Discover the best things to do in Jaisalmer

Thoughtfully designed day-by-day plans to experience the soul of Jaisalmer at your own pace.

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Recommended experiences in Jaisalmer

Adventure & Campfire Overnight Desert Safari
Jaisalmer4.6 (6)

Adventure & Campfire Overnight Desert Safari

from
3000
Adventure & Campfire Overnight Desert Safari
Jaisalmer4.6 (6)

Adventure & Campfire Overnight Desert Safari

from
3000
Blissful Half Day Sunset Camel Safari with Musical Evening
Jaisalmer4.7 (5)

Blissful Half Day Sunset Camel Safari with Musical Evening

from
3600
Buoyant Luxurious Overnight Thar Desert Camping Tour
Jaisalmer5.0 (1)

Buoyant Luxurious Overnight Thar Desert Camping Tour

from
15000
Dazzling Half Day Camel & Desert Safari With Sunset & Dinner
Jaisalmer5.0 (11)

Dazzling Half Day Camel & Desert Safari With Sunset & Dinner

from
2975
Desert Cultural Evening (No Camel) : Kalbelia & Sufi Fusion
Jaisalmer5.0 (5)

Desert Cultural Evening (No Camel) : Kalbelia & Sufi Fusion

from
926
Desert Rose Jaisalmer : Golden City Tour by Tuk-tuk
Jaisalmer4.2 (3)

Desert Rose Jaisalmer : Golden City Tour by Tuk-tuk

from
1049
Explore Jaisalmer at Night (2 Hour Guided Walking Tour)
Jaisalmer5.0 (3)

Explore Jaisalmer at Night (2 Hour Guided Walking Tour)

from
1000

About Jaisalmer, India

Golden City of the Thar Desert

Founded in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, Jaisalmer was a thriving hub on the ancient camel trade routes connecting India to Central Asia and Persia. Its UNESCO-listed fort isn't a ruin — it's a living city within a city, home to nearly 3,000 people. Beyond the fort, intricately carved merchant havelis speak of a golden age when Jaisalmer's traders were among the wealthiest in India. The city's desert landscape offers a rare combination of genuine heritage and silence. As the sun sets, the city's golden hue intensifies, and the desert nights come alive with stargazing and local folk tales.

Best for

couples

solo

families

photographers

history buffs

luxury travellers

adventure seekers

Quick Facts

Best Time to Visit

October to March, for comfortable 20-25C temperatures

Duration

2–4 days

Languages

Hindi

Rajasthani

English

Famous For
Golden FortSam Sand DunesCamel SafariHavelisDesert Camping

Things to do in Jaisalmer

Must do things in Jaisalmer

1

Sonar Quila

Sonar Quila, also known as Jaisalmer Fort, is a living fort city with narrow lanes, historic havelis, and stunning views of the Thar Desert. Be prepared for tourist crowds and aggressive local vendors.

Best For

Heritage Walks
Local Shopping
Street Food
2

Patwon Ki Haveli

Patwon Ki Haveli is a cluster of five intricately carved merchant havelis that showcase Jaisalmer's rich architectural heritage. The site can get crowded during peak tourist season.

Best For

Heritage Tours
Photography
Local History
3

Sam Sand Dunes

Sam Sand Dunes offer a chance to experience the Thar Desert's majestic sand dunes and tranquil atmosphere. Some tour operators may overcharge or push unnecessary activities.

Best For

Camel Safaris
Desert Camping
Sunset Views
4

Gadiwalo Ki Haveli

Gadiwalo Ki Haveli is a lesser-known historic site that provides insight into Jaisalmer's rich cultural heritage. The site may not be well-maintained or easily accessible.

Best For

Local History
Architecture
Cultural Tours

Practical Information

By Air

Jaisalmer Airport JSA is 5 km from city centre. IndiGo and SpiceJet operate flights from major Indian cities. Taxi ride to city centre takes 10 minutes, costs around ₹200.

WiFi

Most hotels and cafes offer free WiFi. Poor coverage in some areas of the fort and old city.

SIMMobile Data

Jio, Airtel, and Vodafone networks work well. Dead zones reported in some rural areas.

By Train

Jaisalmer Railway Station is 2 km from city centre. Key routes include Delhi, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. Journey times range from 12 to 24 hours depending on the route.

By Road

Jaisalmer is off NH 11. Distances: 280 km from Jodhpur (5-6 hours), 560 km from Jaipur (8-10 hours). Bus operators like RSRTC and private buses operate daily services. Approximate cost from Jodhpur is ₹500-800.

Getting around

Taxis
Auto-rickshaws
Camel Safaris
Walking
Bicycles

Hire a taxi for a day to visit nearby attractions like Sam Sand Dunes, costs around ₹1,200-1,500.

Use cash for small purchases and at local markets; cards are accepted at hotels and restaurants.

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Frequently asked questions