Explore Jaisalmer

🏜️ Jaisalmer Travel Guide

Known for: Golden Fort, desert safaris, havelis, camel rides, and Indo-Islamic architecture
Location: Rajasthan, India — in the heart of the Thar Desert
Elevation: ~225 meters (738 ft)

🕒 Best Time to Visit:

• October to March (Winter):
  ✅ Ideal weather — sunny days, cool nights
  ✅ Perfect for desert camping and sightseeing
  ✅ Desert Festival (Feb) features folk music, camel races, and cultural shows

• April to June (Summer):
  🔥 Extremely hot (up to 45°C) — best avoided

• July to September (Monsoon):
  🌦️ Light showers, but still dry and hot; off-season with fewer tourists

🛣️ How to Get There:

• ✈️ By Air:

  • Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) – Seasonal flights (mainly from Delhi/Jaipur)

  • Nearest full-service airport: Jodhpur Airport (285 km)

• 🚆 By Train:

  • Well connected to Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Mumbai

• 🚗 By Road:

  • Scenic desert drives from Jodhpur (5–6 hrs) or Bikaner

  • Private taxis and buses available

🌟 Top Attractions:

🏯 Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila):

• One of the few living forts in the world, with shops, temples, and homes inside

• Built in 1156 AD — glows golden at sunrise and sunset

• Explore Jain temples, palaces, and local craft stores

🕌 Patwon Ki Haveli:

• Grand merchant mansion with intricate carvings

• Now a museum displaying period furniture and mirror work

🕌 Salim Singh Ki Haveli & Nathmal Ki Haveli:

• Beautifully preserved traditional homes with unique Rajasthani architecture

🏜️ Sam Sand Dunes:

• ~40 km from the city

• Camel rides, jeep safaris, and desert camping with folk performances

🌅 Gadisar Lake:

• Historic reservoir surrounded by temples and ghats

• Peaceful spot for boating and birdwatching

🎨 Activities to Do:

• 🐪 Go on a sunset camel safari in Sam or Khuri dunes

• 🛖 Spend a night in a luxury desert camp — includes folk music and dance

• 🎭 Attend the Desert Festival (Feb) for authentic Rajasthani culture

• 🛍️ Shop for embroidered textiles, leather goods, and mirror work

• 🎨 Visit Bada Bagh – royal cenotaphs with beautiful desert views

🏨 Accommodation:

Heritage & Luxury:

• Suryagarh Jaisalmer – Desert palace-style resort

• Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa

• The Gulaal – Boutique stay with fort views

Mid-range:

• Hotel Fifu, Hotel Lalgarh Fort & Palace, WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace

Budget:

• Zostel Jaisalmer, Mystic Jaisalmer, The Wanderlust Guesthouse

Desert Camps:

• Winds Desert Camp, Rajputana Desert Camp, The Serai Jaisalmer (luxury glamping)

🍛 Food & Restaurants:

Must-Try Local Dishes:

• Ker Sangri – Spicy desert beans

• Dal Baati Churma – A Rajasthani staple

• Laal Maas – Fiery red mutton curry

• Gatte ki Sabzi, Murg-e-Sabz, and Bajre ki Roti

Recommended Restaurants:

• Trio Restaurant – Rooftop views, authentic Rajasthani fare

• Jaisal Italy – Near the fort, famous for fusion food

• Café Kaku – Scenic views and international cuisine

• Desert Boy’s Dhani – Open-air dining with folk music

🧑‍🌾 Local Culture:

• A vibrant blend of Rajput and desert tribal traditions

• Famous for puppet shows, Kalbelia dance, camel festivals

• Skilled artisans in stone carving, embroidery, and woodcraft

⚠️ Travel Tips:

• 🧴 Carry sunscreen, scarves, and water while exploring the desert

• 🎟️ Book your desert safari and camp stay in advance, especially in peak season

• 👞 Wear sturdy footwear for walking in the fort and dunes

• 💳 Many small shops prefer cash — keep some handy

• 🌙 Night temperatures in the desert can get very cold — bring layers

Booking information