Discover the enchanting city of Jaisalmer, where the golden sandstone walls of the historic fort and intricate havelis transport you back in time. Nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer offers a truly unique experience, blending history, culture, and adventure.
Step inside the Jaisalmer Fort, one of the largest forts in the world, and immerse yourself in the intricate architecture of its temples, palaces, and bustling markets. Stroll through the narrow alleys of the fort, marveling at the intricate carvings and details that adorn the buildings.
Explore the stunning havelis, or traditional mansions, of Jaisalmer, each one boasting its own unique design and story. Admire the stunning craftsmanship of the intricate latticework, jali screens, and ornate facades, which have earned Jaisalmer the nickname “The Golden City”.
Take a camel safari through the vast expanse of the Thar Desert, experiencing the timeless beauty of the sand dunes and witnessing the vibrant colors of the sunset over the desert landscape. Or, for a truly unique experience, spend a night under the stars in a desert camp, where you can indulge in local delicacies and traditional folk music.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Jaisalmer offers it all. Come and discover the magic of this enchanting city for yourself.
About Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a city located in the northwestern Indian state of Rajasthan. It is known for its magnificent golden sandstone fort, havelis, and the vast Thar desert. The city is often referred to as the “Golden City” due to the yellowish-golden hue of the sandstone architecture.
Jaisalmer’s history dates back to the 12th century when the Rajput ruler, Rawal Jaisal, founded the city. The Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila, was built in the 12th century and is one of the few living forts in the world, as it is still inhabited by locals.
Jaisalmer flourished during the medieval period as it was an important center for trade between India and Central Asia. The city was situated on the trade route that connected India to Persia, Arabia, and Egypt. The wealthy merchants of Jaisalmer built beautiful havelis, or mansions, in the city, which are now popular tourist attractions.
In the 16th century, Jaisalmer was taken over by the Mughals, and in the 18th century, it became a princely state under the British Raj. After India gained independence in 1947, Jaisalmer became a part of the state of Rajasthan.
Today, Jaisalmer is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to explore the city’s rich history, stunning architecture, and unique culture. The city’s fort and havelis have been designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and the vast Thar desert offers a range of adventure activities, such as camel safaris and desert camping.
Architecture of Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a city in the state of Rajasthan, India, known for its stunning architecture that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. The city is often referred to as the “Golden City” because of the golden color of the sandstone used in many of its buildings. The architecture of Jaisalmer is primarily characterized by its intricate carvings, jharokhas (balconies), and ornate facades.
Here are some of the key architectural features of Jaisalmer:
- Sandstone: The use of sandstone is a defining feature of Jaisalmer’s architecture. The city’s buildings are made primarily from yellow sandstone, which gives them their distinctive golden color. The stone is also soft enough to be carved into intricate designs and patterns.
- Fortifications: The most prominent feature of Jaisalmer’s architecture is its fortifications. The Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila (Golden Fort), is a massive fortification that dates back to the 12th century. It is made entirely of sandstone and rises above the city’s skyline, providing a stunning backdrop for the city’s other buildings.
- Havelis: Jaisalmer is also famous for its havelis, or traditional Indian mansions. These buildings are typically three to four stories high and feature ornate facades with intricate carvings and jharokhas. Some of the most famous havelis in Jaisalmer include Patwon ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli, and Nathmal ki Haveli.
- Jain Temples: Jaisalmer is home to several stunning Jain temples, which are known for their intricate carvings and elaborate architecture. The temples are typically made of sandstone and feature highly detailed carvings of gods, goddesses, and other religious figures.
- Stepwells: Jaisalmer is also home to several stepwells, which are structures that were built to provide access to water during the dry season. These structures feature a series of steps that lead down to a pool of water, and are often decorated with intricate carvings and other decorative features.
Overall, the architecture of Jaisalmer is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. The city’s buildings are characterized by their intricate carvings, ornate facades, and stunning use of sandstone, making Jaisalmer a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Indian architecture and design.
60 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a city located in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. It is known for its golden sandstone architecture and the Thar Desert. Here are 60 places to visit in Jaisalmer:
- Patwon Ki Haveli: A group of five havelis (traditional mansions) built in the 19th century with intricate carvings and paintings.
- Nathmal Ki Haveli: Another haveli built in the 19th century, with an interesting fusion of Rajasthani and European architectural styles.
- Salim Singh Ki Haveli: A haveli built in the 18th century by a wealthy merchant, known for its unique peacock-shaped roof.
- Bada Bagh: A garden complex with chhatris (cenotaphs) of the royal family, built in the 16th century.
- Gadisar Lake: A picturesque lake with boating facilities and temples on its banks.
- Kuldhara Abandoned Village: A village that was abandoned overnight by its residents in the 19th century due to unknown reasons, now a popular tourist spot.
- Sam Sand Dunes: A popular destination for desert safaris, with stunning sand dunes and camel rides.
- Desert National Park: A protected area with diverse flora and fauna, including desert foxes, chinkaras, and migratory birds.
- Tanot Mata Temple: A temple dedicated to the deity Tanot Mata, known for its history during the Indo-Pak war of 1965.
- Jain Temples: A group of temples built in the 12th and 15th centuries, with intricate carvings and paintings depicting Jain legends.
- Tazia Tower: A five-tiered tower built by Muslim craftsmen, with intricate carvings and designs.
- Maharaja Palace: A palace built in the 19th century, now a museum displaying royal artifacts and weapons.
- Desert Cultural Centre and Museum: A museum showcasing the culture and traditions of Rajasthan.
- Akal Fossil Park: A park with fossilized tree trunks dating back millions of years.
- Khaba Fort: A ruined fort built in the 13th century, with interesting architecture and panoramic views.
- Kuldara Fort: A ruined fort built in the 13th century, with interesting architecture and panoramic views.
- Vyas Chhatri: A cenotaph of the famous sage Vyas, with stunning views of the city.
- Rani Sati Temple: A temple dedicated to the deity Rani Sati, known for its unique architecture and beliefs.
- Amar Sagar Jain Temple: A temple built in the 17th century, with intricate carvings and paintings depicting Jain legends.
- Barabagh Hill: A hill with cenotaphs of the royal family, built in the 16th century.
- Amar Sagar Lake: A picturesque lake with boating facilities and temples on its banks.
- Gyan Bhandar Library: A library with ancient manuscripts and books on Indian philosophy and religion.
- The Thar Heritage Museum: A museum showcasing the history and culture of the Thar Desert.
- Jain Temples: A group of temples built in the 12th and 15th centuries, with intricate carvings and paintings depicting Jain legends.
- Baba Ramdev Temple: A temple dedicated to the deity Baba Ramdev, known for its unique architecture and beliefs.
- Lodhruva Jain Temples: A group of temples built in the 10th century, with intricate carvings and paintings depicting Jain legends.
- Chintamani Parasnath Jain Temple
- Shantinath Jain Temple
- Parshwanath Temple
- Shri Laxminath Temple
- Jaisalmer War Museum
- Bhang Shop Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer Government Museum
- Royal Cenotaphs
- Jaisalmer Folklore Museum
- Maharawal Palace Museum
- Mool Sagar
- Mandir Palace
- Rishabhadeva Temple
- Badal Palace
- Raj Mahal
- Kuldhara Village
- Jain Heritage Museum
- Jaisalmer Handicraft Centre
- Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum
- Jaisalmer Sunset Point
- Jaisalmer Camel Safari
- Thar Heritage Museum
- Desert Festival
- Surya Gate
- Jain Temples
- Jaisalmer Music Festival
- Gadisagar Lake
- Folklore Museum
- Khaba Fort
- Bada Bagh
- The Silk Route Art Gallery
- Bada Bagh Cenotaphs
- Jaisalmer Government Museum
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Jaisalmer. The city has a rich history and culture, and exploring it will give you a unique experience.
Weather and Best time to Visit Jaisalmer
aisalmer, located in the state of Rajasthan, India, has a desert climate with hot summers and cool winters. The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
During this period, the temperature ranges from 5°C to 25°C, making it ideal for exploring the city’s historic forts, palaces, and temples. The weather is sunny during the day, with clear blue skies, and the nights are cool.
The summer season in Jaisalmer starts from April and lasts till July. The temperature during this period ranges from 25°C to 42°C, making it too hot for outdoor activities. It’s best to avoid visiting Jaisalmer during this time.
The monsoon season starts from July and lasts till September. The temperature drops slightly during this period, but the humidity levels are high, making it uncomfortable for outdoor activities. It’s also the time when the sand dunes and landscapes look the most picturesque, so if you don’t mind the occasional rain showers, you can visit during this time.
In conclusion, the best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city’s attractions.
How To Reach Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is located in the western state of Rajasthan in India and is well connected by air, rail, and road.
By Air:
The Jaisalmer Airport is located 17 km away from the city center, and there are direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Jodhpur. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach the city center.
By Rail:
Jaisalmer is well connected by rail to major Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Mumbai. The Jaisalmer Railway Station is located in the city center, and you can easily hire a taxi or take an auto-rickshaw to reach your hotel.
By Road:
Jaisalmer is well connected by road to major Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Ahmedabad. You can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Jaisalmer. The roads are well-maintained, and the journey is comfortable.
If you are traveling from nearby cities like Jodhpur or Jaipur, you can also consider hiring a private car or taking a shared taxi or bus. This will be a more affordable option, and you will also get a chance to enjoy the scenic beauty of Rajasthan.
Charter Services to Jaisalmer
Yes, helicopter charter services are available to Jaisalmer, and they offer a convenient and luxurious way to travel to this beautiful desert city. Helicopter charters are especially useful for those who want to save time and avoid the long drives or train journeys.
There are various helicopter charter companies that offer services to Jaisalmer from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur. Some of the popular helicopter charter services include Pinnacle Air, Indocopters, and Heritage Aviation.
The helicopter charters offer various types of helicopters, including small helicopters that can accommodate 4-6 passengers and larger ones that can carry up to 20 passengers. They also offer custom packages that can include sightseeing tours, transfers, and other services.
The cost of the helicopter charters varies depending on the type of helicopter, the distance traveled, and the duration of the trip. It is advisable to book in advance to get the best rates and to ensure availability.
Overall, helicopter charters offer a unique and luxurious way to travel to Jaisalmer and are a great option for those who want to save time and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the stunning desert landscape of Rajasthan.
Charter Services Providers to Jaisalmer and Price
There are several helicopter charter service providers that offer services to Jaisalmer from different cities. The price of the charter service may vary depending on factors such as the duration of the flight, the distance traveled, the type of helicopter, and the services offered. Here are some of the popular helicopter charter service providers to Jaisalmer and their approximate prices:
- Pinnacle Air – Pinnacle Air is a popular helicopter charter service provider in India that offers services to Jaisalmer from various cities. They have a fleet of helicopters that includes the Bell 407, Bell 429, and Airbus H130. The approximate price for a one-way charter service from Delhi to Jaisalmer in a Bell 407 helicopter is around INR 6-7 lakhs.
- Heritage Aviation – Heritage Aviation is another popular helicopter charter service provider that offers services to Jaisalmer from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur. They have a fleet of helicopters that includes the Bell 407, Bell 429, and Airbus H130. The approximate price for a one-way charter service from Jaipur to Jaisalmer in a Bell 407 helicopter is around INR 4-5 lakhs.
- Indocopters – Indocopters is a leading helicopter charter service provider that offers services to Jaisalmer from different cities in India. They have a fleet of helicopters that includes the Bell 407, Bell 429, and Airbus H130. The approximate price for a one-way charter service from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer in a Bell 407 helicopter is around INR 2.5-3 lakhs.
Please note that the prices mentioned above are only approximate and may vary depending on several factors. It is advisable to contact the charter service providers directly for an accurate quote based on your specific requirements.
Accommodation Options in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, a city located in the state of Rajasthan, India, offers a range of accommodation options for tourists, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some of the popular accommodation options in Jaisalmer:
- Havelis: Jaisalmer is known for its beautiful havelis, which have been converted into heritage hotels. These havelis offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the city and provide a unique and authentic experience for tourists. Some of the popular havelis that offer accommodation include Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli, Mandir Palace, and Garh Jaisal Haveli.
- Resorts: There are several resorts located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer that offer a peaceful and serene stay amidst the desert landscape. Some of the popular resorts in Jaisalmer include Suryagarh, Desert Tulip Hotel & Resort, and Winds Desert Camp.
- Guesthouses: Jaisalmer has several budget-friendly guesthouses and homestays that offer comfortable accommodation and a chance to interact with the locals. Some of the popular guesthouses in Jaisalmer include Mystic Jaisalmer, Hotel Tokyo Palace, and Killa Bhawan.
- Luxury Hotels: Jaisalmer also has several luxury hotels that offer world-class amenities and services. Some of the popular luxury hotels in Jaisalmer include The Serai, Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa, and Sujan Luxury.
- Camping: For those who want to experience the desert life, Jaisalmer also has several camping options, including luxury tents and desert camps. Some of the popular camping options in Jaisalmer include The Golden Camp, Damodra Desert Camp, and Royal Desert Camp.
Overall, Jaisalmer offers a range of accommodation options for tourists, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Top 10 Hotels to Stay in Jaisalmer As per Users Reviews and Ratings
Here’s a brief overview of the top 10 hotels in Jaisalmer based on user reviews and ratings:
- Suryagarh: Suryagarh is a luxury hotel located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, offering world-class amenities and services. It is rated as the best hotel in Jaisalmer by users, with a rating of 4.9 out of 5.
- Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa: Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Jaisalmer, offering luxurious accommodations and excellent amenities. It is rated as the second-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5.
- The Serai: The Serai is a luxury desert camp located near Jaisalmer, offering a unique and luxurious experience amidst the desert landscape. It is rated as the third-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.7 out of 5.
- Desert Tulip Hotel & Resort: Desert Tulip Hotel & Resort is a mid-range hotel located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, offering comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities. It is rated as the fourth-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5.
- Hotel Fifu: Hotel Fifu is a budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of Jaisalmer, offering clean and comfortable accommodations. It is rated as the fifth-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.5 out of 5.
- Killa Bhawan: Killa Bhawan is a heritage hotel located in the heart of Jaisalmer, offering a unique and authentic experience. It is rated as the sixth-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5.
- Mystic Jaisalmer: Mystic Jaisalmer is a budget-friendly guesthouse located in the heart of Jaisalmer, offering clean and comfortable accommodations. It is rated as the seventh-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.4 out of 5.
- WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace: WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace is a heritage hotel located in the heart of Jaisalmer, offering a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the city. It is rated as the eighth-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.3 out of 5.
- Gorbandh Palace: Gorbandh Palace is a mid-range hotel located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, offering comfortable accommodations and excellent amenities. It is rated as the ninth-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.2 out of 5.
- Joggan Jaisalmer Camp: Joggan Jaisalmer Camp is a desert camp located near Jaisalmer, offering a unique and authentic experience amidst the desert landscape. It is rated as the tenth-best hotel in Jaisalmer, with a rating of 4.2 out of 5.
Please note that these ratings and reviews are based on user opinions and may vary depending on individual preferences and experiences.
Travel Tips To know Before Your Trip to Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a city in the Indian state of Rajasthan and is known for its stunning desert landscapes, ancient fortresses, and vibrant culture. If you are planning a trip to Jaisalmer, here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your visit:
- Pack for the desert: Jaisalmer is situated in the Thar Desert, so be sure to pack light and airy clothing, a hat or cap, and sunscreen to protect you from the sun. Bring a scarf or shawl to cover your face in case of sandstorms.
- Book your accommodation in advance: Jaisalmer is a popular tourist destination, so it’s a good idea to book your accommodation in advance to ensure availability and get the best rates.
- Hire a local guide: To fully experience Jaisalmer’s rich culture and history, it’s best to hire a local guide who can show you around the city and provide insights about its landmarks and attractions.
- Try the local cuisine: Jaisalmer has a unique cuisine that’s influenced by the desert landscape. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes such as Ker Sangri, Bajre ki Roti, and Gatte ki Sabzi.
- Respect local customs: Jaisalmer is a conservative city with strong cultural values, so it’s important to respect local customs and dress modestly while visiting religious sites.
- Visit the Jaisalmer Fort: Jaisalmer Fort is one of the city’s main attractions, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to take a guided tour to learn about the fort’s history and architecture.
- Take a camel safari: A camel safari is a must-do activity in Jaisalmer, and a unique way to explore the desert landscape. Book a safari through a reputable operator and be sure to wear comfortable clothes and shoes.
- Enjoy the nightlife: Jaisalmer has a vibrant nightlife scene with live music, cultural performances, and lively bars. Head to the Dunes Bar or La Pizzeria for a fun night out.
- Be prepared for power outages: Power outages are common in Jaisalmer, so be prepared by carrying a power bank or backup charger for your electronic devices.
- Bargain while shopping: Jaisalmer is known for its handicrafts and textiles, but be prepared to haggle and bargain with vendors to get the best prices.
Travel Mistakes to Avoid in Jaisalmer
If you are planning a trip to Jaisalmer, it’s important to be aware of some common travel mistakes that you should avoid. Here are some travel mistakes to watch out for:
- Not booking accommodations in advance: Jaisalmer is a popular tourist destination, and during peak season, it can be difficult to find affordable accommodations. Be sure to book your accommodations well in advance to ensure availability and avoid last-minute stress.
- Not respecting local customs: Jaisalmer is a conservative city with strong cultural values, so it’s important to dress modestly and respect local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites.
- Not carrying enough cash: While Jaisalmer is becoming increasingly modern, many small shops and restaurants still do not accept credit cards. Be sure to carry enough cash with you to avoid any inconveniences.
- Overpacking: Jaisalmer is situated in the desert, so it’s important to pack light and airy clothing, a hat or cap, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Avoid overpacking as it can make it difficult to move around and can be cumbersome.
- Not bargaining when shopping: Jaisalmer is known for its handicrafts and textiles, and bargaining with vendors is expected. Don’t be afraid to haggle and negotiate the price to get a fair deal.
- Not hiring a local guide: Jaisalmer has a rich history and culture, and hiring a local guide can provide you with valuable insights into the city’s landmarks and attractions. Don’t miss out on learning about Jaisalmer’s fascinating history.
- Not trying local cuisine: Jaisalmer has a unique cuisine that’s influenced by the desert landscape. Don’t miss out on trying local dishes such as Ker Sangri, Bajre ki Roti, and Gatte ki Sabzi.
- Not carrying a power bank or backup charger: Power outages are common in Jaisalmer, so it’s important to carry a power bank or backup charger for your electronic devices.
- Overloading your itinerary: Jaisalmer has plenty of attractions and activities to keep you busy, but be sure to avoid overloading your itinerary. It’s important to take breaks and allow yourself time to relax and soak in the city’s vibrant culture.
- Not booking a camel safari with a reputable operator: A camel safari is a must-do activity in Jaisalmer, but it’s important to book with a reputable operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Best Places for Shopping in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is known for its handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry. If you’re planning a shopping trip to Jaisalmer, here are some of the best places to shop:
- Sadar Bazaar: This is one of the most popular shopping destinations in Jaisalmer. You can find a wide range of products including textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, and souvenirs.
- Bhatia Bazaar: This is another popular shopping area in Jaisalmer, known for its textile shops, leather products, and handcrafted items.
- Manak Chowk: This market is located in the heart of Jaisalmer and is known for its colorful Rajasthani fabrics, souvenirs, and handicrafts.
- Pansari Bazaar: This market is famous for its spices, perfumes, and herbal medicines. You can find a wide range of spices including saffron, cardamom, and turmeric.
- Rajasthali: This is a government-run emporium located near the Jaisalmer Fort. It offers a wide range of handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry, all made by local artisans.
- The Silk Route Art Gallery: This gallery is located in the center of Jaisalmer and offers a range of handcrafted items including textiles, wall hangings, and rugs.
- Desert Handicrafts Emporium: This is a popular shop for those looking for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts. You can find a wide range of products including textiles, pottery, and leather goods.
- Kuku’s Nest: This is a small boutique that offers a range of handcrafted textiles, clothing, and accessories. The products are all designed by the owner and made by local artisans.
- Surya Handicrafts: This shop is located near the Jaisalmer Fort and offers a range of handcrafted textiles, jewelry, and leather goods.
- Jaisal Art Palace: This is a popular shop for those looking for traditional Rajasthani jewelry. You can find a wide range of products including silver and gold jewelry, as well as gemstones and pearls.
Food To Eat in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine that is influenced by the desert landscape. Here are some of the must-try dishes when visiting Jaisalmer:
- Ker Sangri: This is a traditional Rajasthani dish made with dried berries and beans, cooked with a variety of spices.
- Bajre ki Roti: This is a popular flatbread made with millet flour and is typically served with ghee (clarified butter) and dal.
- Gatte ki Sabzi: This is a vegetarian dish made with gram flour dumplings cooked in a spicy yogurt-based gravy.
- Laal Maas: This is a spicy meat dish made with goat or lamb, cooked in a sauce of red chili, yogurt, and spices.
- Kadi Pakoda: This is a yogurt-based curry with crispy fried gram flour dumplings, flavored with spices like cumin and coriander.
- Daal Baati Churma: This is a popular Rajasthani meal consisting of lentil soup (daal), round baked wheat bread (baati), and sweetened bread crumbles (churma).
- Mirchi Bada: This is a popular street food in Jaisalmer, consisting of large green chilies stuffed with potato and deep-fried in gram flour batter.
- Mawa Kachori: This is a sweet snack made with fried dough filled with a mixture of mawa (sweetened milk solids) and dry fruits.
- Lassi: This is a popular yogurt-based drink that is flavored with various spices and fruits.
- Ghevar: This is a popular dessert in Jaisalmer made with fried dough, soaked in sugar syrup, and topped with a variety of toppings like saffron, pistachios, and silver foil.
Don’t miss out on trying these dishes and more when visiting Jaisalmer!
Things you Can Buy as a Tourist and Handicrafts of Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is known for its rich culture and handicrafts. Here are some of the best things to buy as a tourist when visiting Jaisalmer:
- Handicrafts: Jaisalmer is famous for its handicrafts, including handwoven carpets, leather goods, puppets, and hand-painted pottery.
- Textiles: The city is known for its colorful textiles, including Bandhani (tie and dye) fabrics, embroidered fabrics, and traditional Rajasthani sarees.
- Jewelry: Jaisalmer is also known for its intricate jewelry designs, including silver and gold earrings, necklaces, bangles, and bracelets.
- Camel leather products: As a desert city, Jaisalmer has a long tradition of using camel leather to make bags, shoes, belts, and other products.
- Spices: Jaisalmer is known for its aromatic spices like turmeric, cardamom, and saffron, which make great souvenirs to take home.
- Paintings: Jaisalmer is home to many skilled artists, and you can find beautiful Rajasthani paintings that depict scenes of local life and culture.
- Musical instruments: Jaisalmer has a rich musical tradition, and you can find a variety of musical instruments like the dholak, tabla, and harmonium in the local markets.
- Embroidery: Jaisalmer is famous for its intricate embroidery work, which you can find on fabrics, bedspreads, and cushion covers.
- Wooden carvings: You can find beautifully carved wooden items like boxes, frames, and furniture in the local markets of Jaisalmer.
- Sandstone souvenirs: Jaisalmer is known for its sandstone architecture, and you can find miniature replicas of the city’s landmarks like the Jaisalmer Fort and havelis (traditional mansions).
Make sure to explore the local markets of Jaisalmer to discover all these beautiful handicrafts and more.
Nightlife in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and nightlife here is not very vibrant as compared to other major cities in India. However, there are a few options for travelers to enjoy the nightlife in Jaisalmer:
- Enjoy a desert campfire: You can enjoy the beautiful desert landscape by spending the evening around a campfire with some live music, folk dances, and a barbecue dinner.
- Visit rooftop cafes: There are many rooftop cafes and restaurants in Jaisalmer that offer beautiful views of the city at night. You can enjoy a drink and some delicious food while taking in the views.
- Cultural performances: Many hotels and resorts in Jaisalmer organize cultural performances that include music, dance, and puppet shows. This is a great way to experience the local culture and enjoy some evening entertainment.
- Stroll around the city: Jaisalmer has a beautiful and calm atmosphere at night, and you can take a walk around the old city to explore the streets and shops that are open until late.
- Visit the Jaisalmer Fort: The Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is open until late at night. You can visit the fort and take in the beautiful views of the city from the top.
Although the nightlife in Jaisalmer is not as vibrant as some other cities in India, there are still plenty of things to do and experience in the evenings.
Activities and Things to Do in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a beautiful city located in the heart of the Thar Desert and offers a plethora of activities and things to do. Here are some of the top things to do in Jaisalmer:
- Explore the Jaisalmer Fort: The Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is one of the most iconic landmarks of the city. You can explore the fort, its palaces, temples, and narrow alleys that offer breathtaking views of the city.
- Visit the Havelis: Jaisalmer is known for its beautiful havelis or traditional mansions, which are decorated with intricate carvings and beautiful frescoes. Some of the popular havelis to visit are Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, and Salim Singh ki Haveli.
- Take a camel safari: A camel safari is one of the most popular activities in Jaisalmer. You can ride a camel and explore the Thar Desert, enjoy the sunset, and spend the night in a desert camp under the stars.
- Visit the Sam Sand Dunes: The Sam Sand Dunes is a popular destination for tourists visiting Jaisalmer. You can enjoy camel rides, jeep safaris, and cultural performances at the sand dunes.
- Experience the local culture: Jaisalmer has a rich cultural heritage, and you can experience it by attending cultural performances, visiting local markets, and trying the local cuisine.
- Visit the Gadisar Lake: The Gadisar Lake is a beautiful man-made lake located in the heart of the city. You can enjoy a peaceful boat ride or walk around the lake, taking in the beautiful views.
- Take a hot air balloon ride: You can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city and the Thar Desert by taking a hot air balloon ride.
- Attend the Desert Festival: The Desert Festival is held every year in February and is a celebration of the local culture, music, dance, and food.
These are just some of the many things to do in Jaisalmer. Don’t forget to take some time to relax and enjoy the beautiful desert landscape while exploring the city.
Lesser Known Facts About Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a beautiful city located in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India. Here are some lesser-known facts about Jaisalmer:
- The city of Jaisalmer is also known as the “Golden City” due to its yellow sandstone architecture.
- Jaisalmer Fort is the only living fort in the world with around 3,000 people residing inside its walls.
- The fort was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Jaisal and is one of the few forts in India that is still inhabited.
- The Salim Singh ki Haveli, a famous haveli in Jaisalmer, has a unique feature where the roof is built in the shape of a peacock.
- Jaisalmer has a rich history of trade and commerce, and it was an important center for the silk route trade.
- Jaisalmer was a part of the famous silk route that connected India with Central Asia and Europe.
- The city has a unique ecosystem that includes various species of reptiles, birds, and mammals that have adapted to the harsh desert climate.
- Jaisalmer has a rich cultural heritage, and the city is home to many ancient temples, shrines, and historic monuments.
- The Kuldhara village, located near Jaisalmer, is said to be cursed and is believed to be abandoned by its inhabitants in the 19th century due to a curse.
- Jaisalmer is also famous for its music and dance forms, including the famous Kalbeliya dance, which is performed by the Kalbeliya community of Rajasthan.
These are some lesser-known facts about Jaisalmer that make it a unique and fascinating destination to visit.
FAQ About Jaisalmer
Here are some frequently asked questions about Jaisalmer:
- What is the best time to visit Jaisalmer?
The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from November to February when the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for exploring the city and the Thar Desert.
- How can I reach Jaisalmer?
Jaisalmer is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is the Jodhpur Airport, which is about 285 km away. You can also reach Jaisalmer by train or bus from major cities in Rajasthan.
- What are the popular tourist attractions in Jaisalmer?
Some of the popular tourist attractions in Jaisalmer are Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli, Sam Sand Dunes, Gadisar Lake, and Bada Bagh.
- What are the famous dishes of Jaisalmer?
Some of the famous dishes of Jaisalmer are Ker Sangri, Dal Bati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and Laal Maas.
- Is it safe to travel to Jaisalmer?
Yes, Jaisalmer is generally considered safe for tourists. However, it is always advisable to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone at night.
- What are the popular activities to do in Jaisalmer?
Some of the popular activities to do in Jaisalmer are camel safaris, jeep safaris, hot air balloon rides, visiting the local markets and havelis, attending cultural performances, and exploring the Thar Desert.
- What is the local language spoken in Jaisalmer?
The local language spoken in Jaisalmer is Rajasthani. However, Hindi and English are also widely spoken and understood in the city.
- Is it necessary to carry cash while traveling to Jaisalmer?
While most of the hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit and debit cards, it is advisable to carry some cash as some places in Jaisalmer may not accept cards.