Suryagarh

Built entirely out of the local honey coloured sandstone as a fortification against marauders in the 12th century, the origin of Jaisalmer can be traced back to the Rajput chieftain Rawal Jaisal, who set the foundations of the fort [Jaisalmer = ‘hill fort of Jaisal’], in this strategic and challenging location. From the 17th century onwards, the city prospered, initially protected against shifting sands and feudal buglers by a steep ring of giant stone ramparts as it became a coveted stronghold on the lucrative silk route leading from China across north India and onto the west. 

Today Jaisalmer is a lively hub, and an entry point to the Thar – the Great Indian Desert, from where one can trek across beautiful stretches of sand, go on adventurous safaris deep into the desert, or paradoxically, enjoy picnics by oases and hidden lakes surrounded by shady groves.