Golden Sands And Golden Bonds: Krishan’s Jaisalmer Trip Review With Thrillophilia
They say time changes everything, but as I planned this trip to Jaisalmer, I realised it hadn’t changed the bond we shared. My wife, her sister, and I had been inseparable since the day we all became family.
Back then, we were young, carefree, and always ready for the next adventure—whether it was an impromptu road trip or a lazy Sunday spent laughing over chai. But life has its way of adding layers to our stories.
Now, with retirement knocking on my door and the pace of life finally slowing, I felt a pull to revisit those carefree days. And so, I planned this trip—not just as a getaway, but as a way to reclaim a piece of who we were.
Little did I know, this trip to the Golden City wouldn’t just be a journey to the desert—it would be a journey back to laughter, friendship, and the simple joys we had almost forgotten.
The Golden Reunion
Our journey began in Jodhpur, a city that, though not as famed as others, has a character all its own. The deep blue of its houses and the rich history embedded in every stone of Mehrangarh Fort made it an unforgettable first stop. As we explored the winding streets and climbed the mighty fort, we felt like we were stepping into another world, one where time stood still.
But Jaisalmer welcomed us like an old friend—warm, vibrant, and steeped in stories. As we entered the city, the sight of its golden fort shimmering in the sunlight took our breath away. My wife, ever the history enthusiast, instantly launched into a stream of questions for our guide.
The fort was alive with activity—children playing in courtyards, vendors selling colourful textiles, and locals carrying out their daily routines. It was a living, breathing part of the city.
As we wandered through its narrow lanes, we came across an elderly shopkeeper carving miniature camels out of wood. My wife’s sister, who had a knack for connecting with people, struck up a conversation.
He shared stories of his craft, passed down through generations, and how the fort had changed over the years. “But the heart of Jaisalmer is the same,” he said, smiling. “It’s in its people and its stories.”
Later that day, we found ourselves at Gadisar Lake, a peaceful spot that seemed worlds away from the hustle of the city. We sat by the water, watching the sun dip below the horizon, its reflection turning the lake into a pool of gold.
Through the Desert’s Embrace
The next morning, we left the city behind and ventured into the Thar Desert. The vast expanse of sand, stretching endlessly under a pale blue sky, was humbling. It was as if the desert was reminding us how small we were in the grand scheme of things—and yet how precious every moment could be.
Our camel safari was a mix of hilarity and wonder. My wife’s sister immediately named her camel “Rajkumar” and started giving it pep talks, which made us all laugh. My wife, on the other hand, was trying to steady herself with every sway.
When we reached the top of a dune, the view left us speechless. The setting sun bathed the sands in hues of gold and crimson, creating a scene so perfect it felt like a painting. We sat there for a while, soaking in the silence and beauty of the moment.
The night at the desert camp was no less magical. Under a sky bursting with stars, we enjoyed traditional Rajasthani performances. The dancers, clad in vibrant attire, moved with a grace that was mesmerizing. At one point, they invited us to join them.
The two ladies with me didn’t need much convincing; they were up in a flash, twirling to the beat of the dhol. I couldn’t resist for long and found myself clapping along, much to the amusement of the crowd.
Dinner was a feast of authentic Rajasthani dishes—dal baati churma, spicy ker sangri, and gatte ki sabzi, served with the softest bajra rotis. The flavours were delicious, just like the desert itself. Around the bonfire, we talked late into the night, sharing stories, jokes, and dreams for the future.
Rediscovering Joy in Simplicity
Our final day in Jaisalmer was dedicated to its quieter corners. At Kuldhara Village, the abandoned houses and silent streets carried an air of mystery. My wife, always curious, asked our guide a million questions about its history, while her sister and I wandered through the ruins, imagining the lives once lived there.
Back in the city, we explored the bustling bazaars, where every stall seemed to have a story. My wife’s sister haggled with a shopkeeper over a set of embroidered cushion covers, leaving him laughing and shaking his head at her persistence. I picked out a small leather journal, planning to jot down memories of this trip—a keepsake from a journey that had brought us closer than ever.
A Journey Worth Taking
As the train pulled away from Jaisalmer, I felt a mix of emotions. The trip had been more than just a vacation; it was a reminder of the joys we once shared and the ones still waiting for us.
If you’re planning a trip to Jaisalmer, here’s my advice:
- Stay for the stories. Whether it’s a chat with a shopkeeper or a guide’s tale, Jaisalmer’s magic lies in its people.
- Experience the desert. A night under the stars at a desert camp is unforgettable. Don’t miss the camel ride, even if it feels a bit wobbly at first!
- Savor the food. From the tangy ker sangri to the sweet ghotua laddoos, every bite is a taste of Rajasthan’s rich culture.
- Slow down. Don’t rush through landmarks. Instead, take the time to soak in the atmosphere and let the city’s timeless charm work its magic.
Read more: Thrillophilia Jaisalmer Reviews