With its sandstone walls and rich heritage, a trip to this monument at Jaisalmer leaves one craving for more.
Standing tall in the desert city of Jaisalmer is the Sonar Quila, a golden sandstone structure that weaves stories of the fabulous yesteryears of the city. A trip to Jaisalmer promises to be an extravagant treat of visual abundance and sensory pleasures. Not only is the city steeped in rich cultural heritage but has something for every traveler to indulge in.
Majestic alright! The best way to reach Jaisalmer would be perhaps by train. However, I made the mistake of flying into Jodhpur to take a bus to Jaisalmer, only to arrive seven hours later with an extremely sore back. But as my sight fell on the dazzling Sonar Quila, the majestic city fort that forms the perfect picture against the background of a starry night, all discomfort disappeared and a sense of longing to explore the monument filled me right away.
But good sense prevailed and I decided to first tuck into some lip-smacking local Rajasthani fare that consited of kulchas, dal makhani, gatte ki subzi and amazing fruit lassi. The association with Rajasthan had begun.
Historical flavour It is always advisable to be an early riser while in the desert city as the noon tends to siphon all the energy in you. After all, it is not easy walking around on cobblestone pathways with sudden dust storms ready to envelope you at sudden hours.
What really surprises you once you cross over into the fort from under its colossal entry arches, unlike several other forts across the country that are considered as heritage structures, the Jaisalmer Fort is actually inhabited by local city dwellers. People who had homes inside the fort premises during the pre-Independence era have chosen to still call the fort their home.
The golden sandstone walls of the fort provide a perfect backdrop to sit and gaze at the setting sun.
Another place to catch the setting sun would be the undulating stretches of sand dunes that makes Jaisalmer one of the favourite locations for foreign tourists. Though it was a bumpy car ride again out of the city, the effort was worth it. Once I reached the peripheries of the unending dunes, I indulged in some local shopping and a camel ride.
There are a number of havelis in and around the city that I visited to get a taste of all the local flavours this desert city has to offer. I literally shopped till I dropped and came away with a bag full of local Rajasthani prints, embroidered chappals, mirror-work bags and lots of joyful memories.
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