3-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
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- Jaisalmer in 3 days
- 1-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
- 2-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
- 4-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
- 5-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
Table of contents
Day 1: most popular attractions, day 2: south side of town, day 3: keep it simple, jaisalmer fort.
Nathmal Ki Haveli
Kothari's Patwon ki Haveli • पटवा हवेली
Salam singh ki haweli (moti mahal), gadisar lake, where to eat, natraj restaurant, the traveler's cup premium coffee shop, zoya ka zayeka-jaisalmer restaurant, the trio restaurant.
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Jaisalmer War Museum
Sam sand dune jaisalmer, welcomheritage mandir palace, desert cultural centre, akal wood fossil park, kabab corner restaurant, 1st gate home-fusion, café the kaku.
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Tanot Mata Temple
Longewala war memorial, the thar heritage museum, government museum, raja ka mahal, lake view restaurant, restaurant junction palace, the golden house.
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Top searches in Jaisalmer
Popular road trips from jaisalmer, what's the weather like in jaisalmer.
It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Jaisalmer for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.
- Weather in Jaisalmer in January
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- Weather in Jaisalmer in July
- Weather in Jaisalmer in August
- Weather in Jaisalmer in September
- Weather in Jaisalmer in October
- Weather in Jaisalmer in November
- Weather in Jaisalmer in December
All road trips from Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer to New Delhi drive
- Jaisalmer to Jaipur drive
- Jaisalmer to Mumbai drive
- Jaisalmer to Jodhpur drive
- Jaisalmer to Udaipur drive
- Jaisalmer to Agra drive
- Jaisalmer to Ahmedabad drive
- Jaisalmer to Kathmandu drive
- Jaisalmer to Bengaluru drive
- Jaisalmer to Hyderabad drive
- Jaisalmer to Amritsar drive
- Jaisalmer to Pune drive
- Jaisalmer to Shimla drive
- Jaisalmer to Manali Tehsil drive
- Jaisalmer to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
- Jaisalmer to Srinagar drive
- Jaisalmer to Varanasi drive
- Jaisalmer to Mount Abu drive
- Jaisalmer to Chandigarh drive
- Jaisalmer to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
- Jaisalmer to Pushkar drive
- Jaisalmer to Leh drive
- Jaisalmer to Dharamsala drive
- Jaisalmer to Chennai (Madras) drive
- Jaisalmer to Bikaner drive
- Jaisalmer to Amer drive
- Jaisalmer to Kochi (Cochin) drive
- Jaisalmer to Pokhara drive
- Jaisalmer to Sawai Madhopur drive
Explore nearby places
- Mirpur Khas
All related maps of Jaisalmer
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- Map of Khuri
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- Map of Ramdevra
- Map of Barmer
- Map of Phalodi
- Map of Khichan
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- Map of Golasani
- Map of Khairpur
- Map of Mandore
- Map of Sukkur
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- Map of Salawas
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- Map of Gajner
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- Map of Tando Adam
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- Map of Bikaner
- Map of Pali
- Map of Larkana
- Map of Nagaur
- Map of Jacobabad
Jaisalmer throughout the year
- Jaisalmer in January
- Jaisalmer in February
- Jaisalmer in March
- Jaisalmer in April
- Jaisalmer in May
- Jaisalmer in June
- Jaisalmer in July
- Jaisalmer in August
- Jaisalmer in September
- Jaisalmer in October
- Jaisalmer in November
- Jaisalmer in December
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Jaisalmer?
Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:
Day itineraries for nearby cities
- 3-Day Jodhpur Itinerary
- 3-Day Bikaner Itinerary
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- ONE WEEK ITINERARY
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- ALLEPPEY TRAVEL GUIDE
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3 days Jaisalmer itinerary 👑 BEST places to visit in Jaisalmer 👑 Backpacking Rajasthan, North India
So you’re looking at planning your trip to Rajasthan, and you’re trying to figure out your itinerary and how many days to spend in Jaisalmer.
3 days can be a PERFECT number of days to spend in Jaisalmer!
Below is a guide to Jaisalmer and ideas for how exactly to plan out each of those days in Jaisalmer.
You can also see how to spend your days in the Thar Desert (camel safari) , Jaipur (pink city) , Jodhpur (blue city) , Udaipur (city of lakes) , Agra , and the Taj Mahal !
And oh hey! After Jaisalmer and North India, you can head to South India which is where Kerala is! Also see how to spend one week in Kerala and how to spend one month in South India !
Get ideas on how to get around Rajasthan, including by local train to Jaisalmer and overnight train from Jaisalmer , along with taking the bus .
And if you’re backpacking to Jaisalmer alone, you may like the idea of staying at one of the best hostels in Jaisalmer .
How golden is the Golden City?
Rajasthan is a state of colors.
With Jaipur being called the Pink City , there are certain parts of the city, as well as the Jaipur City Palace, that are truly pink.
With Jodhpur being called the Blue City , you kind of need to go hunting for the blue streets.
How about Jaisalmer as the Golden City?
It is truly “golden” everywhere! You really don’t have to go looking for it, and you don’t need to be in a certain part of the city to see it. You can truly see the same shade of color no matter where you are!
First, the quick list of the must-visit places in Jaisalmer.
Then, a more detailed look into how you can fit ALL of these places into your 3 day Jaisalmer itinerary.
6 best places to visit in Jaisalmer in 3 days
1. jaisalmer haveli.
2. Gadisar Lake
3. Jaisalmer Fort
4. Sunset point
5. Golden streets of the Golden City
6. Thar Desert for overnight camel safari
How to put the best places to visit into a 3 day Jaisalmer itinerary?
Day 1 in jaisalmer, list of things to do for day 1:, visit to a jaisalmer haveli, sunset boat ride on gadisar lake, day 2 in jaisalmer (and desert), list of things to do for day 2:.
Make a trip to the Thar Desert on an overnight camel safari tour from Jaisalmer.
- Sunset camel ride with overnight desert tour
- Campfire in the desert with Rajasthani cuisine
- Sleeping under the stars in the desert
Day 3 in Jaisalmer (and desert)
List of things to do for day 3:.
- Sunrise over the sand dunes
- Morning camel ride through the desert
- Visit to Jaisalmer Fort
- Get lost on the golden streets of the Golden City
Visit a sunset point for iconic views
I took a midnight train from Jaisalmer to Jaipur. I talk a little bit about public transportation in Rajasthan, including the Jaisalmer to Jaipur train, in this backpacking India itinerary for 2 weeks in Rajasthan .
More for your Rajasthan itinerary:
- 3 days in Udaipur
- 2 days in Jodhpur
- 3 days in Jaisalmer
- 3 days in Jaipur
- 1 day in Agra
Now, here’s a bit more about the Jaisalmer itinerary to see if it’s something you want to follow!
Day 1 in jaisalmer.
Apart from desert experiences, one thing that Jaisalmer is famous for is its havelis. These are a specific style of homes or buildings, and there are a number of them scattered throughout the city.
Among the famous havelis are:
- Patwa-ki-Haveli
- Nathmal-ki-Haveli
For a nice relaxing evening, you can head on over to the Gadisar Lake.
This boat does require manual labor though!
These are cycling boats, which means it requires pedal power in order to move! So be prepared to get a little bit of exercise during this sunset boat ride!
DAY 2 IN JAISALMER (and Thar Desert)
Overnight camel safari in the thar desert.
There are a number of different types of overnight desert tours that start at different times during the day, and that last for a different number of days.
You can find overnight tours that start in the morning or afternoon. And you can find overnight tours that last for just one night, or you can stay longer in the desert if you want to.
I did an overnight desert tour that started in the afternoon and ended the next day in the morning.
Best things about an overnight desert tour
1. sunset camel ride.
2. Campfire dinner with Rajasthani cuisine
3. Sleeping under the stars in the desert
4. Sunrise over the sand dunes
See here for more about what you get with an overnight camel safari , including the average cost of these kinds of tours.
DAY 3 IN JAISALMER
After you return from the overnight camel safari in the morning…
Get lost on the golden streets of the Golden City at the Jaisalmer Fort
The Jaisalmer Fort has a lot of narrow streets that can make you feel like you’re in a maze the first time you go.
This can make it a good place to explore!
You’ll want to make sure you locate the cannon. This is where you can find some of the best views of Jaisalmer from inside the fort!
There are also places to stay within the fort if you’re looking for a unique experience!
The best way to locate the sunset points in Jaisalmer near where you are staying is to ask the staff at your hotel!
Whether it’s one of the spots that’s called a sunset point across the city, or it’s on a rooftop of a restaurant or building, there’s no better way to end your time in Jaisalmer than watching the sunset!
HAPPY JAISALMER ITINERARY PLANNING!
How to spend 2 weeks in rajasthan.
- 3 days in Udaipur (city of lakes)
- 2 days in Jodhpur (blue city)
- Thar desert (camel safari)
- 3 days in Jaipur (pink city)
PLUS: One month in South India
- Gokarna to Goa
- Alleppey to Cochin
- Kerala to southern tip of India
- Goa to Hampi
- Hospet to Hampi
- Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram
- Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry
- Palolem to Goa airport
- Pondicherry to Madurai
- Madurai to Kerala (South India)
- Mumbai to Udaipur
The Ultimate 3 Days in Jaisalmer Itinerary
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If you are planning to spend 3 days in Jaisalmer and are looking for a perfect Jaisalmer itinerary, read on!
Founded by and named after Rawal Jaisal in 1156, Jaisalmer (literally translates to the Hill Fort of Jaisal ) attracts travelers from every corner of the world.
They come here to explore the beauty of the Great Indian Desert aka the Thar Desert .
Surrounded by the silken golden sand of the desert and dotted by houses adorning the striking honey hue of Jaisalmer yellow stone gives Jaisalmer the moniker of the Golden City of India .
🐪 You Might Enjoy Our 10 Days in North India Itinerary
JAISALMER QUICK LINKS Airport Transfer: Book arrival meet-and-greet plus airport transfer to your hotel in Jaisalmer at reasonable prices on Viator . Where to Stay: Mud Mirror Guesthouse (budget); WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace (mid-range); Boutique Helsinki (boutique); Rang Mahal (heritage); Suryagarh Jaisalmer (luxury); SUJÁN The Serai (desert camp) Top Rated City Tour: Heritage Walking Tour in Jaisalmer Fort & Old Bazaar Top Rated Food Tour: Royal Jaisalmer Food Crawl Top Rated Day Tour: The Haunted Village of Kuldhara Top Rated Desert Safari & Camping Tours: Overnight Camel Safari ; Billion stars Experience in the Desert ; Sunset Desert Safari & Cultural Show Ground Transport: If you are heading to Bikaner, Jaipur , Udaipur , or Jodhpur next, you can easily book train and bus tickets in advance on 12GoAsia
3-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary: An Outline
Day 1: Jaisalmer Fort (Jain Temples & Tazia Tower) + Salam Singh ki Haveli + Nathmalji ki Haveli + Patwon ki Haveli + Gadisar Lake Day 2: Lodurva (Jain Temples) + Kuldhara + Thar Desert Safari + Overnight in Desert Camp + Night Jeep Safari (Optional) Day 3: Ghantiyali Mata Temple + Tanot Mata Temple + Indo-Pak Border + Longewala War Memorial + Bada Bagh
Detailed Jaisalmer Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Jaisalmer
Sand dunes are, naturally, the major draw for travelers, however, Jaisalmer is teeming with many other historical and cultural gems that need your time and attention.
Our itinerary for Jaisalmer covers the desert experience as well as all those gems.
🐪 Related Read: How to Spend 4 Days in Udaipur
Day 1 of 3 Days in Jaisalmer Itinerary
8 am: breakfast @ cafe cavalli.
Cafe Cavalli with its amazing setting is among the best cafes in Jaisalmer.
It’s a perfect place to get a hearty breakfast and a good cup of coffee to start your morning off right.
The food is toothsome, and the view of the fort is fantastic.
9 am: Jaisalmer Fort (Jain Temples and Tazia Tower)
One of the topmost things to do in Jaisalmer in 3 Days has to be to explore the majestic mud fort, Jaisalmer Fort.
The city’s most adored landmark is also known as Sonar Qila (Golden Fort). Looking at the yellow sandstone fort during the sunset, you’d know why it’s called so!
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fort is one of the last remaining living forts in the world.
The fort houses over one-fourth of the city’s population within its walls. It’s, in fact, a hodgepodge of homes, temples, bazaars, shops, hotels, restaurants, and cafes.
Exploring Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most culturally immersive experiences in India .
It’s fun getting lost in the maze of alleyways inside the fort and chancing upon the gems.
Gopa Chowk and Dussehra Chowk are two important courtyards where you can find vibrant shops, nice cafes, local artists presenting traditional music and dance performances, and entertaining tourists with a puppet show.
The most beautiful attractions inside the fort include the Jain Temples , Tazia Tower , Laxminath Temple , and Raj Mahal Palace .
There are seven Jain Temples inside the fort-Chandraprabhu, Rishabhdev, Parsvanatha, Shitalnath, Sambhavanath, Shantinath, and Kunthunath-each more beautiful than the next.
Tazia Tower is a five-storey architectural marvel located inside the Badal Palace Complex at Amar Sagar Gate.
The Raj Mahal Palace is the former residence of the Maharawal of Jaisalmer now converted into a museum.
Then there are some epic viewpoints to luxuriate in the scenic views over the city of Jaisalmer.
The old cannon viewpoint is one of the most talked-about viewpoints inside the fort.
You can walk up to the ramparts and bastions to discover the hidden viewpoints and soak up the stunning views of the city outside the fort.
As you navigate the quieter side streets, you’ll find a variety of items you can buy.
The colorful display of traditional dresses, jewelry, shoes, bed sheets, puppets, and a range of souvenirs attracts tourists.
Jaisalmer Fort Opening Timings: 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Jaisalmer Fort Entry Ticket: Free
Jain Temples Opening Timings: 8 am to 12 pm
Jain Temples Entry Ticket: The entry is free for Indians but they need to pay INR 30 (USD 0.38) for a mobile camera and INR 50 (USD 0.63) for a still camera. Foreigners pay INR 250 (USD 3.13) for the entry which includes an audio guide and a still camera. The video camera fee is INR 100 (USD 1.25).
Raj Mahal Palace (Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum) Opening Timings: All days of the week from 6 am to 5 pm
Raj Mahal Palace (Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum) Entry Ticket: INR 50 (USD 0.63)per Indian, INR 250 (USD 3.13) per foreigner, INR 50 (USD 0.63) for a still camera, and INR 100 (USD 1.25) for a video camera
For those who seek the ease of guided tour, here are the best of the lot: Private Heritage Walking Tour in Jaisalmer Fort and Old Bazaar , Walk and Talk by the Jaisalmer Fort , Private Jaisalmer Tuk Tuk Full Day Tour with Pick Up , and Jaisalmer Heritage Walk
12 pm: Pyaaz ki Kachori at Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia Sweets
It’s time to take your taste buds on a joy ride. Gorge on the most famous snack in Jaisalmer, pyaaz ki kachori (onion fritters) at Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia Sweets .
Combine this hot, spicy, and lip-smacking snack with mint chutney for a wholesome treat to the tastebuds.
Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia Sweets is also famous for its Ghotua Laddoo , Panchdhari Ladoo , and Mirchi Bhajiya .
12:30 pm: Salam Sing Ki Haveli
Commissioned in 1815 by Salam Singh, the erstwhile prime minister of Jaisalmer is a crumbling yet beautiful piece of architecture.
Inspired by a dancing peacock, its arched roof gives the appearance of a peacock.
The Haveli is divided into two parts – a part is occupied by the descendants of Salam Singh while another portion is converted into a shop and museum.
As it’s a private residence(not managed by ASI), a resident guides the visitor for a small amount of fee.
Moti Mahal, located on the top floor, is the most beautiful room in the haveli.
It’s where the homeowner and his guests used to enjoy dance and music performances.
Opening Timings: 8 am to 5 pm every day
Entry Ticket: INR 20 (USD 0.25) per Indian, INR 100 (USD 1.25) per foreigner, INR 50 (USD 0.63) for a still camera, and INR 100 (USD 1.25) for a video camera
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1 pm: Nathmalji Ki Haveli
The former residence of the then prime minister of Jaisalmer, Diwan Mohata Nathmal, the haveli was designed by two Muslim jewelers (yes, surprisingly they weren’t builders) brothers who built their respective sides (left and right) that look similar but have differences if observed closely.
It’s a private property inhabited by the descendants of Nathmal and you can only admire the structure from outside or at most visit the ground floor courtyard that houses a tourist shop.
Opening Timings: 10 am to 7 pm daily
Entry Ticket: Free
1:30 pm: Patwon Ki Haveli
Patwon Ki Haveli or Mansion of Brocade Merchants is a remarkable historical piece and a fine example of traditional Rajasthani architecture. It also is
The most impressive and elaborate among all the Havelis in Jaisalmer, Patwon Ki Haveli is a group of five mansions (one for each of his 5 sons) commissioned by a rich Marwari merchant called Guman Chand Patwa in 1805 and completed over a period of 55 years.
Built with yellow sandstone, the multiple-storey mansions have incredible latticed carvings and over 60 jharokhas (balconies).
Each haveli comprises a huge courtyard enclosed by rooms and arched doors and windows.
Out of 5 Havelis, 2 are operated by the Archeological Survey of India, 2 are occupied by the family of Guman Chand Bapna, and 1 is bought and managed by Kotharis.
Now the two of them are open to tourists wherein one is converted into a private museum called Kathori’s Patwa Haveli Museum after its owner, Jeevanlalji Kothari, and the other one is kept in its original form (not well-maintained and inhabited by pigeons and bats) and is managed by ASI.
Kathori’s Patwa Haveli Museum with intricate carvings, exquisite mirror work, amazing paintings, exceptional artwork, and ancient exhibits is definitely worth your time and money and a must-visit for all, especially history and art lovers.
A visit here literally takes you back in time!
Once you are done exploring the museum, make your way to the terrace for the stunning views of the fort.
Kathori’s Patwa Haveli Museum Opening Timings : 9 am to 6 pm daily
Kathori’s Patwa Haveli Museum Entrance Ticket : INR 100 (USD 1.25) per Indian tourist and INR 250 (USD 3.13) per foreign tourist
Government-Owned Haveli Opening Timings: 8:30 am to 6 pm daily
Government-Owned Haveli Entry Tickets: INR 10 (USD 0.13) per Indian tourist and INR 50 (USD 0.63) per foreign tourist
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2:30 pm: Lunch @ The Jaisal Treat
A peaceful location, great food, nice ambiance, and exceptional service – that’s the Jaisal Treat for you.
This multi-cuisine restaurant is sure to make your culinary experience in Jaisalmer unforgettable.
3:30 pm to 4:30 pm: Relax at your Hotel
If you have time (because you’ve planned well) and you can afford to let up a bit then why not?
This becomes even more relevant to families traveling with kids .
They need time off.
5 pm: Relish Makhania Lassi at Kanchan Shree Ice Cream
Makhania Lassi with its creamy and buttery taste and texture is sure to leave you wanting more.
The best place to try this tasty drink is Kanchan Shree Ice Cream .
You can’t leave the outlet before you try their signature dessert called Gaba Gab .
It’s prepared using fruit cream (whipped cream and fresh fruits) and rabri (semi-liquid condensed milk) and then topped with a scoop of your favorite flavor of ice cream, and finally garnished with dry fruits like raisins, cherries, and cashews.
5:30 pm: Sunset @ Gadisar Lake
Commissioned in 1400 AD by Maharwal Gadsi Singh to deal with the shortage of water in the region, Gadisar Lake is a perfect spot to spend some quiet time in Jaisalmer thanks to its cool and calm surroundings.
The banks of the lake feature beautifully carved chhatris (cenotaphs), temples, and holy shrines.
The intricately carved yellow sandstone arched gateway called Tilon Ki Po l marks the entrance of the lake.
It looks mesmerizing during sunrise and sunset.
The lake turns into a magical place as the setting sun spreads its orange and red hue on its waters.
No surprise that it’s the favorite sunset spot in the city. And a favorite photoshoot spot too.
You can paddleboat and rowboat the waters of the lake, spot the migratory birds, enjoy the view of the majestic fort bathed in the last rays of the sun, take a refreshing walk around the lake, or just sit and relax and watch the sun go down.
Opening Timings: 7 am to 7 pm on all days
Boating Charges: INR 100 (USD 1.25) for a 2-seater paddle boat, INR 200 (USD 2.50) for a 4-seater paddle boat, and INR 300 (USD 3.75) for a 6-seater rowboat
6:30 pm: Evening Tea @ HALO Jaisalmer
A cup of evening tea or coffee with snacks at this beautiful little cafe called Halo Jaisalmer with an uninterrupted view of Gadisar Lake comes highly recommended.
8 pm: Dinner @ Desert Boy’s Dhani
When it comes to authentic Rajasthani food in Jaisalmer, Desert Boy’s Dhani should be on your go-to list.
You can feast on rich traditional dishes like Dal Bati Churma, Ker Sangri, Gatte ki sabzi, Marwadi Kadhi, Bajre ki Roti, and much more.
They also host folk music and dance performances in the evenings.
🐪 Here Are Some of the Best Places to Visit in Jaipur
Day 2 of 3 Days in Jaisalmer Itinerary
9 am: breakfast @ the wanderlust cafe & restaurant.
The Wanderlust Cafe & Restaurant is a cozy and lovely place with a rooftop setting that affords a view over the city and the fort. We had a delish breakfast here!
10:30 am: Lodurva
Just about 7 km from the city of Jaisalmer lies the ancient capital of Bhatti Rajputs – Lodurva. The village isn’t just known for being the old capital of Bhatis but pulls travelers from around the world for its architectural ruins and Jain Temples.
The main temple in the complex is Parshvanath Jain Temple . As the name suggests, it’s dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankar.
Made out of yellow sandstone, the exterior, as well as the interior of the temple, showcases exceptional works of art.
It certainly exhibits a fine example of intricate craftsmanship.
Other temples in the complex are Ajitanath Jain Temple, Rishabhnath Jain Temple, Shambhavnath Jain Temple
The temple complex also houses Kalpavriksha or Kalpatru , a wish-fulfilling divine tree.
The eternal tree of life is believed to fulfill the wishes of devotees.
There’s a hole or crevice in the wall of the temple that’s believed to be inhabited by a snake.
Locals worship the snake and offer a bowl of milk in the evening. They say that the snake comes out of the hole every evening to accept the offer.
Surprisingly, the bowl is empty by morning. The sight of this snake is considered a blessing.
I waited for some time for the snake to grace me by making an appearance but all in vain!
Visiting Time: 8 am to 12 pm every day
Entry Ticket: Free for Indians and INR 10 (USD 0.13) for foreigners
🐪 You Must Add Chand Baori Stepwell in Abhaneri to Your Rajasthan Itinerary!
11:30 am: Kuldhara
Kuldhara, a ghost town is one of the famous haunted places in Rajasthan. Once (around the 13th century) home to Paliwal Brahmins, the village was abandoned (in the early 19th century) overnight by the entire community for untold reasons.
It could be due to a pandemic or an earthquake or water shortage or the inhumanity of Salam Singh (prime minister to the Maharwal of Jaisalmer), as locals claim.
The villagers left a curse on the village that no one would ever be able to settle there.
It is said that from then on whenever someone tries to stay here, strange paranormal activities chase them away.
Consequently, it remains deserted and haunted to this date. 84 other villages were also abandoned the same night.
The village is now managed by ASI. They have restored it so tourists can get an insight into how life must have been then.
It didn’t look spooky to me but I could smell sadness in the air.
Opening Timings: 8 am to 6 pm daily
Entry Ticket: INR 10 (USD 0.13) per person and INR 50 (USD 0.63) per vehicle
PS: It’s time to head for the most awaited experience. Yes, exploring the Thar Desert! Most tourists head to Sam Sand Dunes , counted as one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer. They are the most famous sand dunes and thus, more commercial and more crowded. And all the activities and camps are pricey here. We chose Khuri Sand Dunes . They are lesser-known sand dunes and thus, less commercial, more peaceful, and less expensive. Appearance-wise, both look the same.
Book a Day Tour to the Haunted Village of Kuldhara from Jaisalmer
🐪 A Haunted Fort of Bhangarh Near Jaipur is Sure to Intrigue You!
1:30 pm: Check-in at Pal Rajah Desert Camp
Located inside the Thar Desert National Park , Pal Rajah Desert Camp is one of the best luxury tented accommodations right on the sand dunes of Thar Desert.
The resort gives a feel of a traditional desert village and is equipped with modern amenities.
It’s rated highly for its beautiful location, good food, amazing facilities, and super hospitality, and stands out as one of the highly recommended resorts for a desert experience in Jaisalmer.
We stayed in a super deluxe Swiss tent. It was spacious, comfortable, and clean and had heating and cooling systems in place.
The ensuite bathroom had running hot and cold water. My favorite part of the stay?
I loved having a cup of tea on the patio overlooking the vast expanse of beautiful golden sand dunes.
Our package included a night stay in a luxury tent with breakfast, dinner, and high tea, a camel safari, and a cultural program of Rajasthani folk music and dance.
We paid extra for dune bashing and stargazing desert camping.
Once the check-in formalities were completed, we had a hearty lunch at the onsite restaurant and retired for a little rest in our tent.
The concerned person informed us to reach the reception by 16:30 for a camel safari (our first ever) and dune bashing.
5 pm: Thar Desert Safari
As you come out of the resort, the camels with their masters will be waiting for you.
Camels and their saddle seats are beautifully adorned with a traditional patchwork fabric and vibrant pompons.
If it’s your first time riding a camel (like us), don’t worry. The camel rider will help you sit on and ride the camel.
I personally found getting on the camel rather comical. And the most fun part is when the camel gets up while you’re on its back 😉
Mind you, a camel stands up with its back legs first.
Nevertheless, we thoroughly enjoyed the camel safari and you are going too.
We trotted up and down the dunes before we finally made it to the vast expanse of sand dunes.
The sight of rolling sand dunes stretching to the horizon is awe-inspiring.
Mini-me jumped away on the sand and raced her up the dunes while I and hubby lounged on the sand as we waited for the sun to set.
As the sun slid down and cast a deep orange glow over the desert horizon, we could only gaze in awe.
We were so engrossed in enjoying the beauty of the moment that almost forgot to capture the mesmerizing desert sunset.
Our guide called us to experience the thrill of dune bashing .
It’s crazy I mean the way the jeep zooms over the dunes at rapid speed and drops suddenly as it comes down the dunes.
I felt as if the jeep was going to fall off the dunes. It’s sheer madness. You must try it!
6 pm: High Tea and Dinner with Cultural Program
By the time we came back to the resort, the stage was set for the cultural program .
The seating arrangement was done around the campfire and the snacks and tea were served to the guests.
The men and women dressed in traditional attire put together a charismatic Rajasthani folk music and dance performance.
The women mesmerize the guests by exhibiting different forms of folk dances of Rajasthan like Kalbelia, Bhavai, Chakri, and Ghoomar.
The program continues till you have your dinner. The dinner buffet includes tasty and authentic local delicacies like Ker Sangri, Dal Bati Churma, and Bajre ki Roti.
11 pm: Night Jeep Safari with Bonfire and Stargazing
The best way to explore the star-studded night sky of the Thar desert is on a stargazing safari.
A dazzling night sky gazing at you with the bonfire and the peace of the desert – then viola! What could be more beautiful than this?
Book a Guided Thar Desert Experience The Billion Stars Experience in the Desert Overnight Stay in the Desert Amazing Overnight Experience Under the Stars in Thar Desert A Night in Thar Desert
Day 3 of 3 Days in Jaisalmer Itinerary
8 am: breakfast @ cafe+.
Cafe+ has a super chill ambiance. Its eco-friendly (made out of recyclable materials) and quirky decors give out the boho vibe.
Not to mention the delicious food, courteous staff, prompt service, warm host, and amazing view of the fort.
While you’re there, you must try their masala chai alongside cheese omelets and grilled sandwiches.
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10:30 am: Ghantiyali Mata Temple
This temple is on the way to Tanot Mata Temple from Jaisalmer. Tanot Mata is 7 km away from Ghantiyali Mata.
Our original plan didn’t include a visit to the temple of Ghantiyali Mata (we didn’t know about it) but one of the locals urged us to take blessings of Ghantiyali Mata before visiting Tanot Mata Temple.
They (Rajputs) believe that your visit to Tanot Mata is incomplete without visiting Ghantiyali Mata.
11 am: Tanot Mata Temple
Believed to be an incarnation of the divine goddess Hinglaj Mata, locals display utmost devotion to Tanot Mata.
Located in the tiny village of Tanot near the Indo-Pak border, Tanot Mata Temple is managed by the Indian Army (BSF) and thus, is well-maintained.
Indian Army Personnel share miraculous legends about how Tanot Mata (Avad Mata) helped Indian soldiers win the crucial battles of 1965 and 1971 against Pakistan.
The battle site of the Indo-Pak war of 1965 and 1971, Longewala is about 38 km from this temple.
In 1965, the Pakistan army dropped more than 3000 bombs but none of them exploded and didn’t do any harm.
BSF, after winning the 1965 war took charge of this temple. The same happened during an intense war in 1971. India won despite all odds.
Indian Army developed a strong faith in Tanot Mata.
Post-1971 war, BSF commissioned a huge temple along with a museum (you can see the unexploded bombs on display here) that recounts the glory of the temple.
You can also witness the Vijay Stambha inside the temple complex that commemorates the victory of Longewala.
1 pm: Indo-Pak Border (Border Pillar 609)
Indo-Pak Border (Border Pillar 609) is just about 20 km from Tanot Mata Temple. If you want to visit the International border, you must take permission.
PS: Indians have something about visiting the India-Pakistan Border. It not only fascinates us Indians but imbues a desire to see beyond the wires and fences. After all, both nations were once one. They are fashioned out of the same fabric and share cultural and linguistic values. A visit to the border brings back the horrors of partition stirs deep emotions and invokes a patriotic feeling.
The BSF check post near the entrance gate of the temple issued a visiting pass.
You’d need to submit a driver’s license (yours if you are driving your own car or your driver’s if you are traveling in a taxi) and they might ask for the IDs of the travelers in a car.
You can reclaim the driver’s license on your way back.
Also, they make you sign the out-entry register that keeps track of those leaving for the border.
They issue a single pass for two cars.
Both the cars need to drive to the border together as the border check posts on the way to the Indo-Pak border validate the pass.
Once you reach the border check post, you are required to sign the visitor’s register.
BSF Personnel warmly welcome tourists and patiently and enthusiastically answer all questions they toss at them.
It’s heartening to see how cool, calm, positive, and happy they remain despite the harsh conditions they work in.
You can see the double fencing that separates India and Pakistan but you are not allowed to get closer to it.
If you want to spot the Pakistan check post or Pakistani Rangers, you can do so by using their binoculars.
Note: I’d recommend you make your driver (along with his driving license) queue up at the BSF post while you visit the temple to receive the blessings of the Goddess so he could secure the visiting pass by the time you come out of the temple. It saves a lot of time and energy. We endured an extra long queue in the peak afternoon sun and also witnessed quite a tussle over a disorderly queue before we could get hold of the pass.
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2 pm: Longewala War Memorial
Longewala War Memorial is built right on the site where one of the most notable battles in the history of India, the 1971 Battle of Longewala took place.
The museum narrates the moments of valor and bravery of the soldiers of India and is well-maintained by the Indian Army.
You can witness Longewala Yudh-sthal (the real battlefield or war zone), uniforms and ammunition used by the Indian soldiers, and unit medals.
The walls are inscribed with the names and pictures of the brave martyrs, accounts of the battle, and testimonials.
Outside, you can catch sight of the actual bunkers and captured Pakistani tanks.
Another notable sight here is BP 638 which recounts the untold but fierce Battle of Boundary Pillar (BP) 638 fought by 13 Kumaon.
You can’t miss a 15-minute documentary that brings out the courage and patriotism of the Indian soldiers during the war.
I loved the way the movie is being screened in an actual bunker used during the war. Feels.
Entry Ticket: Entry to the memorial is free, however, you need to pay INR 25 (USD 0.31) for the documentary.
4 pm: Mid-afternoon Meal at One of the Restaurants in Ramgarh
There are quite a few Dhabas (roadside food stalls) like Hinglaj Restaurant, Jain Restaurant, Murli Restaurant, and many more in Ramgarh.
It takes approximately an hour to reach Ramgarh from Longewala.
If you have no qualms about eating at a roadside eatery (they don’t maintain high standards of hygiene but the food is good) then you can enjoy your mid-afternoon meal here.
Or else you can pack a lot of dry snacks with you so you can eat something on the way before you reach Bada Bagh.
5:30 pm: Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh or Barabagh literally translates to the big garden and true to its name it’s a big garden complex.
The complex houses a series of beautifully carved royal cenotaphs (chhatris).
A photographer’s delight, Bada Bagh affords heart-stopping views of the skyline and the vast desert.
It looks ethereal during sunset when the yellow sandstone cenotaphs soak in a golden glow.
Sunrise is also a beautiful and quiet time to visit this place.
Opening Timings: 8 am to 6 pm
Entry Ticket: INR 100 (USD 1.25) per Indian and INR 300 (USD 3.75) per foreigner
There’s an extra charge of INR 150 (USD 1.88) for a camera.
6:30 pm: Refresh Yourself with a Cup of Masala Chai at Prabhu Tea Stall
Prabhu Tea Stall is famous for its perfect cup of tea.
If you aren’t a tea lover like me, you can try their kadhai wala doodh (cauldron milk).
A sip of hot kadhai wala doodh served in kulhad tastes heavenly.
7 pm to 8:30 pm: Relax at your Hotel
It was a long day!
I know, you need to unwind.
Why don’t you sit down with a nice cup of coffee and take a few moments to yourself before you get ready for a great dinner?
8:30 pm: Dinner at Angaara Restaurant And Barbeque
Angaara Restaurant and Barbeque has to be on your list of places to eat when in Jaisalmer.
You are guaranteed delicious freshly cooked soulful food (their cashew curry is to die for) with a stunning view of the historic fort.
Note: We couldn’t visit the Jaisalmer War Museum and the Thar Heritage Museum . If you’ve time, I’d urge you to visit the museums.
A tribute to the brave Indian soldiers, the Jaisalmer War Museum (JWM) celebrates their contributions to and sacrifices for the nation. It’s open from 9 am to 5 pm every day except Tuesdays, and the entry is free. The Thar Heritage Museum features ancient folk art of the Thar Desert. It’s open from 9 am to 6 pm daily. It costs INR 60 (USD 0.75) per Indian visitor and INR 100 (USD 1.25) per foreign national.
Hope our Jaisalmer trip itinerary helps you craft yours. If you’ve any queries about this Jaisalmer tour itinerary, comment below and we’ll be happy to answer 🙂
And if you think this one’s the best itinerary for Jaisalmer then please share it with others.
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Anjali Chawla
11 thoughts on “The Ultimate 3 Days in Jaisalmer Itinerary”
Hello Anjali – Thanks a lot for this detailed itinerary which is of incredible help.
I had a query around tent/desert camp stay on 2nd day ( afternoon). Did you check out of the camp next morning and go back to the hotel ? I am planning first day in tent and following 2 days in hotel. So trying to figure out the best day to execute the plan – like will I require to book a cab from hotel to tent and back.
I’m happy to be of help.
We checked out of the desert camp the next morning soon after breakfast as we had a long day ahead. We explored Tanot Mata Temple, Longewala, India Pakistan Border, and Bada Bagh before we retired to our hotel in Jaisalmer.
We had booked a car with a driver for the entire Rajasthan trip. You can book a cab from the hotel to the tent, spend a day there, and then head back to your hotel in Jaisalmer the next morning.
Thanks a lot for the response.
mam, enjoyed your detailed narrations in the itenary. Have a question regarding the visit to these places. Did you explore these places on your own or any package booked. please advise
Hello Kalyani,
I’m glad you enjoyed the post. I crafted the itinerary for Jaisalmer and hired a car and driver to explore places around Jaisalmer, like Kuldhara, Lodurva, Longewala, and more. However, I joined a heritage walking tour of Jaisalmer Fort, its Jain Temples, Old Bazar, and Havelis with a local guide so I could uncover the culture and history associated with the,. I hope that helps.
Wow !!! thoroughly enjoyed reading it and it has doubled up my excitement to plan 🙂
Thanks for the kind words, Ami. Enjoy your trip!
Hello maam! Loved the way you immersed us in your experience with such intricacies and detailed information. I just wanted to ask you how much did it cost you for the entire trip? Secondly, about the desert camping, how did you select your service provider for the desert camping experience?
I’m delighted to hear you found the content helpful, Ashutosh.
We visited Jaisalmer as part of our two-week Rajasthan itinerary.
Breaking down the expenses specifically for our three-day Jaisalmer trip, we spent approximately 26,000 rupees, including the cost of the taxi and driver.
As for desert camping, I conducted thorough online research, shortlisted a few options based on their ratings, contacted them for more information, and ultimately chose the one that met our criteria.
Hi! Love the details on this post. We’ve visited Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur a few years ago and loved it and vowed to return to explore Jaisalmer someday.
A quick Google search tells me there are flights from Delhi to Jaisalmer by Spice Jet and India Go but you haven’t mentioned them so I wanted to check again! Any reason?
Hello! I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the post. Regarding your query about flights to Jaisalmer, you’re right – Spice Jet and IndiGo do offer flights from Delhi to Jaisalmer. I’ve covered the details on how to get to Jaisalmer, including air travel, in a separate post. You can find all the information you need, including these flight options, in that post here . Happy planning for your trip to Jaisalmer!
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Travel Character
Perfect Jaisalmer Itinerary For 3 Days
Nestled amidst the golden sands of the desert and adorned by majestic golden-colored forts and houses, Jaisalmer is often renowned as the Golden City of India . The only living fort in India – Jaisalmer Fort, splendid Havelis, stunning viewpoints, and the Great Indian Thar Desert attract tourists from all over the world. Moreover, adventurous activities such as camel safaris, dune bashing, camping, stargazing, jeep safaris, and parasailing ensure that you will never be bored.
Plan a trip to Jaisalmer with our detailed Jaisalmer itinerary for 3 days , whether you are going for a family vacation, a romantic honeymoon, or a friends’ reunion, as our itinerary has everything covered.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from mid-October to March, when the climate becomes pleasant, and the average temperature ranges between 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. December to January marks the peak season in Jaisalmer, as many tourists come here to celebrate Christmas and New Year. Additionally, this period is perfect for exploring the vast Thar Desert of India. For more, you can check our detailed guide – best time to visit Jaisalmer .
How to Reach
Situated close to the India-Pakistan border in the Thar Desert Jaisalmer is not difficult as it is well connected to the rest of Indian cities through highways, railway lines and airports. Here are the 3 possible ways to reach Jaisalmer –
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport (JSA), which is well-connected to major Indian cities. Take a direct flight to Jodhpur then continue your journey by train, bus, or cab to Jaisalmer.
- By Train: Jaisalmer has its own railway station, Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM). It’s connected to various cities in Rajasthan and major Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Udaipur and Kolkata.
- By Road: You can also reach Jaisalmer by road. The city is well-connected by a network of national and state highways. You can drive to Jaisalmer from nearby cities, or take a bus from places like Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Bikaner.
How to Get Around Jaisalmer
Most of the local attractions in Jaisalmer are conveniently situated close to each other, making it easy to explore them on foot. However, if you wish to visit nearby places such as the Desert National Park, Kuldhara, Lodurva, and the India-Pak border, you’ll need to hire an auto-rickshaw, tuk-tuk, or cab. Rental scooters and autos are the two most convenient ways to navigate the city of Jaisalmer.
For those who prefer hassle-free transportation and enjoy group tours, Viator and Get Your Guide are two reputable and trusted group tour agencies.
Where to Stay
Being a top tourist attraction in Rajasthan Jaisalmer has no dearth of hotels, hostels and campsites. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels or vibrant hostels to peaceful campsite Jaisalmer has various kinds of accommodation for all kinds of budgets. And here are some of the most trusted and reviewed hotels in Jaisalmer –
How many days are enough for the Jaisalmer trip?
Exploring most of the tourist attractions in Jaisalmer can be achieved in 3 Days and 3 Nights. On the first day, you can delve into the local attractions, while on the second day, a visit to nearby places would be ideal. Day 3 presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in thrilling adventure activities at the Desert National Park. Alternatively, if you’re on a tight budget, allocating 2 days should suffice one for exploring local attractions and the other for enjoying a night of camping at the Desert National Park.
Jaisalmer 3 Days Itinerary
Day in jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer Fort – Start your Jaisalmer trip with the most renowned attraction, named Jaisalmer Fort or Sonar Quila. Situated at the top of Trikuta Hill at a height of 250 feet, Jaisalmer Fort is not only a tourist attraction but also the home of a quarter of the total Jaisalmer population . Comprising many narrow streets, shops, palaces, museums, temples, and centuries-old houses, Jaisalmer Fort is nothing less than an architectural wonder. Standing atop the fort and watching the city of yellow sandstone houses is a memorable sight.
If you want to stay inside the fort, there are many hotels available. Spending a night within the fort is one of the best things you can do in Jaisalmer. Roaming through the empty streets of the fort in the early morning allows you to fully appreciate the architectural beauty of this place.
While there is no entry fee for the fort itself, you will need to purchase tickets to enter the palaces and museums.
- Timing – 24 hours
- Most famous things to see in the fort – Tazia tower, Jain temples, Laxminath temple, 450-year-old house Baa Ri Haveli and Raj Mahal Palace
Jain Temples – Now it’s time to explore one of the most beautiful attractions of the fort, the Jain temples. Situated inside the campus of the Jaisalmer Fort, there are a total of 7 Jain temples connected to each other through corridors and gates. Made from yellow sandstone adorned with mirrors, frescoes, corridors, and other intricate detailing, these temples are nothing less than architectural wonders. They become even more enchanting when the golden hues of sunrise or sunset kiss their tops.
Each of these temples is dedicated to Jain tirthankaras (spiritual teachers). These include the Chandraprabhu Jain temple, Rishabhdev Jain temple, Parsvanatha Jain temple, Shitalnath Jain temple, Shantinath Jain temple, Kunthunatha Jain temple, and Sambhavnath Jain temple.
Tazia Tower – Tazia Tower, situated inside the Badal Palace, is another prominent attraction within the fort. This five-story building boasts detailed intricate carvings, graceful balconies, and stunning craftsmanship as its main highlights. From its balconies, you can also enjoy a beautiful bird’s-eye view of the city.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Tazia Tower holds significant cultural and religious importance, particularly among Muslims. Visiting this place offers a fantastic opportunity to delve into the history and local culture of the region.
Patwon Ki Haveli – If you really want to experience the life and luxury of Rajasthan from the 19th century, be sure to visit Patwon Ki Haveli. Located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Jaisalmer bus stand, near Patwa Valley, this Haveli is a collection of five different Havelis constructed by the wealthy Marwari merchant and jeweler named Guman Chand Patwa in 1805.
Built entirely in yellow sandstone, these multi-story Havelis serve as beautiful examples of Rajasthani royal architecture. Within the complex, you’ll discover approximately 60 balconies or jharokhas, each uniquely designed, showcasing a remarkable fusion of Indian and Persian styles. Additionally, the complex boasts numerous expansive courtyards, making it a paradise for photographers.
Presently, of the five Havelis, two are under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India, two are owned by the Guman Chand Patwa family, and one has been transformed into a private museum by the Kotharis.
Kothari’s Patwa Haveli Museum is open to tourists and offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the royal architectural beauty of mirrored walls, intricate carvings, stunning paintings, and various other unique artistic works. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to delve into the opulent history of Rajasthan.
- Location – Opposite Choora Paada, Jaisalmer
- Timing – 8:30 AM to 6 PM for Havelis operated by the Archaeological Survey of India and 9 AM to 6 PM for Kothari’s Private Museum.
- Entry fee – 100 INR for the museum and 10 INR for Havelis
Nathmal Ki Haveli – Nathmal Ki Haveli, located just 500 meters away from Jaisalmer Fort, is another beautiful place to visit in Jaisalmer. It is considered the epitome of architectural wonder in Jaisalmer. This Haveli was constructed by two Muslim brothers who were jewelers rather than builders. Interestingly, the construction of this grand mansion began simultaneously from two different points by these two brothers.
As you approach the entrance of this mansion, you’ll be greeted by two golden-colored elephants crafted from yellow sandstone. The jharokhas, vast courtyards, and the golden hues of the Haveli seamlessly merge with the desert vibes, creating a truly mesmerizing experience.
- Location – Sadar Bazar, Jaisalmer
- Timing – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Entry Fee – Free
Jaisalmer War Museum – After exploring the architectural beauty, it’s time to immerse yourself in the rich military history of India at the Jaisalmer War Museum. Spread over 15 acres of land, this museum pays tribute to the great Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in wars. The museum vividly showcases the immense strength, heroic contributions, and bravery of Indian soldiers.
As soon as you step inside the building, you will undoubtedly experience goosebumps as you witness the displayed armors, vehicles, equipment, uniforms, and more. Furthermore, it provides insight into the strategies employed by the Indian army during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
- Timing – 9 AM to 5 PM, closed on Tuesday
Sunset at Gadisar Lake – After walking through the fort, Havelis, and museums, it’s now time to relax and admire the stunning views of the sunset at Gadisar Lake. This is the perfect place in Jaisalmer to start or end your day. Sitting on the bank of the lake, surrounded by the peace of nature and watching the golden shadow of the setting sun in the lake, would be an amazing experience.
To end your day in Jaisalmer, consider taking a boat ride in the evening when the golden rays of the sun reflect on the still water of the lake. It’s a relaxing and picturesque way to conclude your day in this beautiful city.
Day 2 in Jaisalmer
Sunrise at Bada Bagh – Start your day in Jaisalmer with the peaceful vibes of Bada Bagh, a complex of royal cenotaphs or chhatris located just 7 KM from Jaisalmer fort. The name “Bada Bagh” translates to “Big Garden,” and it is indeed a vast garden of these royal cenotaphs, showcasing a remarkable blend of Mughal, Paliwal, and Rajput architectural styles. Each cenotaph was erected in memory of the late rulers of Jaisalmer, making this place essentially a cemetery for the city’s royal leaders .
An early morning visit to this serene place provides you with ample space to capture stunning views of the sunrise. Witnessing the rising sun through the backdrop of these royal cenotaphs is a magnificent way to kickstart your second day in Jaisalmer.
- Timing – All Hours
- Entry Fee – 100 INR
Visit Lodurva Village – Just 15 kilometers away from Jaisalmer, Lodurva is an ancient village renowned for its rich history, sand dunes, archaeological ruins, Shiva temples, and Jain Temples. It once served as the capital of the Bhatti Kingdom, making Lodurva even older than Jaisalmer itself.
In modern times, Lodurva stands as an abandoned village but remains a popular tourist destination, especially among history and architecture enthusiasts. The ruins, forts, and ancient buildings within its borders tell the captivating tale of its historical significance. Among these, the Jain temple stands out as the most cherished attraction. Dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankar, this temple showcases incredible artistry in the form of dome-style huts, idols, sculptures, and intricately designed Jaalis. It serves as a magnificent testament to the artistry of the time.
While in Lodurva, be sure not to miss a visit to the Tree of Life, believed to have the wish-fulfilling tree . Here, you can offer your wishes with unwavering faith, adding a touch of spirituality to your historical and architectural exploration of this remarkable place.
Kuldhara Village, The Ghost Town – After exploring the beauty of Lodurva Village, it’s now time to head to the most haunted village in India, Kuldhara. Located just 17 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Kuldhara is an abandoned village famous for its myths and ghost stories.
Once the home of 1500 Paliwal Brahmins , Kuldhara is now an empty village with the ruins of homes and forts. One fateful night, all the Brahmins and the people of 85 villages moved away overnight, leaving a curse on the village, ensuring that no one would ever live here happily again. Consequently, this village has become renowned as the most haunted place in India . The village is now managed by the State Archaeology department.
- Timing – 8 AM to 6 PM
Sunset at Vyas Chhatri – Enjoy the amazing sunset in the backdrop of the golden desert landscape and Jaisalmer city at Vyas Chhatri. This cenotaph was built to pay tribute to Sage Vyas, the author of the Hindu epic Mahabharata.
Vyas Chhatri is a large complex with numerous temples, pavilions, and other structures, but the best part of this Chhatri is its sunset point. The view from the terrace is breathtaking; from here, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city. Its historic architecture, dating from the 18th century, adds to its beauty.
- Location – Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer
- Entry Fee – 100 INR per person and 100 INR for camera
Day 3 In Jaisalmer
Thar Desert National Park – Your day 3 is going to be the most exciting one as today, you’re going to explore the great Indian desert, the Thar Desert National Park. Spread over an area of 3,162 sq. km, it is one of the largest national parks in India . With a diverse range of flora and fauna, this national park is a great collection of natural wonders, architectural ruins, and traditional villages.
The best part about being here is exploring the sand dunes, which can reach up to 200 meters in height . Exploring the sand dunes through camel safari and desert jeep safari is one of the best things you can do here.
From luxury to budget tents, there are various kinds of accommodations that provide you with enough space and time to embrace its beauty. A night’s stay in a camp allows you to experience cultural and regional programs, delicious food, night safari, a spectacular sunset, and stargazing.
Imagine sitting on sand dunes, overlooking the beautiful views of the sunset kissing the golden sand; it will be a sight you’ll never forget.
Exploring the sand dunes through a night desert safari is the perfect way to end your day. And if you’re a night owl like me, then don’t miss the chance to experience the stunning beauty of the Milky Way through stargazing. Away from the pollution of modern cities, this place is perfect for capturing the beauty of the night.
- Best things to do here – Camel Safari, Dune Bashing, Night Desert Safari, Sunset watching, Stargazing, and Camping.
Best tents in Desert National Park
Pal Rajah Desert Camp
- Location – Village Barna, Khuri
- Price – 5500 INR (Dinner & Breakfast Included)
Sana Desert Safari Camp
- Location – Dhiba Para, Jaisalmer
- Price – 5400 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
Sunny Desert Camp
- Location – Barna Village, Khuri
- Price – 3825 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
Jaisalmer Desert Camp
- Location – Sam Sand Dunes
- Price – 3600 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
Jaisalmer Travel Tips
- Stay Inside the Fort: The best way to explore the Jaisalmer fort is by spending at least one night within its walls. Take early morning and late evening strolls through the golden streets to uncover the stories hidden in every corner.
- Savor the Views: Discover numerous viewpoints in the fort offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city. These vantage points provide an unparalleled glimpse of the city’s charm.
- Desert Camping: Regardless of the duration of your trip, ensure that you spend a night at one of the desert camps. This experience is essential to truly embrace the essence of Jaisalmer.
- Ideal Seasons: Plan your visit during the Monsoon and Winter seasons for the most enjoyable experience in Jaisalmer.
- City Exploration: Jaisalmer’s small size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. Stroll through its streets to capture the essence of the city’s culture and heritage.
- Shopping Delights: Engage in a unique shopping experience by visiting specific markets – purchase paintings and carpets at Sadar Bazaar, exquisite jewelry at Sonraon Ka Bass, elegant home decor items at Pansari Bazaar, and premium leather goods at Manak Chowk.
Here is my perfect Jaisalmer Itinerary, which will assist you in crafting your own. If you have any other itinerary or anything you would like to include, please let us know in the comment section below. If you find this helpful, do share it with someone who should visit Jaisalmer.
Hi Guys, My Name is Pursottam Saini, living the life of my dream – From traveling one destination to another and seeing the places I still don’t believe.
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Jaisalmer Itinerary For 3 Days
- November 21, 2023
Jaisalmer is a princely state in the Indian state of Rajasthan. Known as the “Golden City,” it’s defined by its yellow sandstone architecture that has been preserved for centuries. Thanks to its abundant golden dunes and town built with golden honey sandstones, Jaisalmer is truly “golden” everywhere. This charming city, which was once considered an off-beat travel destination, has steadily gained popularity among travelers partly due to Instagram and improved connectivity.
Rawal Jaisal founded Jaisalmer in the twelfth century. The historic area is still steeped in the past, and every corner of the city offers stunning architecture, a thriving culture , and centuries-old traditions. With its narrow streets packed with jostling crowds, quaint shops , and vibrant offerings, the city exudes an old-world charm. The Jaisalmer Fort, perched atop a three-peaked hill, looms over the town and is unquestionably the highlight of any visit to Jaisalmer. The magnificent dunes of the Thar desert are also easily accessible from Jaisalmer. From exploring the impressive Jain temples and Havelis to sleeping under the stars and learning about its intriguing past, Jaisalmer has plenty to keep you entertained. Within three days, you can easily visit the majority of the well-known sites in this small and compact city.
Jaisalmer Itinerary: Day 1
The itinerary for your first day will depend on when you get to Jaisalmer. Hopefully, you arrive by noon so that you have enough time to visit a couple of the popular Havelis, browse some local shops, and watch the sunset at Gadisar Lake. You can cap off the day by dining on a rooftop with spectacular views of the Jaisalmer Fort. Or perhaps take a foodie tour of the old city before retiring for the night.
1). Patwon ki Haveli, Jaisalmer
This is our first stop of the 3-day Jaisalmer Itinerary. Patwon ki Haveli is one of the three major havelis in Jaisalmer and cannot be skipped. It is a majestic cluster of 5 small Havelis that were built between 1800 and 1860 by Guman Chand Patwa, one for each of his sons. The Havelis has wooden ceilings, airy courtyards, beautiful arches, and 60 balconies carved with exquisite mirrorwork, murals, and paintings. Every Haveli has a unique style that sets it apart from the others. The interiors are as regal as the exteriors, and you will be impressed by the grandeur and architecture on display. A museum featuring rare artifacts, paintings, and furniture has been established in one of the Havelis. Timing: 9 am to 5 pm Time Required: 1 hour Entry Tickets: Indians: Rs 20 Foreign Tourists Rs 100;
2). Nathmal ki Haveli, Jaisalmer
Our next stop is a short walk from Patwon ki Haveli. Maharaja Beri Sai commissioned Nathmal ki Haveli to serve as the residence of Prime Minister Diwan Mohata Nathmal, hence the name. The Haveli was built in 1885 by two Muslim brothers, and the architecture is an excellent blend of Islamic and Rajput architecture. Although not exact replicas, the two buildings share many similarities. The gorgeous paintings on the first floor, which were created with 1.5 kg of gold leaf, are the main attraction. You could get a glimpse of life in the bygone era by looking at the walls, which are engraved with images of horses, cattle, flora, etc. Timing: 8 am to 7 pm Time Required: 30 minutes Entry Tickets: No Fees
3). Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer
Let us now proceed to Gadisar Lake, which is located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer. The tranquil spot is one of Jaisalmer’s top attractions for spending an idyllic evening away from the crowded city and enjoying a spectacular sunset. Raja Rawal Jaiswal constructed Lake Gadisar in 1156 AD as a conservation reservoir. Water for the entire arid area used to come from this man-made oasis. Shallow ghats, Hindu shrines, and elegant cenotaphs surround the artificial lake. You can go boating, explore the sacred temples, and enjoy picturesque vistas of the lake and the nearby fort. Due to its proximity to the Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary, Gadisar Lake attracts a multitude of migratory and exotic bird species, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts during the winter months. Timing: 8 am-7 pm Time Required: 1-2 hour s Entry Tickets: Free
Jaisalmer Itinerary: Day 2
Spend the first part of your second day exploring the Jaisalmer Fort. To get the most out of your limited time, you can hire a guide to help you through the fort’s narrow lanes. Leave for Sam Sand Dunes by 4 p.m. to ensure you’re in time to witness the gorgeous sunset. You can choose to spend the night at the camp or to return to Jaisalmer after the evening activities.
1). Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort, which is situated right in the heart of the city, is a must-see attraction for any traveler to Jaisalmer. The UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaiswal, the ruler of the Bhati tribe. Perched atop Tirkuta Hill, the fort epitomizes Rajasthani architecture with its yellow crenelated sandstone construction. Encircling its formidable facades are four magnificent gates and 99 bastions. The Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Qila, has survived numerous attacks from various kings over the years. Reaching a height of 250 feet, the imposing fort provides sweeping views of Jaisalmer city from its epic viewpoints.
The Qila is often referred to as the “Living Fort” as it is home to close to 3000 people. Over one-fourth of the city’s population lives in the fort, which is a jumble of centuries-old houses, shops, palaces, temples, museums, restaurants, and cafes. Walking through the labyrinthine lanes, visiting the gorgeous Jain temples, dining at rooftop eateries, listening to folk music, and haggling for local handicrafts are some of the most culturally immersive experiences in the fort. There are seven 12th-century Jain temples located in Jaisalmer Fort. Fascinating sculptures of humans and animals adorn the walls and domes of these amazing temples. Housed in the temples are 6666 statues representing the 24 Tirthankaras of Jainism. The seven Jain temples are interconnected and are a major pilgrimage site for Jains. Timing: Any Time Time Required: 3-4 hours Entry Tickets: Free
2). Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer
Later in the day, make your way to Sam Sand Dunes in the That Desert. The dunes, 42 kilometers from the city, are the best place to experience an authentic Desert safari. Sam Sand Dunes stretch for miles and miles into the horizon, and it’s easy to get lost if you’re not vigilant. To explore the sand dunes, you can take a jeep or ride a camel. Sunsets are truly magical here, as the crimson horizon reflects brilliantly on the golden sand.
Stay overnight at one of the numerous camping sites in the area to get the full desert experience. There are a variety of accommodations available, ranging from luxury to budget tents, that will provide you with the perfect space and opportunity to embrace the rugged beauty of your surroundings. Sleep under a blanket of stars, savor Rajasthani delicacies over a bonfire, and enjoy cultural evenings with traditional folk music and dances. Khuri Sand Dunes is another option if you’re looking for dunes that are not as commercialized as Sam Sand Dunes. They are also roughly 40 kilometers from the city and offer comparable adventures without crowds. Timing: Open All days Time Required: Depends on the activities Entry Tickets: No Entry Fees. Camel Ride: Rs 50-Rs 200, Jeep Safari: Rs 500-Rs 1500
Jaisalmer Itinerary: Day 3
The plan for the day will depend on where you resided the night before. If you stayed overnight at Sam Sand Dunes, depart for Jaisalmer early in the morning and make a stop at Kuldhara Village (40 km). After a few hours of trying to solve the mystery of the Ghost Village, you should leave. In case you slept in Jaisalmer, take a round trip to Kuldhara village, which is 18 kilometers away. Either way, you’ll return to Jaisalmer by midday. For the next few hours, you are free to do as you please: rest, shop, or sample some of the local cuisines. In the late afternoon, head to Bada Bagh and Vyas Chatri to witness another amazing sunset. You’ve finished for the day. It’s now time to depart for your next destination , whether by night train or the following morning by plane or car.
1). Kuldhara Village, Jaisalmer
Known as the ‘Ghost Village’ of Jaisalmer, Kuldhara Village is located 18 km from the city center. In the nineteenth century, the Kuldhara village and its 83 nearby villages were abandoned overnight. It’s still a mystery why the entire region was abandoned. Folklore has it that Salim Singh, a state minister, desired to wed the chief’s daughter. Instead of complying with the minister’s request, the villagers fled into the night to avoid horrific consequences. The villager’s curse is thought to be the reason why there hasn’t been any human habitation for centuries. Honestly, the village offers little more than the crumbling remains of a few temples, stepwells, and other structures. Tourists are drawn to the mystery surrounding Kuldhara Village and come to see it for themselves. Timing: Open all days, 8 am to 6 pm (recommended) Time Required: 2-3 hours Entry Tickets: Rs 10 For Car: Rs 50
2). Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer
Six kilometers outside of Jaisalmer, Bada Bagh is home to an enormous collection of cenotaphs, or chhatris, erected in honor of the late Maharajas of Jaisalmer. The Bada Bagh was commissioned by Jait Singh in the 16th century AD, but it was completed by his son Raja Lunakaran after his demise. Additional Chhatris were added to the Bada Bagh between the 16th and the 20th centuries when it functioned as a royal family crematorium. Royal domes of various shapes and sizes are scattered throughout the park. You’ll be amazed by the amazing fusion of Mughal, Rajput, and Paliwal architectural styles. The dramatic setting of the honey-combed cenotaphs makes Bada Bagh a popular destination for pre-wedding shoots and Instagram shots. Timing: Open all days, 8 am to 6 pm Time Required: 1 hour Entry Tickets: Rs 100
3). Vyas Chhatri, Jaisalmer
Vyas Chhatri is situated 4 km from the city centre and 7 km from Bada Bagh. It also has an impressive collection of meticulously carved sandstone cenotaphs. Constructed atop a former Brahmin cemetery, it honors Sage Ved Vyasa, the penman of the Mahabharata. Vyas Chhatri, built atop a hill, is referred to as the city’s sunset point due to its panoramic panorama of the sun setting over the Sonar Fort and Jaisalmer City. Timing: Open all days, 8 am to 7:30 pm Time Required: 1 hour Entry Tickets: Rs 100
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer?
The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and the average temperature ranges between 10 and 30 degrees. December and January are the busiest travel months in Jaisalmer, so expect higher hotel and airfare rates. The Desert Festival takes place in February and March. If you can plan your trip during this time, you will have the opportunity to experience Rajasthani culture through folk dances, camel races, puppet shows, and other cultural events that are organized at that time. It’s best to avoid April through July because of the intense heat. As there is little rain in the region, you can plan a vacation in August or September , but there will be fewer activities and camping options.
How to Reach Jaisalmer?
Jaisalmer is located in the far west of Rajasthan and is somewhat difficult to reach. However, if you combine a trip to Jaisalmer with other destinations in Rajasthan , such as Jodhpur, Jaipur , or Udaipur , everything will fall into place.
- By Air: Jaisalmer Airport is only operational during the winter months and serves a few cities such as Delhi , Jaipur, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai . The other airport in the vicinity is Jodhpur Airport, which is located roughly 285 kilometers from Jaisalmer. The nearest international airport is Delhi Airport. Jaisalmer Airport is about 15 kilometers from the city.
- By train: Jaisalmer is well connected by train to many cities, and there are numerous options for visitors traveling from anywhere in India . There are direct trains to Jaisalmer from cities such as Jodhpur, Jaipur, Delhi , Mumbai, and even Kolkata, among many others. For those who want to travel within Rajasthan, three trains run daily between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer. Every Sunday, the Palace on Wheels, a luxury train , makes a stop in Jaisalmer. You can take a private taxi or an autorickshaw into the town from the Jaisalmer Railway Station.
- By Road: Jaisalmer is linked by road to the major cities of Rajasthan and Gujarat . The highways are in good condition and well-maintained. You could drive to Jaisalmer from the nearby cities or take a taxi/private car. The drive from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer takes 5-6 hours. The Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation runs buses to and from Jaisalmer on a daily schedule. All major cities in Rajasthan, Gujarat, and some other parts of India have bus services to Jaisalmer.
How to Get Around in Jaisalmer?
Given the small size of Jaisalmer, getting around is not a problem. The Jaisalmer Fort, Havelis, local shops, and other attractions are all close to one another, making it easy to explore them on foot. This is your chance to learn about the local culture and stumble upon obscure street shops. If you want to go outside the city, you can readily catch an auto-rickshaw or hire a two-wheeler. If you are uncomfortable riding a two-wheeler, you must book a four-wheeler to get to Kuldhara Village and the Sand Dunes. Reserve tours, private vehicles, and taxis through reliable sources. There are no Ola or Uber options in Jaisalmer.
Where to Stay in Jaisalmer?
Hostels, low-cost hotels, campsites, and expansive resorts have proliferated throughout Jaisalmer, offering lodging options to suit every taste and budget. The palatial bespoke hotel, Suryagarh , stands out among the usual run-of-the-mill offerings. If you can afford it, you should definitely try to stay there. For those seeking luxury, Jaisalmer Marriott is a very good alternative. If these accommodations are too expensive for you, consider Nachanaa Haveli and Sonaar Haveli. For those on a tight budget, Zostel is a reliable and secure choice. Staying within the fort walls is an option, with about thirty hotels located within the Jaisalmer Fort.
Shopping in Jaisalmer?
A trip to Jaisalmer would be incomplete without exploring the maze-like markets and shopping for the colorful wares on display. The city is renowned for its silk fabrics (Bhatia Bazaar), leather goods (Manak Chowk), textiles (Seema Gramme), silver jewelry (Sonarron ka Baas), paintings and carpets (Sadar Bazaar), and silk fabrics (Pansari Bazaar). Therefore, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in a shopping binge and buy handicrafts and textiles made locally.
Where to Eat in Jaisalmer?
Rajasthanis are foodies, and you will find delicious food wherever you go. Jaisalmer also has some excellent restaurants serving authentic Rajasthani cuisine as well as delicacies from other regions. You can check out these restaurants.
The Trio, Suryagarh Restaurant, Jaisal Italy, Kuku Cafe, Fotiya’s Restaurant, Milan, Free Tibet, Desert Boy’s Dhani, Gaji’s Restaurant, The Trio, Green Park, Pleasant Haveli, Golden Roof
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Places To Visit In Jaisalmer
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1. Jaisalmer Fort
1 km from city center 1 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort is a hill fort with houses, temples, shops, and restaurants. More than three thousand people live within the fort walls. It offers a stunning and panoramic view of Jaisalmer city draped in golden yellow. Also known as Sonar Quila, it is the most popular place to visit in Jaisalmer.
2. Desert Safari in Jaisalmer
37 km from city center 2 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer in Rajasthan is frequented by tourists for its large stretches of desert sand. Popular Desert Safaris in Jaisalmer takes place in Sam Sand Dunes. A Jeep takes you to a point near Sam Sand Dunes (around 45km from the city) from where the camel ride starts and lasts for around 90 minutes.
3. Gadisar Lake
2 km from city center 3 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Built in the 14th century, it was once the source of drinking water for the entire town of Bikaner. Now it has developed as a tourist spot with many temples and shrines surrounding the lake. Gadisar Lake offers scenic and picturesque views of the lake and the adjacent fort.
4. Patwon ki Haveli
1 km from city center 4 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Dipped in an enchanting shade of yellow, Patwon ki Haveli grabs the attention of every visitor. It is a cluster of 5 Haveli which was believed to be built by Patwa, a wealthy trader who constructed the stories for each of his 5 sons. Locals also refer to the haveli as Kothari’s Patwa Haveli.
Jaisalmer Travel Packages
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5. Sam Sand Dunes
37 km from city center 5 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
One of the most popular attractions in Jaisalmer, Sam Sand Dunes are among the best and most authentic in India. The best time to visit these dunes is either sunset (around 4-7 pm) or sunrise (4-6 am). There are many other activities which one may enjoy as camel safari and jeep safari.
6. Jain Temples in Jaisalmer
1 km from city center 6 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
This group of beautiful temples within the Jaisalmer Fort walls have carved structures which depict pictures of sages, hermits, animals, etc. Built in the Dilwara style that is famous all over the world for its architecture, these temples are dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Shambhavdev Ji, the famous Jain hermits known as 'Tirthankaras'.
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7. Nathmal Ki Haveli
0 km from city center 7 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Nathmal ki Haveli is an ornate architecture in the heart of Jaisalmer. It was commissioned to serve as the residence of the then prime minister Diwan Mohata Nathmal. The haveli is built of yellow sandstone. Thus when the sun rays fall on these structures, they radiate like gold.
8. Kuldhara Village
13 km from city center 8 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Kuldhara is an abandoned village, located around 20 kilometres from Jaisalmer. The village was abandoned overnight by its residents to save their honour and lives from the hands of the tyrannical minister. There is nothing to do as such, but to see the ruins of the village make up for a popular attraction.
9. Vyas Chhatri
1 km from city center 9 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Vyas Chhatri is the assemblage of golden sandstone, an edifice of Rajasthani architecture. It was dedicated to sage Vyaas, the writer of epic Mahabharata whose cenotaph is situated on the north of the fort.
10. Desert National Park
40 km from city center 10 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Desert National park is one of the largest national parks, covering an area of 3162 km. It is an excellent example of the ecosystem of the Thar Desert and houses wildlife such as camels, desert fox, Bengal fox, chinkara, wolves, desert cat, and the Blackbuck.
11. Tanot Mata Temple
1 km from city center 11 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Situated 122 km from the city of Jaisalmer, Tanot Mahal is a historical temple at the Longewala border in Rajasthan. The temple is enveloped with numerous legends that instil curiosity in every visitor. Although it is located very close to the India-Pakistan border, it remained untouched during the war in 1971.
12. Jaisalmer War Museum
12 km from city center 12 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer War Museum, also known as Laungewala War Memorial, is established in the military station designed with the view of honouring the war heroes. It embraces the bravery and sacrifices of the Indian Army. The museum popularly known as JWM, houses two information display halls, an audio-visual room and a souvenir shop.
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13. Tazia Tower and Badal Palace
1 km from city center 13 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Situated at the beautiful Badal Palace complex, the five-storey Tazia Tower is a replica of the mausoleum of various Muslim imams with intricate carvings on the walls. The Badal Palace has a cloud like appearance and has the Tazia Tower emerging from it. This tower is quite different from the usual Rajputana architecture of Rajasthan.
14. Indo-Pak Border
14 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Visiting the Indo-Pak Border is one of the most exotic things to do in Jaisalmer. The area is situated near the Tanot Mata temple and can be visited by prior permission and permits from the Indian Military Forces.
15. Camping and Cultural Evening
29 km from city center 15 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
The golden fort, sand dunes, and the enchanting palaces make Jaisalmer an ideal destination for Camping and Cultural evening. A camping tour is a must on the bucket list of anyone who wishes to dig deeper the real essence of Rajasthan.
16. Bada Bagh
5 km from city center 16 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Bada Bagh is primarily a cenotaph adjoining a garden, located about 6 kms north of Jaisalmer, on the way to Ramgarh. The set of royal cenotaphs are basically chhatris of the Maharajas which once ruled the Jaisalmer state. The gardens are now largely neglected, but the hill with the cenotaphs is still quite an interesting sight in the middle of the sand dunes.
137 km from city center 17 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Filled with vibrant colours, rich heritage and warm hospitality, Barmer is a small town representing the true reflection of Rajasthan all summed up in it. The sandy grounds of the town are lively and a must visit.
18. Amar Sagar Lake
4 km from city center 18 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
The Amar Sagar lake is an oasis near the palace of Amar Singh. The 17th-century citadel was constructed by Maharawal Akhai Singh is located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer city. The palace complex comprises of number wells and ponds along with chhatris and an ancient Shiva temple made of marble in the 18th century.
19. Quad Biking in Jaisalmer
19 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Quad Biking is another one of the very exciting and thrilling things to do in Jaisalmer. The adrenaline rushing sport offers a surreal ride on what are called the ATV Bikes. The activity is performed under strict guidance and supervision of a professional. You can live your 'heroic' moment trying to capture the vast desert on your high speed bikes.
20. Windmill Park
6 km from city center 20 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
India's largest operational onshore wind mill farm, Jaisalmer Wind Mill Park is located in Rajasthan near the Yamuna River between the Vindyha Mountains and the Himalayas.
21. Akal Wood Fossil Park
17 km from city center 21 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
The Akal Wood Fossil park is the destination of the prehistoric era. It is located on the Barmer road 17 km away from Jaisalmer city. Akal Wood Fossil Park is the pride of Jaisalmer city; it is the National Geological Monument of India.
38 km from city center 22 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Khuri, also known as Tilo Ki Dhani, is a natural hamlet in Thar Desert close to Jaisalmer. Renowned for sand dunes and vast stretch of sandbank, Khuri is an ideal place for camel safari.
23. Dune Bashing
23 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Dune Bashing is one of the most exclusive and unique things to do in Jaisalmer. If you have an adventure streak, this is one activity you should definitely try. You will literally feel your adrenaline rush up when you are rafting through the pits and falls of the majestic golden desert even when you are safely seated in the car with seat belts fastened to you.
24. Desert Festival Jaisalmer
0 km from city center 24 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
The desert festival is the most awaited colourful event in the land of sand dunes and camels. It was initiated with an intention to give a glance of the imperial Rajasthani culture to the tourists. The festival organises various activities like camel races, turban tying competitions and also Mr Desert contest.
25. Desert Culture Centre and Museum
1 km from city center 25 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Knowledge bank of rich cultural heritage, craftsmanship and artistic talents of Jaisalmer, the museum displays varied collections of traditional instruments, rich collections of ancient and medieval coins, any kinds of utensils and other artifacts and admirable textiles.
26. Parasailing in Jaisalmer
26 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Parasailing is one of the most exciting things to do in Jaisalmer. Mostly the desert camps and resorts organize this activity on prior request. The activity offers a breathtaking view of the golden sandy city below and you should definitely try it when in Jaisalmer.
27. Jaisalmer Government Museum
1 km from city center 27 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Established by the Department of Archeology in the year 1984, the Government Museum is a prime tourist attraction of Jaisalmer. It was built to highlight the multifaceted traditional and cultural heritage of the Great Thar Desert. Jaisalmer is the charming city of Rajasthan nestled amidst the mighty Thar Desert.
28. Salim Singh ki Haveli
1 km from city center 28 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Salim Singh ki Haveli is a beautiful edifice at the heart of the city Jaisalmer. It is one of the major tourists' attractions built in the 1815 CE and commissioned by Salim Singh, the then prime minister of the Kingdom. It also holds another beautiful name - Jahaz Mahal as the front facet of the Haveli resembles a ship stern.
29. Mandir Palace
0 km from city center 29 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
The Mandir Palace a two-century-old architecture is the finest heritage hotels in the city of Jaisalmer. The hotel offers an ambiance of medieval charm with a glimpse of modern amenities. It is adorned with exquisite stone carvings, ornate balconies, canopies that represent the craftsmanship in its purest form.
30. Ramdevra Temple
101 km from city center 30 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Ramdevra Temple is a sacred temple to the folk deity of Rajasthan - Baba Ramdevji. It is situated 12 kms from Pokhran on Jodhpur to Jaisalmer road. It is believed that Baba Ramdevji took samadhi (conscious exit from the mortal body) at Ramdevra in 1459 AD. After this, the Maharaja Ganga Singh of Bikaner constructed the temple around his Samadhi.
31. Khaba Fort
26 km from city center 31 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
A ruined citadel situated amidst the scorching Thar Desert is the Khaba Fort. Its history dates back to the 13th century. The architecture once belonged to the Paliwal Brahmins of the Kuldhara village who fled the town in the 19th century leaving behind a ghost town.
32. Lodhruva
0 km from city center 32 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
16 km north-west of Jaisalmer is Lodhruva the ancient capital city of Bhatti dynasty of the 12th century. The old capital of Bhatti Rajput was once a flourishing city. Although the town was ransacked by Muslim invaders, the prominent attraction of the city is its architectural ruins.
33. Thar Heritage Museum
0 km from city center 33 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Founded by L Narayan Khatri, the Thar Heritage Museum is a historical reservoir. L Narayan was an eminent scholar of the Jaisalmer folklore. The museum showcases the rich culture, heritage, folk art and architectural style of Rajasthan.
34. Surya Gate
70 km from city center 34 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
The Surya Gate is one of the four entry gates to the 12th century, Jaisalmer Fort. The fort on the Trikuta hill has four successive gates Akai, Surya, Ganesh and Hawa through which the visitors need to pass through.
35. Shantinath Temple
1 km from city center 35 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
The Shantinath Temple is one among the cluster of seven Jain Temples built in the Jaisalmer fort. It is made in the Dilwara Style with exquisite carvings. The 16th-century temple holds the beautiful idol of the Jain Saint Shri Shanthinath. The grandeur style reflects its spectacular architecture of the medieval period.
36. Tazia Tower
0 km from city center 36 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Tazia Tower is a unique Rajputana architecture of Rajasthan. Situated in the Badal Complex, the building has five storeys each of which tells a different story. Tazia in Urdu means float that's taken during the procession of Muharram.
37. Chandraprabhu Temple
1 km from city center 37 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Chandraprabhu Temple is an exemplary Jain temple built in the 16th century. It is one among the seven temples that were constructed for the 8th Tirthankara Jain Prophet Chandraprabhu Ji.
38. Pokhran Fort
100 km from city center 38 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Balagarh fort was built by the Marwar Thakur, Rao Maldeo in the 14th Century, it is otherwise known as the Pokhran Fort. Pokhran means the place of five mirages enclosed by sandy, rocky, salt ranges. Although a small temple made of red sandstone, the fort is dedicated to Goddess Durga.
39. Pachpadra Salt Lake
172 km from city center 39 out of 39 Places To Visit in Jaisalmer
Situated in the Barmer district of Rajasthan near Jaisalmer, Pachpadra Lake is a salt water lake with a sodium chloride level of 98%. Besides the usual extraction of high quality salt from the water, the lake is also a popular tourist spot.
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Zest In A Tote
For the discerning family traveler, places to visit in jaisalmer: a charming desert citadel in rajasthan.
- by Shweta Singhal
- Posted on December 29, 2023 December 28, 2023
The Golden City is aptly named. The city gets its name because the Jaisalmer Fort and several other structures are made of warm, yellow sandstone. This is the last outpost on the western border of Rajasthan and a must-do on any Rajasthan Itinerary longer than a week . You will get to see the top attractions in and around Jaisalmer with this 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer. So many interesting places to visit in Jaisalmer for a family. There are more things to do if you are staying for longer than 2 days in Jaisalmer.
Its fabulous Fort towers over the small city. The Thar desert is alluring. Sleeping under a thousand stars is not an experience that one forgets in a jiffy.
It is difficult not to be charmed by the desert citadel, that is Jaisalmer.
Disclaimer: This helpful post contains some Affiliate links. This means that if you click on any of the links in this post (AND make a purchase), I may receive a small commission at absolutely no cost to you . As such I thank you in advance should you decide to click & buy .
How to reach Jaisalmer
Road Trip : You can reach via a road trip either from Jodhpur or Bikaner, and the effort is well worth it. The train journey from Delhi is more than 24 hours and something that is for the braveheart.
Flight : There are now low-cost airline options with direct flights both from Delhi and Mumbai to Jaisalmer, making it quite accessible.
Train: Jaisalmer is well connected via train to Delhi and other cities in Rajasthan. You can book your train tickets on irctc website .
We had done a road trip from Gurgaon to Jaisalmer, with a stopover at Jodhpur on the way. Our 2 days in Jodhpur were a whirlwind, there are so many places to visit in Jodhpur.
Best time to visit Jaisalmer
As with all other places in Rajasthan and North India, Jaisalmer is best visited from November until March. The days are pleasant and the nights are cold. Summer months are very hot in this desert city and must be avoided.
Jaisalmer 2 day Itinerary
Here is my 2 day itinerary for you to see the top attractions in this desert citadel. If you are staying longer than 2 days in Jaisalmer, there are more ideas on what to do at the end of this post.
Day 1: Forts and Havelis
Jaisalmer fort.
Start your first day of your Jaisalmer itinerary with its famous Fort. The Fort of Jaisalmer is a breathtaking sight. This is definitely one of the most interesting places to visit in Jaisalmer. However, if you are expecting a sanitized and well-kept environment like other forts in Rajasthan, a visit to Jaisalmer Fort would take you back.
There are about 3000 people residing in this massive sandcastle. It has houses, temples, guest houses, shops, restaurants and all the color and chaos that you would associate with India.
We hired a guide at the main entrance to show us around one of the largest inhabited forts in India. What we didn’t anticipate was the strong sun and the heat even in the third week of December. So do carry a hat for sun protection and a bottle of water along for hydration.
You can opt for a private city tour that covers Golden Fort, Patwan Ki Haveli and Gadisar lake.
Havelis in the old city
Next on the agenda are the Havelis . The intricate stonework of the many Havelis in the old town is worth seeing. The most famous Haveli in Jaisalmer town is Patwa-ki-Haveli , which towers over a narrow lane. It was built between 1800 and 1860 by five Jain brothers. There are 5 sections within the Haveli ; the first of the 5 sections have been opened as the privately-owned Patwa Haveli Museum.
The other popular Havelis are Salim Singh ki Haveli and Nathmal ki Haveli.
Bada Bagh was the Royal cenotaphs of the Bhatti dynasty of Jaisalmer. The best time to visit this site is just before sunset.
I was charged Rs 500 (includes the camera fee) to enter this venue. You can take photos without entering perhaps, but I wanted to see it up close. Foreign nationals may have to cough up a higher fee. I was aghast to see the place littered. There were debris and small rocks piled up haphazardly. And yet, it is a beautiful site – just go wearing sensible shoes and walk carefully.
Day 2 of Jaisalmer itinerary
Stay a night in the thar desert.
A desert experience is a quintessential part of any Jaisalmer itinerary. Besides the sightseeing in and around the old town, a must-do activity is to spend a night in the Thar desert. We were happy with our choice of Damodra Desert Camp.
We reached the campsite and were shown into our tents; we had some tea/coffee and set off in a jeep towards the dunes. Half an hour later, we were transferred to camels. I loved this, so much so, that after getting off everyone on the dunes, I asked the camel guy to take me to solo with the camel running. Exhilarating, a bit scary only when the camel decided to run down a dune at full speed!
My daughter loved the Thar desert as well. Not every kid (or adult) enjoys a camel ride. But no child can resist running up and down the dunes. We also tried sandboarding and enjoyed the dramatic sunset over the dunes.
And there was more in store once we returned back to the campsite. All the rolling around in the sand required a bath, which delayed us for the evening cultural program. The camp hostess had mulled some wine in the true Christmas spirit and gave it to all the guests. Good food, an interesting Rajasthani folk performance and the most magnificent sky with a canopy of stars that I had seen in a while – made for a lovely evening.
There are other options for a desert camp – read this review of a camel safari organized by Wanderlust .
Browse through other desert experiences:
Other places to visit in Jaisalmer
If you are spending 3 or 4 days in Jaisalmer, there are several other notable sites in and around Jaisalmer town to visit. Gadisar Lake is a beautiful site to visit. It is one of the few surviving heritage lakes in Rajasthan.
I did not visit the Jain Temples , but those who are religiously inclined can do so. These are 7 temples made of yellow sandstone, located within the fort walls.
There is also the Fort Palace – an elegant seven-story structure. Much of the palace is open to the public – there is the King’s palace, the Queen’s palace, the mirrored and painted Rang Mahal, and more.
I did visit the Kuldehra site outside the town, but unless you have a strong interest in archaeology, you could give this a miss. The story behind the haunted village of Kuldhera is quite interesting. But, it is difficult to imagine from the pile of bricks and stones that the site is currently, that this was once a bustling town that was abandoned overnight and left cursed.
Other activities to do in Jaisalmer
Cycling adventure.
My husband and I are amateur cycling enthusiasts. Our hotel had a few unadvertised bikes for guests. So, dressed warmly and with 3 small water bottles stuffed in our side pockets (since the bikes had no holder for a bottle), we left for a morning cycling trip.
The idea was to do a short trip, not more than 10 – 15 km. I googled Bada Bag , and the map gave me a couple of options. I selected the closest one and after cycling for 5 km landed near a stone quarry. The weather was nippy and it was lovely to see the open wide landscape, with nothing but gigantic windmills dotting all over.
We asked a local near the quarry and got redirected to Ludarva , another site that showed about 10 km away. We gamely cycled until there. What we didn’t realize was that the route back to the hotel would be another 25 km!!
Soon, we ran out of water and enthusiasm to cycle. My husband who is much more used to cycling than I was game for this, but the last 5 km was sheer torture for me. The only thing that kept me going (for the last 5 km) was the thought that the lavish breakfast spread at the hotel would end at 1030 am!
For the adventurous, if you can wrangle good cycles, it is a nice way to get some exercise and see the landscape. The border roads are really well maintained. Do carry enough water though!
Shop in the local market
Once you are done with the places to visit in Jaisalmer, do find some time to look at local markets. From bedspreads to colorful outfits to Rajasthani puppets for your kids, you are bound to find something nice here. I don’t wear bangles or carry colorful kitschy bags, but they do make for small gifts.
Where to stay in Jaisalmer
There are several options in the old town itself and much more on the main Pokran-Jaisalmer-Barmer Highway. We had driven from Delhi in our car and wanted to stay on the outskirts of the town. I cannot recommend Suryagarh enough – a plush boutique hotel about 15 kilometers outside the Jaisalmer city. Do read my full review here – Suryagarh: reason enough to visit Jaisalmer .
Check out more hotel options in Jaisalmer:
Are you visiting Delhi? Is this your first-time traveling to India? Do read these Insider Tips first-time travel to India and Delhi.
[This post was originally published in 2017, and later updated in 2023.]
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Author: Shweta Singhal
Hi! I am Shweta, the zest behind this blog . I play several roles – parent to a 6-year old, adventure enthusiast, travel blogger, generally open to trying out new things in life. Besides travel, I love books and theatre and art. I would love to hear from you; do drop a comment. Join me on Instagram / Twitter @zestinatote. View all posts by Shweta Singhal
28 thoughts
Very beautiful and amazing blog on camping in Jaisalmer. You have given good suggestion during a family trip…
Nice Blog! Jaisalmer is the most attractive place to visit. There are many places to visit for sightseeing. Very nicely written and information provided is quite helpful. Thanks for sharing Such great Information.
If you are looking for outstation cab booking to visit charming desert citadel in Rajasthan, Ezi Drive is the best because they offer great discounts for Online cab Booking in Chennai and Bangalore, they provide the cab for Outstation, tour packages.
Lovely post and padharo sa ☺️☺️
Yes, we njoyed! It was stunning 🙂
Which other part of Rajasthan have you explored?
Lovely post .. Stunning captures..
I know very little about India, but Jaisalmer looks very interesting! Thanks to you, now I can say I know something more about the country 😉
A post on Jodhpur coming up soon 🙂
Jaisalmer is my favourite city in Rajasthan. The fact that it is just on the fringe of the Thar Desert makes it magical. The Jaisalmer fort of course is exquisite with umpteen hidden treasures. We loved it when we were there. We too really reveled in the sands of the Thar Desert as the sun set over the dunes in spectacular fashion.
I so agree with your view that being on the western border gives it a tinge of the exotic.
Great travel guide for Jaisalmer. We are planing a trip in December and is really going to help us out. The Havellis and intricate work in them will be my favorite. Other things which we would love to cover for sure will be Gadisar lake, Kuldhera and the stay in desert.
I would love to hear what you thought of Kuldhera; I wasn’t too impressed by the ruins. Bada Bagh on the other hand, at sunset time, was memorable. So were the fort, the havelis and the stay in the desert.
Just came back from Jodhpur and now dreaming of Jaisalmer. The entire region of Rajasthan is simply gorgeous with its royal forts and palaces and colorful culture.
Jodhpur is lovely. I am sure you visited Mehrangarh Fort. Did you get a chance to see Toorji ka jhalra?
Yes!!! Stunning 🙂
Yes, we did! It was stunning 🙂
Jaisalmer looks beautiful. The Jaisalmer Fort looks especially impressive. A desert tour would be fun too. I recently did a camel ride and dune bashing in Qatar it was a blast. Looks like you had fun too! Good job on staying on the camel while it was running.
Dune bashing is the best in the middle east. The drivers there are such pros. I lived in Dubai for 3 years and experienced it several times. But the culture, sights and hospitality in Rajasthan is something else.
I would love to visit and do a camel ride in the desert. I can imagine how scary it would be with the camel running down the dune. I am just intimated when they stand up. What time of year did you go?
We went in December. Time to visit Rajasthan is from Nov to March.
Jaisalmer Fort looks absolutely stunning and is the perfect kind of place that I’d love to visit. I would also love to spend a night in the Thar desert, although I guess it’ll have to be when the weather is not too hot or too cold as the desert can be a tough place during extreme climate. Thanks for sharing this post, it is an interesting read!
You can go anytime from Nov – Feb, it will be cold in the night, but its fine in a tent snuggled under a blanket. Other months – it is too hot during daytime.
Jaisalmer is delightful as always. Gadisar lake deserves some more time, especially in the evening when the reflections look beautiful. I would even suggest a misadventure at the government authorized Bhang Shop near the fort. 😉
Thanks for dropping by Jitaditya. Your tip on Gadisar Lake noted. Water bodies across Rajasthan are worth spending more time. I like misadventures like bhaang only in the company of a large group of friends, and not while travelling with family 😉
This is a nice travel post and helps one plan his/her travel so well.
haven’t been to Jaisalmer, and it was nice to see a blog sharing everything about it. This was on point. Will look into it. Cheers!
Thanks Nathalie. Have you visited any other part of India?
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The Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer – A 2 or 4 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
Posted by Kyla Hunter | May 29, 2018 | Family Gap Year Travel , India | 11 |
Jaisalmer, in the far north-West of India, is a popular stop on any trip to Rajasthan. It’s also one of the best places to visit in India , especially if it’s your first trip! The town is compact and easy to navigate, with transportation readily available and inexpensive. The perfect Jaisalmer itinerary includes spending time both in the city and in the surrounding countryside.
There aren’t a lot of places to visit in Jaisalmer, but the culture is rich, and it’s got a lovely small town vibe. It was by far my favourite city during our 5-week tour of India.
Jaisalmer is a small enough town that you don’t have to spend many days there to make the most of it. If you’re on a tight budget, you can do a fair amount in 2 days. I highly recommend spending 4 days if you can!
Read through the itinerary, then find the details about all the different visiting places in Jaisalmer below!
The Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer in 2 Days
If you only have 2 days you can still fit in a lot of the things to do in Jaisalmer. There aren’t many tourist places in Jaisalmer, so you’ll be able to see most of them although you’ll be busy!
Spend a few hours resting up, enjoy breakfast, then take the morning to explore the Fort in Jaisalmer , including the Jain Temple of Ranakpur (see the note on guides below). It’s fun to just wander the little alleyways, or spend some time walking directly inside the walls and image what life would’ve been like hundreds of years ago when the fort was built.
Have lunch at one of the many restaurants within the fort, then take a moto-taxi to Gandisar Lake . Walk around the lake, check out a few of the temples, then rent a paddle boat and spend an hour paddling on the lake.
Afterwards, walk across the road to the Desert Cultural Center . Learn a bit about the desert heritage, and watch the 6:30 pm puppet show. Catch dinner, with a view of the fort, on the way back to your hotel at Pleasant Haveli or Romany.
*Note on guides – their prices are incredibly cheap but they will hard-sell you to purchase souvenirs at specific shops. If you arrive at a shop with a guide the prices are incredibly inflated as they receive a kick-back of up to 50%. Take one at your own risk, or ask for recommendations from your accommodation.
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then wander down to the local market and check out some of the beautiful old Havelis (mansions), including Mandir Palace Hotel . Enjoy a swim in the pool or just wander around the old hotel to escape the noise of the city.
Enjoy lunch on the patio by the pool at the hotel (with or without your bathing suit!).
Walk down the street for a post-lunch Chai at Natraj Restaurant (Chai stall) then go back to your hotel to get picked up for your desert safari.
If you only have 2 days you likely won’t want to spend the night, but no trip to Jaisalmer is complete without at least a bit of time on the dunes. You can still ride a camel on the dunes , enjoy dinner cooked over the fire, then take a jeep back to town.
*If you have more than 2 days, spend the night in the desert and keep scrolling.
The Best Places to Visit at Jaisalmer in 4 Days
Follow Day 1 & 2 above.
After your night in the desert, rather than driving back to Jaisalmer, have your ride drop you off at Badal’s House to spend the night in Khuri. Enjoy lunch and dinner with him, and in between, wander the village and help milk the cows.
After breakfast at Badal’s house, catch the late-morning bus back to Jaisalmer. Shower and change at Wanderlust, or wherever you’re staying. Trust me, you’ll want to do this before you do anything else!!
Walk down the road to Trio Restaurant for a late lunch.
After lunch, make your way to Vyas Chatri . Walk around the overgrown grounds, enjoy the quiet and then find a great spot to sit and watch the sunset. This is the best place to watch the sunset in Jaisalmer!
If you have more than 4 days, consider spending more than one night on a desert safari, or a second night in Khuri soaking up the village life. You could also spend more time on the outskirts of Jaisalmer as well, and visit Bada Bagh .
Need To Know About Jaisalmer
Places to visit in jaisalmer, jaisalmer fort.
The is definitely at the top of the list of the places to see in Jaisalmer. It’s the reason Jaisalmer is named the “golden city”, due to the golden colour of the rocks used to build the fort. It was built in 1156 AD and is possibly one of the only living forts still remaining in the world. It’s not without problems though. Tourism in Jaisalmer has brought more people into the fort, resulting in massive strain on the drainage system, and it’s slowly crumbling away. Restoration work is underway to protect this UNESCO world heritage site, but tourists can help by choosing accommodation elsewhere in the city.
Gadisar Lake
This is a man-made reservoir, built by Raja Rawal Jaisal, and was once the only source of water for the city. It’s importance to the history of the city makes it worth visiting alone, but it’s also surrounded by Chattris and temples, Shrines and Ghats (that aren’t often used). It’s also one of the best sunrise photography spots in town!! We visited for sunset, and it was quite beautiful then as well.
Cost – Free to visit. A paddle boat is 200rupees ($4CAD) for 1 hr
Desert Cultural Center & Museum with Puppet Show (Jaisalmer museum)
This is the passion project of Mr Sharma, a former teacher determined to keep the local desert culture alive. The museum itself is small, and can be visited in 30min prior to watching the puppet show. It’s an interesting visit, and supports the efforts to preserve the local culture.
There are 2 nighty puppet shows at 6:30pm and 7:30pm (accurate at time of writing!).
Cost – 100rupees ($2CAD) per adult, 50rupees ($1CAD) for kids 3-8yo, 50rupees ($1CAD) for camera. Cost includes a visit to the museum and the puppet show.
Mandir Palace
The Mandir Palace was the residence of the rulers of Jaisalmer for two centuries, and has now been converted to a hotel. The grounds are beautiful, and worth a wander even if you don’t want to swim.
Cost for the pool – 1350 INR for the fam (2 adults and 2 kids).
Places to Visit Near Jaisalmer
I highly recommend an overnight visit to Badal’s house in Khuri, but if you’re not interested in the basic accommodation, it’s still possible to visit on a day trip. You could take the local bus there and back, however the last bus returns to Jaisalmer before dark and it would be a shame to miss the sunset from the dunes. I’d suggest hiring a taxi or private driver for the return trip.
Vyas Chhatri
Set just on the outskirts of town, this Brahmin cemetery is reportedly the most beautiful place to watch the sunset. It’s worth a wander for a few minutes before the sun sets, then find a place to sit and watch the day end while contemplating life, religion and all things India.
We didn’t make it here, but I would’ve liked to if we had more time or energy! It sounds like a peaceful place to wander around with some beautiful cenotaphs for the city’s rulers from the past set in a wild garden.
Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
*I only recommend accommodation OUTSIDE of Jaisalmer Fort, as the influx of tourism into the fort is causing it’s destruction. I think it’s irresponsible to stay within the fort and contribute to this.
Budget Accommodation: The Wanderlust Guest House
This is, in my opinion, the best guesthouse in Jaisalmer. It’s not fancy, but it’s clean and friendly, and exceptional value for the price. There are basic rooms with shared bath, as well as rooms with a private bath. The view of the city and the Jaisalmer Fort from the roof-top restaurant is absolutely fantastic!
Cost: 250 rupees ($5 CAD)/night for shared bath, 500-700 rupees ($10-14CAD)/night for private bath.
Check up to date prices for Wanderlust on Booking dot com!
If Wanderlust is booked up, there are a few other budget places in town that come highly recommended; Golden Sunrise , Golden Marigold and Sofiana Guest House .
Mid-range Accommodation:
Accommodation ranging from $30-70CAD/night for 2 people counts as mid-range accommodation in Jaisalmer. The places that were recommended were Hotel Lal Garh Fort and Palace , Hotel Fif , Hotel Nirmal Haveli and Pleasant Haveli (adults only).
Luxury Accommodation (with Pool):
In Jaisalmer, I consider luxury accommodation is anything around $100CAD/night for 2 people. For the price, it has to have a pool!! The two best luxury accommodation options are WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace and Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa .
Where to stay Outside of Jaisalmer
Badal house in khuri.
If you’re looking for a rustic, local experience, this is it. Badal is an incredible host and his wife cooks delicious, vegetarian food. It’s very basic, although he had a Western toilet installed a little while ago if you’re not good at squatting!
Cost: 4000INR for 2 nights full board. This was well above the actual price, he only asked for about 2600INR, but that seemed so ridiculously low (and meant the kids were basically free). Getting there: Bus to Khuri was 40 rupees/$0.80CAD each (we didn’t pay for the kids)
I recommend calling him yourself rather than booking online: +91 81073 39097
Where to Eat in Jaisalmer
Trio – This restaurant was recommended to us by a fellow traveler. The food was a bit on the expensive side, but the “real” tandoor naan made it worth it! We had 3 vegetarian dishes with naan and rice. Cost – 850rupees ($17 CAD)
Wanderlust – We ate here because it was convenient, and the food was freshly prepared, well priced, and tasted great. It wasn’t the most amazing food we had in India, but it was still pretty good and the convenience and view made it worth eating here a number of times during our stay!
Romany Restaurant – The view of the Jaisalmer Fort from this restaurant is fantastic! The food was average, and the naan was cooked on a tawa (which is always a bit of a let down for me). Plus, they were burning garbage below and it ruined the meal a bit. This wasn’t the fault of the restaurant, but it affected our experience nonetheless. Cost – 720rupees ($14.40CAD)
Jaisalmer Oasis Restaurant – We had drinks on the rooftop overlooking the fort. Cost 180 rupees ($3.60 CAD) for 2 teas, 2 soft drinks and water.
Pleasant Haveli & Restaurant – The restaurant was empty when we went in, which worried me a bit! The food was fantastic, the view of the fort was excellent, and the paneer butter masala was made not spicy at all for our kiddos (a highlight for them!) Cost 735rupees ($14.30 CAD)
Mandir Palace – The selling point for the food here was also the tandoor naan! We were able to sit and eat in our bathing-suits, beside the pool, and the food was really tasty. Cost 2000rupees ($40 CAD) for a light lunch and drinks (coke and water)
Natraj Chai Shop – There were so many different options for chai. The regular is delicious, and as you go “up” it becomes more cinnamon flavoured. The “super special” was the girl’s favourites, it basically tasted like a cinnamon heart! Cup of Chai starting at 10 rupees ($0.20 CAD) and increasing in price based on the type of chai and the size of cup. This was the only place we went in all of India that had different size of cups!
How to Get Around Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is relatively small and compact, so it’s possible to walk to most places in the center of town. It is the middle of the desert, and can get quite hot! Rickshaws are convenient and readily available. It’s possible to start walking and then flag down a rickshaw if you get too tired or hot! The average cost of a rickshaw journey in town is 100rupees ($2 CAD).
How to Get TO Jaisalmer
You can get to Jaisalmer by plane, bus or train. Jaisalmer has a small airport with flights once a day from both Jaipur (11am) and Delhi (3:20pm) on SpiceJet. The journey is just under an hour and a half from both airports, and costs approximately 4000rupees ($80CAD) one way.
The bus from Jaipur is also an option, but it’s a grueling 9-12+ hr ride that either leaves very early in the morning, or goes overnight. I’d been warned against night-time bus journeys as they’re not considered to be the safest thing. We did run into a number of people who’d done them however, with little complaint about safety. The biggest downside for the bus is that Randy is over 6’ tall and the “sleeping pods” are only about 6’. This would result in a very uncomfortable night for him (way worse than the train!). Between that and the fact that Calais gets car-sick, the train was a better option for us!
If you’re interested in taking the bus, I recommended checking out gobibo.com or redbus.in for schedules and tickets. Approximate cost starts at 500rupees ($10CAD) per person.
Jaipur Jaisalmer Train
The journey from Jaipur to Jaisalmer on the train is a long one, 12-14hrs. It’s possible to do the journey by day, but it’s much better to take the overnight train. The countryside is stark and dry, and really just repeats itself over and over, so you’re not missing a whole lot not being able to see at night! Indian trains are significantly wider than the trains in Europe or China. This was a surprise for me the first time we got on, as I wasn’t expecting the train car to be so open!
The most common train from Jaipur to Jaisalmer has AC3 as the highest class available. The car is arranged 3-bunks high on both sides, with 2-more across the aisle. There aren’t any cabins (these are only available in AC1) or even curtains for the individual bunks! Each pod of 8 people has a light, and by about 10pm most people had their lights turned off. This is, however, until the stop around midnight. We had one empty bed in our pod, and when the lady got on the train she flipped on the light and started banging around trying to put her bag away. It was incredibly disrespectful and woke everyone up! I don’t expect to get a great sleep on the train, but I also don’t expect people to come on with such blatant lack of consideration for everyone else in the middle of the night!
One thing that surprised me on this train was the lack of chai-wallas. There were a few early in the night, but then they stopped. There was also very little opportunity to buy food or drinks, so I highly recommend bringing lots of snacks and enough water for the journey.
Each train car had an “Indian style” bathroom at one end, and a “Western style” bathroom at the other end. There was toilet paper at the beginning of the journey, but it quickly ran out and wasn’t refilled. Definitely bring your own!
The bedding was delivered once we left Jaipur. Each person got a package of bedding wrapped in paper, along with a pillow and a blanket. It was surprisingly clean (I was prepared for the worst) and we slept with the sheets without thinking twice. The floor on the other hand was a different story. Shoes that slip on and off easily is the way to go. You won’t want to walk around barefoot, but you also won’t want to put your shoes up on the bed!
Cost: 1150ruppees ($23CAD) each for an AC3 bunk.
What We Spent In Jaisalmer
We spent an average of $86.58/day for our family of 4, or $21.65 per person . And this included the Desert Safari. Jaisalmer turned out to be one of the most inexpensive places we visited in India. It was significantly below our average of $132.78/day ($33.20 per person) we spent during our 5 weeks in India.
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About The Author
Kyla Hunter
I am a wife, mother and professional schemer! I love planning travel...and of course, actually traveling with my family. My favourite experiences tend to happen off the beaten path, and I'd love to show you that it's possible to travel everywhere with your kids!
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- 35 Best Things To Do In Jaisalmer For A Spellbinding Tour In Rajasthan In 2024
23 Mar 2023
Named after Maharaja Jaisal Singh, Jaisalmer is one of the most popular historical places in Rajasthan. Located amid the expansive Thar desert, the city is known for its rich heritage, traditions, and culture. And the exhilarating adventure sports, fascinating safaris, and camping are only a few of the many things to do in Jaisalmer that add to the rich experience here.
Top 35 Things To Do In Jaisalmer
November to March is the best time to visit Jaisalmer. These months offer comfortable weather to go for desert safari. The vibrant desert festival in February pulls tourists from all over the world. Check out the below given interesting list of best things to do in Jaisalmer and indulge in all of these on your next Rajasthan vacation.
- Jaisalmer Fort – See The Grandeur
- Jaisalmer City – Witness The Scenic Beauty
- Gadisar Lake – Enjoy The View
- Jaisalmer Local Bazaar – Shopping
- Kanoi – Parasailing
- Paramotoring – Indulge Into Adventure
- Sam Sand Dunes – Quad Biking
- Thar Desert – Dune Bashing
- Winds Desert Camp – Desert Safari And Camping
- Tanot Mata Temple – Indo-Pak Border
- Desert National Park – Admire The Wildlife
- Desert Culture Centre & Museum – Puppet Show
- Rajasthan Cuisine – Try Something New
- Desert Jeep Safari – An Enthralling Experience
- Camel Safari – A Different Adventure
- Salim Singh Ki Haveli – Marvelous Beauty
- Jain Temple Tour – Extraordinary Architecture
- Nathmal Ki Have l i – Marvel At The Architecture
- Kuldhara – Visit The Abandoned Village
- Bhang Lassi – Try A New Drink
- Khaba Fort – Explore The Heritage
- Vyas Chhatri – Watch The Sunset
- Suryagarh – Enjoy The Dinner Amidst Sand Dunes
- Jaisalmer Desert Festival – Experience The Festivities
- Indo-Pak Border – Look At The Other Side
- Sunset Palace – Enjoy A Romantic Dinner
- Local Food: Satiate The Inner Foodie In You
- Nightlife: Party Till You Drop
- Nightwalk Tour Of Jaisalmer : Night Sky Views
- Puppet Show: An Engaging Play
- Rooftop Dining: For An Elegant Night
- Cultural Tour Of Rajasthan: A Must-Have Experience
- Photo Tour: For Your Instagram
- Camping On Sand Dunes: An Overnight Adventure
- Visit Lodurva: A Historical Relic
- Light And Sound Show: A Glowing Showcase
1. Jaisalmer Fort – See The Grandeur
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The city is known for the grand fort that fences the city and other tourist attractions in Jaisalmer . These include, inter alia, Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake, Patwon Ki Haveli , Sadar Bazar, and Desert National Park. Taking a city sightseeing tour is one of the most desired things to do in Jaisalmer. Depending on the time in hand, one can also plan to visit Desert Museum and Heritage Museum. Jaisalmer Fort Tickets Charges: INR 50 Jaisalmer Fort Timings: 9AM – 5PM How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Sightseeing
Must Read: 23 Palaces And Forts In Rajasthan That You Must Visit To Get In Touch With History!
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2. Jaisalmer City – Witness The Scenic Beauty
To capture the best glimpses of the royal Jaisalmer, take a guided photography tour of the favorite Jaisalmer attractions. This 2-hour fascinating tour will take you through the lanes, havelis, temples, & forts and will make you view the dunes and sand from never seen before perspective. Carry the best camera & wide-angle lenses that you have for amazing shots. And while you are touring the city, try a few cafes in Jaisalmer for tasty snacks. Charges: INR 1300/person How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Rajasthani culture
Suggested Read: 8 Homestays In Jaisalmer To Get A Taste Of Rajasthani Hospitality
3. Gadisar Lake – Enjoy The View
The Gadisar Lake is among the most popular Jaisalmer attractions. This man-made reservoir was built in 1367 by Maharawal Gadsi Singh, after whom it is named. Boating here is one of the refreshing activities in Jaisalmer and also one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer. Relish the spectacular surroundings or enjoy fun-filled boating in this sparkling lake with families and friends. Opening Hours: 7 am – 7 pm Charges: INR 100 for 2-seater pedal boat | INR 200 for 4-seater pedal boat | INR 300 for 6 seater rowing boats How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Boating
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4. Jaisalmer Local Bazaar – Shopping
There are many vibrant options for shopping in Rajasthan . And shopping in the fort city is definitely among the best things to do in Jaisalmer for the shopaholics. With so many options and varieties of handmade products including clothes, jewelry, accessories, bags, footwear, etc, shopping is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer .
What To Shop: Puppets, Rajasthani textiles, jootis, decorative items, local handicrafts, camel leather items, yellow sandstone showpieces, wooden items, and ornaments Where: Sadar Bazaar, Bhatia Bazaar, Manak Chowk, Pansari Bazaar (oldest market of Jaisalmer), Sonaron ka Baas, and government-owned Khadi Gramodyog Bhavan in Seema Gram How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Artifacts
Suggested Read: Jaisalmer Fort In Rajasthan: A Guide For The Sonar Quila In The Golden Desert City!
5. Kanoi – Parasailing
Fly high above the desert and enjoy an exhilarating bird’s eye view is a lavish treat to the mind and soul. This thrilling and brave heart parasailing activity is quite common in the desert areas and one of the offbeat things to do in Jaisalmer. Most of the desert camps organize this activity on prior requests. It is also one of the best activities in Jaiselmer that you can partake in. Charges: INR 760 How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Parasailing
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6. Paramotoring – Indulge Into Adventure
Paramotoring is among the must-try adventure activities in Jaisalmer for those who wish to make the Jaisalmer trip daring and adventurous. This motor-powered parasailing makes you view the golden sand dunes from high above the sky. You can also click fascinating pictures of the surroundings or just a crazy selfie. The pilot will be with you to control the vehicle so that the adventure sport is extremely safe and secured. Charges: INR 2000 How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Adventure sports
Suggested Read: Nightlife In Jaisalmer: What Happens In The Golden City When The Sun Goes Down
7. Sam Sand Dunes – Quad Biking
Quad Biking is also among the most thrilling things to do in Jaisalmer. Explore the dune topography or ride in an enclosed circuit in a quad-bike. The dusty whirlpool created by the ATV’s motion adds to the thrill factor. Perfect sandy terrain and space make quad biking one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer when it comes to adventure activities. Charges: INR 1700 How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Biking
Suggested Read: 38 Marvelous Places To Visit In Jaisalmer
8. Thar Desert – Dune Bashing
The sand dunes of the Thar Desert are perfect for bashing and off-roading activities. Exploring the desert in an SUV is one of the most pulsating things to do in Jaisalmer, India . A large sports utility vehicle, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser or the Fortuner 4X4, is used in this adventure sport. This is done under strict professional supervision as dune bashing and off-roading may include sharp overturn and competent maneuvering skills. Charges: INR 3500/person How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Desert Safari
Suggested Read: Places To Visit Near Jaisalmer: 8 Spectacular Locations That Deserve To Be In Your Itinerary
9. Winds Desert Camp – Desert Safari And Camping
Taking a desert safari and staying overnight in a desert camp are other popular things to do in Jaisalmer at night . Travelers can take evening safaris to explore the spectacular dunes and watch the sun setting behind the dunes. The desert camps are other major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer and offer all modern facilities needed for the stay. Travelers can also enjoy Rajasthani folk music & dance performances, followed by a sumptuous local cuisine buffet dinner while camping in Jaisalmer . Popular desert camps: The Serai, Royal Desert Camp, and Prince Desert Camp Charges: INR 5000 – INR 9000 for overnight camping | INR 1500 for camel safari and dinner How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Camping
Suggested Read: 12 Destinations To Go Glamping In India
10. Tanot Mata Temple – Indo-Pak Border
Visiting the Tanot Mata Temple is one of the most popular things to do at Jaisalmer Indo-Pak border. Located near the Tanot Mata Temple, the Indo-Pak border is among the most sought-after tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. Travelers can extend their desert safari and visit the Indo-Pak border area with prior permission and permit passes from the Indian Military. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Sightseeing
Suggested Read: 5 Jaisalmer Temples That Represent The City’s Spirituality Beautifully
11. Desert National Park – Admire The Wildlife
Admiring wildlife is one of the other top things to do in Jaisalmer city. Located on the western part of Rajasthan, Desert National Park is sprawled in an area of 3162 kms. They are made of rocky surfaces, sand dunes and salt lake bottoms. It is a commendable example of the Thar Desert and one can find different animals here like Indian Fox, Desert Cat, Chinkara, and many more. Apart from this, you will find the state bird of Rajasthan here, the Great Indian Bustard. Location: Myajlar Road, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001 Opening Hours: 7 am to 5 pm How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Birdwatching
Suggested Read: 11 Best Romantic Things To Do For An Exciting Honeymoon In Jaisalmer
12. Desert Culture Centre & Museum – Puppet Show
When in Jaisalmer, you must watch a puppet show in the Desert Culture Centre and Museum. It is a 40 minutes incredible show that lets you take a sneak peek in the traditional times and know more about the culture of Jaisalmer. You must include puppet show in your list as it is one of the top things to do in Jaisalmer in 2 days. Location: Gadisar Rd, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001 Charges: INR 50 – 100 per head Opening Hours: 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Cultural tour
Suggested Read: 10 Amazing Restaurants In Jaisalmer That Offer Great Food And Splendid Views
13. Rajasthan Cuisine – Try Something New
A trip to Jaisalmer is incomplete if you haven’t tried spicy dishes from the Rajasthan cuisine. Ditch fast food and try out something new to treat the epicurean in you. You cannot miss out on Mirchi, Bada, Pyaaj Kachori, Lauki ke Kofte, Kicha ki Sabji and the famous Dal Bati Churma. And to end your meal properly, Jaisalmer has Ghotua Laddoo which will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Suggested Read: 25 Stunningly Colorful Festivals of Rajasthan
14. Desert Jeep Safari – An Enthralling Experience
The Desert Jeep Safari in Jaisalmer takes one through deserts and villages of Rajasthan. One will drive through the serene golden Thar desert and get to see the small villages. Get an insight into the daily village life and if lucky you might even spot a Black Buck Antelope. Take a day out for a desert jeep safari tour and have a great time driving through the golden dunes. There are various tours that one can opt for in Jaisalmer. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Adventure Safaris
Suggested Read: Monsoon In Jaisalmer: A Guide To See The Best Sights Of The Golden City Of Rajasthan
15. Camel Safari – A Different Adventure
There are various safaris that different places are famous for, and Jaisalmer, the desert city is known for one too, the camel safari. Enjoying a camel safari is one of the top things to do in Jaisalmer Rajasthan . An endless stretch of golden sand, the Thar desert is a beauty to witness. Enjoy the beautiful desert views during the safari that happens to be one of the must-experience activities in Jaisalmer . There are multiple operators offering desert safari in Jaisalmer and one can choose any from amongst them. Timings: 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM Price: Starting from INR 1000/- How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Desert sightseeing
Suggested Read: A Guide To Desert Safari In Jaisalmer
16. Salim Singh Ki Haveli – Marvelous Beauty
Salim Singh ki Haveli is a mansion in Jaisalmer, famous for its architecture. The structure is an 18th-century building that has around 38 beautifully carved balconies. The distinct architecture of the Haveli sets it aside from the other structures of those times. The balconies and the roof are the prime focus of this building where the roof is inspired by a peacock. Head to this amazing place and marvel at the architecture on your trip to Jaisalmer. It is also one of the best places to observe New Year’s eve in Jaisalmer . Location: Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 34500 How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Architecture
Suggested Read: 11 Jaisalmer Resorts To Stay For Experiencing Rajasthani Lifestyle
17. Jain Temple Tour – Extraordinary Architecture
Dating back to the 12th and 15th century, the Jain Temples are another set of architecturally beautiful structures in Jaisalmer. These temples aren’t just places of worship, but of beauty too. The intricate designs on the temple walls are the distinct features of the Jain temples in Jaisalmer. Marveling at the architecture is one of the top things to do in Jaisalmer Rajasthan . How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Temple tours
18. Nathmal Ki Haveli – Marvel At The Architecture
Another place to enjoy the marvelous architecture in Jaisalmer is Nathmal Ki Haveli. Open on all days of the week, one can visit the Haveli any time in between 8 in the morning to 6 in the evening. The beautiful design includes carvings of elephants on the yellow colored stone and other intricate designs on both the interior and exterior walls of the Haveli. Do add this to your list of places to visit so that you do not miss out on the beautiful architecture of this desert city. Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM (all the days of the week) How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Historic tours
Suggested Read: Pulling The Royal Out Of A Random Weekend: Trip To Jaisalmer
19. Kuldhara – Visit The Abandoned Village
Image Credit: Archan dave for Wikipedia
This village is located at a distance of 15 kilometers from Jaisalmer and known as an abandoned Indian village which has a rich history. In the present day it is in ruins, but there was a time when it was known for its large population. The settlement here was magnificently planned and the streets were designed to be wide and beautiful. According to the local folklore, the minister of the ruling kingdom was evil and wanted to marry the daughter of the village’s chief. To keep the valour of his daughter and protect her pride, he asked the entire village to leave Kuldhara and settle elsewhere in the nearby towns and villages. It is also one of the best getaways from Delhi . How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Village tourism
Suggested Read: 36 Magnificent Places To Visit Near Delhi In Winters
20. Bhang Lassi – Try A New Drink
Image Credit: TripAdvisor
This is one of the favorite drinks to have in Jaisalmer which is actually a cannabis-infused yogurt drink that has a slight hint of sweetness. The Bhang can be found in many places across Jaisalmer which also includes some of the government-approved stores. There are other varieties like Bhang infused soft drinks and rolls. The locals and Sadhus can be seen enjoying the variants of this cool and refreshing drink, but it is advisable to drink responsibly.
Suggested Read: 18 Cafes In Indore Serving Mouth-Watering Food And Offering Relaxed Vibes
21. Khaba Fort – Explore The Heritage
Image Credit: Jaisalmer Tourism
This beautiful fort is located at a distance of 35 kms from Jaisalmer and resting amidst the abandoned civilization. Abandoned for around 200 years, this place holds a heritage and also a local legend which makes it worth visiting. In the early times, this fort was the stoppage for the traders who traveled through the Silk Route. They used to stay a night here and pay their taxes. Holding its charismatic heritage, this place also has a museum to explore the artefacts of the past. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Historic tours
Suggested Read: 17 Best Things To Do In Pushkar For An Eventful Trip
22. Vyas Chhatri – Watch The Sunset
Image Credit: Ankitponkia for Wikipedia
Watching the sunset standing at the Vyas Chhatri is one of the best experiences to include while traveling to Jaisalmer. Witnessing the incredible beauty of the place, there are umbrella-like structures that surround the entire area. These cenotaphs reflect the best of Rajasthan’s incredible architecture and make it one of the must-visit places in Jaisalmer . How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Architecture
Suggested Read: 14 Notable Places To Visit Near Kota For A Complete Trip To Rajasthan
23. Suryagarh – Enjoy The Dinner Amidst Sand Dunes
Image Credit: Booking.com
For the people traveling to Jaisalmer during the months of October to March, dinner at the Sand dunes at Suryagarh is one of the unique experiences to cherish. The visitors can experience the royalty and enjoy a meal just like the royals do amidst the lamps and bonfires. The entire menu boasts a nomadic hunt menu which is prepared on-site by a number of professional chefs. The visitors can enjoy the delicious food along with folk singers uplifting the ambiance. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Night camps
Suggested Read: Find Out The Best Places To Visit In Sikar: Rajasthan’s Hidden Gem!
24. Jaisalmer Desert Festival – Experience The Festivities
Image Credit: (WT-en) Yogeshmankar for Wikipedia
This is one of the historic events in Jaisalmer which has been celebrated for many centuries. In the present day it is celebrated on a much bigger scale in the month of February and the entire desert brims with festivities. From camel races to polo, there are a lot of exciting activities to explore along with the Air Force display. They perform many fun and acrobatic performances followed by other activities. This is one of the extravagant events to witness in Jaisalmer. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Annual traditions
25. Indo-Pak Border – Look At The Other Side
Image Credit: Patrika.com
For the people who like to try out some not so exclusive activities, then they can plan a visit to the Indo-Pak border. While here one can witness a large number of Indian Army posts which includes the Longewala and the Tanot. Alongside that there are some awesome tank displays to see. Alongside that one can also plan to visit the Indira Gandhi canal from where one can enjoy some of the amazing views and also get the taste of the local delicacies. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Border sightseeing
Suggested Read: Explore Top 13 Things To Do In Sikar: The Magnificent Desert City Of Rajasthan!
26. Sunset Palace – Enjoy A Romantic Dinner
Image Credit: Anagoria for Wikipedia
Enjoy the perks of royalties while having a dinner at the Sunset Palace which is also known for offering an incredible experience of rooftop dining. Sitting here one can enjoy the beautiful sights of the bazaar and also the view of the Jaisalmer Fort. The restaurant is known for serving a wide variety of cuisines which includes local cuisine, and also food from the Northern part of India. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Sunset views
Suggested Read: Get The Rajasthani Bohemia On! 17 Amazing Shopping Places In Jaipur
26. Local Food: Satiate The Inner Foodie In You
Image Credit: Harshitdenovo for Wikimedia Commons
Disclaimer: The image is for representation purposes only.
For all foodies, one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer is to try the scrumptious local food served at the best restaurants. Jaisalmer is known for its flavourful food and gorging on the most delicious should be on your to-do list. Some of the most delicious dishes that you can try on your food spree are Pyaz Ki Kachori, Gatte Ki Sabzi, Ker Sagri, Mirchi Bhajiya, and Rajasthani Laal Maas. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Food tours
Suggested Read: 67 Places To Visit In Rajasthan: Get A Glimpse Of Rajputana
27. Nightlife: Party Till You Drop
Image Credit: Cocktailmarler for Wikimedia Commons
Jaisalmer is a terrific city and it offers a plethora of experiences that you can enjoy on your vacation. Jaisalmer houses extraordinary bars and lounges where you can party all night. The locals of Jaisalmer believe in partying hard and to make the most of your visit, you must visit on the weekend to hang out with the locals. Hidden lookout and Dunes Bar are the best places that you can visit at night for enjoying drinks and snacks. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Classic fusion cocktails
Suggested Read: Jaisalmer Travel Tips: Take Down These Points To Enjoy The Best Of Your Rajasthan Trip
28. Nightwalk Tour Of Jaisalmer – Night Sky Views
Discover Jaisalmer around evening time with your own private guide on this half-day visit. See notable areas and milestones including the Jaisalmer Fort, Bada Bagh, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Salim Singh Ki Haveli, among other vivid sights. You’ll watch the city wake up around evening time and see landmarks in the floodlights with a guide that will take you around the city. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Late-night light and sound shows
Suggested Read: A Comprehensive Post-Covid Travel Guide To Rajasthan: For A Risk-Free Vacation In The Royal Empire
29. Puppet Show – An Engaging Play
The work of art of puppetry began 1,000 years when it was a great part of the Rajasthani folklore. Especially in case you’re going with kids, you’d be neglectful to leave Jaisalmer without getting a show at the Puppet Theater. A couple of Jaisalmer city visits incorporate Puppet Theater tickets, now and then joined with a mobile visit or food tour through the city. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Evening plays during the sunset
Suggested Read: Visit These Temples In Jaipur & Delve Into The Spiritual Charm Of Rajasthan
30. Rooftop Dining – For An Elegant Night
On the off chance that you love an incredible view, or a comfortable spot to appreciate an extraordinary spread of some delightful food, at that point some outdoors eating might be actually what the specialist requested. Also, in the event that you are looking, you are very in karma on the grounds that there are very some extraordinary choices in the city with regards to rooftop restaurants in Jaisalmer. Want to know more? We should continue ahead with our insistence to visit a rooftop dining place for the best eating experience in the city. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Traditional Rajasthani food
Suggested Read: Rajasthan Travel Tips: 10 Useful Things One Must Remember Before Visiting The State!
31. Cultural Tour Of Rajasthan – A Must Have Experience
It’s quite clear that the social travel industry alludes to individuals heading out to observe another culture. The wide term of culture in this setting can be just characterized as the way of life of the individuals in this locale. As one can envision, in a country as topographically, strictly, and socially different as Jaisalmer, the degree for a wide range of social experience is high. It is why you must enjoy a cultural tour of the city during your visit. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Hidden-gems tour
Suggested Read: 13 Waterparks In Rajasthan That Will Excite You To No Limits
32. Photo Tour – For Your Instagram
Jaisalmer is a very photogenic city and every corner you turn to has something that you would want to photograph for cultural remembrance. From aesthetic buildings, Rajasthani architecture, to street-food that you would definitely want to take a picture of, a photo tour in the city is a must-do item on your bucket list. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Instagram tours
Suggested Read: Top 10 Villages In Rajasthan That Reflect The Culture And Heritage
33. Camping On Sand Dunes – An Overnight Adventure
The classic thing to do when you visit Jaisalmer is checking out the sand dunes and participate in the many activities organized by the locals amidst them. The far stretches of orange-hued sand are nothing but welcoming, offering a plethora of sightseeing options such as camel-riding, jeep-safari and overnight camping to cook food in the middle of the desert and sharing the unique experience with your friends and family. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Camping
Suggested Read: Safari In Rajasthan: 12 Camel Safaris That’ll Make Exploring Deserts An Unforgettable Experience
34. Visit Lodurva – A Historical Relic
Jaisalmer is a terrific city and it offers a plethora of experiences that you can enjoy on your vacation. Jaisalmer houses extraordinary bars and lounges where you can party all night. The locals of Jaisalmer believe in partying hard and to make the most of your visit, you must visit on the weekend to hang out with the locals. Hidden lookout and Dunes Bar are the best places that you can visit at night for enjoying drinks and snacks. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Architecture
Suggested Read: 10 Magnificent Places To Visit In Summer In Rajasthan For A Royal Vacay!
35. Light And Sound Show – A Glowing Showcase
The light and sound shows in Jaisalmer are one of the must-attending events in the city. If you are planning to roam around after sundown to explore the local markets or take a tour of the attractions, make sure that you check the locations where they host these glittering gatherings. How To Reach: Auto, Taxi, Train Famous For: Light shows
Suggested Read: 7 Awe-Striking Waterfalls In Rajasthan That Will Steal Your Heart
How To Reach Jaisalmer
- By Air: Jaisalmer airport is 5 kms from the city and is well connected with Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur.
- By Train: Jaisalmer railway station is 2 kms from the city. The Palace On Wheels is one of the luxury trains in India that can take you to Jaisalmer.
- By Road: Inter-state buses run from Jaipur to Jaisalmer frequently. There are no direct buses from Delhi to Jaisalmer. Delhi to Jaisalmer via Jaipur is close to 800 kms.
Further Read: This Is How A Family Fell Prey To The Charm Of Jaisalmer
The long list of things to do in Jaisalmer looks quite fascinating. Be sure to choose your pick before you plan a holiday in Jaisalmer . Also make sure you experience the maximum possible things to do in this Golden City of Rajasthan.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Jaisalmer
Is it safe to drive in rajasthan at night.
It is generally advised to not drive at night, but if one follows traffic rules strictly and is cautious, then driving at night isn’t a problem.
How many days should I spend in Jaisalmer?
Two days is quite sufficient to explore the beauty of the ancient heritage of fort and enjoy the experience of the desert camp.
Why is Jaisalmer famous?
Jaisalmer, popularly known as the golden city is famous for the Jain temples as well as the stretched-out Jaisalmer Fort which is a prominent element of the city landscape.
What is a desert safari in Jaisalmer?
Desert safari is a thrilling experience of exploring the wide stretched deserts on a camel ride across several sand dunes of Jaisalmer desert which is followed by authentic traditional dinner and local dance performances which you can enjoy at the Desert Camps.
How far is Sam sand dunes from Jaisalmer?
Sam sand dunes are located 40 kms away from Jaisalmer city. This desert area is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Jaisalmer.
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Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 Days & Complete Jaisalmer Travel Guide
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.
This post contains a Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days, in addition to a complete Jaisalmer travel guide.
Jaisalmer, also known as the golden city, is located in Rajasthan, India. This city has been termed as the golden city due to the houses and the famous Jaisalmer fort here which have been constructed using yellow sandstone as well as yellow sand, giving them a yellowish golden appearance. If you look at the city from a height, Jaisalmer will appear golden in color, thus crowning it with the name golden city of India. Located in the far western end of India, Jaisalmer’s proximity to the Thar desert makes it a popular tourist destination for those who wish to experience a camel safari or a jeep safari in the desert. Jaisalmer was named after the Rajput King Jaisal Singh who founded the city in 1156 AD. Besides this 2 day Jaisalmer itinerary, if you're want to see more pictures of my trip to Rajasthan, then head over to my Instagram profile ( @thespicyjourney ).
Most people who visit Rajasthan often head straight away to the popular cities such as Jaipur - the pink city and Udaipur - the city of Lakes. While both these cities are popular for good reason such as the stunning culture, architecture and the monuments, Jaisalmer is often overlooked by tourists. The golden city deserves for credit for sure and this article is sure to convince you to visit this desert city.
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Table of Contents
Jaisalmer Travel Guide & Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 Days
This Jaisalmer travel guide + Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days focuses on the many enriching experiences that one can enjoy in the golden city of India. While the sprawling Jaisalmer fort marks the iconic landscape of Jaisalmer city, there’s a long list of things to do in Jaisalmer, which not only includes exploring the many temples and sites inside the Jaisalmer fort but a lot more than that. Despite its slightly offbeat location, Jaisalmer is among the top places to visit in Rajasthan, India.
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer Rajasthan
- Summer (April - June): Since Jaisalmer is situated in the Thar desert, it can get unbearing hot during the summer. It’s best to avoid visiting Jaisalmer during this season.
- Monsoon (July - September): While the monsoon months from July to September bring relief from the heat but the downpours can be cumbersome and the streets may be muddy during this time of the year.
- Winter (October - March): The winter months are a good time to visit Jaisalmer, especially October-November as well as February-March when the weather is pleasant with it being neither too hot nor too cold. This is the best time to visit Jaisalmer golden city.
How to Reach Jaisalmer, the Golden City
Nearest airport to jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer doesn’t have an airport but the Jodhpur airport is the closest airport to Jaisalmer, located roughly 300 km away. You can take a cab from Jodhpur airport to Jaisalmer. Alternatively, you could even take a local train or bus from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer which is a much cheaper option.
Nearest Railway Station to Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer has a railway station called the Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM) which is well connected to nearby cities within Rajasthan as well as other major cities in India.
Delhi to Jaisalmer
The distance of 766 km between Delhi and Jaisalmer is 585 km and can be covered by road in 12-14 hours or by a direct train in 17 hours. Alternatively, there are flights available from Delhi to Jodhpur and the rest of the journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer can be covered by rail or road.
Must Read: The Best Instagrammable Places in Delhi, India
Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
The distance from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer is roughly less than 300 km which can be covered by road or rail. There are Rajasthan state transport buses plying between the two cities. Apart from this, there are comfortable private AC buses running between the cities as well. Moreover, there are direct trains for Jodhpur to Jaisalmer and vice-versa. While one can hire private cabs, it's a faster but much more expensive option compared to taking a bus or train.
Getting Around Jaisalmer
Even though most of the sightseeing places in Jaisalmer lie within walking distance of the Jaisalmer fort, you will need to hire a cab or auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk) to explore some of the places to visit in Jaisalmer which lie just outside the city. There are lots of tour guides and tour companies which offer good rates on half-day or full-day tours of the sightseeing places which lie just outside Jaisalmer.
Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
Zostel jaisalmer.
View from the rooftop at Zostel Jaisalmer
I cannot put into words how wonderful my stay at Zostel Jaisalmer was. Zostel Jaisalmer is located inside the Jaisalmer fort. While that in itself may sound amazing, the property is absolutely beautiful, decorated tastefully using traditional Rajasthani fabrics and decor items. The cherry on top though is the rooftop that has comfortable seating overlooking the entire city. Zostel Jaisalmer has dorms as well as private rooms, multiple common rooms, and an in-house cafe. They also organize lots of activities that include walks inside the fort, food walks, and desert safari.
Check Availability at Zostel Jaisalmer on Booking.com
Moustache Jaisalmer
Moustache Jaisalmer is yet another one of the wonderful places to stay in Jaisalmer. Even though this hostel is located just outside the Jaisalmer fort, unlike Zostel which is inside the fort, it is located within walking distance from the fort. What I loved about Moustache Jaisalmer was the open verandah right in the center, giving it a very traditional appearance. There are comfortable cushions around this verandah. That, along with the intricately carved walls and the availability of both private rooms as well as dorm rooms make Moustache Jaisalmer one of the best places to stay in Jaisalmer.
Check Availability at Moustache Jaisalmer on Booking.com
Hotels in Jaisalmer Inside Jailsamer Fort
When it comes to finding hotels in Jaisalmer, I strongly recommend getting a hotel inside the Jaisalmer fort. Even if you don’t manage to do that, there are tons of hotels near the Jaisalmer fort. Since the fort by itself contains a lot of sightseeing places and is close to all the other places to visit in Jaisalmer, it’s best to stay close to the fort. This way you can just walk to the nearby spots without having to hire a tuk-tuk.
Find hotels in Jaisalmer on Booking.com
Jaisalmer Itinerary - Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer in 2 Days
Day 1 of jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days.
Spend your first day in Jaisalmer by exploring all the sightseeing places in and around the Jaisalmer fort and by shopping for souvenirs.
1. Patwon ki Haveli / Patwa Haveli
Patwon ki haveli or Patwa haveli is the first stop among all the places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days. This haveli, or traditional mansion, is one of the three major havelis in Jaisalmer and thus cannot be skipped out of your Jaisalmer itinerary. Patwon ki haveli is a cluster of 5 mansions constructed in the year 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa, a wealthy trader, one for each of his five sons. Today, there is a museum inside the haveli and it’s also open for visitors to walk around and take a tour of the haveli, with or without a guide.
Open all days 8.30 am to 6.40 pm
https://www.instagram.com/p/B9vlOzjD6ni/
2. Jaisalmer Fort - Unmissable Place in any Jaisalmer Itinerary
Jaisalmer fort, named after the Maharajah Maharawal Jaisal, is made up of yellow sandstone and thus also known as the golden fort or sonar qila . This spectacular fort has a fortification wall that is 5 km in circumference and 2-3 m in thickness. Not only that, but Jaisalmer fort is also one of the very few “living” forts in the world where people actually reside inside the fort. That’s right - there’s a whole bustling community along with sightseeing places inside the fort as well as temples and lots of shops and restaurants. Entry to the fort is free but some of the sightseeing spots may charge their own visiting fee.
Must Read: A Complete Delhi Travel Guide
3. Jain Temple
The set of Jain temples is one of the must-visit places inside the Jaisalmer fort. Apart from the elaborate carvings, what’s most impressive is that this cluster of 7 Jain temples contains a combined total of 6666 statues of the 24 prophets of Jainism. Additionally, if you add 6+6+6+6 it gives you the number 24 - which is the number of prophets in the Jain religion. Apart from this clever play with numbers, the detailed work inside these temples is very impressive.
Open all days 8 to 12 pm
4. Canon Point
Canon point is one of the open-air areas inside the Jaisalmer fort from where you can get an epic city view. Since the fort itself is at a height and the canon point is further high up inside the fort, you can get a nice panoramic view of Jaisalmer city from here. While canon point is also known as sunset point, I found that the sunset view from inside the Zostel Jaisalmer rooftop, where I stayed at, was much better since there was no crowd and there was comfortable seating to enjoy the sunset. Canon point can often get a little crowded.
5. Eat at One of the Many Restaurants Inside the Jaisalmer Fort
While this may seem very trivial and unimportant to some, I cannot stress how important it is that you include a meal inside the Jaisalmer fort in your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days. I visited a restaurant right inside the main entrance of the fort for lunch. While I felt that the food was a tad bit overpriced for the taste and quantity that was provided, the view from there was worth every single rupee! Jaisal Italy was the only restaurant inside the Jaisalmer fort that I visited for both lunch and dinner because I fell in love with the view from here, although I found the taste of the food to be quite average for the price.
6. Shopping in Jaisalmer Fort
Finish off day one of your Jaisalmer itinerary by shopping for clothing, jewelry, home decor items, and souvenirs. As you step inside the Jaisalmer, you’ll see countless lanes lines with small and big shops on both sides. I would avoid the bigger shops, as I felt the prices there were higher compared to other shops for the exact same items. I would suggest walking right inside the fort, near the museum and the Jain temple area and checking out the many shops there.
DAY 2 OF JAISALMER ITINERARY FOR 2 DAYS
You will start your second day in Jaisalmer, golden city, by watching an epic sunrise and going for a desert safari in the sam sand dunes of the Thar desert.
1. Gadisar Lake
Start the second day of your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days by catching the sunrise at Gadisar lake. The lake is located less than a kilometer from the fort so I walked from the fort, where I was staying, to Gadisar or Gadisagar lake. Apart from a couple of elderly people, who were taking a morning stroll around the perimeter of the lake, the place was completely deserted. And so, not only did I get to watch a spectacular sunrise, but I also got fantastic pictures here with no one in sight. There are boats here for visitors to take a boating tour around the lake but it wasn’t open that early in the morning
Must Read: Best Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days
2. Kuldhara - The Abandoned Village
Kuldhara, also known as the abandoned village or cursed village, is located at a distance of 21 km from Jaisalmer. Once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins, it is believed that the village was abandoned overnight in the early 19th century due to plague, drought, and prosecution by a cruel minister. Now visitors can visit Kuldhara village during the daytime hours. There is no entrance fee for visiting Kuldhara. You can stop by the village before heading to the sam sand dunes for a desert safari.
3. Desert Oasis
I had visited both Kuldhara village and a desert oasis on a desert safari tour. Our guide took my tour group to both these places on the way to the desert. The oasis inside the desert was located off of the main road between Kuldhara and the sam sand dunes. It was such a peaceful and beautiful place to just sit and mingle with the rest of the people on the safari tour with me.
4. Desert Safari
A desert safari is by far one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer. You just cannot miss this experience among all the things to do in your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days. I booked a desert safari costing INR 1900 via Zostel Jaisalmer, where I was staying. The safari included a jeep ride to Kuldhara village, going via the desert oasis to the sam sand dunes in the Thar desert. A camel ride, evening snacks, evening tea, a local vegetarian dinner, overnight stay inside a tent (or under the open sky on a cot), breakfast the next morning and a ride back were also included. While most people choose to stay in the desert overnight, in case you need to head back to your hotel on the same night, you can even ask to be dropped back right after dinner.
Food to Try in Jaisalmer
You must try the two famous local specialties - the Jaisalmer or Rajasthani thali as well as daal baati churma while you’re in Jaisalmer. Ask your hotel or hostel for recommendations for the best places where you can try them.
Must Read: Jodhpur Itinerary: 13 Best Places to Visit in Jodhpur in 2 Days
Where to Eat in Jaisalmer - Best Restaurants and Cafes in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
As mentioned earlier, I highly recommend eating at least one meal at a restaurant inside the Jaisalmer fort. I had lunch and dinner at Jaisal Italy, which is right at the main entrance of the fort. Additionally, I also liked the view of the Jain temple from the Jaisalmer Oasis Restaurant, which is also inside the fort, right next to Zostel Jaisalmer.
Planning a Trip to Rajasthan?
In case you're planning a trip to Rajasthan, you may find these articles helpful:
- The Perfect Jodhpur Itinerary for 2 Days
- Rajasthan Fashion Guide: What to Wear in Rajasthan
- Udaipur Travel Guide + Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 Days
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I was planning to go to Jaisalmer in March but had to cancel ..thanks for sharing this.will visit in winters now
We loved Zostel too! The views were great and it felt very homey. We mostly took it easy during our time in Jaisalmer and only did half the things you mentioned, but we loved this historic fort city
How beautiful! I hoping to visit here later in the year- especially because of how close is it from Jaipur.
Amazing blog you have. Perfect Itinerary for Jaisalmer. Reading this was cool, I also did an overnight safari in Jaisalmer near last summer and loved it! sleeping under the stars was amazing. It was nice to reminisce by reading your post!
Jaisalmer is a very nice place. I am reading your blog and i get the right information about week travel trip to Rajasthan. Such a useful blog. Thanks for sharing helpful information.
appreciate your content how nicely you ghave described jaisalmer tour.by reading your blog i ahve also wished to do jaisalmer sightsseing.
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Jaisalmer Travel Guide: 10 Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer for an Unforgettable Trip
One of the best places to visit from Jaipur (and something on my bucket list for a couple of years) has been Jaisalmer. This is because, until 2019, I hadn’t been to a single desert in the world.
And while I did visit desert areas in both Kazakhstan and Vietnam, visiting Jaisalmer’s sand dunes was definitely a unique experience and a quite cherished one as well, especially since I knew there are so many awesome places to visit in Jaisalmer.
Honestly, the desert sand dunes stretch for miles and miles around here and you could easily get lost if not careful.
Apart from the amazing sand dunes, the Jaisalmer city itself is quite enchanting. It felt like I am in some Arabian story as the narrow streets are filled with colorful shops and vendors.
And the ‘Golden City’ is quite apt as you are surrounded by golden-colored buildings and historical monuments everywhere.
In this Jaisalmer travel guide, I will be listing down everything that you need to know to plan a trip to this wonderful Indian city.
Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
The Golden City is full of exuberance and culture and trust me, it has so much for you to explore. The heart of Thar desert, this city has a wonderful past and heritage which will make you look in awe at every nook and cranny here.
Did you know Jaisalmer was a gateway for trading with the Persian countries? Or that the Golden fort is one of the few living forts in India? There is a lot to Jaisalmer than just the Thar Desert and you only realize it once you visit this gorgeous city.
A few things which make Jaisalmer really special is that it happens to be one of the largest wind farms in India. And it is filled with gorgeous Havelis and bungalows which were constructed during the time when Jaisalmer acted as a trading center.
Later, the trading center was shifted to Mumbai by the Britishers but there are still numerous Havelis and mansions that you can explore around here.
Jaisalmer is also known for its Merasi music community which is an important part of their cultural and religious experience.
So, make sure that you check them out when visiting this golden city. All in all, there is a lot to learn about Jaisalmer and the best way to do that is to explore the streets and Havelis of Jaisalmer.
How to Reach Jaisalmer
Now, there are different transportation modes available to reach Jaisalmer, depending on your origin point. If you are starting from Delhi, then you can reach using a flight, bus, or even a train. You can also try to reach Jaipur or Jodhpur first if you are traveling from far away.
Here is detailed information on how to reach Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer is well-connected with many cities, both inside the state and outside. So, you will find public and private buses from Jodhpur, Jaipur, Mount Abu, Bikaner, etc. to Jaisalmer. You will also find private buses to Jaisalmer from cities like Ahmedabad, Delhi, and so on.
In case there is no direct bus from your city, you can try to reach one of these major cities first and then get a bus to Jaisalmer. But if you are planning to visit here as a short weekend getaway from Delhi-NCR , getting your own private vehicle is cost-effective and fun.
Jaisalmer also has a railway station which has direct trains from cities like Jaipur, Delhi, Jodhpur, Ajmer, etc.
You can check out the trains from your respective city to Jaisalmer on the IRCTC website. In case there isn’t any direct train, then you can search for a train to cities like Jaipur, Delhi, Jodhpur, etc. and then change the train for Jaisalmer from there.
From the railway station, you will find autorickshaws, taxis, etc. to take you to your accommodation in the city.
Another option is to take a flight to the Jaisalmer Airport which is situated on the outskirts of the city, around 10-15 km away. But the frequency of flights is less here so it might be better to reach Jaipur by flight and then take a train/bus to reach here.
How to Travel in Jaisalmer
Since this is a small city, you won’t find local buses available in the city or to the Sand Dunes. However, there are other modes of transportation available that you can check out.
Auto Rickshaws
You will find a lot of Auto-Rickshaws around here which charge reasonably. So, you can take an Auto to reach the railway station, airport, etc. An autorickshaw will charge you around 50 INR from the Gadisar Lake roundabout.
Honestly, my favorite way to explore this city was by walking. In the city, the fort and the Havelis are quite close by so you can easily cover it on foot. You can start by covering Moti Mahal, Nathmal ki Havel, Patwon ki Haveli, and then make your way to the Jaisalmer Fort.
Also, make sure that you choose accommodation near these streets as it will make it easier for you to explore on foot.
Two-Wheeler
Another great way to make the most of your short time in this city is by renting a two-wheeler. From bikes to Active, you will find rental shops for almost all two-wheeler brands. This will make it easier for you to explore the nearby sights like Bada Bagh, Vyas Chhatri, Kuldhara Village, and so on.
The cost of an Active is around 250 – 300 INR and of a bike is around 1200 INR for a day. You can also use the scooty to travel to the Sam Sand Dunes or Khuri Dunes and save money on expensive taxis.
Finally, if you don’t know how to ride a two-wheeler then your only option for reaching the Thar desert is using a cab/taxi. The cost of a private taxi is 2500 INR for a one-sided journey to the Sam Sand Dunes.
However, if you are traveling alone and have opted a group package for the Sand Dunes, then you can share the cost with other travelers.
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
Since Jaisalmer stays hot throughout the year, with the minimum daily temperature of 25 degrees Celsius, it is important to plan your trip during the right month.
Winter Season
The best time to visit Jaisalmer is in the winter months when the sun is comparatively bearable. This also happens to be the peak season for Jaisalmer as people from all over the world travel here to enjoy the desert camping experience.
So, if you don’t mind a little crowd and wish to enjoy the weather in Jaisalmer then winter is the best time to visit Jaisalmer. You can plan a trip here anytime between October to March to have a lovely experience.
Summer Season
Summer season is the absolute worst time to visit the Golden City. And this is not just because it is scorching heat here at that time but also most of the activities and camps shut down during this period.
As a result, you won’t find many options for a desert jeep safari or camel safari to explore the sand dunes.
Monsoon Season
The Golden City experiences very little rainfall so there is no monsoon season really. The summer season ends around July end and the locals start getting for the winter season from August.
So, you can plan a visit in the August – October period but you will not find many activity options to choose from.
Also Read: Which are the Best Places to Visit in Bharatpur
Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Are you looking for a few places to visit in Jaisalmer to make the most of your trip?
Please find below a few of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer, a few of which are my personal favorites.
Vyas Chhatri
One of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer, Vyas Chhatri is an exemplary example of Rajasthani architecture. This is a cremation ground where you will find cenotaphs dedicated to the sage Ved Vyasa, author of Mahabharata.
This cremation ground for Brahmins has gorgeous yellow sandstone cenotaphs that are placed on a raised platform. And each of the cenotaphs has a beautiful, intricately-designed chhatri on the top of the neatly-carved pillars.
Another great thing about this place is that it is built on a hill and offers an amazing view of the Golden Fort and some mesmerizing sunsets. It is located around 4 km from the city center and is mostly a secluded point so you can enjoy watching the sunset in peace here.
Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Entry Ticket: 100 INR per person
Another popular site to visit in the Golden City is Bada Bagh that features a huge collection of cenotaphs of Jaisalmer Maharajas. Built in the 16th century, the first cenotaph in this region was of Jai Singh II who was best-known for making the city green. So, to honor him, his son Lunkaran built his cenotaph here and created a park around it.
After that, more cenotaphs got added in this region and now it has numerous cenotaphs, more than in Vyas Chhatri as well. As a result, this location makes for a good backdrop for landscape photography as well. It is located around 10 km from the city and takes barely 15 minutes to reach.
Timing: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Jaisalmer Fort
One of the most interesting things about Jaisalmer city is that it has one of the largest forts in Rajasthan and even India that is still used as a residential area.
So, you will find locals living inside the fort as well as outside the fort. Also known as Sonar Quila, this fort was built in 1156 AD under the reign of the Bhati ruler Rawal Jaiswal.
Another interesting fact about this fort is that it has survived attacks from different rulers over the years including Humayun, Ala-Uddin-Khilji, and so on.
So, if you have always wondered how a real-life fort looks like then spend some time in this Golden Fort. You will find several temples, museums, restaurants, markets, etc. also inside to explore.
Timings: Any time
Entry Ticket : Free
Gadisar Lake
One of my favorite places to visit in Jaisalmer, Gadisar Lake is another popular spot which was built under the rule of Raja Rawal Jaiswal.
According to the locals, this rainwater lake was used to provide water to the entire city but now it is mostly used for boating and there are several temples and shrines on the embankment of this lake.
Personally, I loved visiting this place during the evening and just enjoy the evening breeze while watching people boating around the lake.
Timings: Any Time
Entry Ticket: Free
Boat Tickets: 10 INR for a rowboat, 50 INR for a paddleboat, and 100 INR for a shikhara
Salim Singh ki Haveli (Moti Mahal)
If you are interested in architecture then Salim Singh ki Haveli is one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer. Constructed in 1815, this haveli was built by Salim Singh and is particularly famous for its unique peacock-shaped roof along with an exquisitely designed pavilion.
This haveli is barely 500 meters from the Golden Fort and gives great insight into the Mughal-style architecture. This haveli has around 38 balconies while the walls here were covered with imperial Mughal-style paintings and there was also a Moti Mahal inside the haveli as well.
Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Entry Ticket: 50 INR per person
Kuldhara Village
Popularly known as the Haunted village of Jaisalmer, Kuldhara Village is situated around 20 km from the city. This village was built in the 13th century and was a prosperous village where the Paliwal Brahmans lived.
However, the village and the neighborhood were abandoned in the 19th century and there are several reasons cited for it.
Some say it was because of the shortage of water while a 2017 study says that the area was deserted because of an earthquake. One popular theory is that because of the persecution of Jaisalmer’s minister, Salim Singh, the area was abandoned.
Whatever be the reason, this village has become a popular tourist spot now so if you love historical places, then one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer would be to stop here on the way to the sand dunes.
Sam Sand Dunes
Of course, one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer is the famous Sam Sand Dunes. This is one of the most authentic desert sand dune sites in India where you can observe 30-60 meter tall sand dunes.
Here, you can enjoy Desert Safari on a camel or in a jeep, both are equally amazing and unique experiences.
You can also stay in one of the camps here to enjoy a sunrise or sunset in the desert along with some local cultural performances and some time away from the city.
Khuri Dunes
Although Sam Sand Dunes is the popular desert spot in Jaisalmer, there is another equally amazing sand dune located in the Khuri village which is comparatively secluded.
So, if you wish to experience the Rajasthan desert at a less popular spot then Khuri Sand Dunes is the perfect place to visit in Jaisalmer. It is located around 40 km from the city and offers the same experiences as the Sam Sand Dunes.
You will find a few camping sites here as well where you can reserve a booking to enjoy a night in the desert.
Nathmal ki Haveli
Another popular haveli to visit in Jaisalmer is the Nathmal ki Haveli which was built around 500 years ago.
This haveli has a gorgeously carved exterior while the interior is covered with miniature paintings. You will find two elephants outside made up of yellow sandstone and are placed as the guards of the haveli.
Apart from that, there are paintings carved in the walls and pillars of horses, cattle, flora, and so on. It is said to have the most unique architecture in Jaisalmer which is why it is such a popular spot to visit.
Patwon ki Haveli
One of the top Havelis to visit in the Golden City, Patwon ki Haveli is actually a cluster of 5 small Havelis and was the first haveli to be constructed in the Jaisalmer city.
The first haveli in this cluster was built in 1805 for Guman Chand Patwa, a renowned trader, who got the 5 separate Havelis built for his 5 sons.
Another interesting thing about this haveli is that it is the largest Haveli in Jaisalmer and located in a narrow lane.
There are jewelry and craft vendors in the lane, just outside the haveli where you can purchase Rajasthani craft and accessories.
The arches and the gateways of this Haveli have different mirror-style work and paintings which make them different from each other.
So, if you are interested in shopping Rajasthani jewelry and designs, then one of the rest things to do in Jaisalmer is to take a stroll in this area and shop to your heart’s content.
Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
In Jaisalmer city and the Desert area, you will find many options for staying. In the city, you have hostels, guest houses, and luxury hotels as well where you can book a bed or a room.
And you will find a place to stay from 100 INR to 50,000 INR. So, it depends on what kind of facilities you are looking for and what is your budget.
If you are traveling solo or with a couple of friends then choosing a hostel would be a good idea. There are many hostels in Jaisalmer to choose from including Zostel , LaVie Hostel , Blue Eye Hostel , and so on.
There are a few other hostels as well so you can use the Booking.com Search Engine below to find the right hostel for you.
Guest Houses and Home Stays
Apart from hostels, there are several guesthouses and homestays available in Jaisalmer as well.
These properties are usually perfect if you are on a tight budget and don’t need a lot of fancy facilities or services. Also, it is a great way to interact with the locals and learn about their routines and culture.
Here are a few options for you to check out: Bob Cafe and Guest House , Bob Marley Guest House , Mud Mirror Guest House , and so on.
Most of the guesthouses charge between 200 – 2000 INR and offer free breakfast to the customers as well.
Hotels and Resorts
I stayed at the Mystic Jaisalmer Hotel which was outside the Jaisalmer fort. There are many other hotels as well, both inside the fort and outside the fort that you can consider. Ideally, a room in Jaisalmer in a good hotel will cost you around 2500 – 3000 INR including breakfast.
And you have a few resorts like Suryagarh , Jaisalmer Mariott, and so on. Yes, these resorts will be extremely expensive but if it is luxury you want, then these will be the best choices for you.
For the desert camping, you will easily find budget and luxury desert camps in both Sam Sand Dunes and Khuri Dunes. A few worth mentioning are Le Royal Camps , Dream Royal Desert Camp , Golden Desert Camp , Rajputana Desert Camp, and so on.
These desert camps usually offer a 1-night 2-day package inclusive of a few activities, stay, and meals. And usually, these desert camps start at 2000 – 3000 INR per person with basic facilities.
Also Read: Which are the Best Places to Visit in Udaipur
Where and What to Eat in Jaisalmer
One of the best things to do in Jaisalmer is to try the Rajasthani cuisine which is extremely delicious. This gives you a chance to experience the authentic Rajasthani dishes in Jaisalmer quite easily.
In this section, I have mentioned a few top dishes that you have to try when in the city along with a few restaurants that I personally liked here.
Food to Try in Jaisalmer
Your trip to Jaisalmer is incomplete if you don’t try these street food and local dishes in the city.
Malai Ghevar
One of the most popular Rajasthani deserts to try is a Ghevar which is available in different forms. In the golden city, you will find that Malai Ghevar is the most in-demand and rightly so. The dessert melts in your mouth and leaves a nice aftertaste as well.
Trust me, I fell in love with Malai Ghevar here the first time I tried it. It was soft yet firm and melted in my mouth and they make it fresh so you won’t be disappointed.
Cost: 400 – 450 INR per kg
Ghotua Laddoo
Another top Rajasthani dessert to try here is the Ghotua Laddoo. Made up of condensed milk, gram flour, ghee, and sugar, this delightful laddoo is quite different from your normal besan and atta ka laddoo. This one melts in your mouth too and leaves you wanting more every time.
Gatte ki Sabji
With appropriate spices, this Rajasthani dish consisting of besan or gram flour sausages is cooked in a yogurt-based curry. You can have it with roti or rice, it tastes delicious either way.
Ker Sangri is a local Jaisalmer dish which is made using local desert beans and capers, found in the desert region. This vegetable dish is slowly cooked using the local spices and chili and tastes amazing with bajra roti.
Pyaaz ki Kachori
Another common Rajasthani dish that you will find in almost all households is the Pyaaz ki Kachori. You will find it almost at street shops and is best-eaten for breakfast usually. You can have it with a chutney or kadi, both taste delicious with it.
Dal Baati Choorma
Obviously, a trip to Rajasthan without eating Dal Baati Choorma is a trip incomplete.
The dish is made up of wheat-bread balls, called baati, which is cooked in a tandoor or firewood with the help of ghee. Apart from this, there is a dal made up of soaked lentils and churma that is made up of bean, wheat, sooji, sugar, and ghee.
Chhaas or Buttermilk is one of the most popular drinks in Rajasthan so, you have to give it a try when in Jaisalmer. You will find it at almost all the street shops and restaurants in the city and it is a great way to keep yourself cool and refreshed under the scorching heat of this region.
Apart from chhaas, bhaang drink and sweets are also quite famous in the city. In fact, there is a government authorized bhaang shop here which serves authentic bhaang in the form of drinks, cookies, cakes, and so on.
This shop is outside the Jaisalmer Fort wall, near the Jaisal Italy restaurant.
Restaurants in Jaisalmer
I couldn’t try a lot of restaurants here as we stayed for 3 nights in the Desert Camp itself. However, there are a couple of places in the city which I tried. Here are the ones whose food I truly enjoyed.
Chandan Shree Restaurant (Opposite Jaisal Italy Restaurant)
Situated just outside the Jaisalmer Fort, this small restaurant offers the most delicious meals at a reasonable cost. Although the ambiance is pretty basic, the food served here is hygienic and delicious. And you can easily enjoy a meal of 250 INR for two people.
I tried here the Shahi Paneer and Tawa Roti and it was pretty good, in my experience.
Thar Cafe Restaurant
Another amazing restaurant where I dined a couple of times is the Thar Cafe Restaurant. It is situated just outside the Jaisalmer Fort, near the parking area and it overlooks the Jaisalmer Fort wall and towers. The ambiance is also decent here and you can enjoy the clear sky while feasting on your delish food.
I particularly liked the Kadhi and the Chaas here and would definitely recommend it to others as well. You can expect to spend around 300 – 400 INR on a meal for two here.
Jambheshwar Bhojnalay (Behind Hotel Neeraj)
When you visit any city in Rajasthan, feasting on the Rajasthani thali is a must. However, most of the restaurants serving Thalis in the city area were either disgustingly expensive and not authentic. So, a local suggested me to try out the local dhaba near the HP Petrol Pump on the Gadisar Lake Main Road.
And honestly, it was the most authentic Rajasthani food ever. Plus, the entire meal cost me 100 INR for a plate including a glass of Chaas.
Visting Jaisalmer was a dream come true and I am so glad I could tick it off my bucket list this year. Experiencing the exciting Desert Jeep Safari, watching gorgeous sunsets, eating delicious food, and sweets, Jaisalmer was a true haven for me.
And I am not going to forget how this gorgeous place made me feel. Trust me, with so many awesome places to visit in Jaisalmer, two days are just not enough to cover this city.
But there are still a lot of other places to cover in Rajasthan and I am so excited to plan how to visit other destinations in this state for now.
Have you also been to Jaisalmer till now? If yes, then do let us know in the comments what did you love the most about this place?
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10 comments
Nice blog post…..
Thank you so much. 🙂
Very beautiful and amazing blog on camping in Jaisalmer. You have given good suggestion during a family trip…
Awesome blogs I love it while reading it is very informative for me well Jaisalmer is very beautiful City So you Can’t travel it in one day so you have to stay for 3 to 4 days
Yes, exactly. One should spend around 3-4 days at least in this city. 🙂
nice article on jaisalmer all places are best.
Thank you so much! 🙂
Your blog is too informative. I like your blog so much. you give full information to people, which is easy for people to find the best place in Jaisalmer for their tour.
Thank you so much. Glad you liked it
2 Days in Jaisalmer – The Best Jaisalmer Itinerary
- February 1, 2022
- 22 Comments
2 Days in Jaisalmer might not seem like much time; however, if you use your time wisely, you’ll be able to cover most of the Jaisalmer highlights. In this 2 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary and guide, we share all of the top places to see in the city, plus where to stay, where to eat, and all of our top tips.
The ‘Golden City’ of Jaisalmer is overflowing with rich culture, compelling history, and mysterious charm. It’s famous for being the ‘Golden City’ thanks to its distinctive sandstone architecture. Which makes sense since it’s set on the outskirts of the desert.
From camel safaris and camping under the stars; to exploring the cities medieval forts, Jaisalmer is a playground for adventurous backpackers. This, combined with all the exciting things to do in Jaisalmer, make it an essential addition to any Rajasthan itinerary .
Anyhow, there is a lot to cover for spending 2 days in Jaisalmer, so let’s get to it!
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Getting to Jaisalmer
AIR – To travel by air, Jaisalmer Airport is located around 17KM from the city centre. Daily domestic flights are available from most major airports throughout the country.
TRAIN – Jaisalmer is well connected via train from most major destinations throughout the country; however, booking trains in India can be tricky. It is advised to book at least 3 days in advance and even then you aren’t always guaranteed a ticket. For this reason, we always used the bus network in India. You can book trains up to 6 months in advance using 12go Asia.
BUS – Jaisalmer is accessible by bus from a number of destinations across India. To check routes, timetables and ticket prices we recommend using Redbus . In our experience, they are extremely reliable. They are one of the few companies who will accept payment with an International card, and they are contactable by phone should you have any issues with your journey.
Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
Whether you are looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget, Jaisalmer has no shortage of great accommodation options.
Hostel – Swan Hostel – One of only a few hostels in Jaisalmer, Swan Hostel is the top choice thanks to its convenient location and comfortable dorm or private rooms.
Budget Private – Bohemian Guesthouse – We can personally recommend Bohemian Guesthouse, for affordable, clean & comfortable private rooms. A 15-20 minute walk from the heart of the city, some may be deterred by the location if you are planning just a short 2 day trip to Jaisalmer.
Luxury – Suryagarh Jaisalmer – For a touch of luxury in Jaisalmer, we would choose the Suryagarh Jaisalmer. Located in the heart of the desert you can expect celebrity treatment at this 5* hotel.
2 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
When putting together this Jaisalmer Itinerary, I’ve tried to cover as much as possible.
Compared to other cities in Rajasthan, there isn’t a huge amount of things to do in the Golden City. Which is why 2 days in Jaisalmer is an ideal amount of time.
On the other hand, some of you will be more enthusiastic than others to cram a lot into the two days. I’m just here to guide you based on our experiences, but feel free to rejig the itinerary as you see fit.
Jaisalmer Itinerary Day 1
Forts, Havelis, and Rooftop Hopping
Assuming you stayed the night in Jaisalmer, you’ll be up bright, breezy and ready to explore.
If you haven’t already had breakfast at your hotel, you needn’t worry. There are tons of great rooftop cafes around Jaisalmer which serve as the perfect setting for a nice breakfast.
Our favourite spot for breakfast was Kuku Coffee Shop. The food is cheap and delicious, and the view is fantastic.
1. Explore the Jaisalmer Fort
With a striking golden structure that can be seen from miles around, Jaisalmer Fort is the landmark of the city.
This fort is unique as it is one of the only lived in forts in the world. The towering sandstone walls encompass not only homes but shops, restaurants, temples and even hotels.
Despite these modern developments, the fort retains all the feels of a medieval city. And walking among the castle walls will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.
Exploring the fort is one of the historical things you can do in the golden city and you never know where the labyrinth of alleyways might lead you.
Laid within in the fort are cool rooftop bars, epic viewpoints of the cities, talented artisans, or eerie fortune tellers.
Furthermore, it is completely free to enter. This is quite a selling point considering most attractions in Rajasthan come with a steep price tag attached.
Entrance Fee – Free to enter
2. Take a Walking Tour of the Havelis
Havelis are what we westerners know to be mansions, and a number of these buildings can be found in the city of Jaisalmer. In true Rajasthani style, these grandeur buildings are the work of exquisite artistry and craftsmanship.
Patwon Ki Haveli is the largest and most important haveli in Jaisalmer. Once home to a rich merchant, it is now a popular tourist attraction in the city. The intricate sandstone design is quite remarkable and well worth visiting in Jaisalmer.
Although it is just a small fee to go inside, we were quite happy admiring the masterpiece from the outside.
Entrance Fee – Free to view outside. 100 IDR/pax to go inside.
3. Visit Gadisar Lake
One of the more relaxing places to visit on this Jaisalmer Itinerary is Gadisar Lake. The lake is said to be spiritual and the religious temples seemingly floating in the water add to its charm.
Many locals and tourists alike, come here to meditate at sunrise. Otherwise, it’s a nice spot to read a book, or simply immerse yourself in the serenity that such conditions provide.
Another relaxing activity you can take part in on the lake is peddle boating. A 30-minute boat ride will set you back just 100 IDR for a 2 man boat and allows you to explore the lake at your own leisure .
I t’s a relaxing experience and a chance to see the ‘floating’ temples in closer proximity. Just try not to get too close in case you cause damage to the structures.
Peddle Boat Price – 100 IDR for 30 minutes
4. Go Rooftop Hopping
The city of Jaisalmer is bursting at the seams with quirky rooftop bars and restaurants. Each of them offering marvellous views over the Golden City.
We made an effort to try a new one each day. It is such a great feeling at the end of a busy day to kick back, enjoy an ice-cold beer and enjoy the sunset.
Our favourite rooftops include Pleasant Haveli, Kuku Coffee Shop, and Free Tibet Restaurant; however, with so many great options both within and outside of the fort, you can’t go too far wrong.
Jaisalmer Itinerary Day 2
Camel Safari & Camping Under the Stars
OK, it’s day two and I highly recommend you make time to go on a camel safari in the Thar Desert. This experience is one of the most memorable of all our time in India.
If you aren’t interested in a camel safari, you can skip to the next section for more things to do in Jaisalmer.
5. Camel Safari in Thar Desert
Jaisalmer borders the Thar desert, and one of the quintessential things to do when visiting the ‘golden city’, is a camel safari.
From trotting through the sand dunes atop camels, followed by nights under the milky way, it is no wonder that tourists travel from far and wide to take part in this magical experience.
If you can afford to spend another night in Jaisalmer, I can highly recommend the overnight camel safari. However, tours range from 1/2 a day to 3 days+, so there is something to suit everybody, regardless of your time constraints or budget.
Either way, I urge you to make a camel safari a priority when spending 2 days in Jaisalmer as it’s one of the most unique experiences in India.
6. Visit Khaba Fort
Khaba Fort isn’t one of the popular attractions when visiting the Golden City; however, its compelling history makes it one of the more interesting.
The fort and neighbouring village date back to the 13th century. Once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins, both were mysteriously abandoned some 200 years ago.
It is said, that the inhabitants set a spell that forbids anybody else from settling in the village. I don’t know if it’s all just ghost stories, but there is no denying the eerie solitude that consumes the area.
*Tip – Khaba Fort is located in the desert, around a 30-minute drive outside of Jaisalmer. It is usually included when booking an overnight camel safari. Check with your tour operator at the time of booking.
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For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide :
More Things to do in Jaisalmer
If you plan on spending more than 2 days in Jaisalmer or you have some time to spare, here are some other things you can include on your Jaisalmer itinerary.
7. Try a Bhang Lassi or Cookie
You didn’t hear this from us; however, Jaisalmer is one of the few cities in India where it is acceptable to consume Bhang . That is, however, only if it is purchased from the government approved bhang shop.
For those of you unfamiliar with Bhang, it is an edible form of cannabis. It is most commonly found in Bhang Lassis, a tasty beverage mixed with milk, sugar, and fruits. Or alternatively in cakes or cookies.
Bhang forms a big part of ancient Hindu tradition and is believed to cure many ailments. It produces a similar effect as smoking cannabis; however, can last longer and also take a lot longer to kick in.
If it is your first time experimenting with Bhang , it is worth educating yourself on the effects before partaking.
*Travellers Tip – We bought some cookies to take with us on our desert camel safari. Although we do not recommend taking Bhang in the heat, it certainly helped make an enchanting evening spent under the stars, that little more magical.
8. Watch the Puppet Show
Puppeteering plays a big part in traditional Rajasthani culture and Jaisalmer seems to be the heart of it it.
Alongside artisans selling puppets throughout the golden city, a puppet show is just one of those things you should experience while you are here.
You can watch the 40-minute puppet show at the Desert Culture Centre every evening at 6.30 pm.
Entrance Fee: 100 IDR/pax
9. Eat Momos at Free Tibet Restaurant
This may sound like an odd recommendation considering we are talking about India; however, the momos at Free Tibet are some of the best we’ve had. Better even, than most, we tried in Nepal .
Not only is the food amazing, but the restaurant is one of the few that sell cold beer. Furthermore, the rooftop is a great sunset point in Jaisalmer.
In addition to the momos, we can recommend the Malai Kofta curry and the vegetable enchilada.
10. Take a Trip to Bada Bagh
Located 6km outside of the city, Bada Bagh is essentially a cemetery for members of the royal family.
The magnificently carved cenotaphs are what attracts most tourists here, and have even been the feature of numerous Bollywood films.
Despite being one of the recommended places to visit in Jaisalmer, unfortunately, we didn’t have time to make it to Bada Bagh on this occasion. Although, it is at the top of our list for when we return.
Top Tips for this Jaisalmer Itinerary
Here are my top tips for visiting Jaisalmer, which I hope will help you to better navigate and enjoy this wonderful city.
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
The best time to visit Jaisalmer is in winter (November to March) when the weather is dry and not too hot.
We visited Jaisalmer in November and while you could still feel the burn of the desert heat , it was just about bearable for us pale-skinned folk.
It’s best to avoid Jaisalmer during the months of Summer or Monsoon.
Getting Around in Jaisalmer
Many of the Jaisalmer attractions are within walking distance of one another. However, If you want to go outside of the city the easiest and cheapest way to get around is by scooter.
The cost is around 500 IDR for 24hrs; although, be aware that the roads in India are a bit of a rat race. You should only consider this if you are confident and experienced on a motorbike .
Another option is to hire a tuk-tuk . This can be cost-effective if you are in a group, but be sure to haggle as the drivers are opportunists when it comes to tourists.
Wherever you go in India, it is important that you dress appropriately. Not only is it respectful, but it will help to avoid unwanted attention.
It is recommended that female travellers respect the local tradition of covering shoulders and legs from the knee upwards.
The dress code for men is a little more relaxed; however, it is recommended to avoid revealing vests or tank tops.
Be Aware of Scams
In all touristy areas, there are many travel scams you should be aware of so consequently, you can avoid them. There are also known to be skilled pickpockets operating in Jaisalmer so be sure to keep your valuables secured at all times. We use either a small padlock or compartmental bag to keep our valuables safe.
Enjoy Your 2 Days in Jaisalmer!
Well, that concludes our 2 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary . We hope you enjoy your time in this magical city.
If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, or through our contact us page.
If you’re visiting India in the near future, perhaps you’ll find these related articles helpful:
- One month in India – Ultimate itinerary & guide
- The Golden Triangle India – itinerary & guide
- 2 Days in Jaipur – The Best Jaipur Itinerary
- 18 Amazing Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 Days
- The Best Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 Days or More
Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram where we share further travel advice & inspiration.
Stay adventurous and Happy travels.
Charlotte & Natalie x
Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. And we can continue bringing you free travel tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates – you are awesome, and we thank you!
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22 Responses
Thank you very much for this informative post…
Awesome blogs I love it while reading it is very informative for me well Jaisalmer is very beautiful City So you Can’t travel it in one day so you have to stay for 3 to 4 days their so I suggest you Book – Best Hotel In Jaisalmer For Amazing Experiance in Jaisalmer
Desert Camp in Sam Sand Dunes & Best Luxury Desert Safari Camp in Jaisalmer Since 2006.
Thanks for sharing this amazing article with us. I really like your article. Jaisalmer is such a wonderful place to visit in Rajasthan.
Thank you for writing such an informative blog about Jaisalmer attractions since it will be helpful for my next trip to Jaisalmer.
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MUST VISIT PLACES IN JAISALMER
ITINERARY SUMMARY
Trip starts from: jaisalmer, mode of travel: car (or cab), trip ends at: jaisalmer, total places visited: 7, trip starting point: jaisalmer railway station, total distance (round trip):, travel time (round trip):, trip duration: 1 day, ideal start time: 9 am, sightseeing time: %%itinerary_sightseeing_time%%.
DAY 1 : JAISALMER FORT - NATHMALJI KI HAVELII � PATWON KI HAVELI � SALIM SINGH KI HAVELI
Travel from to, 1 jaisalmer fort.
At a distance of 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Jaisalmer Fort locally known as Sonar Quila (Golden Fort) is located in the heart of Jaisalmer city. It is one of the largest forts in India, and among the must include places in Jaisalmer holiday packages . Jaisalmer Fort is a World Heritage Site declared by UNESCO under the group hill forts of Rajasthan . Jaisalmer Fort was built atop the Trikuta Hill in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Maharawal Jaisal Singh. It was the center of several historical encounters between the Bhattis, Mughals, and Rathores of Jodhpur. The Fort of Jaisalmer survived several attacks by the Muslim rulers like Aladdin Khilji and Mughal Emperor Humayun. The city also served as a refuge and way-station for caravans and travelers along the Silk Road. Standing proudly in the middle of the great Thar Desert, this fort is regarded as 'The Pride .....
2 Jain Temples - Jaisalmer Fort
At a distance of 2 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, the Jain Temples are one of the oldest temples in Jaisalmer which are situated inside the Jaisalmer Fort complex. These Jain temples are the most important religious attractions in Jaisalmer . There are seven Jain temples in total which are built during the 12th and 15th centuries AD. These Jain temples are dedicated to different Jain Tirthankaras. Among these temples, the biggest one is the Parsvanath Temple and is most attractive; others being Chandraprabhu temple, Rishabdev temple, Shitalnath Temple, Kunthanath Temple, and Shantinath Temple. These temples are famous for their Dilwara style paintings and architecture that were predominant in the medieval era. The temples are built out of yellow sandstone and have intricate engravings on them. These temples have archaeological and religious .....
3 Tazia Tower
At a distance of 2 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Tazia Tower is located in the Badal Palace complex near Amar Sagar Gate inside Jaisalmer Fort . The intricate designs, minarets and architectural fusion of this tower make it one of the top Jaisalmer tourist places. Tazia Tower was constructed in the form of Tazia that are usually part of Muslim religious festivities. It was constructed in 1886 AD by Muslim carvers who presented it as a gift to the imperial Hindu king, Maharawal Berisal Singh. The structure is a five-storied complex with each story possessing a unique balcony with an exclusive design of its own. The exquisite design and fine carvings on the walls and ceilings of each floor of the tower reflects the rich artistic creativity and imaginative skills of the local craftsmen of the bygone era. Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
4 Nathmalji Ki Haveli
At a distance of 500 m from Jaisalmer Fort and 2 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Nathmalji ki Haveli is a renowned architectural marvel in the heart of Jaisalmer near Patwon ki Haveli. It is one of the prominent Jaisalmer places to visit . Nathmalji ki Haveli was constructed by Maharawal Berisal in 1885 CE, to serve as the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. The chief architects of this haveli were two brothers, named Hathi and Lulu. There is a very interesting story regarding its construction. It is believed that both the brothers started building the facets of the haveli simultaneously. The two sides are similar, but not identical. This haveli is famous for its architecture that reflects the fusion of both Rajput and Islamic styles. The building is planned around two courtyards; the one in the front is much smaller than the rear one. The front part of the .....
5 Patwon Ki Haveli
At a distance of 500 m from Jaisalmer Fort and 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Patwon-ki-Haveli is situated in a narrow lane near the Patwa Complex in Jaisalmer. It is the first haveli to have been erected in Jaisalmer and also one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer . The Patwon ki Haveli is considered to be the one of the largest as well as the finest haveli of Rajasthan. This haveli is essentially a cluster of five havelis, which was constructed in 1805 CE by Guman Chand Patwa. A rich trader, Guman Chand Patwa constructed five separate sections for his five sons. The first haveli is the main and also the grandest haveli in the complex. The entire construction took over 55 years to complete. Located in the center of the city, it is truly an outstanding piece of architecture. It is renowned for its ornate wall paintings, intricate yellow sandstone-carved jharokas or balconies, gateways .....
6 Salim Singh Ki Haveli
At a distance of 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Salim Singh ki Haveli is an old edifice located at the heart of Jaisalmer city near Jaisalmer Fort . This beautiful architectural building is one of the major tourist places in Jaisalmer . Salim Singh ki Haveli was built in 1815 CE by Salim Singh, the then Prime Minister of the kingdom when Jaisalmer was the capital. It is said that once the Haveli of Salim Singh had two additional wooden storeys in an attempt to make it as high as the maharaja's palace but the Maharaja did not take this attempt in good spirit. Currently it has only five stories as the upper two tiers were demolished as per the order of the king. The architecture of this haveli is unique as compared to the other havelis. This mansion was not created with the help of cements and mortar- the stones are connected with strong iron .....
7 Gadisar Lake / Gadsisar Lake
At a distance of 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station and 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake or Gadsisar Lake is an artificial reservoir in Jaisalmer. It was the only source of water for the Jaisalmer city in the olden days and also one of the best sightseeing places in Jaisalmer . The Gadisar Lake was constructed by Raja Rawal Jaisal, the first ruler of Jaisalmer, and later reconstructed by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the year 1367 AD. It is said that this rainwater lake once provided water to the entire town. At present Gadisar Lake gets water from Indira Gandhi Canal so it never dries. Located towards the south of Jaisalmer city, the entrance to the Gadisar Lake is through a magnificent and artistically carved yellow sandstone archway that is known as the Tilon-Ki-Pol. There are numerous shrines and small temples on the embankment of this lake which can visit during your trip to Jaisalmer . The .....
END OF THE TOUR
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3 days, 3 cities: Glorious Rajasthan
Magnificent Rajasthan!
We (me and my 5 other friends) were planning a trip the moment we were done with our end semesters, and I thought this would be no different, we would plan and then slowly it will fade away until we begin planning again (Story of our lives, isn't it?).
However, I was wrong this time.
After a day or two of hustle and bustle, we decided we could visit Rajasthan at that time of the year. The vibrant culture with an extraordinary heritage of the state had to be witnessed. 3 cities (Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur) in 3 days was the itinerary and we went away in a breath, Impromptu trips be the best.
On the 13th of January, around 7 PM, we boarded our bus from Chandni Chowk and reached Udaipur the next morning around 10 AM and were welcomed by the chilling January breeze. We took some rest, freshened up, threw our bags aside, and rushed into the streets of a new city to explore its culture and history.
Beguiled by the enigma that the city besets you with, Udaipur is every traveller's delight. The city of Lakes, or the Venice of the East, is known for its history, culture, scenic locations and the Rajput-era palaces. The palaces reflect the architectural grandeur that prevailed during the opulent period of Rajputs. The lakes add to its surreal beauty and the cultural heritage of the city is worthy of the view.
Our first target was The City Palace . It is situated on the banks of Lake Pichola . We decided to walk from our hotel to the palace. While strolling around the streets, we came across many antique shops, emporium places, and eateries. A few times, we asked the locals, dressed in their traditional wears, for directions.
Side view of The City Palace
City Palace
The moment we stepped into the Palace, we were awe-inspired by its size and its gigantic three-arched gate. The main gate led us to a series of courtyards, corridors, terraces, hanging gardens, uncountable rooms and passages. The Palace houses a museum that showcases many historical articles, antiques, paintings, decorative furniture, swords and utensils from the royal era. We spent about 3 hours there: walking around the corridors, admiring the architecture, learning about its history, clicking pictures, posing vivaciously, and walking briskly near the lake. Despite gushing waves, it was still tranquil near the lake. Besides that, boating facility was also available at the Lake Pichola to visit the Jal Mahal or the Udai Vilas, or to just wait for sunset. But we didn't go for it because we were famished.
Full fledged view of The City Palace
Jag Mandir in Lake Pichola
Tried my hand at photography!
Natraj Dining Hall & Restaurant
Since a friend of mine had been to Udaipur before, so, he knew the perfect place to satisfy our hunger. The restaurant was a 3 km walk from the City Palace and my friend made us all walk up to there saying that, "It's just a few meters". But it the end it was worth it. We almost reached on time (Lunch available till 3:30 PM) at the Nataraj Dining Hall and Restaurant (Highly Recommended). The moment we sat on the table, the attendants started pouring dishes into a large thali and we began gobbling up the delicious food. The buffet consisted of 10-12 items, from sweet to savoury, and a glass of lassi. Next thing, you know, we ate so much that we couldn't walk anymore and decided to take an auto and asked the driver to take us to the nearby places.
Buffet for just 200 bucks
Karni Mata Temple
Post Lunch, the auto driver took us to a cable car station named Mansapurna Karni Mata Rope-way (or Doodh Talai ropeway) . We waited for our turn for 20 minutes (Long Queues) and then the cable car (with a seating capacity of 6, 90 Rs. per head) took us to the Karni Mata temple. The platform up there offered a panoramic view of the Udaipur city, with lakes and hills on one side and thousands of white houses (as far as you could see) on the other side. After reaching the top, we visited the temple and in about a few minutes, it was time for sunset. We couldn't miss that for the world. So, we just sat there to let that feeling sink in with wind rushing at about 100 miles/hour in the background.
City Palace from the top
Udaipur city
After sunset, we headed back to our hotel, picked up our bags and left for Bus station and before we realized, it was time to say goodbye to the beautiful city. Upon reaching the bus adda, we inquired about buses to Jaisalmer and around 8 PM, we boarded our bus.
It was a 10-12 hour nonchalant journey from Udaipur to Jaisalmer with dark black skies, full moon and soulful music. The only thought in my head at that point of time was that this is what heaven would feel like. We slept for a few hours and reached early morning and it was drizzling.
After disembarking the bus, we took a cab, and the cab driver named Poonam Singh (a loquacious person) had links with one of the hotels and camp sites. So, we stayed in their hotel and choose Mika Rai Desert Safari Camp for the overnight stay. The package included sightseeing in Jaisalmer, overnight stay at the campsite, camel ride, desert safari, and meals (Total: 2300 per head).
Gadisar Lake
Our day in Jaisalmer, The Golden City, began by a visit to the Gadisar Lake. It was a peaceful place to spend time. We had Maggi there, bought some souvenirs, and then went to see the Jaisalmer fort.
Ganga Sagar, Gadisar Lake
Jaisalmer Fort
The city stands on the ridge of a yellowish sandstone, crowned by the fort, which contains a palace and several Jain temples. Its massive sandstone walls are a tawny lion colour during the day, turning to a magical honey-gold as the sun sets. The Fort houses many museums that showcase its history.
Palace inside the Jaisalmer Fort
Thar Desert
Post sightseeing, we headed to the Thar Desert (I was too excited for that!). It was 30 km ride from the city. Enroute to the campsite, we stopped in between for a camel ride. The six of us rode on 3 camels viz. Raja, Lucky and Michael.
It was our first camel ride, bumpy and exciting. The camels rode us to the Sam sand dunes. They were perfectly shaped and we jumped, ran barefoot, raced up and down the dunes. Besides that, there's a one little anecdote that I wish to share (Disclaimer:
It was totally unintentional and no body was hurt), "While jumping and racing, a friend of mine broke his spectacles (Thank God, he had an extra pair), and there were a few female passersby, riding on camels, and one of them was consoling the other by saying that,"Ye shaakahaari hai, ye nahi kaatega" (Meaning: the camel is a vegetarian and he won't bite), and to this the friend-with-the-broken-spectacles replied that "Shaakahaari to hum bhi hai lekin hum to kaat lete hai"(Meaning: we too are vegetarians but we can bite).
The moment we heard this, we all burst into laughter (those passersby also laughed), rolling here and there, not able to control ourselves. It was the best part of our trip.
Again, it was time for sunset. This time it was even more beautiful than yesterday. We sat there until the sun touched the horizon and sky turned reddish orange.
One of the three camels relaxing before the ride.
Look at their faces!
Camel Ride!
Sunset in the desert.
It was mesmerizing.
That is mandatory!
Mika Rai Desert Safari Camp
Post that, we went to the camp site and were welcomed with garlands. The camps there were like small huts aligned in a perfectly straight line. After relaxing for a while, now, it was time for the cultural program around the camp fire. The arrangement was totally ethnic and there were dance and music performances, fire acts, and later on, DJ added to the entertainment.
We danced to the music because, you know, "We're fools whether we dance or not, so we might as well dance." Then we had dinner, and walked around the campsite and spotted the Orion constellation. We slept around 1 am (the only night we spent in a hotel) and we were scheduled for desert safari at 6:30 in the morning.
Three milestones: 112, 113, 115
Rajasthan Desert Safari
The next morning, I was the first one to wake up and forced the others to leave their beds. It was frigging cold outside (maybe 5 degrees), so, we wore our jackets and covered ourselves with blankets and headed out for our adventure. The cab driver took us to a tea stall in the middle of nowhere, and we couldn't see anything because it was too foggy.
After a sweet cup of tea, we packed ourselves in the back of the jeep and a roller coaster ride started. It was a bumpy ride with sudden ups and downs while the chilling wind thumped our faces really hard. After a half hour of adventure, we reached back to the campsite, freshened up, had breakfast and packed our bags and headed back to the city.
Fire that kept us warm before the adventure.
Selfie after the chilling desert safari.
We reached at the Jaisalmer bus stand around 11 PM, and in about half hour, we boarded the bus for The Blue City, Jodhpur.
It was a 4-hour journey. We reached there around 4 PM, had lunch at the restaurant named 'Gypsy'(Okay-ish), went to see the mighty Mehrangarh Fort , and bought some Ghevar (It's a must). We couldn't cover much of Jodhpur as it was already 7 PM, and we started inquiring about buses to Delhi.
But unfortunately, there were none. So we boarded the only bus to Jaipur at 10 PM. We passed time by strolling aimlessly in the streets of a new city (It felt amazing not knowing where to go and just wandering).
We didn't even realize, and the clock ticked 10, so we gathered our stuff, and boarded the bus to Jaipur. Next morning, at 6 AM, we embarked on the Haryana Roadways (Man, they drive swiftly!) and were here in Delhi at 11 AM.
Outside Gypsy Restaurant
Alas! After 3 days, 2000 kms, 40 hours of travel, and chilling winters, our journey came to an end. It was a fun trip and the moments we shared together are the ones we'll cherish forever.
The six of us. From Left to Right: BT, Myself, Pentium 1, Bob Marley, ET, Salman
1. If you go in winters, it gets really cold in the night, so pack your clothes accordingly.
2. There is no direct bus from Delhi to Jaisalmer and vice-versa.
3. It's a lot of travel from one city to another, so make sure you get proper rest.
4. Buses ply at right time, so don't be late in catching your bus.
Apart from the places we visited, there are a few other ones which we couldn't cover:
In Udaipur: Bagore ki Haveli, Lake Fatehsagar, Jag Mandir(or Jal Mahal), Kumbhalgarh Fort (80 kms from Udaipur city), and several temples.
In Jaisalmer: Bada Bagh, Patwaon-ki-Haveli, Salim Singh-ki Haveli
In Jodhpur: Umaid Bhawan Palace
Last but not the least, Happy Traveling!
Must read: best tour packages in rajasthan , jawahar kala kendra , Banswara Rajasthan , Bhangarh fort haunted
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Make the most out of your 3 days in Jaisalmer by exploring these top visited places: Jaisalmer Fort, Natraj Restaurant, Jaisalmer War Museum, Saffron, Tanot Mata Temple, and Lake View Restaurant ... tourists and you will find lot of happening cafes around. there is also light show at 7.00 pm at the bank of lake. must visit place in jaisalmer ...
3. Jaisalmer Fort . 4. Sunset point . 5. Golden streets of the Golden City . 6. Thar Desert for overnight camel safari . How to put the best places to visit into a 3 day Jaisalmer itinerary? Day 1 in Jaisalmer List of things to do for day 1: Visit to a Jaisalmer haveli; Sunset boat ride on Gadisar Lake . Day 2 in Jaisalmer (and desert) List of ...
🐪 Here Are Some of the Best Places to Visit in Jaipur. Day 2 of 3 Days in Jaisalmer Itinerary 9 am: Breakfast @ The Wanderlust Cafe & Restaurant. The Wanderlust Cafe & Restaurant is a cozy and lovely place with a rooftop setting that affords a view over the city and the fort. We had a delish breakfast here! 10:30 am: Lodurva
Places to Visit in Jaisalmer. Explore popular experiences. See what other travellers like to do, based on ratings and number of bookings. See All. ... 3 Days / 2 Nights Camel Safari. 5. 4WD Tours. from ₹6,794. per adult. Full day overnight Camel Safari Tour Jaisalmer. 50. 4WD Tours. from ₹2,548.
Exploring most of the tourist attractions in Jaisalmer can be achieved in 3 Days and 3 Nights. On the first day, you can delve into the local attractions, while on the second day, a visit to nearby places would be ideal. Day 3 presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in thrilling adventure activities at the Desert National Park.
The city is small & compact and 3 days are just perfect to cover most of the famed sites. We have listed the 10 must-visit attractions in Jaisalmer to help you chalk out an itinerary for your trip to Jaisalmer. Must-Visit Places in Jaisalmer:-1. JAISALMER FORT, JAISALMER
Historical & Heritage. At a distance of 500 m from Jaisalmer Fort and 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Patwon-ki-Haveli is situated in a narrow lane near the Patwa Complex in Jaisalmer. It is the first haveli to have been erected in Jaisalmer and also one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer. The Patwon ki Haveli is considered to be ...
1). Patwon ki Haveli, Jaisalmer. This is our first stop of the 3-day Jaisalmer Itinerary. Patwon ki Haveli is one of the three major havelis in Jaisalmer and cannot be skipped. It is a majestic cluster of 5 small Havelis that were built between 1800 and 1860 by Guman Chand Patwa, one for each of his sons.
Enjoy breakfast followed by a camel ride through the desert dunes before heading back to Jaisalmer and its Patwon Ki Haveli, the largest of a cluster of five old city mansions, or havelis, located near the Gopa Chowk entrance of Jaisalmer Fort.Dating to the 19th century, these intricate homes feature carved columns, arches, and balconies, along with frescoed murals and mirrorwork.
10. Desert National Park. 379. National Parks. Desert National Park, Rajasthan, India, is situated in the west Indian state of Rajasthan near the town of Jaisalmer. This is one of the largest national parks, covering an area of 3162 km². The Desert National Park is an excellent example of the ecosystem of the Thar Desert.
So just to make this guide a little more travel-friendly for you, here are some of the top things to do in Jaisalmer - all of which you could get accomplished in 3 days if you're speedy. Note: Camping overnight in the desert on a camel safari in Jaisalmer will take up at least 1.5 days on its own, so make sure to plan your trip accordingly.
Popular Desert Safaris in Jaisalmer takes place in Sam Sand Dunes. A Jeep takes you to a point near Sam Sand Dunes (around 45km from the city) from where the camel ride starts and lasts for around 90 minutes. Read More. 3. Gadisar Lake. Must Visit 4.3 /5. 2 km. from city center 3 out of 39.
Other places to visit in Jaisalmer. If you are spending 3 or 4 days in Jaisalmer, there are several other notable sites in and around Jaisalmer town to visit. Gadisar Lake is a beautiful site to visit. It is one of the few surviving heritage lakes in Rajasthan. I did not visit the Jain Temples, but those who are religiously inclined can do so ...
We spent an average of $86.58/day for our family of 4, or $21.65 per person. And this included the Desert Safari. Jaisalmer turned out to be one of the most inexpensive places we visited in India. It was significantly below our average of $132.78/day ($33.20 per person) we spent during our 5 weeks in India.
Take a gander at all these fabulous places to visit in Jaisalmer for a wonderful vacation. Make sure you add each of them to your itinerary. Jaisalmer Fort - For The Rich Rajputana Splendor. Bada Bagh - For A Royal Walk. Patwon Ki Haveli - For Beautiful Carvings. Salim Singh Ki Haveli - For Scenic Views Of The City.
Backwaters. #5 of 19 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer. At a distance of 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station and 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake or Gadsisar Lake is an artificial reservoir in Jaisalmer. It was the only source of water for the Jaisalmer city in the olden days and also one of the best sightseeing places in Jaisalmer.
Light And Sound Show: A Glowing Showcase. 1. Jaisalmer Fort - See The Grandeur. Image Source. The city is known for the grand fort that fences the city and other tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. These include, inter alia, Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake, Patwon Ki Haveli, Sadar Bazar, and Desert National Park.
Patwon ki haveli or Patwa haveli is the first stop among all the places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days. This haveli, or traditional mansion, is one of the three major havelis in Jaisalmer and thus cannot be skipped out of your Jaisalmer itinerary. Patwon ki haveli is a cluster of 5 mansions constructed in the year 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa, a ...
One of the best places to visit from Jaipur (and something on my bucket list for a couple of years) has been Jaisalmer. This is because, until 2019, I hadn't been to a single desert in the world. And while I did visit desert areas in both Kazakhstan and Vietnam, visiting Jaisalmer's sand dunes was definitely a unique experience and a quite cherished one as well, especially since I knew ...
Getting to Jaisalmer. AIR - To travel by air, Jaisalmer Airport is located around 17KM from the city centre. Daily domestic flights are available from most major airports throughout the country. TRAIN - Jaisalmer is well connected via train from most major destinations throughout the country; however, booking trains in India can be tricky. It is advised to book at least 3 days in advance ...
Historical & Heritage. At a distance of 2 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Tazia Tower is located in the Badal Palace complex near Amar Sagar Gate inside Jaisalmer Fort. The intricate designs, minarets and architectural fusion of this tower make it one of the top Jaisalmer tourist places. Tazia Tower was constructed in the form of Tazia that ...
In this video, we have covered all the best tourist attractions that you can visit in Jaisalmer Rajasthan. And also we have prepared 3 days Itinerary for you...
The vibrant culture with an extraordinary heritage of the state had to be witnessed. 3 cities (Udaipur, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur) in 3 days was the itinerary and we went away in a breath, Impromptu trips be the best. ... After 3 days, 2000 kms, 40 hours of travel, and chilling winters, our journey came to an end. It was a fun trip and the moments ...