Things To Do
in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a majestic city located in the heart of the Thar Desert in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Jaisalmer Fort made of golden sandstone. The city is famous for its intricate havelis, ancient Jain temples, and bustling markets teeming with colorful textiles and handicrafts.
Visitors can also experience camel safaris in the desert and enjoy mesmerizing sunset views over the vast sand dunes.
- "kiddan" - How are you?
- "shukriya" - Thank you
- "tuhada naa ki hai" - What is your name?
- "ki haal chaal" - How are things?
- "chalo" - Let's go
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $10 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its narrow lanes and visit the stunning Jain temples within the fort.
Have lunch at a local restaurant that offers traditional Rajasthani cuisine. Afterward, stroll through the local markets and shop for handicrafts.
Enjoy a delightful sunset view from the fort. Conclude your day at a rooftop café with panoramic views of the city.
Set out early for a desert safari in the Thar Desert. Experience the thrill of camel riding and enjoy the serene landscapes.
Visit a local village to experience Rajasthani culture firsthand and interact with the locals. Savor a traditional meal prepared in the village.
Return to the desert for a magical sunset over the dunes. Spend the night in a desert camp, enjoying folk music and dancing around a bonfire.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with stunning forts and palaces.
- Unique desert landscape and sand dunes.
- Vibrant local festivals and traditions.
- Opportunities for camel safaris and desert camping.
- Warm hospitality from the locals.
- Extreme temperatures, especially during summer.
- Limited healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
- Accessibility can be challenging due to its remote location.
- Water scarcity issues in the region.
- Tourist influx can lead to overcrowding in peak seasons.
Best Activities in Jaisalmer
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the magnificent Thar Desert on a camel safari and experience the unique landscape, local culture, and spectacular sunset views.
Experience the magic of the desert at night by camping under the stars, enjoying traditional Rajasthani music and dance, and savoring local cuisine.
Explore the historic Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila, and admire its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and panoramic views of the city.
Tours
Uncover the best of Jaisalmer with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Visit one of these nice places.
The massive sandcastle-like Jaisalmer Fort offers stunning panoramic views of the Golden City and the surrounding Thar Desert. It’s a prime spot for capturing beautiful sunset and sunrise photos.
This intricately carved historic mansion not only showcases impressive architectural details but also provides excellent vantage points for capturing the golden hues of Jaisalmer and the sand dunes beyond.
For breathtaking desert landscapes and the chance to photograph camel safaris against an expansive sandy backdrop, the Sam Sand Dunes are a must-visit.
Food in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Rajasthani dish consisting of spicy lentils (dal), baked dough balls (baati), and a sweet powdered cereal (churma). It can be savored at Gypsy Restaurant and Dhanraj Bhatia Sweets.
Must-Try!
A fiery meat curry made with mutton, red chilies, and curd. Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli and Desert Boy's Dhani Restaurant serve delectable Laal Maas.
A popular vegetarian dish featuring gram flour dumplings in a tangy yogurt-based gravy. Enjoy authentic Gatte ki Sabzi at The Trio Café and Saffron Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Jaisalmer better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of street food, including kachoris, samosas, and various chaat delicacies. Don't miss the famed makhaniya lassi and kulfi faluda when exploring Manak Chowk.
A vibrant market offering an array of street food options such as Mirchi Bada, Pyaaz Kachori, and refreshing sugarcane juice. It's a great place to experience the local food scene.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to respect the traditional attire of the locals in Jaisalmer, such as wearing modest clothing and avoiding outfits that may be considered disrespectful.
Visitors should make an effort to learn about and observe the local customs and traditions, such as greeting people with a 'Namaste' and being mindful of local religious practices.
It is important to respect the personal space and privacy of the locals, as well as seek permission before taking photographs, especially of individuals or religious sites.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Jaisalmer with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Jaisalmer
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in Jaisalmer, India, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 5-10% tip is generally the norm if a service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping hotel staff, tour guides, and drivers is also common, but the amount can vary based on the level of service and your discretion.
In Jaisalmer, India, cash is the primary form of payment, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, upscale restaurants, and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry enough cash for day-to-day expenses. ATMs are available in the city for withdrawing cash.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Jaisalmer.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with temperatures reaching up to 45°C. Not the best time to visit due to scorching heat.
Humid with occasional rainfall. The desert landscape turns green and offers a unique experience.
Pleasant weather with clear skies. Best time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Cool and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the desert and enjoying cultural events.
Jaisalmer at Night
Hiking in Jaisalmer
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located around 42 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Sam Sand Dunes offer not just a unique hiking experience but also the chance to explore stunning sand dunes and enjoy desert safaris.
About 50 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Khuri is a quieter alternative to Sam Sand Dunes with beautiful trails for hiking and breathtaking sunset views over the dunes.
This national park, which is about 40 kilometers from Jaisalmer, features a diverse landscape of sand dunes and gravel plains that can be explored via various hiking trails.
Situated around 6 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Bada Bagh offers scenic walking paths surrounded by beautiful gardens and cenotaphs, making for a pleasant hiking experience.
Located near the Jaisalmer Fort, this viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape and the fort itself. It's a great spot for a short hike and photography.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Jaisalmer through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Jaisalmer by plane.
Located approximately 285 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Jodhpur Airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
About 620 kilometers from Jaisalmer, this airport is primarily used for domestic flights but has some international service.
Located around 600 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Jaipur International Airport is a key international airport in Rajasthan.
Situated approximately 650 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport is one of the busiest airports in India and handles many international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Jaisalmer, consisting mostly of Rajputs and other communities native to Rajasthan.
A significant community in Jaisalmer, traditionally known for their priestly roles and educational contributions.
This group includes a prosperous merchant community, known for their business acumen and cultural contributions.
A diverse group in Jaisalmer, including both indigenous communities and those who have migrated from other regions.
Descendants of historical royal families who played a crucial role in the region's history and heritage.
Various marginalized communities that fall under the government’s affirmative action framework.
The Soul of Jaisalmer
Discover the essence of Jaisalmer through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A unique sport in Jaisalmer where camels race against each other, often accompanied by festive celebrations.
An adventurous outdoor activity that includes driving across the sand dunes, often featuring local folklore and music.
A popular traditional sport in India, cricket is widely played in Jaisalmer, with local teams and enthusiastic audiences.
A contact team sport that is popular at local festivals and gatherings, showcasing physical strength and strategy.
Football has a growing following, with many local clubs and youth teams actively participating in tournaments.
A form of wrestling rooted in cultural traditions, often practiced in local akharas (wrestling pits).
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jaisalmer.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Jaisalmer offers a wide array of vegetarian dishes, including the famous Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, and a variety of vegetable-based curries available at most local eateries.
While vegan-specific options may be limited, many restaurants are accommodating and willing to customize dishes to suit vegan preferences. Dishes like Aloo Pyaaz ki Sabzi and various lentil preparations can be enjoyed.
Rajasthani cuisine features numerous gluten-free delicacies such as Bajra Roti, Makki ki Roti, and Rice-based dishes. Most restaurants are familiar with gluten sensitivities and can offer suitable alternatives.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Jaisalmer with these cultural adventures.