The Golden Splendor of Jaisalmer

• Helloनमस्ते
  [Namaste]
• Goodbyeअलविदा
  [Alvida]
• Yesहां
  [Haan]
• Noनहीं
  [Nahi]
• Please/You're welcomeकृपया
  [Kripaya]
• Thank youधन्यवाद
  [Dhanyavaad]
• Excuse me/Sorryमाफ़ कीजिए
  [Maaf kijiye]
• How are you?आप कैसे हैं?
  [Aap kaise hain?]
• Fine. And you?ठीक हूँ। आप सुनाइए।
  [Theek hoon. Aap sunaiye.]
• Do you speak English?क्या आप अंग्रेज़ी बोलते हैं?
  [Kya aap angrezi bolte hain?]
• I don't understandमुझे समझ नहीं आया
  [Mujhe samajh nahi aaya]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseकृपया मेनू दिखाइए
  [Kripaya menu dikhaiye]
• I don't eat meatमैं मांस नहीं खाता
  [Main maans nahi khaata]
• Cheers!चियर्स!
  [Cheers!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseकृपया मुझे भुगतान करने दीजिए
  [Kripaya mujhe bhugtan karne dijiye]

• Help!बचाओ!
  [Bachao!]
• Go away!दूर हो जाओ!
  [Door ho jao!]
• Call the Police!पुलिस को बुलाओ!
  [Police ko bulao!]
• Call a doctor!डॉक्टर को बुलाओ!
  [Doctor ko bulao!]
• I'm lostमैं खो गया हूँ
  [Main kho gaya hoon]
• I'm illमुझे बीमारी है
  [Mujhe bimari hai]

• I'd like to buy...मैं खरीदना चाहता हूँ...
  [Main khareedna chahta hoon...]
• I'm just lookingमैं सिर्फ देख रहा हूँ
  [Main sirf dekh raha hoon]
• How much is it?यह कितने का है?
  [Yeh kitne ka hai?]
• That's too expensiveये बहुत महंगा है
  [Ye bahut mehnga hai]
• Can you lower the price?क्या आप कीमत कम कर सकते हैं?
  [Kya aap keemat kam kar sakte hain?]

• What time is it?कितने बजे हैं?
  [Kitne baje hain?]
• It's one o'clockएक बजे हैं
  [Ek baje hain]
• Half past (10)दस बजे तक सुबह
  [Das baje tak subah]
• Morningसुबह
  [Subah]
• Afternoonदोपहर
  [Dopahar]
• Eveningशाम
  [Shaam]
• Yesterdayकल
  [Kal]
• Todayआज
  [Aaj]
• Tomorrowकल
  [Kal]
• 1एक
  [Ek]
• 2दो
  [Do]
• 3तीन
  [Teen]
• 4चार
  [Char]
• 5पाँच
  [Paanch]
• 6छह
  [Chhah]
• 7सात
  [Saath]
• 8आठ
  [Aath]
• 9नौ
  [Nau]
• 10दस
  [Das]

• Where's a/the...?...कहाँ है?
  [...kahan hai?]
• What's the address?पता क्या है?
  [Pata kya hai?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?क्या आप मुझे दिखा सकते हैं (नक्शे पर)?
  [Kya aap mujhe dikha sakte hain (nakshay par)?]
• When's the next (bus)?अगली (बस) कब है?
  [Agli (bus) kab hai?]
• A ticket (to ....)एक टिकट (... के लिए)
  [Ek ticket (... ke liye)]

Jaisalmer, often referred to as the 'Golden City,' was founded in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal Singh, a Bhati Rajput ruler. The city is named after him, and its strategic location on the crossroads of lucrative trade routes made it a significant center of commerce and power in the Thar Desert.

Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort, is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world. Built by Rawal Jaisal Singh, the fort rises from the desert sands like a mirage. The yellow sandstone walls take on a honey-gold hue as the sun sets, giving the fort its distinctive appearance.

During the 18th and 19th centuries, wealthy merchants built grand havelis, or mansions, in Jaisalmer. These havelis, such as Patwon Ki Haveli, Nathmal Ki Haveli, and Salim Singh Ki Haveli, are renowned for their intricate carvings, elaborate facades, and exquisite artwork, reflecting the prosperity brought by trade.

Jaisalmer flourished as a trade hub due to its location on the ancient Silk Road. Caravans laden with silk, spices, and precious gems would stop in Jaisalmer, contributing to the city's wealth and cosmopolitan culture. The city served as a gateway for merchants traveling between India and Central Asia.

In 1294, the fort faced a significant siege by Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi. Despite fierce resistance, the fort fell after eight months. The Rajput women performed Jauhar, a ritual mass self-immolation, to avoid capture and dishonor. This event is a poignant chapter in Jaisalmer's history, symbolizing bravery and sacrifice.

With the advent of British colonial rule and the opening of new trade routes, Jaisalmer's strategic importance dwindled. However, the city experienced a revival in the 20th century due to tourism. The preservation of its historical architecture and cultural heritage has made Jaisalmer a popular tourist destination.

Jaisalmer hosts various cultural festivals that showcase its rich heritage. The Desert Festival, held annually in February, features folk music, dance performances, camel races, and traditional crafts. The vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of these festivals attract visitors from around the world.

The architecture of Jaisalmer is a blend of Rajput and Islamic styles, characterized by the use of yellow sandstone. The city's urban planning includes narrow winding streets, courtyards, and interconnected buildings that provide shade and protection from the harsh desert climate. The fort itself is a living urban center, with residences, temples, and shops within its walls.

Jaisalmer is home to several important religious sites, including the Jain Temples within the fort complex. These temples, built between the 12th and 16th centuries, are known for their intricate marble carvings and architectural beauty. The city's religious diversity is also evident in its Hindu temples and mosques.

Jaisalmer, located in the Indian state of Rajasthan, is accessible by air, rail, and road. The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport, which operates limited flights. The nearest major airport is Jodhpur Airport, about 285 kilometers away. From Jodhpur, you can take a taxi or a bus to Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer is well-connected by train, with the Jaisalmer Railway Station offering direct connections to major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur. Buses and private taxis are also available for road travel from nearby cities.

Getting around Jaisalmer is convenient with various transportation options. Auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are readily available for short trips. For longer journeys, taxis can be hired. Renting scooters or motorcycles is also an option for those who prefer more independence. Public buses operate within the city and to nearby attractions. Walking is a great way to explore the old city area, especially the Jaisalmer Fort and its surroundings.

The official currency in Jaisalmer is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, particularly in smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are available throughout the city, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to remote areas where ATMs may not be accessible.

Jaisalmer is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone late at night in isolated areas. Keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded places like markets. Areas around the railway station and bus stands can be hotspots for petty crimes targeting tourists, so remain vigilant. Always use registered taxis and avoid accepting unsolicited offers for guides or services.

In case of an emergency, dial 100 for police assistance, 101 for fire emergencies, and 102 for medical emergencies. Jaisalmer has a hospital and several clinics that can handle medical emergencies. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are many pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering temples and cover your head if required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a 'Namaste' or a handshake. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Jaisalmer like a local, visit the local markets, such as Sadar Bazaar and Bhatia Bazaar, where you can buy traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don’t miss the sunset at Sam Sand Dunes and a camel safari for an authentic desert experience. Also, try the local cuisine, including dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi, at local eateries.