Things to do in Jaisalmer

Why Visit Jaisalmer?

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  Set in the heart of Thar Desert, the Golden City of Jaisalmer is famed for its living fort, sand dunes, and sunset safaris.

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  You can explore old havelis, watch colourful sunsets, and sleep under the stars in desert camps.

Best Areas to Stay in Jaisalmer

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  Inside Jaisalmer Fort: Perfect for travellers who want to experience living history. Stay in centuries-old havelis or boutique hotels within the fort walls, surrounded by narrow lanes, rooftop cafés, and golden sandstone views.

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  Sam Sand Dunes: Located about 40 km from the city, this is Jaisalmer’s most popular desert stretch. Stay in camps, enjoy camel rides and jeep safaris, and end your evenings with local music and starlit skies.

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  Khuri Village: Around 50 km away, Khuri offers a quieter, more authentic desert experience. Expect mud cottages, home-cooked meals, and peaceful sunsets over untouched dunes — ideal for those seeking calm over crowds.

Must-visit Attractions in Jaisalmer

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  Jaisalmer Fort: Walk inside the golden fort filled with temples, houses, and small shops. The view from the top is amazing at sunrise.

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  Patwon Ki Haveli: Visit this grand mansion with beautiful carvings and balconies — great for photos.

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  Salim Singh & Nathmal Ki Haveli: See unique designs, peacock-shaped brackets, and stone elephants at the entrance.

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  Gadisar Lake: A calm lake with temples around — best for a morning or evening walk.

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  Bada Bagh Cenotaphs: Royal tombs with dome roofs that glow in the setting sun — a must for sunset pictures.

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  Sam Sand Dunes: Ride a camel through golden sands and enjoy folk dance and music by the fire.

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  Jain Temples: Visit these ancient temples inside the fort known for detailed carvings and peaceful vibes.

Your Itinerary for a Mini Trip

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  Day 1: Arrive in Jaisalmer - Explore the Fort and Jain Temples - Visit Patwon Ki Haveli - Watch the sunset at Gadisar Lake - Dinner at a rooftop café.

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  Day 2: Drive to Sam Sand Dunes - Go for camel rides and folk shows - Stay overnight in a desert camp.

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  Day 3: Visit Bada Bagh - Explore Kuldhara Village - Shop for leather goods, puppets, and silver jewellery - Departure.

Good to Know Before You Travel

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  Plan Early: Desert camps and safaris fill up quickly in winter.

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  What to Wear: Cotton clothes for daytime and a jacket for cold desert nights.

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  Food Options: Try ker sangri, dal baati churma, and ghotua laddoo at local cafés.

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  What to Shop: Visit Sadar Bazaar for Bandhani scarves, leather bags, and silver jewellery.

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  Etiquette: The fort is a living area — don’t litter and support local shops.

Hidden Gems In & Around Jaisalmer

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  Kuldhara Village: Located 18 km from Jaisalmer, this abandoned village tells a haunting tale of mystery and migration. Wander through its crumbling sandstone homes and silent lanes that echo with centuries-old legends.

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  Khaba Fort: About 35 km away, this ancient fort stands on a ridge overlooking golden dunes and a deserted village below. Visit at sunset for dramatic views and photographs bathed in desert light.

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  Desert National Park: Roughly 40 km from Jaisalmer, this vast reserve showcases Thar’s stark beauty. Join a guided safari to spot desert foxes, eagles, and the endangered Great Indian Bustard in its natural habitat.

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  Tanot Mata Temple: Around 120 km from Jaisalmer, this revered temple near the Indo-Pak border is famous for miraculously surviving wartime bombings. It remains a symbol of faith and resilience amid the dunes.

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  Longewala War Memorial: About 120 km away, this site commemorates the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Explore real army bunkers, tanks, and exhibits that recount the heroism of Indian soldiers in the desert battlefield.