Best things to do in Jaisalmer
Find out more about those top places in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer: The Golden City That Pops Up Like a Desert Oasis (Where Camels are the Yellow Cabs!) - Your Hilariously Honest Travel Guide to Rajasthan's Magical Mirage!
Greetings, fellow adventurers and lovers of all things that shimmer in the desert sun! Prepare to have your senses bedazzled by Jaisalmer, a town that rises out of the relentlessly arid Thar Desert like a glorious, golden mirage. Seriously, one minute you're surrounded by endless sand, the next you're staring at this breathtaking honey-colored city, and you might just wonder if you've stumbled into a real-life Arabian Nights tale.
Tucked away in a remote corner of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer's imposing citadel has barely batted an eyelid since the medieval period when it was a bustling pit stop on the legendary Silk Road. Imagine caravans laden with spices and silks winding their way through these very streets! Today, the narrow alleyways and twisting lanes of the citadel remain remarkably intact, a labyrinth of history just waiting to be explored. And down below, the streets of the old city are lined with ornate havelis – traditional "tenement" housing that's anything but ordinary, boasting intricate carvings and balconies that look like they belong on a royal wedding cake.
But wait, there's more sparkle within those golden walls! The interior of the fort contains a spectacular profusion of Jain temples dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries. These aren't your average places of worship; they're architectural masterpieces, filled with delicate carvings and serene beauty that will leave you utterly spellbound. Think of it as finding a treasure chest filled with spiritual and artistic gems.
And when you're ready to venture beyond the enchanting city itself, the vast Sam Sand Dunes are located nearby, offering a dreamlike experience straight from the pages of Arabian Nights. Picture yourself riding a camel across endless waves of sand as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky in a riot of colors. It's the kind of sightseeing adventure that will make your Instagram feed the envy of all your friends (and maybe even a few desert nomads!).
Our hilarious (and incredibly helpful!) travel guide is here to navigate you through the best places to visit and the most exhilarating things to do in this magical desert destination. Get ready for some unforgettable sightseeing, from exploring a living medieval fort to riding camels across shimmering dunes, all while uncovering the top attractions that make Jaisalmer a truly special and hilariously enchanting place.
Top Attractions: Golden Forts, Ornate Mansions, and Desert Dreams!
Jaisalmer offers a unique blend of history, architecture, and desert adventures:
Jaisalmer Fort (Golden Fort): A Living Medieval Citadel
This magnificent fort, rising majestically from the desert sands, is a living, breathing city. Explore its narrow alleyways, bustling markets, and stunning palaces. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-see for your Jaisalmer sightseeing. Getting lost in its golden labyrinth is one of the top things to do!
The Ornate Havelis: Architectural Masterpieces
Wander through the streets of Jaisalmer's old city and admire the intricately carved havelis (mansions) of wealthy merchants. Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli are particularly impressive examples of this stunning architecture and are key places to visit.
Jain Temples Inside Jaisalmer Fort: Spiritual and Artistic Wonders
Discover the spectacular profusion of Jain temples within Jaisalmer Fort. These ancient temples are adorned with exquisite carvings and offer a serene and spiritual experience. They are definitely among the top attractions within the fort.
Sam Sand Dunes: A Desert Safari Adventure
Embark on a camel safari across the vast Sam Sand Dunes for a quintessential desert experience. Enjoy the stunning landscapes, especially at sunrise or sunset, and perhaps even spend a night under the stars. This is a must-do for adventurous sightseeing.
Things to Do Beyond the Main Sights: Lakes, Museums, and Local Flavors!
Our travel guide wouldn't be complete without suggesting some other fantastic things to do to truly experience the Jaisalmer vibe:
- Visit Gadsisar Lake: Enjoy a boat ride on this picturesque lake surrounded by temples and ghats. It's a tranquil escape from the city bustle.
- Explore the Jaisalmer Government Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the region at this informative museum.
- Indulge in Rajasthani Cuisine: Savor the spicy and flavorful cuisine of Rajasthan, including dishes like Dal Baati Churma and Gatte Ki Sabzi.
- Witness a Puppet Show: Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani puppet show, a colorful and entertaining cultural experience.
- Shop for Handicrafts: Jaisalmer is known for its beautiful handicrafts, including textiles, jewelry, and wooden carvings. Bargain for some unique souvenirs!
So, if you're looking for places to visit in India that offer a magical blend of history, stunning architecture, and desert adventures, Jaisalmer is calling your name! Our travel guide promises an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking sightseeing and exciting things to do. Just be prepared to be enchanted by the Golden City that rises like a dream from the sands! Padharo Mhare Desh! (Welcome to my land!)
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Jaisalmer Fortress
Founded in 1156 by Jaisal of Rajput, Jaisalmer Fortress is one of India’s most remarkable attractions. Today, it is less a defensive position and more a living and breathing extension of the city with over 3000 people living, working and praying in its maze of narrow haveli lined alleyways and temples. For the best experience, enter the area on a walking tour through the imposing Eastern Gate and make your way to the fort’s main square, Dashera Chowk.
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Patwa-ki-Haveli
The most impressive of Jaisalmer’s traditional havelis is the ornate Patwa-ki-Haveli, which is covered in intricate stonework that would have been the envy of Europe’s sculptors. Built in the first half of the 1800s as a private residence for a rich family of Jain brothers, the towering tenement-like structure today houses an excellent museum that vividly evokes life in the 19th century city.
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Sam Sand Dunes
The best day tour from Jaisalmer is undoubtedly to the towering Sam Sand Dunes, which rise like gigantic waves 40 kilometers west of the city. For the best experience, organize a camel safari of the dunes that will let you explore their full length. Some tours also include overnight camping, which is one of northern India’s most romantic activities.
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Jain Temples
Within the imposing walls of Jaisalmer Fortress are seven of India’s most breathtaking Jain temples. Built in gorgeous yellow sandstone during the 15th and 16th century, the temples are littered with intricate stone work and impressive sculptures. For the best experience, take a walking tour around the various temples as local guides will be able to explain their rich symbolism and historic significance.
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Desert Cultural Centre and Museum
If you want to learn more about Rajasthan’s unique culture then there is no better place to go than the Desert Cultural Center and Museum. Filled with exhibits detailing the history of the region’s former princely states and its position in the British Raj, the museum is one of Jaisalmer’s most rewarding. To get the most out of your visit, arrive in the evening so you can catch one of the nightly puppet shows, which is a rich Rajasthani folk tradition.
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Bada Bagh
Just north of Jaisalmer is the tranquil oasis complex of Bada Bagh, which is the site of the ornate graves of more than 100 members of the Rajasthani royal family. The pavilion-like graves, known as chhatris, sit at the crest of a desert hill and look more akin to a small city than a cemetery from the distance. Visitors can explore the site freely or local guides can be hired for a small fee.
