Introduction
Rajasthan,
from one nook to the other, is a land of myths ans legends. Each city or
town of the state is an identity in its own. However, the elements of
gallantry and romance can be traced all over. The maharajas of yore ruled
the land with besprangled fists, leaving a legacy which is rich both in
culture and architecture. Pick any colour and you find a city to match it.
Interesting indeed. One such destination is the golden town of Jaisalmer
that seems to be rising out of the Thar like an optical illusion. The
legendary town is known for its cultural and architectural charm.
Strings of camel caravans advancing towards the golden town during a few
days before the Spring full moon suggest that the Desert Festival is at
hand. The festival makes the otherwise barren land come alive as folk
artists including dancers, musicians, competitors and acrobats from across
the state gather at Jaisalmer to put up soulful performances. The festival
is seen as one of the finest opportunities to soak in the culture milieu
that is created here.
Celebrations
During January/ February every year, the town of Jaisalmer seems to take a
bath in the exotic colours of culture and traditions. Brilliantly attired
Rajasthan folks turn up at the spot to sing and dance to the rustic tunes
that have survived for ages. Haunting ballads of valour and romance fill the
air. The tunes seem to stir the emotions of one and all. Snake charmers,
puppeteers and acrobats also pour into the place in good numbers. Camels too
are an equal participant of the festivity.
The scene beneath the star-studded desert sky leaves no one unmoved. The
festival celebrates the heritage of the desert town. Right from sunrise, the
day is marked with a chain of events. Though performing art forms is the
theme of it all, there take place a number of other events that represent
the desert culture. You can also come across with skilled craftsmen who have
on display items like embroidered skirts, hand-woven shawls, leather bags,
wood carvings, stone carvings, silver jewellery and terracotta. All the
three days of the festival is marked by great pomp and show. And as the
grand finale nears, the crowds seem to swell each night.
The
Jaisalmer Fort seems to be just the kind of backdrop for the grand event.
The fortified surroundings add to the charm of the festivity all the more.
The turban tying competitions, camel races, camel dance and the Mr Desert
Contest are other fascinating aspects of the event.
Other Attractions
» Jaisalmer Fort
» Havelis of Jaisalmer
» Jain Temples
» Gadi Sagar Lake
» Lodurva Temples
» Sam Sand Dunes
» Khuri Sand Dunes
» Desert Culture Centre and Museum
Reaching Options
Jodhpur, at a distance of 285 km, is the closest and the most convenient
airport. The airport has regular flights to places like Delhi, Mumbai,
Udaipur, Jaipur etc. Jaisalmer has good rail links with Jodhpur as well as
with Agra, New Delhi, Jaipur and Mumbai. Road route too is well established.
Jodhpur, by road, remains linked with places including Jaipur, Jodhpur,
Bikaner and other cities of the country.
