in India like the Agra Fort do not, and are more museums persay. Our tour group were lucky to have stayed in the fort, and roomed at the Deepak Rest House. A lovely rustic place with multiple floors of clean simple living. On the roof top, and like so many hotels and lodgings in India, lies the roof-top restaurant and a magnificent 360 degree view of Jaisalmer. Great food can be obtained here, especially the porridge, honey and banana. Yes, I know, very odd choice to have, but I love porridge, and had a difficult time finding good sources. As we moved West, the porridge got thinner and thinner, with more and more milk.
Jaisalmer was my first encounter with the almighty sacred cow, one of whom wanted to horn me. A little push of the head in another direction diverted any catastrophe. The other animal that is very prominent in India are dogs. Hundreds of dogs with no masters, just themselves. They sleep all day long where ever they want to, and then howl all night wandering the night. Some are in quite bad shape, others look like they have been well taken care of.
I did not pet a dog here as you did not know what auspicious vermin was attached to them. The continuous chewing at their behinds I think gave me a clue, that and the scratching. Oh the scratching. These dogs were never foul or dangerous. They just kept to themselves, sleeping. Sleep little doggy, sleep.
There are 7 beautifully carved Jain temples built inside the fort walls. These temples were built in between from 12th century to 15th century. All the temples are connected by walkways and corridors. I did not go into any of these temples, and looking back, I guess I should have. Next time.
Walking the inner fortress at night was a very pleasant time, although I had to always keep a watchful eye on the cows and bulls. I took some nice images when I was out. Some are in the gallery below. I had purchased a new light tripod just before I came to India, but being so conscious of traveling light, I did not take it. I think after 26 days I really didn't miss it as we were always on the go. If you had the time in every place, I think a tripod would be a good thing to have.
Enjoy the images of Jaisalmer.
{gallery}Jaisalmer{/gallery}
