Historians say that the history of Jaisalmer district is quite ennobled by an interesting story. Maharawal Jaisal had laid the foundation of the fort and town of Jaisalmer in the year 1156 AD. He did so in order to shift his capital to this safer place from the then capital town from Ludharva, which lays nearly 18 Kms away from Jaisalmer.

Jaisalmer state forms part of the present day Jaisalmer district . Bhati, a clan belonging to `Yadu Rajputs of Chandrawasnshi (Lunar) race` ruled over this region.

They are believed to have descended from Lord Krishna, the legendary hero who had reigned at Dwarka.

History of Jaisalmer district further is embellished by its association with the British rulers. During the British era, this Jaisalmer state was one of the Rajputana States, which received protection from them.

The treaty between Maharawal Moolraj-II and the British government is a milestone, which had been bestowed upon the responsibility of the principality of Jaisalmer. It was signed on 12th December of the year of 1818. The terms of this treaty was such that the king of this state was bound to act under the subordination of British Empire. The year 1938-39 saw the occurrence of Afgan War when the contemporary king, namely, Maharawal Gaj Singh was reigning. He made good arrangements of transportation of the troops of British rulers. Because of their timely help and corporation the Britons showed their gratitude and appreciation.

In the year 1949 Jaisalmer was amalgamated into Rajasthan state. As such there was no significant change made in the structure of the state. October 6,1949 was a watershed since the region received the prestige and status of being an autonomous district of the Jodhpur division.