A travel Guide to Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Tourism

Popularly known as the Golden City of India, Jaisalmer is situated in the heart of the Thar desert. It offers a proper getaway from the fast-paced metropolitan cities. From being a place where you can enjoy your solitude, to a place where you can enjoy yourself with your loved ones, Jaisalmer tourism has everything for everyone. You can witness the rich royal culture of Rajasthan and dive into its cultural festivals that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. Besides, many outdoor sports and adventures can be enjoyed here, too.

Jaisalmer is the westernmost point of India. Here, you can visit the Indo-Pak border or just go sightseeing at Jaisalmer fort. One can experience a diverse cultural heritage present in this city’s art and architecture. Not only this, but Jaisalmer attractions also include a good share of flora and fauna.

Places to visit in Jaisalmer

1. Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort, also known as 'Sonar Qila' or 'Golden Fort,' is one of the world's largest forts and is situated on the city's southern outskirts. Besides, seeing a giant structure that exhibits its aesthetic beauty, a walk through the labyrinthine lanes will make your experience worthwhile. Located at a height of 250 ft., this fort provides a spectacular and panoramic view of this golden-yellow city. UNESCO world heritage site has categorised it under ‘Hill forts of India’. Jaisalmer Fort is not merely just a fort, but a mini town with temples, houses, stores, and restaurants. It was originally known as 'Trikut Garh' because of its triangular shape and the fact that it was built on top of the Trikuta Hills. This fort should be on top of your list of must-visit Jaisalmer attractions.

2. Jain Temples in Jaisalmer

While you are at Jaisalmer fort, Jain temples should be your next destination. The seven temples are interconnected and made of the same golden-yellow Jaisalmeri stones. These temples are gems of the city and one of the most popular places to visit in Jaisalmer for the people interested in history. The beautiful sculptures on the walls and pillars tell different stories and you can spend hours decoding them.

3. Patwon ki Haveli

Patwon ki Haveli, also known as the Mansion of Brocade Merchants, was built by a rich trader in the 19th century. It is a complex of five small havelis that were designed for the Patwa family, and the complex as a whole is the city's largest mansion. The haveli is also known as Kothari's Patwa Haveli by locals. Patwon ki Haveli is famous for its stunning wall paintings, balconies with panoramic views, gateways, arches, and, most notably, wall mirrors. It has a large number of artefacts and stonework that provide insight into the Patwa family's regal lifestyle.

4. Bada Bagh

Bada Bagh, or 'Big Garden,' is a garden complex in Rajasthan, located between Jaisalmer and Lodhruva. This is a famous site as the memorials of all Jaisalmer's Maharajas and other prominent family members are present here. Bada Bagh's atmosphere is breathtakingly beautiful. The chhatris are coloured in grey sand brown, which is the same as the surrounding landscape. It appears like a mirage in the desert. The majestic windmills located at a distance only add to the allure of this place.

5. Kuldhara Village

If listening to mysterious stories is fun for you, then this place must be a part of your Jaisalmer travel guide. Many myths and legends surround this village. Legend has it that people living here evacuated the town overnight in order to save their dignity and lives from a tyrannical ruler. This made the town calm but strangely quiet. There is not anything to do much, but the experience compensates for everything.

Things to do in Jaisalmer

Whether you are looking to spend time with your family or want to feel that adrenaline rush in your body, this city got you all covered. Let’s have a look at some of the things to do in Jaisalmer.

Camel safari at Sam Sand dunes

You can book a Camel safari to explore the sand dunes of Thar and learn about Rajasthan's heritage, culture, and history. This is a one-of-a-kind experience that can give you a taste of the royalty of Rajasthan. The route is organised by a local Jaisalmer travel guide in such a way that the traveller would be able to explore the desert in the best way possible. You can see stunning sand dunes while admiring sand roof homes, colourful costumes of the villagers and vibrant city locations. Overall, this whole experience will transport you to a different age. If you want to experience a closer look at the culture of the desert, do spend a night camping in the dunes.

Dune Bashing

If you are having an adrenaline rush and want to experience something that would make your heart skip a beat, then this is the perfect activity that you can try. Fasten your seatbelt and prepare for an exciting dune bashing adventure. The location is about 38 to 40 kilometres away from the fort of Jaisalmer, where you can perform dune bashing with your favourite vehicle. You can also try your hands on paramotoring and quad biking here.

Jeep safari at Desert National Park

Going to Jaisalmer and not experiencing its diverse wildlife will be like ending a meal without dessert. Despite it being a dry region, this city has its own fair share of flora and fauna. The best way to explore this side of Jaisalmer would be by jeep safaris. This would be a completely different and thrilling experience. From seeing the chinkara and blackbuck to the exotic variety of migratory birds like the Great Indian Bustard while experiencing the desert ecosystem would definitely make your Jaisalmer tour unforgettable.

Boating in Gadisar Lake

If you are looking to have a pleasant and calm evening, Gadisar lake is your stop. This lake offers a picturesque view that is surely going to stay in your hearts forever. It was built by Raja Rawal Jaisal in the 14^th century to cater to the water needs of the villagers amidst the dry desert. Brownie points to those visiting in the winter season, you might be fortunate to see the exotic migratory birds from the nearby Bharatpur bird sanctuary flocking in and around the lake.

Best time to visit Jaisalmer

This golden city of India attracts travellers from all across the world. The best time to visit Jaisalmer is between the month of October and March. The temperature ranges from 5 degrees to 24 degrees centigrade in that period. Winter is the best season to visit Jaisalmer because the temperature is ideal for sightseeing.

In February, Jaisalmer hosts a desert festival that offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience to the tourists. You can visit this fest to enjoy Rajasthani cuisine and traditional music performed by the locals. Winter is when Jaisalmer tourist places come to life in all their glory.

How to reach Jaisalmer?

Jaisalmer is well connected to Jodhpur that makes it easily accessible to tourists. How to reach Jaisalmer through different modes of transport is explained in detail here:

By Roadways: Unfortunately, there are no direct buses to reach Jaisalmer from the nearby states as it would be quite a long ride to reach Jaisalmer by road. So, first, you have to reach Jaipur or Jodhpur and from there you can get a bus to Jaisalmer.

By Railways: Train connectivity to Jaisalmer from the nearby states of India is quite good. There are direct trains available from Delhi and Jaipur. You can hire an auto rickshaw or a private taxi to take you into town from the station.

By Airways: Jodhpur Airport is the nearest domestic airport, and it is the fastest way to get to Jaisalmer by air. Flights to Jodhpur are available from all the major cities. It will take you about 5 to 6 hours to get to Jaisalmer from the airport. You can hire prepaid or private taxis, but they can be a little expensive. For international tourists, the best way would be to fly to Delhi international airport.