Jaisalmer, popularly referred as the "golden city of India", is one of the most alluring tourist destinations in Rajasthan, India. Founded by a Rajput king, Rawal Jaisal, in 1156 A.D Jaisalmer is also known as "the Jewel of the Desert," as the yellow sandstone city is located deep in the heart of the Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is a great place to simply wander. The old city was once completely surrounded by an extensive wall, much of which has sadly been ripped away in recent times for building material. Some of it remains, however, including the city gates and, inside them, the massive fort which rises above the city and is the essence of Jaisalmer.