Jaisalmer

🇮🇳 India

A desert oasis in India

Jaisalmer - Vacation Briefing

Jaisalmer, also known as the Golden City, is a mesmerizing destination located in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India. This ancient city is famous for its magnificent sandstone architecture, stunning palaces, and intricately carved havelis. With its rich cultural heritage and vibrant markets, Jaisalmer offers a unique blend of history, art, and adventure. Explore the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, witness breathtaking sunsets over the golden sand dunes, and immerse yourself in the local culture and cuisine. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, Jaisalmer has something special to offer for everyone.

Popular Sights in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort Patwon Ki Haveli Sam Sand Dunes Gadsisar Lake Nathmal Ki Haveli Salim Singh Ki Haveli Bada Bagh Kuldhara Village Desert Cultural Centre and Museum Tazia Tower

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Things to do during your Jaisalmer vacation

Jaisalmer, also known as the Golden City, is a mesmerizing destination in Rajasthan, India. With its magnificent sandstone architecture and rich cultural heritage, Jaisalmer is a must-visit place for travelers. Explore the bustling bazaars, wander through ancient havelis, and experience the enchanting desert life. Here are some exciting things to do in Jaisalmer:

Visit the Jaisalmer Fort: Explore the massive sandstone fort, known as Sonar Qila, and soak in the panoramic views of the city.
Discover Patwon Ki Haveli: Marvel at the intricate architecture of this cluster of five havelis, showcasing the grandeur of Jaisalmer's wealthy merchants.
Take a Camel Safari in the Thar Desert: Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the vast sand dunes of the Thar Desert on a camel safari.
Witness the Sunset at Sam Sand Dunes: Experience the breathtaking view as the sun sets behind the golden sand dunes, creating a magical ambiance.
Explore Gadisar Lake: Stroll along the serene banks of Gadisar Lake and visit the beautiful temples and ghats surrounding it.
Get Lost in the Streets of the Old City: Wander through the narrow lanes of the old city, lined with magnificent havelis, bustling markets, and vibrant shops.
Attend a Cultural Performance: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Rajasthani culture by witnessing traditional dances, music performances, and puppet shows.
Visit the Bada Bagh Royal Cenotaphs: Pay homage to the cenotaphs of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer while enjoying the panoramic views of the desert landscape.
Shop for Handicrafts and Textiles: Indulge in some retail therapy at the local markets, famous for their exquisite craftsmanship and traditional textiles.
Taste Rajasthani Cuisine: Savor the delectable flavors of Rajasthani cuisine, including dal bati churma, ker sangri, and gatte ki sabzi.
Take a Jeep Safari to Kuldhara Village: Embark on a thrilling jeep safari to the abandoned and haunted village of Kuldhara, known for its intriguing history.

Why you should visit Jaisalmer

Overall

Jaisalmer, India is a captivating destination with a unique blend of history and culture. While it may not be everyone's cup of tea, it offers a distinct experience for those seeking an adventurous and culturally enriching trip.

Safety

In terms of safety, Jaisalmer has a moderate rating. While the city itself doesn't have a high crime rate, it's important to be cautious and aware of your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas. Additionally, it's advisable to follow travel advisories and check for any political or social unrest before planning a visit.

Culture

Jaisalmer has a rich cultural heritage and offers a plethora of historical sites and cultural experiences. From the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort to the intricate architecture of the havelis, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's fascinating history. The local cuisine and traditional music and dance performances further contribute to the vibrant cultural scene.

Nightlife

Jaisalmer is not known for vibrant nightlife. While there are some bars and restaurants to enjoy in the evenings, the overall nightlife scene is relatively limited. Visitors seeking a bustling nightlife may find other destinations more appealing.

Adventure

Jaisalmer offers a range of adventurous activities for thrill-seekers. From camel safaris and quad biking in the desert to camping under the stars, the city provides ample opportunities for adventure enthusiasts. However, it's important to note that some activities may be weather-dependent and may not be available throughout the year.

Relaxation

While Jaisalmer does not have the typical relaxing amenities like beaches or lakes, it offers a tranquil ambiance where visitors can unwind and immerse themselves in the desert surroundings. The vast sand dunes and peaceful desert camps provide a unique and serene atmosphere for those seeking a peaceful getaway.

Best time to visit Jaisalmer

The best time to travel to Jaisalmer, India is from November to February. With pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and a festive atmosphere, this is the perfect time to explore the desert city. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.

Jan

great weather, busy

7°C - 25°C

Feb

bustling and enjoyable

10°C - 28°C

Mar

less crowded, warm

16°C - 34°C

Apr

hotter temperatures

21°C - 39°C

May

extreme heat, fewer visitors

25°C - 42°C

Jun

hot, but fewer tourists

27°C - 41°C

Jul

monsoon begins, pleasant

26°C - 37°C

Aug

monsoon continues, pleasant

25°C - 35°C

Sep

end of monsoon, pleasant

24°C - 36°C

Oct

mild temperatures, festive

19°C - 32°C

Nov

perfect weather, festive

13°C - 28°C

Dec

pleasant weather, peak season

8°C - 25°C

A guide To your first day of Jaisalmer vacation

morning

Start your morning exploring the stunning Jaisalmer Fort, one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world. Marvel at the intricate craftsmanship and admire the panoramic views of the city from the top.
Take a walk through the narrow streets of the old town, known as the 'Golden City', and soak in the charming atmosphere. Explore the local markets and shop for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

afternoon

Indulge in a delicious Rajasthani lunch at one of the rooftop restaurants near the fort. Enjoy traditional dishes like dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker sangri.
Visit the stunning Patwon Ki Haveli, a collection of five intricately carved sandstone mansions. Admire the intricate artwork and learn about the rich cultural heritage of Jaisalmer.

evening

Witness the mesmerizing sunset at Sam Sand Dunes, located in the Thar Desert. Take a camel ride through the sand dunes and experience the unique charm of the desert.
Attend a cultural show at one of the desert camps, where you can enjoy folk music and dance performances by local artists. Immerse yourself in the vibrant Rajasthani culture.

night

Savor a traditional Rajasthani dinner at a desert camp under the starry sky. Feast on mouthwatering dishes like bajre ki roti, gatte ka pulao, and laal maas.
End your night with a peaceful stroll through the illuminated streets of Jaisalmer. Admire the beautifully lit up buildings and soak in the enchanting atmosphere of the city.

How to get to Jaisalmer

By Plane

Jaisalmer is best accessed by flying to Jodhpur Airport (JDH). It has regular domestic flights connecting to major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai. From Jodhpur, it's a scenic 5-hour drive to Jaisalmer, offering beautiful views of the Thar Desert.

Check direct connections to JDH Airport

By other means

While Jaisalmer doesn't have a direct train or bus connection, it can be reached by taking a train or bus to Jodhpur. Jodhpur Junction is a major railhead with frequent connections across India. From Jodhpur, you can hire a taxi or take a scenic bus journey to Jaisalmer.

Tips for Booking Your Trip

Planning a trip can get tricky, right? Don't worry, we've got some solid advice to make your life easier. Here's how you can find flights and accommodations without a hitch.

Flights: How to Score the Best Deal

First things first, check out Google Flights. Their price calendar and nearby airport options are really useful. Found a good deal? Great, but hang on a sec—make sure you compare it with prices on Kayak, Skyscanner, Momondo, and Kiwi. A little research can go a long way.

Accommodation: Find Your Ideal Spot

For places to stay, start by scanning Booking.com and Airbnb to get an idea of what's out there. Then, level up your search by looking at Hostelworld and Agoda. Oh, and a quick tip: the hotel's own website might have some special offers, so give that a look too.

Ready to make some moves? The links you need are right below. Happy booking!