FESTIVALS & EVENTS

Time Again For The Jaisalmer Desert Festival!

Sapna Kaushik

Last updated: Apr 3, 2017

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This one is for all of you who want to experience the magic of Rajasthan at its best. Starting February 12th, the three day long Jaisalmer Desert Festival will yet again be all set to take tourists from far and near into the world of Rajasthani celebrations.

The dull golden Thar set ablaze by vibrant decorations, a perfect weather, grooving performances by tribals, spicy food to beat the winter chill and a whole range of typical mela fun and frolic, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival ought to be your jaunt this February.

The Festival Spells Craziness

Taken from the lives and customs of the people of Jaisalmer, a number of events and competitions at the festival make for a unique experience. Take for example the Panihari matka race between Indian and foreign women, where women compete with pots filled with water balanced on their heads or the Moustache Competition where you can spot local men proudly display their several feet-long moustaches!

Camel rides can be scary; but there is only one word for the Camel Polo Match that one can participate in at the festival - crazy! The ship of the desert remains a highlight throughout the festival especially during the Camel Tattoo Show when some dapper camels show off their intricate tattoos and happily pose for you. Tug-of-war and a range of other games will keep you engaged till late evenings at Shahid Poonam Singh Stadium.

A Cultural High         

Jaisalmer is one of the richest cultural repositories of Rajasthan. There are a number of places to explore in Jaisalmer. The Sonar Quilla, which is the only inhabited fort till date, is one magnificent building that preserves the great legacy of Jaisalmer’s erstwhile rulers.

During the festival, the history and culture of Jaisalmer is brought alive in the evenings with energetic and vibrant dance performances by tribal communities like Gairs, Maganiars and Bhopas at the Shahid Poonam Singh Stadium that can be enjoyed over a glass of delicious rabro - a hot beverage made of millet and buttermilk.

On the last day of the festival, the dance performances are taken to the Sam Sand Dunes and celebrations come to an end with a dazzling display of fireworks.

A showcasing of village life in the nearby villages of Kulshara and Khaba adds to the cultural experience. Authentic handicrafts, tribal jewellery and other souvenirs can also be bought at the festival.

A Quick Escape

Held in February (the most pleasant time to visit Rajasthan), the Jaisalmer Desert Festival is nothing but a quick escape into the world of carefree dancers, tempting cuisine, cool breeze and the expansive desert! Over the years, the festival has become exceedingly popular with foreign tourists who come to witness the true essence of Jaisalmer.

Now, you can hop onto this trail of celebration with MakeMyTrip’s customised holiday packages. From an air-conditioned car at your disposal to handpicked hotels for a comfortable stay, enjoy the best with the least hassles! Moreover, take your pick according to your budget and get ready to soak in a lot of fun and some pleasant sun at the Jaisalmer Desert Festival.