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Planning your first trip to Jaisalmer? Here’s the lowdown: the easiest ways to get there, the best season for your visit, and the top spots for local flavors. We’ll also cover unique stays and the sights that will fill your camera and your heart. This travel guide to Jaisalmer is designed in a way to help you navigate the city like a pro!
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Jaisalmer: First Impressions
From the fort that touches the sky to the dunes that stretch to eternity, Jaisalmer is a city that shines bright like gold, thanks to its shining yellow sandstone buildings that light up in the sun earned it the moniker Golden City!
After numerous visits and delving into its many facets, Jaisalmer has become a place I know well. Each journey here peels back another layer, revealing more of its golden charm and desert secrets.
What I love about the city is its intimate feel and uncanny ability to still surprise me, despite my familiarity. There’s always a new alley to wander, a fresh perspective on the fort, or an undiscovered story waiting around the sandstone corners.
But it’s not all charming—It’s got its share of grit and dust and has a rugged feel which might shock you if you’re used to the cleaner cities. I know all the cities in India have their moments of pollution, dirt, and crowds, but in Jaisalmer, it’s more pronounced, maybe because it’s quite compact when compared to the other Indian cities.
The roads can be messy, with trash and cow dung, and you’ll often walk right alongside cows. The place has a seasonal heartbeat—thriving in the cooler winter months when tourists come by the numbers. But when the summer rolls in with its scorching heat and desert winds, the city really lives up to the ‘desert’ in ‘deserted.’
I chatted with a local who shared that most folks here actually pack up and set off to other towns and cities in search of work when the tourist season winds down. The bustling bazaars and shops that once thrived under the winter sun start to shutter as the summer season takes hold, bringing with it a quiet that settles over the city.
Jaisalmer empties out for so much of the year. This transient lifestyle might explain why the city seems a little less cared for.
But that’s Jaisalmer for you—it’s got its own unique way of life that you won’t find anywhere else.
Jaisalmer Travel Guide: Things to Know Before Planning a Trip to Jaisalmer
Where is Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a little town way up in the northwest part of India, pretty close to the Pakistan border. It’s tucked away in the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, an Indian state known for its royal history and colorful culture. It’s quite a journey from the big cities, almost on the edge of the country.
How Many Days in Jaisalmer
For an inclusive experience in Jaisalmer, I’d recommend spending at least 3 days and ideally, 4 days to strike the right balance between exploring and relaxing.
You should have a day to explore the city’s highlights, another day to experience the Thar Desert, and a day to venture to nearby attractions like Kuldhara and Lodurva.
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is located right in the heart of the Thar Desert so you can imagine how harsh summer will be in the desert city.
Having said that, the winter months of October to February make for the best time and the only time to visit Jaisalmer, as the city often shuts down outside these months.
You can enjoy the most prominent and vibrant cultural event of Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival if you plan around February.
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How to Get to Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is located in the far western deserts of India, close to the Pakistan border, and thus, it’s a bit tricky to get here.
Jaisalmer is well-connected by road and rail to major cities across India and also has air links with select cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Jaipur. Indigo is the major airline that operates flights to and from Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer Airport, serving the city of Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, India, is a domestic airport situated about 13 kilometers away from the city center. This airport functions as a civil enclave within an Indian Air Force base.
Direct trains are available from Delhi (Shalimar Express, Corbet Prk Link, Dli Jsm Express, and Ranikhet Express), Mumbai (Bandra Terminus–Jaisalmer Superfast Express), Ahmedabad (Bandra Terminus–Jaisalmer Superfast Express), Jodhpur (Jodhpur Jaisalmer Express), and Jaipur (Dli Jsm Express).
Check IRCTC for train routes, timetables, ticket prices, and availability.
Jaisalmer is reachable by bus from quite a few cities across. Redbus remains the best platform to check bus routes, timetables, ticket prices, and availability.
If you want to drive your own car or rental car or hire a taxi to travel by road from Delhi to Jaisalmer, you’d need to break your journey in Jaipur or Ajmer to save yourself from exhaustion.
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How to Get Around Jaisalmer
Hiring an auto rickshaw is the best way to explore the city and its attractions. It’s readily available. Make sure to negotiate a fare beforehand.
For a visit to the sand dunes, it’s best to hire a taxi or a car with a driver for a day or two.
For travelers who want to make the most of their time in Jaisalmer without bothering about transportation options, guided tours are the way to go. Get Your Guide and Viator offer some amazing private and group tours.
Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
There are a ton of amazing accommodation options in Jaisalmer for all budgets. If you are looking for a budget hotel then The Gulal, Killa Bhawan, Hamari Haveli, Sonaar Haveli, Rang Mahal, Hotel Jasmin Home, Mud Mirror Guesthouse, and Sairafort Sarovar Portico are the perfect options.
For travelers who are looking for a mid-range hotel, we suggest Hotel Rawal Kot, Gorbandh Palace, Chokhi Dhani The Palace Hotel, and WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace.
And for those who want to taste the Rajasthani royalty, Suryagarh Jaisalmer, Hotel Jaisalkot, and Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa are great.
Staying in a camp or tent right in the middle of the Thar Desert is a requisite. It’s a not-to-be-missed experience in Jaisalmer.
The best desert camps in Jaisalmer are SUJÁN The Serai, Rajwada Desert Camp, Winds Desert Camp, Le Royal Camps, Rajputana Desert Camp, Damodra Desert Camp, Pal Rajah Desert Camp, and The Mama’s Resort & Camp.
If you’re taking a kid-free vacation, opt for a stay that promises relaxation and romance like Hotel Lal Garh Fort And Palace, perfect for some uninterrupted couple time.
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What and Where to Eat in Jaisalmer
Mostly vegetarian, the cuisine in Jaisalmer is largely influenced by locally sourced ingredients.
Though other cuisines like Italian and English are extensively available in the city, it’s wise to enjoy the traditional desert food here.
Because you won’t get it anywhere.
Here’s a list of the best foods to try and where to try them in Jaisalmer!
Ker Sangri, Gatte ki Sabji, and Dal Bati Churma at Desert Boy’s Dhani
Haldi ki Sabji (Turmeric Yogurt Curry) at Riddhi Siddhi Restaurant
Makhania Lassi at Kanchan Shree Ice Cream
Masala Chai and Kadhai Wala Doodh at Prabhu Tea Stall
Pyaaz ki Kachori, Ghotua Laddoo, Panchdhari Ladoo, and Mirchi Bhajiya at Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia Sweets
Mutton Saag at The Trio
Dal Pakwan at Shri Hinglaj Dal Pakwaan Center (they tasted instant success after being invited to prepare dal pakwan at Sonam Kapoor’s wedding)
Bhang Lassi at Bhang Shop
If you need a break from Rajasthani cuisine, you can head to Jaisal Italy for Italian cuisine (pasta, pizza, and bruschetta) and Gaji’s Restaurant for Korean food.
Other amazing restaurants and cafes worth trying are:
Jaisalmer Kitchen (when staying in Sam)
Killa Corner
Milan Restaurant
Kuku Coffee Shop
The Traveler’s Cup Premium Coffee Shop
German Bakery and Coffee Shop
Angaara Restaurant and Barbeque
Cafe+
Cafe Cavalli
Jaisal Treat
Halo Jaisalmer
The Wanderlust Cafe & Restaurant
KB Café
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What and Where to Shop in Jaisalmer
Local handicrafts at Manak Chowk
Traditional outfits and colorful puppets at Pansari Market (aka Villager’s Market)
Gold, silver, semi-precious, and precious stone jewelry at Sonaron ka Bas
Embroidered (mirror work) cotton and silk fabrics at Bhatia Bazaar
Camel leather bags & footwear at Sadar Bazaar
Khadi products at Khadi Gramodyog Emporium (Seema Gram)
Habur Fossil Stone Products at stalls near Patwon ki Haveli
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What to See and Do in Jaisalmer
Let’s talk about what you can see and do in Jaisalmer beyond Thar Desert!
The main attraction is the massive fort that towers over the city. It’s not just a historical monument; it’s a living breathing part of the city. People actually live inside the fort, adding a unique layer of life and culture to this ancient structure.
A reality of the Jaisalmer Fort being a living fort is that it’s not as clean as it might be if it were uninhabited. The daily life within its walls does leave its mark, contributing to a less polished appearance compared to other forts that aren’t residential.
Despite this, inside the fort, you’ll be charmed by the ancient palaces, exquisite Jain temples, and towering structures. Roaming its vibrant alleys, you’re sure to stumble upon lively markets overflowing with all sorts of local and colorful finds.
Next, explore the havelis, grand mansions that once housed the city’s elite. Notable ones include Salim Singh ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, and Patwon ki Haveli, each with unique architecture and tales.
And don’t forget to swing by the Gadisar Lake – it’s pretty peaceful there, wonderful at sunset.
At the Jaisalmer War Museum, you can dive into India’s rich military history and honor the sacrifices of Indian Army heroes. The Thar Heritage Museum gives you a closer look at the times of Jaisalmer, celebrating Rajasthan’s rich culture, heritage, and architectural splendor.
Now, if you’re up for a little adventure outside the city, there’s Lodurva, which is famous for its Jain temples. Kuldhara is another must-visit; it’s an abandoned village with a mysterious past.
Coming to the main reason why you are here, the Thar Desert calls for an unforgettable experience. Camel rides, stunning sunsets, and even overnight stays under the stars await.
If you’re interested in temples, there’s the Ghantyali Mata Temple and the Tanot Mata Temple, which have some fascinating historical stories behind them.
And if you want to see something really different, you can visit the Indo-Pak border and Longewala, a site famous for the Battle of Longewala during the Indo-Pak War of 1971. You can see the actual battleground and the remains of military vehicles here. It’s a bit of a drive, but it’s something you don’t see every day.
Remember, these places are not really tourist spots; they’re parts of living history and international relations that give you a chance to witness first-hand the complexities and nuances of this region, making for a profound and educational experience. Always carry your identification and necessary travel documents, and respect local guidelines and cultural sensitivities.
And don’t miss Bada Bagh, a site of majestic royal cenotaphs. It’s particularly magical during sunset.
That’s it for our first-timer’s guide to Jaisalmer! We hope this guide helps you make the most of your trip to this amazing city. Happy travels, and enjoy every moment of your time in Jaisalmer!
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