Jaisalmer, exotic, remote, and beautiful, is a bit of a paradox. Set so deep in the heart of the desert that one would expect barren near-desolation, this frontier town is today one of Rajasthan's best-loved tourist destinations. Local colour and warmth prevail over the inhospitable and forbidding terrain, imbuing the medieval town with a special magic.

Jaisalmer was founded in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, a descendent of the Yadav clan and a Bhati Rajput, on a hill called Trikuta as the new capital of his territory. In medieval times, its prosperity was due to its location on the main trade route linking India to Egypt, Arabia, Persia, Africa and the West. The narrow streets in the old walled city still preserve a traditional way of life with craftsmen still working at the ancient crafts of weaving and stone carving, the making of silver jewellery and embroidery. And the stately, nonchalant camel is everywhere.  Walking through Jaisalmer one ends up savouring the medieval glory of old Rajasthan, a marvellously rewarding travel experience.Winter is the perfect time to visit for it is then that Jaisalmer's Desert Festival, celebrated in January/ February. The desert seems to bloom in a thousand colours with the colourful costumes of the locals and the decorations on the camels. There are camel races and folk dances, craft bazaars and traditional ballad singing, a sound and light spectacle on the sand-dunes of Sam on the full moon night of Purnima; and all the colour and excitement of the best in Rajasthan - folk dances, exciting competitions and contests, especially the turban-tying contest , the light-hearted Mr. Desert contest and camel races enhance the festivities. Jaisalmer is a combination of culture and harsh climatic conditions, together amounting to a memorable experience for the visitor.