Nothing prepares the visitor for the sheer magic of Jaisalmer! Like a dream the golden ramparts of its fort rise out of the desert haze evoking legends of exotic palaces, valourous kings and beautous queens. Once located on an ancient caravan route carrying silks and spices, Jaisalmer grew prosperous soon after its founding in the 12th century. Today, the enormous wealth of its ancient merchants is testified by the exquisitely carved and ornamented mansions they once inhabited. It is still easy to imagine oneself transported back in time in the city’s bustling streets and bazaars and by its lake surrounded by temples and shrines.