Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer was established by Maharawal Jaisal Singh, a Rajput king, in 1156 AD. He founded the city and constructed the massive Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This strategically located fort became the center of the town. For centuries, Jaisalmer was a major trading center located on the route linking the Indian subcontinent to Central Asia. Its fort is known for its immense beauty, intricate architecture, and historical significance.

In 1294, Jaisalmer was besieged by Alauddin Khalji, the ruler of the Delhi Sultanate. The siege lasted for several months, ending in tragedy for the residents. Many Rajput defenders and inhabitants of Jaisalmer performed 'Jauhar,' a mass self-immolation to avoid capture and enslavement. This highlighted the region's resistance against invaders and is remembered as a significant and poignant event in Jaisalmer's history.

In 1559, Maharawal Harraj ascended to the throne of Jaisalmer. During his rule, he undertook major efforts to fortify the city's defenses and strengthen the fort. His reign is noted for diplomatic efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region, as well as cultural and architectural advancements. His leadership helped the kingdom navigate the hostile political landscape of the period.

In the year 1570, Jaisalmer came under the influence of the Mughal Empire. The rulers of Jaisalmer entered into a treaty with the Mughal Emperor Akbar, aligning themselves with the expanding empire. This marked a new era for the region as it integrated more closely with the prevailing political order. The relationship with the Mughal emperors brought a period of relative peace and prosperity to Jaisalmer.

On January 1, 1818, Jaisalmer signed a treaty with the British East India Company. Under the treaty, Jaisalmer became a princely state under British suzerainty while retaining internal autonomy. This agreement allowed the British to control external affairs, but the local Maharaja maintained authority over internal matters. It marked a turning point in the region's history during the British colonial period.

On August 15, 1947, India gained independence from British rule, and Jaisalmer became part of the newly formed Republic of India. This historical event marked the end of colonial rule in the region and the integration of Jaisalmer into the Indian Union. The post-independence period saw efforts to preserve Jaisalmer's rich cultural heritage and enhance its tourist attractions.

On September 22, 1965, during the Indo-Pakistani War, Jaisalmer was strategically important due to its proximity to the India-Pakistan border. The town and its fortresses served as a critical defense point for India. The war highlighted Jaisalmer’s geostrategic significance in the defense of western India, underscoring its military and tactical importance.

On December 3, 1971, hostilities broke out between India and Pakistan once again. Jaisalmer's strategic location made it a focal point in military operations. The region saw significant military action, with Jaisalmer serving as a pivotal base for Indian operations. The war eventually led to the creation of Bangladesh and had lasting implications for India-Pakistan relations.

In February 1987, the inaugural Jaisalmer Desert Festival was held, celebrating the cultural heritage of the region. This festival, held annually, showcases the vibrant culture, music, dance, and traditions of Rajasthan. It has become a major tourist attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to experience the unique desert culture and participate in various traditional activities.

The Jaisalmer-Merta Road railway line was completed and became operational on March 18, 2013. This development improved connectivity and accessibility for Jaisalmer, facilitating easier travel for tourists and locals alike. The railway line was part of a broader initiative to strengthen infrastructure and stimulate economic growth in the region. It has played a significant role in the development of Jaisalmer as a major tourist destination.