Jaisalmer rises from the Thar Desert in the far west of Rajasthan, close to the Pakistan border. It is known for the yellow sandstone used in its fort, havelis and temples. Jaisalmer Fort was founded in 1156. It is one of the few forts in India where people still live inside the walls. You will find Jain temples, small guesthouses and craft shops there. Nathmal ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli and Salim Singh ki Haveli show the fine stone carving of the old merchant families. Gadisar Lake is quiet at dawn. Beyond the town, the Sam and Khuri dunes are the usual stops for camel rides and desert camps. Kuldhara and Bada Bagh are short drives away. The Desert Festival in February adds folk music and camel events. Summers are extremely hot. October to March is the sensible time to go, with warm days and cold desert nights.