Which City Is Known As the Golden City of India?

Golden City of India: India is filled with numerous beautiful cities, each having its own charm and its own story to tell. Among those cities, Jaisalmer, a city in the state of Rajasthan, is also known as the ‘Golden City of India’.

What Does ‘Golden City’ Mean?

The meaning of the name “Golden City” refers to how the city looks. Yellow sandstone is used in almost every building and monument in the city. When the sun shines on the structures in the city, they light up and create a complete golden effect all over the city. 

Where Did the Name Come From?

The city has its nickname of the ‘Golden City’ because of its unique architecture. The most recognised landmark that can be found in Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Quila (Golden Fort). It is made of yellow sandstone, and when the sun shines on this fort, it lights up in a golden colour. Not only the fort, but also the havelis (traditional mansions), temples, and markets are made from yellow sandstone, which creates a beautiful golden scenery.

Why is The Golden Colour Important?

The golden colour that Jaisalmer is known for does not only look great; it allows the buildings to blend in beautifully with the surrounding Thar Desert. Sandstone not only ensures the buildings remain cool in the sweltering heat of the desert but also moderately warm at night when the temperature can drop. Moreover, Jaisalmirans take enormous pride in the golden appearance that encapsulates the essence of the distinct culture that Jaisalmer boasts.

Why Is There a Golden Hue in Jaisalmer?

The golden colour of Jaisalmer's buildings is more than just pretty; it has its practical purposes too:

• Blends with the Desert: The yellow sandstone fits perfectly with the surrounding Thar Desert, and it makes the city blend into the landscape.

• Temperature Control: Because of the stone, it keeps buildings cooler during the scorching hot days and warmer during the cold desert nights.

• Wealth and Pride: The golden hue is often taken as a sign of Jaisalmer's historically rich and proud heritage.

Top 7 Things to Do in Jaisalmer

1. Visit Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)

Explore this vibrant living fort, its markets filled with wares, temples scattered throughout, and palaces that all appear to shine gold from the fort's golden sandstone in the sun.

2. Go on a Camel Safari in the Thar Desert

Ride camels over the spectacular Sam Sand Dunes, which have unforgettable sunsets, and weekend desert camps that feature songs and dances that are traditional to the area, all while surrounded by a blanket of stars.

3. Visit the Havelis (Old Mansions)

Take in the intricate stone carvings of Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, and Nathmal Ki Haveli that also display the local Rajasthani art architecture.

4. Boating at Gadisar Lake

Find some peace of mind by forgetting the hustle and bustle of the city at Gadisar Lake while you leisurely boat around the tourist-infested banks that have innumerable temples/ghats and migrating birds flying over the umbrella of calm waters.

5. See the Sunset from Vyas Chhatri

Vyas Chhatri is a beautiful sandstone cenotaph overlooking Jaisalmer, and it is a good place to watch the sunset. You can be guaranteed that the golden scenery will display memorable shades of orange/red you have never seen before.

6. Shop at the local markets

Amble through Sadar Bazaar and Bhatia Bazaar to shop for embroidered fabrics, jewellery, leather crafts, and textiles that all friendly locals manufactured. These purchases will be perfect reminders and souvenirs to help you remember your time in Rajasthan.

Some interesting things about Jaisalmer:  

• Located in the fort, one of the largest in the world that people still live in. A UNESCO World Heritage site. 

• About one-quarter of the city's population lives in the fort. The fort is essentially a functioning community that is populated by houses, shops, and hotels.
• Located in the middle of the expansive Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is the place to take camel rides and go on desert safaris.

• Jaisalmer is home to beautiful havelis, such as Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli, which are well-known for their artistic stone carvings.

• Each year, Jaisalmer hosts the Desert Festival, where visitors enjoy folk dances, camel races, and folk music in celebration of the beautiful culture of Rajasthan.