JAISALMER

Rajasthan
 Jaisalmer
• Location: Jaisalmer is a historic city in Rajasthan, India, situated in the Thar Desert near the border with Pakistan.
• Golden City: Known as the "Golden City" due to the golden hue of its sandstone buildings, especially during sunset.
• Jaisalmer Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, built in 1156 AD, showcasing a blend of Rajput and Islamic architecture.
It's one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities globally.
• Cultural Heritage: Rich in Rajasthani culture, with vibrant festivals, traditional music, dance performances, and
colorful markets.
• Desert Safari: Popular for desert safaris in the Thar Desert, offering camel rides and stunning sunset views
over the sand dunes.
• Tourism: Attracts tourists worldwide for its historical sites, cultural experiences, and the unique desert
landscape.
Location
• Country: India
• State: Rajasthan
• Region: Thar Desert
• District: Jaisalmer
• Geographical Coordinates:Latitude: Approximately 26.9124° N
• Longitude: Approximately 70.9138° E
• Distance from Jaipur (capital of Rajasthan): About 560
kilometers west.
• International Border: Close proximity to the border with
Pakistan.
• Topography: Situated on a ridge of yellow sandstone, giving
the city its distinctive golden appearance.
• Notable Landmarks: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim
Singh Ki Haveli.
• Accessibility: Well-connected by road and rail, with a domestic
airport for air travel.
Demography
• Jaisalmer has a diverse population, with a mix of Rajputs, Marwaris, and various other communities.
• The city is known for its cultural richness, with a vibrant blend of Rajasthani and desert traditions.
• The population of Jaisalmer city itself was around 78,000 people, while the district had a larger
population.

Government
• Jaisalmer is governed by a municipal corporation responsible for local administration and infrastructure
development.
• It is part of the state of Rajasthan and falls under the jurisdiction of the Rajasthan state government.
• At the national level, it is represented in the Lok Sabha (House of the People) and the Rajya Sabha (Council
of States) as part of the parliamentary system of India.
Evolution of Jaisalmer
• Foundation (1156 AD): Jaisalmer was founded by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD when he established the
Jaisalmer Fort.
• Strategic Location: The city's location in the Thar Desert made it strategically important for trade
routes and defense.
• Rise of Jaisalmer Fort: The construction of Jaisalmer Fort began in the 12th century and continued
over the centuries, becoming one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities.
• Architectural Heritage: The city developed a unique architectural style using yellow sandstone, giving
rise to the distinctive golden appearance of its buildings.
• Trade Hub: Jaisalmer thrived as a major trading center, connecting India with Central Asia and the Silk
Route.
• Havelis Construction (18th-19th centuries): Elaborate havelis (traditional mansions) with intricate
carvings were constructed by wealthy merchants, showcasing the prosperity of the city.
 Evolution of Jaisalmer
• Colonial Influence: Jaisalmer, like other princely states, came under the influence of the British
during the colonial era.
• Post-Independence Era: After India gained independence in 1947, Jaisalmer became part of the
newly-formed state of Rajasthan.
• Tourism Boom (20th Century): Jaisalmer gained prominence as a tourist destination due to
its rich history, architecture, and the allure of the Thar Desert.
• UNESCO World Heritage Site (2013): Jaisalmer Fort was designated as a UNESCO World
Heritage Site, recognizing its cultural significance and architectural splendor.
• Modern Development: In recent decades, Jaisalmer has seen infrastructure development and a
growing tourism industry, contributing to its economic growth.
• Cultural Preservation: Efforts have been made to preserve the cultural heritage of Jaisalmer,
including the conservation of historic structures and promotion of traditional arts and crafts.
 Determinants of Evolution
• Geographical Location: Strategic position in the Thar Desert and its historical significance.
• Historical Events: Foundation by Rawal Jaisal, wars, and invasions shaping its history.
• Cultural and Religious Factors: Rich cultural heritage influencing architecture, festivals, and traditions.
• Economic Activities: Role as a trade hub, economic prosperity, and trade routes.
• Political Leadership: Visionary leadership contributing to architectural marvels.
• Technological Advancements: Historical advancements impacting trade and development.
• Social Structures: Organization of society, caste systems, and community structures.
• External Influences: Contacts with neighboring regions and foreign influences.
• Tourism and Globalization: Modern influences, tourism contributing to economic development.
• Environmental Factors: Thar Desert environment shaping lifestyle and economic activities.
Present issues
• Water Scarcity: Managing water resources in the arid Thar Desert.
• Tourism Impact: Balancing tourism benefits with environmental and cultural concerns.
• Infrastructure Development: Preserving historical sites while modernizing infrastructure.
• Environmental Concerns: Addressing desertification and climate change impacts.
• Economic Diversification: Promoting industries beyond tourism for sustained growth.
• Cultural Preservation: Maintaining cultural identity amid tourism development.
• Education and Healthcare: Improving access to quality services for residents.
• Employment Opportunities: Creating sustainable jobs, especially for the youth.
• Waste Management: Effectively handling the increasing waste from tourism.
• Infrastructure for Sustainable Tourism: Developing eco-friendly infrastructure for responsible
tourism.
Conclusion
In summary, Jaisalmer, with its golden history dating back to the 12th century, faces the dual challenge of
preserving its cultural legacy while adapting to modern demands. Current issues include water scarcity,
tourism impact, and the need for sustainable development. As the city navigates these challenges, it
remains a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary aspirations, symbolizing the delicate balance
between tradition and progress in the heart of the Thar Desert.