Located in the Western part of India Jaisalmer is known as the Golden city of India, which is much closer to the Indo-Pakistan border. Even though the city is situated amidst of Thar Desert, it holds much importance in the books of history. It is famous for its sandstone coloured forts, palaces, Jain temples and well constructed streets. Many of the Havelis or fortresses that are found here behold a lot of historical and cultural importance.

Manak Chowk in Jaisalmer is one of the prominent places in Jaisalmer. It is situated at the entrance of the Jaisalmer fort and is a well known market place. Manak Chowk is one of the oldest market places in Rajasthan which was very prominent in the medieval era. Today, it is one of the prominent commercial hubs in Jaisalmer. Traditional and ethnic goods at affordable prices can be found here.

You can get antique and ethnic silver jewellery, creative and embroidered goods, artistically decorated leather items and much more. Here you can witness the craftsmanship of the local artisans which are some of the rare talents inherited from their forefathers. It is one such place where tourist can shop till they drop.

Manak Chowk reveals the cultural heritage and traditional legacy of Jaisalmer. Anyone visiting this place can truly experience and feel of history and charm of Rajastani culture and tradition.

History

Manak Chowk built during the 18th and 19th centuries outside the Jaisalmer fort is the epitome of local activity. It was earlier known as the Sadar Mandi or the Grain Market. This place buzzed with local business and activity and thus become of the famous market in Jaisalmer. During the medieval era this place used to be similar to the ‘silk route’ and many major traders from Iraq, Persia, Egypt and Arabia used to visit this market place for their business. But with the emergence of other trading centres and ports like Mumbai, Chennai and Cochin the importance of Manak Chowk got diminished.

Manak Chowk still bustles with life and activity. It has the largest collection of ethnic silver jewellery, attractive leather works and items, antique pieces of art and embroidered collection of goods and much more.

Architecture

Manak Chowk, the dynamic market place in Jaisalmer gives the tourists an opportunity to explore and experience the vibrant culture, art and life of the place. This oldest market place gives its visitors a feel of the architectural sumptuousness of the beautiful forts. These forts reflect the architectural splendour and brilliance of the ancient India.

The tourist can see the beautiful and grand Havelis which is much closer to the Manak Chowk. Some of the major Havelis that can be seen from this place are Patwon-Ki-Haveli, which beholds the beautifully designed and decorated frontage. Another haveli which is three century old and is still maintained in good condition is Salim Singh-Ki Haveli, which has artistically craved peacock design roof and many more attractive monuments near Manak Chowk.

Walking through this Golden city, one can understand the medieval grandeur and glory of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan.

Best Time to Visit

The perfect time to visit this exceptionally beautiful city built on yellow sandstone is between October and February during the desert festival. It is that time of year when one can witness the festivities.

How to Reach

By Air

Jodhpur is the nearest airport which is only 285 kms away. One can hire a taxi from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer or alternately can also travel by train to Jaisalmer

By Train

Jaisalmer is well connected with the major cities in India. Trains are easily available from Jodhpur and Delhi.

By Road

Jaisalmer has good connectivity through roads. Since the place is closer to Indo-Pak border all the roads are well maintained. All the buses of Rajasthan road transport service operate from various parts of the state.