Rajasthan’s golden beauty, Jaisalmer, is not just an incredible travel destination. It’s an experience in its ancient Havelis, a charm to relive in its deserts, an aura to feel in its forts, and a sense of warmth to indulge in its culture and traditions. Narrowing down an endless list of places to visit in Jaisalmer, here’s where you must head.
Aesthetic locations straight out of Bollywood, drop-dead gorgeous sunsets, royal forts, havelis, thrilling desert adventures, vibrant street markets, and, to top it all, lip-smacking ‘Rajasthani’ cuisine, tell me a better holiday plan than this!
So, come along as we guide you through must-visit attractions in Jaisalmer.
Best Tourist Places in Jaisalmer
- Jaisalmer Fort
- Ancient Havelis
- Gadisar Lake
- Temples: An Endless Saga
- Bada Bagh
- Desert National Park
- Kuldhara: A Ghost Town
- Jaisalmer War Museum
- Vyas Chhatri
- Amar Sagar Lake
- Akal Wood Fossil Park
- Sam dunes
- Jaisalmer Markets
Come, let’s ease your Jaisalmer sightseeing requirement with this detailed blog.
Jaisalmer Fort
Popularly known as the ‘Golden Fort’ or locally called ‘Sonar Quila,’ this is the most expensive jewel in Jaisalmer’s crown. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and an iconic location that has become a perfect background for Bollywood movies, this fort offers a breathtaking glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal culture, opulent architecture, and well-preserved traditions. Umm, wondering where you have seen this fort? Well, Satyajit Ray’s iconic ‘Sonar Kela’ was its best display ever. So, head to Jaisalmer Fort, which is listed as one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.
What is the Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer Fort?
The best time to visit Jaisalmer Fort is between October and March during winter. With cool temperatures and pleasant weather, covering the fort becomes easy and fun.
Time required for exploration: 4 to 6 hours approximately.
Ancient Havelis
Jaisalmer havelis are a vibe in themselves. Boasting years of rich history, majestic architecture, and cultures that have been passed onto generations, havelis are the epitome of Rajasthani traditions. These are hands down one of the best tourist places in Jaisalmer. Popular for their royal feel, aesthetic setups, and unending charm, Rajasthani havelis are full of stories. Pose your best and click some Instagram-worthy shots here.
Must-Visit Havelis in Jaisalmer
- Nathmal ji ki haveli: It has Bhunga-style architecture, which combines Rajput and Islamic influences. Its intricate carvings and beautiful paintings make it a masterpiece.
- Salim Singh ki haveli: The upper floor of the haveli, with intricate stone carvings around the balconies, colored mirrors, and vintage paintings, helps this haveli stand out.
- Patwon ki haveli: It is a cluster of five havelis made of yellow sandstone that appears as a golden facade right in the heart of Jaisalmer.
Gadisar Lake: Jaisalmer sightseeing
Jaisalmer sightseeing is incomplete without heading to Gadisar Lake. It’s an artificial lake with beautiful architecture boasting carved verandahs and halls. Click pictures at the ‘Tilon ki Pol’, visit nearby temples, attend the most significant laser show, go on a boat ride, relax at serene ghats, and enjoy a glamorous sunset in the evening.
Temples-An Endless Saga
Rajasthan is a culturally rich state boasting endless popular temples that attract thousands of worshippers every year. Jaisalmer’s temples are a testament to the state’s beauty, architecture, diverse cultures, and traditions. Jaisalmer city tourist places are incomplete without the mention of these iconic temples.
Must-Visit Temples in Jaisalmer
- Tanot Mata temple is popular for miraculously surviving the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak war.
- Lodhruva temple is a popular Jain temple dedicated to Lord Parsvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara in Jainism. It is believed to be the place where he attained Moksha and is hence sacred to his followers.
- Laxminarayan temple is one of Jaisalmer’s oldest temples, popular for its location, right on the Jaisalmer fort.
- The Jain temples of Jaisalmer are located in the Jaisalmer Fort campus. These seven temples, each with an exquisite design adorned with Dilwara-style temples, are known for their architecture and tranquility.
Bada Bagh
On your trip to Jaisalmer, ditch a flower garden and head to a Jaisalmer-style architectural garden. Bada Bagh is a garden of chhatris, or royal cenotaphs. Popular for its iconic sunsets, it’s a wonderful getaway just six kilometers north of Jaisalmer.
Desert National Park
It showcases the unique flora and fauna of the Thar Desert. Covering diverse ecosystems, including dunes, salt flats, and rocky hills, these 3,100 square kilometers of beauty are places for nature enthusiasts and wildlife photographers. Highly endangered Great Indian Bustard, Eastern Imperial Eagle, Desert Fox, Saker Falcon, and more are the park’s top attractions.
Kuldhara
Talk of Rajasthan, and don’t come across anything mysterious. Can’t happen! The abandoned village of Kuldhara is an extravagant horror site. Located just 17 kilometers from Jaisalmer, this village, which is shrouded in mystery, is one of the most interesting places to visit in Jaisalmer.
Vyas Chhatri
Popularly known as the sunset point of Jaisalmer, Vyas Chhatri is the place to witness the best desert sunset. With ‘Chhatris’ shining bright as sunrays turn them golden surrounded by Rajasthani tunes played on the alghoza in the background, it’s an experience that elevates your senses.
Jaisalmer War Museum
One of the top Jaisalmer city tourist places is the Jaisalmer War Museum. Situated at the Jaisalmer military base, this exhibit primarily pays tribute to all the soldiers who took part in and lost their lives in the 1965 India-Pakistan war and the 1971 Longewala battle. The museum has free entry.
Amar Sagar Lake
Adjacent to Amar Singh Palace, Amar Sagar Lake is one of the most popular attractions in Jaisalmer. Surrounded by temples, ponds, and wells, it is yet another spot to witness a mesmerizing sunset in the city.
Akal Wood Fossil Park
This is one of the best tourist places in Jaisalmer. Land in Jurassic Era at Akal Wood Fossil Park. A 21-hectare preserved area where fossils from 180 million years ago exist. Centuries-old fossils and gigantic trees hint that the hot and humid climate boasted a luxuriant forest during the Jurassic era.
Sam Sand Dunes
It is the most sought-after destination in the city. Located about 40 km from Jaisalmer in the Thar Desert, experience the best desert life at this exotic site. If you’re a thrill seeker, this is the place to be in Jaisalmer. From dune bashing, camel safari, and jeep safari to authentic Rajasthani performances and stargazing at night, Sam Sand Dunes provides an immersive experience.
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer Desert Safari
The best time to visit Jaisalmer Desert Safari is between November and March. Pleasant weather with cool temperatures makes the experience soothing and enjoyable.
Desert Safaris in Jaisalmer:
- Khutri Sand Dunes: Try camel safari.
- Damodra Village, The Serai: Go camping.
- Lakhmna Sand Dunes: Best for jeep safari or dune bashing.
- Kanoi and Damodra: Try parasailing.
Jaisalmer Markets
For an unforgettable day in Jaisalmer, head to its vibrant, bustling, and mind-blowing markets. From authentic Rajasthani textiles, handicrafts, and world-famous fabrics to leather goods, dive into the world of colors as far as the eye can see. Don’t miss out on the mouth-watering Rajasthani Street food.
Famous Markets in Jaisalmer:
- Sadar Bazaar: Leather goods, dupattas, handicrafts.
- Bhatia Bazaar: One of its oldest and most renowned markets, known for its silk fabrics and sarees.
- Sonoran Ka Bas: Visit this marketplace to buy jewelry.
- Pansari Bazaar: Traditional handicrafts, ethnic Rajasthani treasures, charming puppets, and traditional puppets.
- Manak Chowk: Exquisite handicrafts, traditional jewelry, and vibrant textiles.
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Conclusion
Jaisalmer is an unforgettable combination of historical, cultural, and natural wonders. From ancient havelis, magical palaces, and endless desert adventures to authentic Rajasthani culture, the list of places to visit in Jaisalmer is truly endless. So, pack your bags and get ready to immerse yourself in the magic of Jaisalmer.
Top Places to Visit in Jaisalmer FAQs
What is the best time to visit Jaisalmer?
The best time to visit Jaisalmer is between November and March, when the temperatures are cooler and the weather is soothing.
What are the best places for couples to visit in Jaisalmer?
The best places to visit in Jaisalmer for couples are:
•Jaisalmer Fort
• Sam Sand Dunes
• Gadisar Lake
• Kuldhara
• Jaisalmer Markets
What is famous about Jaisalmer?
Jaisalmer is known as the ‘City of Forts’. Its magnificent ancient havelis, palaces, forts, vibrant markets, Rajasthani culture, cuisine, and desert adventures attract tourists to this incredible destination.
How many days are required to explore Jaisalmer?
Jaisalmer can be best explored in 3 to 4 days, including a desert safari, immersive Rajasthani experiences, and exploration of the city and nearby areas.
What are the must-try activities in Jaisalmer?
Here’s what you must try when in Jaisalmer:
• Hot-Air Balloon Ride
• Desert Activities (dune bashing, desert safari, camping, etc.)
• Cuisine tasting
• Markets exploration
• Aesthetic photoshoots at havelis and palaces
• Watch a puppet show
• Go on a night tour of Jaisalmer
