jaisalmer trip how many days

Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 Days & Complete Jaisalmer Travel Guide

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I earn from any qualifying purchases, at no additional cost to you.

This post contains a Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days, in addition to a complete Jaisalmer travel guide.

Jaisalmer, also known as the golden city, is located in Rajasthan, India. This city has been termed as the golden city due to the houses and the famous Jaisalmer fort here which have been constructed using yellow sandstone as well as yellow sand, giving them a yellowish golden appearance. If you look at the city from a height, Jaisalmer will appear golden in color, thus crowning it with the name golden city of India. Located in the far western end of India, Jaisalmer’s proximity to the Thar desert makes it a popular tourist destination for those who wish to experience a camel safari or a jeep safari in the desert. Jaisalmer was named after the Rajput King Jaisal Singh who founded the city in 1156 AD. Besides this 2 day Jaisalmer itinerary, if you're want to see more pictures of my trip to Rajasthan, then head over to my Instagram profile ( @thespicyjourney ).

Most people who visit Rajasthan often head straight away to the popular cities such as Jaipur - the pink city and Udaipur - the city of Lakes. While both these cities are popular for good reason such as the stunning culture, architecture and the monuments, Jaisalmer is often overlooked by tourists. The golden city deserves for credit for sure and this article is sure to convince you to visit this desert city.

Pin this for later!

Table of Contents

Jaisalmer Travel Guide & Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 Days

This Jaisalmer travel guide + Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days focuses on the many enriching experiences that one can enjoy in the golden city of India. While the sprawling Jaisalmer fort marks the iconic landscape of Jaisalmer city, there’s a long list of things to do in Jaisalmer, which not only includes exploring the many temples and sites inside the Jaisalmer fort but a lot more than that. Despite its slightly offbeat location, Jaisalmer is among the top places to visit in Rajasthan, India.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer Rajasthan

• Summer (April - June): Since Jaisalmer is situated in the Thar desert, it can get unbearing hot during the summer. It’s best to avoid visiting Jaisalmer during this season.
• Monsoon (July - September): While the monsoon months from July to September bring relief from the heat but the downpours can be cumbersome and the streets may be muddy during this time of the year.
• Winter (October - March): The winter months are a good time to visit Jaisalmer, especially October-November as well as February-March when the weather is pleasant with it being neither too hot nor too cold. This is the best time to visit Jaisalmer golden city.

How to Reach Jaisalmer, the Golden City

Nearest airport to jaisalmer.

Jaisalmer doesn’t have an airport but the Jodhpur airport is the closest airport to Jaisalmer, located roughly 300 km away. You can take a cab from Jodhpur airport to Jaisalmer. Alternatively, you could even take a local train or bus from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer which is a much cheaper option.

Nearest Railway Station to Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer has a railway station called the Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM) which is well connected to nearby cities within Rajasthan as well as other major cities in India.

Delhi to Jaisalmer

The distance of 766 km between Delhi and Jaisalmer is 585 km and can be covered by road in 12-14 hours or by a direct train in 17 hours. Alternatively, there are flights available from Delhi to Jodhpur and the rest of the journey from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer can be covered by rail or road.

Must Read: The Best Instagrammable Places in Delhi, India

Jodhpur to Jaisalmer

The distance from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer is roughly less than 300 km which can be covered by road or rail. There are Rajasthan state transport buses plying between the two cities. Apart from this, there are comfortable private AC buses running between the cities as well. Moreover, there are direct trains for Jodhpur to Jaisalmer and vice-versa. While one can hire private cabs, it's a faster but much more expensive option compared to taking a bus or train.

Getting Around Jaisalmer

Even though most of the sightseeing places in Jaisalmer lie within walking distance of the Jaisalmer fort, you will need to hire a cab or auto-rickshaw (tuk-tuk) to explore some of the places to visit in Jaisalmer which lie just outside the city. There are lots of tour guides and tour companies which offer good rates on half-day or full-day tours of the sightseeing places which lie just outside Jaisalmer.

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

Zostel jaisalmer.

View from the rooftop at Zostel Jaisalmer

I cannot put into words how wonderful my stay at Zostel Jaisalmer was. Zostel Jaisalmer is located inside the Jaisalmer fort. While that in itself may sound amazing, the property is absolutely beautiful, decorated tastefully using traditional Rajasthani fabrics and decor items. The cherry on top though is the rooftop that has comfortable seating overlooking the entire city. Zostel Jaisalmer has dorms as well as private rooms, multiple common rooms, and an in-house cafe. They also organize lots of activities that include walks inside the fort, food walks, and desert safari.

Check Availability at Zostel Jaisalmer on Booking.com

Moustache Jaisalmer

Moustache Jaisalmer is yet another one of the wonderful places to stay in Jaisalmer. Even though this hostel is located just outside the Jaisalmer fort, unlike Zostel which is inside the fort, it is located within walking distance from the fort. What I loved about Moustache Jaisalmer was the open verandah right in the center, giving it a very traditional appearance. There are comfortable cushions around this verandah. That, along with the intricately carved walls and the availability of both private rooms as well as dorm rooms make Moustache Jaisalmer one of the best places to stay in Jaisalmer.

Check Availability at Moustache Jaisalmer on Booking.com

Hotels in Jaisalmer Inside Jailsamer Fort

When it comes to finding hotels in Jaisalmer, I strongly recommend getting a hotel inside the Jaisalmer fort. Even if you don’t manage to do that, there are tons of hotels near the Jaisalmer fort. Since the fort by itself contains a lot of sightseeing places and is close to all the other places to visit in Jaisalmer, it’s best to stay close to the fort. This way you can just walk to the nearby spots without having to hire a tuk-tuk.

Find hotels in Jaisalmer on Booking.com

Jaisalmer Itinerary - Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer in 2 Days

Day 1 of jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days.

Spend your first day in Jaisalmer by exploring all the sightseeing places in and around the Jaisalmer fort and by shopping for souvenirs. 

1. Patwon ki Haveli / Patwa Haveli

Patwon ki haveli or Patwa haveli is the first stop among all the places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days. This haveli, or traditional mansion, is one of the three major havelis in Jaisalmer and thus cannot be skipped out of your Jaisalmer itinerary. Patwon ki haveli is a cluster of 5 mansions constructed in the year 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa, a wealthy trader, one for each of his five sons. Today, there is a museum inside the haveli and it’s also open for visitors to walk around and take a tour of the haveli, with or without a guide. 

Open all days 8.30 am to 6.40 pm

https://www.instagram.com/p/B9vlOzjD6ni/

2. Jaisalmer Fort - Unmissable Place in any Jaisalmer Itinerary

Jaisalmer fort, named after the Maharajah Maharawal Jaisal, is made up of yellow sandstone and thus also known as the golden fort or sonar qila . This spectacular fort has a fortification wall that is 5 km in circumference and 2-3 m in thickness. Not only that, but Jaisalmer fort is also one of the very few “living” forts in the world where people actually reside inside the fort. That’s right - there’s a whole bustling community along with sightseeing places inside the fort as well as temples and lots of shops and restaurants. Entry to the fort is free but some of the sightseeing spots may charge their own visiting fee.

Must Read: A Complete Delhi Travel Guide

3. Jain Temple

The set of Jain temples is one of the must-visit places inside the Jaisalmer fort. Apart from the elaborate carvings, what’s most impressive is that this cluster of 7 Jain temples contains a combined total of 6666 statues of the 24 prophets of Jainism. Additionally, if you add 6+6+6+6 it gives you the number 24 -  which is the number of prophets in the Jain religion. Apart from this clever play with numbers, the detailed work inside these temples is very impressive. 

Open all days 8 to 12 pm

4. Canon Point

Canon point is one of the open-air areas inside the Jaisalmer fort from where you can get an epic city view. Since the fort itself is at a height and the canon point is further high up inside the fort, you can get a nice panoramic view of Jaisalmer city from here. While canon point is also known as sunset point, I found that the sunset view from inside the Zostel Jaisalmer rooftop, where I stayed at, was much better since there was no crowd and there was comfortable seating to enjoy the sunset. Canon point can often get a little crowded.

5. Eat at One of the Many Restaurants Inside the Jaisalmer Fort

While this may seem very trivial and unimportant to some, I cannot stress how important it is that you include a meal inside the Jaisalmer fort in your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days. I visited a restaurant right inside the main entrance of the fort for lunch. While I felt that the food was a tad bit overpriced for the taste and quantity that was provided, the view from there was worth every single rupee! Jaisal Italy was the only restaurant inside the Jaisalmer fort that I visited for both lunch and dinner because I fell in love with the view from here, although I found the taste of the food to be quite average for the price.

6. Shopping in Jaisalmer Fort

Finish off day one of your Jaisalmer itinerary by shopping for clothing, jewelry, home decor items, and souvenirs. As you step inside the Jaisalmer, you’ll see countless lanes lines with small and big shops on both sides. I would avoid the bigger shops, as I felt the prices there were higher compared to other shops for the exact same items. I would suggest walking right inside the fort, near the museum and the Jain temple area and checking out the many shops there.

DAY 2 OF JAISALMER ITINERARY FOR 2 DAYS

You will start your second day in Jaisalmer, golden city, by watching an epic sunrise and going for a desert safari in the sam sand dunes of the Thar desert.

1. Gadisar Lake

Start the second day of your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days by catching the sunrise at Gadisar lake. The lake is located less than a kilometer from the fort so I walked from the fort, where I was staying, to Gadisar or Gadisagar lake. Apart from a couple of elderly people, who were taking a morning stroll around the perimeter of the lake, the place was completely deserted. And so, not only did I get to watch a spectacular sunrise, but I also got fantastic pictures here with no one in sight. There are boats here for visitors to take a boating tour around the lake but it wasn’t open that early in the morning

Must Read: Best Places to Visit in Varanasi in 2 Days

2. Kuldhara - The Abandoned Village

Kuldhara, also known as the abandoned village or cursed village, is located at a distance of 21 km from Jaisalmer. Once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins, it is believed that the village was abandoned overnight in the early 19th century due to plague, drought, and prosecution by a cruel minister. Now visitors can visit Kuldhara village during the daytime hours. There is no entrance fee for visiting Kuldhara. You can stop by the village before heading to the sam sand dunes for a desert safari.

3. Desert Oasis

I had visited both Kuldhara village and a desert oasis on a desert safari tour. Our guide took my tour group to both these places on the way to the desert. The oasis inside the desert was located off of the main road between Kuldhara and the sam sand dunes. It was such a peaceful and beautiful place to just sit and mingle with the rest of the people on the safari tour with me.

4. Desert Safari

A desert safari is by far one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer. You just cannot miss this experience among all the things to do in your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days. I booked a desert safari costing INR 1900 via Zostel Jaisalmer, where I was staying. The safari included a jeep ride to Kuldhara village, going via the desert oasis to the sam sand dunes in the Thar desert. A camel ride, evening snacks, evening tea, a local vegetarian dinner, overnight stay inside a tent (or under the open sky on a cot), breakfast the next morning and a ride back were also included. While most people choose to stay in the desert overnight, in case you need to head back to your hotel on the same night, you can even ask to be dropped back right after dinner.

Food to Try in Jaisalmer

You must try the two famous local specialties - the Jaisalmer or Rajasthani thali as well as daal baati churma while you’re in Jaisalmer. Ask your hotel or hostel for recommendations for the best places where you can try them.

Must Read: Jodhpur Itinerary: 13 Best Places to Visit in Jodhpur in 2 Days

Where to Eat in Jaisalmer - Best Restaurants and Cafes in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

As mentioned earlier, I highly recommend eating at least one meal at a restaurant inside the Jaisalmer fort. I had lunch and dinner at Jaisal Italy, which is right at the main entrance of the fort. Additionally, I also liked the view of the Jain temple from the Jaisalmer Oasis Restaurant, which is also inside the fort, right next to Zostel Jaisalmer.

Planning a Trip to Rajasthan?

In case you're planning a trip to Rajasthan, you may find these articles helpful:

• The Perfect Jodhpur Itinerary for 2 Days
• Rajasthan Fashion Guide: What to Wear in Rajasthan
• Udaipur Travel Guide + Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 Days

Did You Enjoy this Jaisalmer Travel Guide and Jaisalmer Itinerary for the Places to Visit in Jaisalmer in 2 Days?

If you liked reading this Jaisalmer travel guide + Jaisalmer itinerary containing the best places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days then follow me on my social media handles Instagram , Facebook , Pinterest to see beautiful pictures, discover offbeat destinations and get instant updates regarding new blog posts.

I was planning to go to Jaisalmer in March but had to cancel ..thanks for sharing this.will visit in winters now

We loved Zostel too! The views were great and it felt very homey. We mostly took it easy during our time in Jaisalmer and only did half the things you mentioned, but we loved this historic fort city

How beautiful! I hoping to visit here later in the year- especially because of how close is it from Jaipur.

Amazing blog you have. Perfect Itinerary for Jaisalmer. Reading this was cool, I also did an overnight safari in Jaisalmer near last summer and loved it! sleeping under the stars was amazing. It was nice to reminisce by reading your post!

Jaisalmer is a very nice place. I am reading your blog and i get the right information about week travel trip to Rajasthan. Such a useful blog. Thanks for sharing helpful information.

appreciate your content how nicely you ghave described jaisalmer tour.by reading your blog i ahve also wished to do jaisalmer sightsseing.

Comments are closed.

Travel Character

Perfect Jaisalmer Itinerary For 3 Days

Nestled amidst the golden sands of the desert and adorned by majestic golden-colored forts and houses, Jaisalmer is often renowned as the Golden City of India . The only living fort in India – Jaisalmer Fort, splendid Havelis, stunning viewpoints, and the Great Indian Thar Desert attract tourists from all over the world. Moreover, adventurous activities such as camel safaris, dune bashing, camping, stargazing, jeep safaris, and parasailing ensure that you will never be bored.

Plan a trip to Jaisalmer with our detailed Jaisalmer itinerary for 3 days , whether you are going for a family vacation, a romantic honeymoon, or a friends’ reunion, as our itinerary has everything covered.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from mid-October to March, when the climate becomes pleasant, and the average temperature ranges between 10 to 30 degrees Celsius. December to January marks the peak season in Jaisalmer, as many tourists come here to celebrate Christmas and New Year. Additionally, this period is perfect for exploring the vast Thar Desert of India. For more, you can check our detailed guide – best time to visit Jaisalmer .

How to Reach

Situated close to the India-Pakistan border in the Thar Desert Jaisalmer is not difficult as it is well connected to the rest of Indian cities through highways, railway lines and airports. Here are the 3 possible ways to reach Jaisalmer –

• By Air:  The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport (JSA), which is well-connected to major Indian cities. Take a direct flight to Jodhpur then continue your journey by train, bus, or cab to Jaisalmer.
• By Train: Jaisalmer has its own railway station, Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM). It’s connected to various cities in Rajasthan and major Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Udaipur and Kolkata.
• By Road: You can also reach Jaisalmer by road. The city is well-connected by a network of national and state highways. You can drive to Jaisalmer from nearby cities, or take a bus from places like Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Bikaner.

How to Get Around Jaisalmer

Most of the local attractions in Jaisalmer are conveniently situated close to each other, making it easy to explore them on foot. However, if you wish to visit nearby places such as the Desert National Park, Kuldhara, Lodurva, and the India-Pak border, you’ll need to hire an auto-rickshaw, tuk-tuk, or cab. Rental scooters and autos are the two most convenient ways to navigate the city of Jaisalmer.

For those who prefer hassle-free transportation and enjoy group tours, Viator and Get Your Guide are two reputable and trusted group tour agencies.

Where to Stay

Being a top tourist attraction in Rajasthan Jaisalmer has no dearth of hotels, hostels and campsites. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels or vibrant hostels to peaceful campsite Jaisalmer has various kinds of accommodation for all kinds of budgets. And here are some of the most trusted and reviewed hotels in Jaisalmer –

How many days are enough for the Jaisalmer trip?

Exploring most of the tourist attractions in Jaisalmer can be achieved in 3 Days and 3 Nights. On the first day, you can delve into the local attractions, while on the second day, a visit to nearby places would be ideal. Day 3 presents an opportunity to immerse yourself in thrilling adventure activities at the Desert National Park. Alternatively, if you’re on a tight budget, allocating 2 days should suffice one for exploring local attractions and the other for enjoying a night of camping at the Desert National Park.

Jaisalmer 3 Days Itinerary

Day in jaisalmer.

Jaisalmer Fort – Start your Jaisalmer trip with the most renowned attraction, named Jaisalmer Fort or Sonar Quila. Situated at the top of Trikuta Hill at a height of 250 feet, Jaisalmer Fort is not only a tourist attraction but also the home of a quarter of the total Jaisalmer population . Comprising many narrow streets, shops, palaces, museums, temples, and centuries-old houses, Jaisalmer Fort is nothing less than an architectural wonder. Standing atop the fort and watching the city of yellow sandstone houses is a memorable sight.

If you want to stay inside the fort, there are many hotels available. Spending a night within the fort is one of the best things you can do in Jaisalmer. Roaming through the empty streets of the fort in the early morning allows you to fully appreciate the architectural beauty of this place.

While there is no entry fee for the fort itself, you will need to purchase tickets to enter the palaces and museums.

• Timing – 24 hours
• Most famous things to see in the fort – Tazia tower, Jain temples, Laxminath temple, 450-year-old house Baa Ri Haveli and Raj Mahal Palace

Jain Temples – Now it’s time to explore one of the most beautiful attractions of the fort, the Jain temples. Situated inside the campus of the Jaisalmer Fort, there are a total of 7 Jain temples connected to each other through corridors and gates. Made from yellow sandstone adorned with mirrors, frescoes, corridors, and other intricate detailing, these temples are nothing less than architectural wonders. They become even more enchanting when the golden hues of sunrise or sunset kiss their tops.

Each of these temples is dedicated to Jain tirthankaras (spiritual teachers). These include the Chandraprabhu Jain temple, Rishabhdev Jain temple, Parsvanatha Jain temple, Shitalnath Jain temple, Shantinath Jain temple, Kunthunatha Jain temple, and Sambhavnath Jain temple.

Tazia Tower – Tazia Tower, situated inside the Badal Palace, is another prominent attraction within the fort. This five-story building boasts detailed intricate carvings, graceful balconies, and stunning craftsmanship as its main highlights. From its balconies, you can also enjoy a beautiful bird’s-eye view of the city.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Tazia Tower holds significant cultural and religious importance, particularly among Muslims. Visiting this place offers a fantastic opportunity to delve into the history and local culture of the region.

Patwon Ki Haveli – If you really want to experience the life and luxury of Rajasthan from the 19th century, be sure to visit Patwon Ki Haveli. Located approximately 1.5 kilometers from the Jaisalmer bus stand, near Patwa Valley, this Haveli is a collection of five different Havelis constructed by the wealthy Marwari merchant and jeweler named Guman Chand Patwa in 1805.

Built entirely in yellow sandstone, these multi-story Havelis serve as beautiful examples of Rajasthani royal architecture. Within the complex, you’ll discover approximately 60 balconies or jharokhas, each uniquely designed, showcasing a remarkable fusion of Indian and Persian styles. Additionally, the complex boasts numerous expansive courtyards, making it a paradise for photographers.

Presently, of the five Havelis, two are under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India, two are owned by the Guman Chand Patwa family, and one has been transformed into a private museum by the Kotharis.

Kothari’s Patwa Haveli Museum is open to tourists and offers an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the royal architectural beauty of mirrored walls, intricate carvings, stunning paintings, and various other unique artistic works. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to delve into the opulent history of Rajasthan.

• Location – Opposite Choora Paada, Jaisalmer
• Timing – 8:30 AM to 6 PM for Havelis operated by the Archaeological Survey of India and 9 AM to 6 PM for Kothari’s Private Museum.
• Entry fee – 100 INR for the museum and 10 INR for Havelis

Nathmal Ki Haveli – Nathmal Ki Haveli, located just 500 meters away from Jaisalmer Fort, is another beautiful place to visit in Jaisalmer. It is considered the epitome of architectural wonder in Jaisalmer. This Haveli was constructed by two Muslim brothers who were jewelers rather than builders. Interestingly, the construction of this grand mansion began simultaneously from two different points by these two brothers.

As you approach the entrance of this mansion, you’ll be greeted by two golden-colored elephants crafted from yellow sandstone. The jharokhas, vast courtyards, and the golden hues of the Haveli seamlessly merge with the desert vibes, creating a truly mesmerizing experience.

• Location – Sadar Bazar, Jaisalmer
• Timing – 10 AM to 9 PM
• Entry Fee – Free

Jaisalmer War Museum – After exploring the architectural beauty, it’s time to immerse yourself in the rich military history of India at the Jaisalmer War Museum. Spread over 15 acres of land, this museum pays tribute to the great Indian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in wars. The museum vividly showcases the immense strength, heroic contributions, and bravery of Indian soldiers.

As soon as you step inside the building, you will undoubtedly experience goosebumps as you witness the displayed armors, vehicles, equipment, uniforms, and more. Furthermore, it provides insight into the strategies employed by the Indian army during the 1971 India-Pakistan war.

• Timing – 9 AM to 5 PM, closed on Tuesday

Sunset at Gadisar Lake – After walking through the fort, Havelis, and museums, it’s now time to relax and admire the stunning views of the sunset at Gadisar Lake. This is the perfect place in Jaisalmer to start or end your day. Sitting on the bank of the lake, surrounded by the peace of nature and watching the golden shadow of the setting sun in the lake, would be an amazing experience.

To end your day in Jaisalmer, consider taking a boat ride in the evening when the golden rays of the sun reflect on the still water of the lake. It’s a relaxing and picturesque way to conclude your day in this beautiful city.

Day 2 in Jaisalmer

Sunrise at Bada Bagh – Start your day in Jaisalmer with the peaceful vibes of Bada Bagh, a complex of royal cenotaphs or chhatris located just 7 KM from Jaisalmer fort. The name “Bada Bagh” translates to “Big Garden,” and it is indeed a vast garden of these royal cenotaphs, showcasing a remarkable blend of Mughal, Paliwal, and Rajput architectural styles. Each cenotaph was erected in memory of the late rulers of Jaisalmer, making this place essentially a cemetery for the city’s royal leaders .

An early morning visit to this serene place provides you with ample space to capture stunning views of the sunrise. Witnessing the rising sun through the backdrop of these royal cenotaphs is a magnificent way to kickstart your second day in Jaisalmer.

• Timing – All Hours
• Entry Fee – 100 INR

Visit Lodurva Village – Just 15 kilometers away from Jaisalmer, Lodurva is an ancient village renowned for its rich history, sand dunes, archaeological ruins, Shiva temples, and Jain Temples. It once served as the capital of the Bhatti Kingdom, making Lodurva even older than Jaisalmer itself.

In modern times, Lodurva stands as an abandoned village but remains a popular tourist destination, especially among history and architecture enthusiasts. The ruins, forts, and ancient buildings within its borders tell the captivating tale of its historical significance. Among these, the Jain temple stands out as the most cherished attraction. Dedicated to Lord Parshvanath, the 23rd Jain Tirthankar, this temple showcases incredible artistry in the form of dome-style huts, idols, sculptures, and intricately designed Jaalis. It serves as a magnificent testament to the artistry of the time.

While in Lodurva, be sure not to miss a visit to the Tree of Life, believed to have the wish-fulfilling tree . Here, you can offer your wishes with unwavering faith, adding a touch of spirituality to your historical and architectural exploration of this remarkable place.

Kuldhara Village, The Ghost Town – After exploring the beauty of Lodurva Village, it’s now time to head to the most haunted village in India, Kuldhara. Located just 17 kilometers from Jaisalmer, Kuldhara is an abandoned village famous for its myths and ghost stories.

Once the home of 1500 Paliwal Brahmins , Kuldhara is now an empty village with the ruins of homes and forts. One fateful night, all the Brahmins and the people of 85 villages moved away overnight, leaving a curse on the village, ensuring that no one would ever live here happily again. Consequently, this village has become renowned as the most haunted place in India . The village is now managed by the State Archaeology department.

• Timing – 8 AM to 6 PM

Sunset at Vyas Chhatri – Enjoy the amazing sunset in the backdrop of the golden desert landscape and Jaisalmer city at Vyas Chhatri. This cenotaph was built to pay tribute to Sage Vyas, the author of the Hindu epic Mahabharata.

Vyas Chhatri is a large complex with numerous temples, pavilions, and other structures, but the best part of this Chhatri is its sunset point. The view from the terrace is breathtaking; from here, you can enjoy a bird’s-eye view of the city. Its historic architecture, dating from the 18th century, adds to its beauty.

• Location – Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer
• Entry Fee – 100 INR per person and 100 INR for camera

Day 3 In Jaisalmer

Thar Desert National Park – Your day 3 is going to be the most exciting one as today, you’re going to explore the great Indian desert, the Thar Desert National Park. Spread over an area of 3,162 sq. km, it is one of the largest national parks in India . With a diverse range of flora and fauna, this national park is a great collection of natural wonders, architectural ruins, and traditional villages.

The best part about being here is exploring the sand dunes, which can reach up to 200 meters in height . Exploring the sand dunes through camel safari and desert jeep safari is one of the best things you can do here.

From luxury to budget tents, there are various kinds of accommodations that provide you with enough space and time to embrace its beauty. A night’s stay in a camp allows you to experience cultural and regional programs, delicious food, night safari, a spectacular sunset, and stargazing.

Imagine sitting on sand dunes, overlooking the beautiful views of the sunset kissing the golden sand; it will be a sight you’ll never forget.

Exploring the sand dunes through a night desert safari is the perfect way to end your day. And if you’re a night owl like me, then don’t miss the chance to experience the stunning beauty of the Milky Way through stargazing. Away from the pollution of modern cities, this place is perfect for capturing the beauty of the night.

• Best things to do here – Camel Safari, Dune Bashing, Night Desert Safari, Sunset watching, Stargazing, and Camping.

Best tents in Desert National Park

Pal Rajah Desert Camp

• Location – Village Barna, Khuri
• Price – 5500 INR (Dinner & Breakfast Included)

Sana Desert Safari Camp

• Location – Dhiba Para, Jaisalmer
• Price – 5400 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)

Sunny Desert Camp

• Location – Barna Village, Khuri
• Price – 3825 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)

Jaisalmer Desert Camp

• Location – Sam Sand Dunes
• Price – 3600 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)

Jaisalmer Travel Tips

• Stay Inside the Fort: The best way to explore the Jaisalmer fort is by spending at least one night within its walls. Take early morning and late evening strolls through the golden streets to uncover the stories hidden in every corner.
• Savor the Views: Discover numerous viewpoints in the fort offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city. These vantage points provide an unparalleled glimpse of the city’s charm.
• Desert Camping: Regardless of the duration of your trip, ensure that you spend a night at one of the desert camps. This experience is essential to truly embrace the essence of Jaisalmer.
• Ideal Seasons: Plan your visit during the Monsoon and Winter seasons for the most enjoyable experience in Jaisalmer.
• City Exploration: Jaisalmer’s small size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. Stroll through its streets to capture the essence of the city’s culture and heritage.
• Shopping Delights: Engage in a unique shopping experience by visiting specific markets – purchase paintings and carpets at Sadar Bazaar, exquisite jewelry at Sonraon Ka Bass, elegant home decor items at Pansari Bazaar, and premium leather goods at Manak Chowk.

Here is my perfect Jaisalmer Itinerary, which will assist you in crafting your own. If you have any other itinerary or anything you would like to include, please let us know in the comment section below. If you find this helpful, do share it with someone who should visit Jaisalmer.

Hi Guys, My Name is Pursottam Saini, living the life of my dream – From traveling one destination to another and seeing the places I still don’t believe.

20 Best Places To Visit In November In India 2023

Kanatal, Uttarakhand – A Hidden Paradise In Himalayas

Top 6 Snowfall Destinations In India

How To Reach Gokarna by Bus, Train & Flight

Best Time to Visit Kodaikanal for an Enchanting Escape

Unveiling the Best Time to Visit Auli in 2024

Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 25 Best Honeymoon Places in the World

23 Best Cafes In Jaipur For A Remarkable Trip

Perfect Andaman Itinerary For 5 Days

• Havelock Island
• Neil Island
• Baratang Island
• Ross Island
• Chikmagalur, Karnataka
• Travel Inspiration
• Book Your Stay!
• Lucerne. Switzerland
• Philippines
• Hill Stations
• Waterfalls in the World
• Honeymoon Places in the World
• Beach Honeymoon Destinations in the World
• Festivals in the World
• Best Travel Accessories
• India Travel Tips
• Best Travel Hashtags
• Guide To Plan A Perfect Beach Vacation
• How To Plan a Perfect Honeymoon?
• Honeymoon Checklist
• Travel Shop
• Disclaimer Policy

• ONE WEEK ITINERARY
• TEA PLANTATIONS
• ALLEPPEY TRAVEL GUIDE
• ONE DAY IN ALLEPPEY
• FERRY TRAVEL GUIDE
• MUNROE ISLAND
• KOLLAM FERRY
• SEE KUTTANAD FERRY
• KOTTAYAM FERRY
• ONE WEEK IN KERALA
• PUBLIC TRANSPORT
• COCHIN TO ALLEPPEY
• GOA TO KERALA
• INDIA TRAVEL TIPS 101
• SOUTH INDIA ITINERARY
• NORTH INDIA ITINERARY
• GOLDEN TRIANGLE ITINERARY
• OVERNIGHT SLEEPER BUS
• GENERAL CLASS TRAIN
• TOURIST VISA
• FIRST TRIP TO INDIA? START HERE!

3 days Jaisalmer itinerary 👑 BEST places to visit in Jaisalmer 👑 Backpacking Rajasthan, North India

So you’re looking at planning your trip to Rajasthan, and you’re trying to figure out your itinerary and how many days to spend in Jaisalmer.

3 days can be a PERFECT number of days to spend in Jaisalmer!

Below is a guide to Jaisalmer and ideas for how exactly to plan out each of those days in Jaisalmer.

You can also see how to spend your days in the Thar Desert (camel safari) , Jaipur (pink city) ,  Jodhpur (blue city) , Udaipur (city of lakes) ,  Agra , and the Taj Mahal !

And oh hey! After Jaisalmer and North India, you can head to South India which is where Kerala is! Also see how to spend one week in Kerala and how to spend one month in South India !

Get ideas on how to get around Rajasthan, including by local train to Jaisalmer and  overnight train from Jaisalmer , along with taking the bus .

And if you’re backpacking to Jaisalmer alone, you may like the idea of staying at one of the best hostels in Jaisalmer . 

How golden is the Golden City?

Rajasthan is a state of colors.

With Jaipur being called the Pink City , there are certain parts of the city, as well as the Jaipur City Palace, that are truly pink.

With Jodhpur being called the Blue City , you kind of need to go hunting for the blue streets.

How about Jaisalmer as the Golden City?

It is truly “golden” everywhere! You really don’t have to go looking for it, and you don’t need to be in a certain part of the city to see it. You can truly see the same shade of color no matter where you are!

First, the quick list of the must-visit places in Jaisalmer.

Then, a more detailed look into how you can fit ALL of these places into your 3 day Jaisalmer itinerary.

6 best places to visit in Jaisalmer in 3 days

1. jaisalmer haveli.

2. Gadisar Lake

3. Jaisalmer Fort

4. Sunset point

5. Golden streets of the Golden City

6. Thar Desert for overnight camel safari

How to put the best places to visit into a 3 day Jaisalmer itinerary?

Day 1 in jaisalmer, list of things to do for day 1:, visit to a jaisalmer haveli, sunset boat ride on gadisar lake, day 2 in jaisalmer (and desert), list of things to do for day 2:.

Make a trip to the Thar Desert on an overnight camel safari tour from Jaisalmer.

• Sunset camel ride with overnight desert tour
• Campfire in the desert with Rajasthani cuisine
• Sleeping under the stars in the desert

Day 3 in Jaisalmer (and desert)

List of things to do for day 3:.

• Sunrise over the sand dunes
• Morning camel ride through the desert
• Visit to Jaisalmer Fort
• Get lost on the golden streets of the Golden City

Visit a sunset point for iconic views

I took a midnight train from Jaisalmer to Jaipur. I talk a little bit about public transportation in Rajasthan, including the Jaisalmer to Jaipur train, in this backpacking India itinerary for 2 weeks in Rajasthan .

More for your Rajasthan itinerary:

• 3 days in Udaipur
• 2 days in Jodhpur
• 3 days in Jaisalmer
• 3 days in Jaipur
• 1 day in Agra

Now, here’s a bit more about the Jaisalmer itinerary to see if it’s something you want to follow!

Day 1 in jaisalmer.

Apart from desert experiences, one thing that Jaisalmer is famous for is its havelis. These are a specific style of homes or buildings, and there are a number of them scattered throughout the city.

Among the famous havelis are:

• Patwa-ki-Haveli
• Nathmal-ki-Haveli

For a nice relaxing evening, you can head on over to the Gadisar Lake.

This boat does require manual labor though!

These are cycling boats, which means it requires pedal power in order to move! So be prepared to get a little bit of exercise during this sunset boat ride!

DAY 2 IN JAISALMER (and Thar Desert)

Overnight camel safari in the thar desert.

There are a number of different types of overnight desert tours that start at different times during the day, and that last for a different number of days.

You can find overnight tours that start in the morning or afternoon. And you can find overnight tours that last for just one night, or you can stay longer in the desert if you want to.

I did an overnight desert tour that started in the afternoon and ended the next day in the morning.

Best things about an overnight desert tour

1. sunset camel ride.

2. Campfire dinner with Rajasthani cuisine

3. Sleeping under the stars in the desert

4. Sunrise over the sand dunes

See here for more about what you get with an overnight camel safari , including the average cost of these kinds of tours.

DAY 3 IN JAISALMER

After you return from the overnight camel safari in the morning…

Get lost on the golden streets of the Golden City at the Jaisalmer Fort

The Jaisalmer Fort has a lot of narrow streets that can make you feel like you’re in a maze the first time you go.

This can make it a good place to explore!

You’ll want to make sure you locate the cannon. This is where you can find some of the best views of Jaisalmer from inside the fort!

There are also places to stay within the fort if you’re looking for a unique experience!

The best way to locate the sunset points in Jaisalmer near where you are staying is to ask the staff at your hotel!

Whether it’s one of the spots that’s called a sunset point across the city, or it’s on a rooftop of a restaurant or building, there’s no better way to end your time in Jaisalmer than watching the sunset!

HAPPY JAISALMER ITINERARY PLANNING!

How to spend 2 weeks in rajasthan.

• 3 days in Udaipur (city of lakes)
• 2 days in Jodhpur (blue city)
• Thar desert (camel safari)
• 3 days in Jaipur (pink city)

PLUS: One month in South India

• Gokarna to Goa
• Alleppey to Cochin
• Kerala to southern tip of India
• Goa to Hampi
• Hospet to Hampi
• Pondicherry to Mahabalipuram
• Mahabalipuram to Pondicherry
• Palolem to Goa airport
• Pondicherry to Madurai
• Madurai to Kerala  (South India)
• Mumbai to Udaipur

Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days: Complete Travel Guide

Read the perfect Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days along with Jaisalmer travel tips. Surely, desert camping is the top thing to do in Jaisalmer. But there are so many other places to explore, read my guide on the best places to visit in Jaisalmer, where to eat and where to stay, and all the travel tips for visiting Jaisalmer in 2 days.

Known as the ‘ Golden City of Rajasthan , Jaisalmer is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan, India for a number of reasons. This city would take you back to the stories about the Arabian Nights and will instantly transport you into a magical land. So, explore the magic of the Thar desert in your 2 days Jaisalmer itinerary.

And if that wasn’t enough, this city is also at the heart of the Thar Desert and is a great way to explore the beautiful, majestic sand dunes of the Thar Desert.

• 1 Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days and Jaisalmer Travel Guide
• 2 Jaisalmer History
• 3 How to Reach Jaisalmer– The Golden City of Rajasthan
• 4 Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
• 5 Jaisalmer Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days
• 6.1 Gadisar Lake
• 6.2 Bada Bagh– Best Places to visit in Jaisalmer
• 6.3 Kuldhara – The Abandon Village
• 6.4 Sam Sand Dunes – Time for Desert Safari
• 7.1 Jaisalmer Fort – Top Tourist Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
• 7.2 Jain Temple: Architecture Marvel of Jaisalmer
• 7.3 Canon Point: One of the top sightseeing attractions of Jaisalmer
• 7.4 Patwon Ki Haveli
• 7.5 Nathmal ki Haveli
• 7.6 Salim Singh ki Haveli (Moti Mahal)
• 7.7 Vyas Chhatri
• 8.1 Try Bhang Lassi
• 8.2 Watch Puppet Show
• 8.3 Know the legend behind the Tazia Tower
• 8.4 Worship at the Jain Temple in Lodurva
• 9 Shopping in Jaisalmer
• 10 Places to Eat in Jaisalmer
• 11 Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
• 12 Where to Stay in Sam Sand Dunes
• 13 Jaisalmer Travel Tips

Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days and Jaisalmer Travel Guide

This Jaisalmer blog focuses on a Jaisalmer Travel guide with Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days of manly enriching experiences of the Thar desert. There is so much to explore in Jaisalmer from historical places, and landmarks to exploring many temples, and that is why it is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan, India.

Jaisalmer History

Named after Rawal Jaiswal, Jaisalmer was founded by this Bhati ruler in 1156AD. It was called the ‘ Golden City of India’ because of the use of yellow sandstone in the architecture of the entire fort and the town below it. This is why the entire town gives off a little golden-yellow light throughout the day.

Earlier, Jaisalmer was a part of the silk trading route which is why there are a lot of Havelis and palaces built around the town. The entire city is rich with culture and vibrance and makes for a perfect weekend getaway to soak in the warm sun and exuberant culture during the winter season.

In this Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days travel guide, I will share with you everything you need to know about the best places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days, travel tips, and how to plan an amazing trip over here. The guide will include things like, where to stay, shopping places, and a lot more so that you can make the most of your Jaisalmer trip.

While putting together, I have tried to cover as much as possible in this 2 day Jaisalmer itinerary and Travel guide. Compared to other places in Rajasthan, there aren’t many things to do in Jaisalmer, so 2 days in Jaisalmer is the ideal time to spend.

How to Reach Jaisalmer – The Golden City of Rajasthan

By Air – Jaisalmer Airport is located at a distance of 17 km from Jaisalmer city and is well-connected to major cities such as Jodhpur, Delhi, Mumbai, Surat, etc. So, you can easily take a flight to Jaisalmer from one of these cities and reach the city in less than 3 hours.

From the airport, you will get taxis to the city that will charge you around 1000 – 2000 INR and will take around 40 minutes to complete the journey.

Alternatively, you can also reach Jaisalmer from Jodhpur which has an airport. You can take a cab to Jaisalmer from Jodhpur.

By Rail – Jaisalmer is well-connected to all major cities in India via rail. A train from Jaipur to Jaisalmer will take around 11 hours while a train from Delhi to Jaisalmer will take around 18 hours.

You will find several train options for booking on the official IRCTC website . The code for the Train station is Jaisalmer Railway Station(JSM). Make sure that you book your train tickets at least 120 days in advance as the seats get filled quickly during the winter months.

By Road – Jaisalmer is also well-connected with many major cities through national highways and roads that are in good condition. You can reach Jaisalmer via road from nearby cities such as Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, etc.

There are both Volvo and Government Buses running to Jaisalmer from different cities in Rajasthan and a few other cities such as Ahmedabad, Delhi, etc. as well.

If you wish to book a government-operated bus, then use the RSRTC website . And if you wish to book a private Volvo bus, then use online booking portals such as Goibibo, Makemytrip, Redbus, and so on .

Getting Around Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a small town so it is easy to explore the city on foot. Moreover, it is safe for solo female travelers as well so there is nothing to worry about. If you opt for a stay near the Jaisalmer fort area, then you can pretty much cover most town sites such as Jaisalmer Fort, Nathmal ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake, and so on.

Apart from that, you have the option to hire auto-rickshaws but make sure you bargain well as they tend to charge the tourists hefty fees for short distances as well.

If you know how to ride a two-wheeler, then the best way to get around Jaisalmer is by renting a scooter or a bike that would cost around 500/1200 INR respectively. This is the best way to explore the outskirts of Jaisalmer town and head to faraway places such as Kuldhara village, Bada Bagh, Sam Sand Dunes, and so on.

How to Reach Sam Sand Dunes – Although it is possible to reach most sites in Jaisalmer town on foot or on a scooter, Sam Sand Dunes is one of the places that you would need a proper vehicle to reach. If you don’t know how to drive a two-wheeler, you can take a taxi to Sam Sand Dunes which would cost you around 2500 INR for a one-side journey. If you share it with a group of travelers, it will come to around 500 – 700 INR per person.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer

Rajasthan experiences a hot climate throughout the year with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius during the daytime and more in the summer. This is why it is not advisable to visit Jaisalmer in the summer as it can be too hot and there are chances of you experiencing heat stroke.

If you wish to enjoy your trip to Jaisalmer fully, then plan a trip in the winter months i.e. from October to March. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant in Jaisalmer and the nights can be a little cold with temperatures going as low as 5 degrees Celsius.

Jaisalmer Itinerary : Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days

This itinerary is based on the fact, that you stayed in Jaisalmer for a night, and are ready to explore the next day for your perfect 2 days in Jaisalmer.

Day 1 of Your Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days

On Day 1 of your Jaisalmer itinerary, you can head to the desert area so that you can spend adequate time there and in the surrounding areas before heading back to the main city. You can follow this route to make the most of your first day in Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days:

Gadisar Lake – Bada Bagh – Kuldhara Village – Sam Sand Dunes

Start your day early and watch the sunrise at Gadisar Lake . You can choose to reach Gadisar Lake for the sunrise and then have breakfast later by going back to your hotel or some other restaurant nearby. If you love taking photographs, then Gadisar Lake at sunrise is absolutely beautiful, and make sure that you wear a light jacket as it can be slightly cold in Jaisalmer in the mornings.

Gadisar Lake

One of the best lakes in Jaisalmer, Gadisar Lake was built under the rule of Raja Rawal Jaiswal. This lake was used to store the rainwater for the city which was then used by the entire town for drinking, bathing, and other daily activities.

Built in 1156AD, this artificial lake is now surrounded by small temples and shrines and is more famous for boating among the locals. It also gives you an amazing view of the Teelon ki Pol archway which used to be one of the main entrance gates to Jaisalmer City and the Gadisar Lake.

If you are looking for a peaceful location to enjoy the vibe of Jaisalmer, then Gadisar Lake in the evening or at sunrise is the perfect place to explore during your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days. Even you can take boat rides in the evening to explore the places by water.

When to Go : Throughout the Day

Entry Fee: Free

Bada Bagh – Best Places to visit in Jaisalmer

After spending some time at the beautiful Gadisar Lake, you can enjoy your breakfast and then head to Bada Bagh which is around 10 km from the main city. This place features a huge collection of cenotaphs of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer and was built in the 16 th century. The first cenotaph in Bada Bagh was built by Lunkaran and his father, Jai Singh II, who was responsible for making Jaisalmer green.

When to Go: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: 100 INR per person

Kuldhara – The Abandon Village

Your next stop on day 1 of the Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days should be the Kuldhara Village which has a unique history associated with it. Located around 20 km from the main town of Jaisalmer, Kuldhara Village is the haunted village of this region which was abandoned by the villagers in the 19 th century.

Built in the 13th century, this village was once home to the Paliwal Brahmins and was one of the most prosperous villages in the region before it was abandoned.

There are several reasons for the abandonment of this village including potential earthquakes, exhaustion of water sources, and execution of Salim Singh (Jaisalmer’s Prime Minister). Whatever the reason, the village is completely deserted now and offers an eerie feel to anyone who visits here.

If you love such unique and mysterious places then you should definitely pay a visit to the Kuldhara Village on your way to the Sam Sand Dunes- one of the must-see places near Jaisalmer.

When to Go: any time of the day but beware during the evening!

Sam Sand Dunes – Time for Desert Safari

Finally, head to the beautiful Sam Sand Dunes where you can spend the night and explore a lot of activities to enjoy your stay. The dunes are 3 km long and 1 km wide and are the perfect place to experience the golden sands of Rajasthan.

Here, you will be able to take a camel or jeep safari to explore the half Km high dunes that make a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts. A desert safari is one of the top things to do in Jaisalmer and you can not miss this experience in your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days.

Watching a sunset here is absolutely blissful and if you wish, you can even spend the night on the dunes under the canopy of stars. There are several camps and resorts that you can find here that offer good stay packages inclusive of meals, folk dances, safari, and other activities.

Spending some relaxing time at the not-so-overcrowded  Sam dunes  is one of the must things to do in Jaisalmer.

When to Go : Throughout the Day but best at sunset or sunrise

Cost for Desert Safari: INR 2000 onwards.

The safari includes a jeep ride to Kuldhara village and sam sand dunes in the Thar desert. A camel ride, evening snacks with tea, a vegetarian dinner, an overnight stay in the tent, and a next-day breakfast are included in the package. I highly recommend staying overnight in the tent in the middle of the desert- one of the best experiences and bucket list things to do in Jaisalmer.

This is all you can do on day 1 of your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days. Enjoy your stay at the Sam Sand Dunes and watch the clear sky at night with no one to disturb you.

Make sure you pack warm clothes for the desert as it becomes freezing cold here during the nighttime.

Day 2 of Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days

On the second day of your Jaisalmer trip, you can explore the local sightseeing places in Jaisalmer such as the Havelis, Forts, shops, etc.

Get up in the morning in the sand dunes and watch the sunrise over Sam Sand dunes. After that, enjoy some light breakfast before heading back to the city to explore and shop around a bit.

You can follow this Jaisalmer sightseeing route to make efficient use of your second day in Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer Fort – Patwon ki Haveli – Nathmal ki Haveli – Moti Mahal – Vyas Chhatri – Shopping

Jaisalmer Fort – Top Tourist Places to Visit in Jaisalmer

Once you return back to the city, make your way to one of the largest forts in Rajasthan – Jaisalmer Fort . It is also one of the few “living forts” in the world where lots of people living inside the forts currently as well. You heard it right!!

There is a whole bustling community along with sightseeing places as well as temples, shops, and lots of restaurants. You can also stay inside the fort in one of the hotels or hostels that have been constructed here.

Jaisalmer Fort is also known as Sonar Quila and has a fortification wall of 5 km in circumference. The fort was built under the rule of Raja Rawat Jaiswal. One of the most interesting things to know about this fort is that it has survived so many attacks over the years from rulers such as Ala-Uddin-Khilji, Humayun, etc.

There are several temples, museums, and small royal palaces inside the forts that you can explore. And if you love shopping, then there are several street vendors to buy clothes, accessories, etc. in this fort as well. You can easily spend 2 – 3 hours exploring this fort on foot.so, don’t miss visiting one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer!

When to Go: Throughout the Day

Jain Temple: Architecture Marvel of Jaisalmer

A set of Jain Temples in one of the must-visit places inside the Jaisalmer fort. All these Jain temples were built by wealthy traders who prospered along the medieval trade routes that run through Jaisalmer.

It has the most elaborate carvings and the interesting thing is that it is a cluster of 7 temples containing a total of 6000 statues of the 24 Prophets of Jainism. The architecture looks similar to the Sun temple of Modhera in Gujarat which is rich with carvings and frescos on the walls.

Canon Point : One of the top sightseeing attractions of Jaisalmer

Cannon point is the place from where you can see the beauty of the Jaisalmer, giving you the views of an impressive maze-like city with yellow-golden houses and fascinating artwork. You would enjoy seeing Jaisalmer city from the balcony of this cannon point. 

It is the open area inside the Jaisalmer fort best known for giving panoramic views of the city. The Jaisalmer fort itself is in height, further you go up, from cannon point, you can view the Jaisalmer.

While Cannon Point is best to visit at Sunset to see the Golden city painted with Golden sky but the point gets crowded. Avoid the sunset from here instead go to any other rooftop cafes or restaurants for sunset views . Watching the sunset from the Jaisalmer fort is one of the top things to do in Jaisalmer in your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days.

Patwon Ki Haveli

Once you have explored Jaisalmer Fort, you can enjoy some lunch in the nearby restaurants or cafes such as Jaisal Italy Restaurant before exiting the fort. Food may be on the pricey side but the views of the fort will be worth the try!

From the fort, you can make your way to the Patwon ki Haveli which is just a 5-minute walk from the fort. Patwon ki Haveli is actually a cluster of 5 small Havelis and was the first Haveli ever to be constructed in the city of Jaisalmer. It is one of the most amazing places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days.

The first Haveli was built in 1805 for Guman Chand Patwa who got the 5 Havelis built for his 5 sons. It is also one of the largest Havelis in Jaisalmer and was built in a narrow lane.

Now, the Haveli is surrounded by many jewelry and craft vendors that sell beautiful Rajasthani accessories, crafts, and so on. It is a masterpiece of architecture and one can not miss it from their Jaisalmer itinerary!

What is interesting to note about this Haveli is that it has arches and gateways designed in mirror-style work and paintings and is quite unique. You can stroll inside this haveli to explore the beautiful craftsmanship and can even shop to your heart’s content outside the Haveli.

When to Go : 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry Fee : 100 INR per person

Nathmal ki Haveli

The next haveli to visit in Jaisalmer is Nathmal ki Haveli which was built 500 years ago in the city. The most interesting thing about this Haveli is that it has a beautifully carved exterior while the interiors of the haveli are covered with miniature paintings.

There are two elephants placed as guards of the Haveli that are made out of yellow sandstone and offer a grand look to this place. You will also find carved paintings of horses, cattle, flora, etc. on the wall and can easily spend an hour admiring the unique architecture of this Haveli.

When to Go : 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Salim Singh ki Haveli (Moti Mahal)

After exploring the Nathmal and Patwon ki Haveli, you can head to the Salim Singh ki Haveli which was constructed in 1815. Built by Salim Singh, this haveli is popular for its peacock-shaped roof and an amazingly designed pavilion that will leave you in awe when you first take a look.

Located just 500 meters from the Jaisalmer Fort, Salim Singh ki Haveli is a great example of Mughal-style architecture in India. There are lots of jharokhas here to admire along with the beautiful Mughal paintings that can be found on the wall of this haveli.

Most of the top storey of this Haveli has been destroyed now but you can still admire the grandeur and architecture of this haveli during your visit to Jaisalmer.

When to Go : 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Entry Fee : 50 INR per person

Vyas Chhatri

Finally, if you wish to end your day in Jaisalmer on a happy note, then head to Vyas Chhatri to enjoy a beautiful sunset in the city. A beautiful example of Rajasthani architecture, Vyas Chhatri is another popular ground filled with cenotaphs that were built in the honor of the sage Ved Vyas, the author of Mahabharata.

This is a cremation ground for Brahmins and the cenotaphs have been designed out of yellow sandstone that gives it a beautiful golden hue in the evening.

The place is just 4 km from Jaisalmer city and has been built on a hill so it offers beautiful views of the Jaisalmer Fort and is undoubtedly one of the best sunset points in Jaisalmer which you should not miss in your 2 days Jaisalmer itinerary.

When to Go: 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM

Once you are done sightseeing, you can spend some time exploring the shopping streets of Jaisalmer so that you can buy souvenirs for your friends and family at home. Do remember to try the local street food and sweet dishes as well during this time and get some sweets packed for your home too.

More Things to do in Jaisalmer in your Jaisalmer itinerary:

Try bhang lassi.

While I only knew that only in Varanasi in India is legal to consume Bhang! but after visiting Jaisalmer came to know that Jaisalmer is one of the few cities in India where it is acceptable to consume Bhang. However, only if it is purchased from a government-approved bhang shop. 

For those of you unfamiliar with Bhang, it is an edible form of cannabis.  It is most commonly found in Bhang Lassis, a tasty beverage mixed with milk, sugar, and fruits. Or alternatively in cakes or cookies.

Bhang forms a big part of ancient Hindu tradition and is believed to cure many ailments.  It produces a similar effect as smoking cannabis; however, can last longer and also take a lot longer to kick in.   

Watch Puppet Show

Puppeteering plays a big part in traditional Rajasthani culture and Jaisalmer seems to be the heart of it it.  

Alongside artisans selling puppets throughout the golden city, a puppet show is just one of those things you should experience while you are here. You can watch the 40-minute puppet show at the Desert Culture Centre every evening at 6:30 PM.

Know the legend behind the Tazia Tower

An enigmatic architectural design including a series of grand balconies towering up to 5 stories of seamless contour, the Tazi Tower in Jaisalmer is one of the greatest tourist attractions in Jaisalmer.

The tower comprises 5 floors, each holding a significant insight into the royal families it has been home to. Additionally, each of the floors also holds a uniquely crafted balcony, magnificent designs, and carvings on the walls and ceilings reflecting the creative advancement of crafters during the era. More than a tower, Tazia is respected as a depiction of Islamic culture and tradition and so the place will make you awestruck.

Worship at the Jain Temple in Lodurva

Lodurva is a village in Jaisalmer. The quaint town is famous for a Jain Temple which is the holy abode of the 23 rd  Tirthankara Parshvanath. The sacred shrine has faced many tests of time and still managed to stand as a reminder of the city’s glorious past. Owning a unique ornate ceiling, the temple gathers all the praises for its splendid architecture and intricate carvings.

Strolling in the temple is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer as it takes you on a spiritual sojourn. The eight-cornered shrine has slanting walls which give the temple an impression of pagoda style architecture.

From a distance, it looks like just another temple, but as you enter the sanctum sanctorum, you will be fascinated by its beauty.

Shopping in Jaisalmer

Rajasthan is famous for its clothes, footwear, and accessories so if you would like to buy a souvenir from here, you will find several amazing street shops in Jaisalmer too.

When you go to the popular touristy spots in Jaisalmer such as Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake, etc., you will come across a lot of street vendors selling everything from skirts to Mojaris. So finish your Jaisalmer itinerary by shopping.

There are so many places to shop around here but a few of the best shopping places to check out in Jaisalmer are inside the Jaisalmer Fort and near the Havelis. Here, you can buy souvenirs for your family members including camel leather products, and accessories such as Jhumkas, necklaces, chunaris, blouses, and a lot more.

Places to Eat in Jaisalmer

Of course, when you are visiting Jaisalmer, you have to try the amazing Rajasthani dishes and the street food around here. I highly recommend trying at least one traditional meal during your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days.

You will find lots of amazing places to gorge on delicious food around here but a few things that you should absolutely try are Gatte ki Sabji, Ker Sangri, Daal Bhaati Choorma, etc.

If you have a sweet tooth, then don’t forget to try the Malai Ghevar and Ghotua Laddoo here which are local delicacies and can be found in almost all the sweet shops around here.

A few restaurants and cafes that are worth checking out in Jaisalmer are Thar Café Restaurant for amazing local food and fort views , Jaisal Italy Restaurant for some Italian dishes , and Jambheshwar Bhojnalaya for authentic Rajasthani thali at an affordable price.

If you are a person who loves dinner or lunch with the views, must check out the restaurants inside the Jaisalmer fort, prices may be high but you will love the experience of dining inside the fort. Within the fort you can try Gaji’s Restaurant and Kuku Cafe, both have great views and good coffee.

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

There are a lot of stay options available in Jaisalmer for different budgets and requirements. If you are traveling solo or on a budget, then you can always stay in hostels such as Zostel which is located inside the Jaisalmer Fort and offers an amazing view of the entire Jaisalmer city. It is a backpacker hostel where you can get a bed in a dorm room or in a deluxe bedroom. Plus, you will meet a lot of other travelers here and can explore the city with them too.

If you wish to stay in traditional Havelis or resorts, there are lots of options available for that too. Personally, I would recommend Mystic Jaisalmer where they have decorated the rooms in a tasteful ethnic manner. There is also a rooftop restaurant here from where you can see the Jaisalmer Fort quite clearly.

Apart from that, there are several high-end resorts for staying here such as Suryagarh Resort, Killa Bhawan, Choki Dhani The Palace Hotel, Sairafort Sarovar Portico, and so on.

Where to Stay in Sam Sand Dunes

If you are planning to spend a night in the Sam Sand Dunes, then you would need to find someplace there as well. Thankfully, there are a lot of campsites in the dunes for you to choose from. You will find both resort campsites with Swiss Luxury Tents and normal campsites so you can opt for the one that suits your budget.

Resort camps will be a tad bit expensive but they will give you the complete experience inclusive of folk dance, comfort, safari, etc. On the other hand, the normal campsites will provide you with an authentic, raw desert experience and you will be able to watch the stars clearly over your head.

Jaisalmer Travel Tips

If you wish to make the most of your trip to Jaisalmer, then here are a few travel tips to guide you on your trip here.

• There is no ticket for most attractions in Jaisalmer except for Bada Bagh. So, you don’t need to spend much on sightseeing in Jaisalmer.
• Most Havelis and forts are located nearby so, you won’t need to take an auto or rent a bike to cover these places.
• Make sure you carry a high SPF sunscreen as it is extremely hot here and you get harsh sunlight in the Thar Desert.
• The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March as the weather is cool and pleasant at that time.
• Carry comfortable shoes with you to walk in the desert or you will end up getting hurt by the desert thorns when trying to walk on the dunes.
• Jaisalmer Fort lights up at night and the markets are all shut down at the time but you can still enjoy the view from the outside.

Although 2 days are not sufficient to cover everything that Jaisalmer has to offer and you can easily spend 3 – 4 days here. You can include places such as Tanot Mata Temple, Longewala, etc. in your itinerary too with the additional days and can explore Jaisalmer to the fullest.

However, if you have just 2 days with you, then this Jaisalmer Travel Guide with Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days is perfect for you. It covers everything you need to know about the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.

Mayuri Patel, owner of the fernwehrahee Blog loves to travel and helping you to plan your Next Trip! She is full time Travel Blogger, dreaming about her next adventure! Join her Journeys where she takes you to destinations around the world with the pinch of history & culture!

Similar Posts

Kedarnath To Badrinath Roadtrip: Complete Travel Guide

In the month of May, when I planned to travel to Kedarnath and Badrinath, my mind was still occupied…

3 days Jaipur Itinerary: Complete Travel Guide

This 3 days Jaipur itinerary is perfect for first-time visitors to the capital city of Rajasthan. From when to…

One Day in Joshua Tree National Park Itinerary: Hikes + Tips

Joshua Tree National Park is a vast and unique wilderness area that spans over 790,000 acres, characterized by its…

Top Things to do in Bhuj : A Complete Guide

Every year folks come down at Kutch to experience White Runn (desert) festival from October-March. Everyone who visit the Kutch…

Top Things to do in Rameswaram-Temple Town of Tamilnadu

Rameswaram OR Rameswaram Island – One of the ancient town in the state of Tamilnadu in India. If you…

Perfect Weekend in Key West, FL : 3 Days Itinerary

If you are planning a weekend in Key West, you are reading the best travel guide. In this guide,…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

You must be logged in to post a comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

A Complete Jaisalmer Travel Guide for First Time Visitors

Disclaimer: This article includes affiliate links to the products we earnestly love and recommend, meaning at no extra cost to you, we might make a teeny-weeny commission if you click on the link and decide to buy something. The money will be used to sustain this little cozy blog we call our virtual home.

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!

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.

🐪 Ideas For Your India Bucket List

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 operate 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.

🐪 You Must Read 2 Weeks in Rajasthan Itinerary

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.

🐪 Know How to Plan a Trip to Jodhpur and How to Spend 2 Days in Jodhpur

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

🐪 Read Our Bikaner Food Guide

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 jewelr y 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

🐪 Know How to Plan a Trip to Udaipur and How to Spend 4 Days in Udaipur

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!

Save the Complete Travel Guide to Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Anjali Chawla

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

© 2024 Travel Melodies. All Rights Reserved.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Jaisalmer Itinerary – How To Spend 1 – 2 Days In Jaisalmer

Posted on Last updated: 23 April 2024

Categories India , Itineraries

A former medieval trading centre, the city of Jaisalmer is located in the western Indian state of Rajasthan.

This small city that sits at the heart of the Thar Desert has a population of just over 90,000 and is also known as the Golden City of India due to its yellow sandstone architecture.

Its most famous landmark is the spectacular Jaisalmer Fort, which is unique in the fact that it’s not only a tourist attraction but also houses shops, hotels and lived in ancient havelis (homes).

With desert camping top of most peoples Jaisalmer itinerary, here are some other cool places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days.

Table of Contents

How To Get Around Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer covers an area of approximately 5 square kilometres and is pretty easy to get around.

This small city can easily be covered on foot and this is often the easiest way to get around. Especially if you want to explore all the small and interesting lanes that weave through the city.

Taxi/Tuk Tuk

If you do get tired, you can hop in a rickshaw (tuk tuk).

Quick trips are usually cheap and shouldn’t cost more than 50 rupees, but be sure to negotiate a price before getting in the vehicle.

Regular taxi’s are available and should operate on a metre.

Some of the best days out we’ve had in Jaisalmer have been on private tours.

For those short on time, or that prefer everything to be organised for them, there are some awesome tours on Get Your Guide available to book in advance.

From fort tours, to camel safaris and walking tours, there’s plenty to keep you busy in this bustling little city!

Best Time To Visit Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a desert city and can experiences quite extreme weather conditions, so you bear that in mind when planning your visit.

Summer season is from April to August with temperatures getting up to a very warm 42°C.

Winter starts around mid November through until the end of February. With temperatures at what some people would call a pleasant 24°C during the day, with much cooler nights for sleeping.

Remember, this is just a guide, so you may want to mix it up and add/subtract different attractions.

What To Pack

Photography Camera

Reusable Water Bottle

Lightweight Rain Jacket

Jaisalmer Itinerary Day 1

Jaisalmer desert camp.

Desert camping is top of most people’s Jaisalmer itinerary for a reason!

Ever dreamt of riding a camel through a crystal clear desert in the middle of India? Well Jaisalmer is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world for doing exactly that!

Not only do you spend a day riding through the sand in the middle of the Indian desert. But you can also camp out underneath the stars, Indian style.

With agents all around the city tempting you in to book onto the city’s largest tourist attraction, you can book your Jaisalmer: Overnight Stay in Swiss Tent with Camel Safari.

We spent the night tucked up around a fire, while our local tour guide cooked up home some made Indian curries. Even better we ate them with our hands and stayed up all evening sharing travel stories.

Our Jaisalmer camel safari was by far one of our greatest ever travel experiences so definitely add it to your India itinerary !

Jaisalmer Itinerary Day 2

Jaisalmer fort.

One of the most famous landmarks, and most popular places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days, is the city’s Fort.

Like most towns in India, Jaisalmer comes with an incredible old fort, although this one is different.

Known to be not only one of the largest forts in the world, but believed to be one of the very few “living forts” in the world today, it’s one of the most popular things to do in India .

Nearly one fourth of the old city’s population is still thought to reside within the walls of Jaisalmer Fort.

So take a walk down and explore the 800-years of history that stand in the centre of the city.

The entry fee for visiting Jaisalmer Fort is 50 Rupees per person for Indians, and 250 Rupees per person for foreigners.

For those looking for a more indepth tour of the fort, or perhaps some further details on the history from a local guide, we recommend the Private Jaisalmer City Tour with Fort and Heritage Havelis .

Definitely one of the most interesting places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days, so don’t miss it from your Jaisalmer itinerary!

Sadar Bazar

Before dinner on the second day of your Jaisalmer itinerary, we recommend walking streets of the city.

Sadar Bazar in particular is an awesome local market to explore. So if you’re looking for a sari or sarong to take home from India, then this is your place.

This local wholesale and retail market in Jaisalmer has almost everything that you could be looking for. From handicrafts, to paintings, and intricately carved wooden items.

Sadar Bazaar is a real enchantment for shoppers and one of the most interesting places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days.

Jaisalmer is home to many other markets and handicraft shops too. So if you have some downtime, shopping in Jaisalmer certainly kills a few hours.

Directly across from the Jaisalmer Fort, you will also find plenty of locals selling hand made items.

Where To Stay In Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa

Built in yellow sandstone architecture in Jaisalmer, 0.9 miles from Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa features a temperature controlled swimming pool, a 24 hours fitness centre and an outdoor lawn, as well as free WiFi.

Rooms are complete with 3 fixture bathroom while certain units at Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa also boast a seating area.

At the accommodation, every room comes with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels.

Ironing facilities and hairdryer are available. The property also has three dining options

Tokyo Palace Hotel

Featuring traditional Indian décor, Tokyo Palace Hotel offers a rooftop restaurant and 24-hour front desk.

All rooms come with free Wi-Fi. An outdoor pool is available.

The property provides complimentary railway and bus station pick-up and drop services.

Hotel Tokyo Palace is a 7-minute walk from Jaisalmer City Centre. Jaisalmer Railway Station is an 8-minute drive away.

Rooms each offer touches of traditional Indian decor and come fitted with a TV. En suite bathrooms come with either a bathtub or a shower.

Magic Guesthouse

Offering a sun terrace and views of the city, Magic Guesthouse is located in Jaisalmer, inside Jaisalmer Fort.

Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Some units feature a seating area where you can relax. A balcony or patio are available in certain rooms.

Magic Guesthouse features free WiFi throughout the property. There is a 24-hour front desk at the property.

For more places to stay in Jaisalmer, you can check the latest prices on Booking.com .

Planning Your Trip

Book your flight.

Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight.

They search websites and airlines around the globe to find you the best possible routes and prices.

Book Your Accommodation

Use Booking.com to find the best accommodation deals.

They consistently return the cheapest rates on everything from guesthouses to hotels for all of your budget needs.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

Use SafetyWing to find the best travel insurance for you.

They provide travel and medical incident insurance built specifically for digital nomads.

Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Book Your Tours & Activities

Use GetYourGuide to book your activities in advance.

They sell the best tours, excursions and activities to attractions around the world.

Conveniently book, download and access your tickets on the move all from your mobile.

Book Your Rental Car

Use RentalCars.com to find the best deals on rental cars in the area.

They compare all major car rental companies and allow you to easily book the perfect vehicle for your trip.

Buy Those Last Minute Bits

Use Amazon to buy everything you need for your adventure.

They offer next day delivery and you can use my travel packing checklist to make sure you haven’t forgotten anything.

Pin It For Later

The Golden Camp

Friday 2nd of July 2021

Very beautiful and amazing blog on camping in Jaisalmer. You have given good suggestion during a family trip...

Charlie Pauly

Saturday 3rd of July 2021

Monday 28th of June 2021

Wonderful Pictures!! Thanks for a marvelous posting! I really enjoyed reading it, this post is very interesting and informative. Thanks for sharing...

Thanks so much, glad it came in useful!

2 Days in Jaisalmer – The Best Jaisalmer Itinerary

• February 1, 2022
• 22 Comments

2 Days in Jaisalmer might not seem like much time; however, if you use your time wisely, you’ll be able to cover most of the Jaisalmer highlights.  In this 2 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary and guide, we share all of the top places to see in the city, plus where to stay, where to eat, and all of our top tips.

The ‘Golden City’ of Jaisalmer is overflowing with rich culture, compelling history, and mysterious charm. It’s famous for being the ‘Golden City’ thanks to its distinctive sandstone architecture. Which makes sense since it’s set on the outskirts of the desert.  

From camel safaris and camping under the stars; to exploring the cities medieval forts, Jaisalmer is a playground for adventurous backpackers.    This, combined with all the exciting things to do in Jaisalmer, make it an essential addition to any Rajasthan itinerary . 

Anyhow, there is a lot to cover for spending 2 days in Jaisalmer, so let’s get to it!

Disclosure:  Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means that if you purchase a product through these links, we will earn a small commission,  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

Getting to Jaisalmer

AIR –  To travel by air, Jaisalmer Airport is located around 17KM from the city centre.   Daily domestic flights are available from most major airports throughout the country.

TRAIN – Jaisalmer is well connected via train from most major destinations throughout the country; however, booking trains in India can be tricky.   It is advised to book at least 3 days in advance and even then you aren’t always guaranteed a ticket.  For this reason, we always used the bus network in India. You can book trains up to 6 months in advance using 12go Asia.

BUS – Jaisalmer is accessible by bus from a number of destinations across India.   To check routes, timetables and ticket prices we recommend using Redbus .   In our experience, they are extremely reliable.   They are one of the few companies who will accept payment with an International card, and they are contactable by phone should you have any issues with your journey.  

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

Whether you are looking for luxury, mid-range, or budget, Jaisalmer has no shortage of great accommodation options.    

Hostel – Swan Hostel – One of only a few hostels in Jaisalmer, Swan Hostel is the top choice thanks to its convenient location and comfortable dorm or private rooms.

Budget Private  – Bohemian Guesthouse – We can personally recommend Bohemian Guesthouse, for affordable, clean & comfortable private rooms.   A 15-20 minute walk from the heart of the city, some  may be deterred by the location if you are planning just a short 2 day trip to Jaisalmer.

Luxury – Suryagarh Jaisalmer – For a touch of luxury in Jaisalmer, we would choose the Suryagarh Jaisalmer. Located in the heart of the desert you can expect celebrity treatment at this 5* hotel.

2 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary

When putting together this Jaisalmer Itinerary, I’ve tried to cover as much as possible.

Compared to other cities in Rajasthan, there isn’t a huge amount of things to do in the Golden City. Which is why 2 days in Jaisalmer is an ideal amount of time.

On the other hand, some of you will be more enthusiastic than others to cram a lot into the two days. I’m just here to guide you based on our experiences, but feel free to rejig the itinerary as you see fit.

Jaisalmer Itinerary Day 1

Forts, Havelis, and Rooftop Hopping

Assuming you stayed the night in Jaisalmer, you’ll be up bright, breezy and ready to explore.

If you haven’t already had breakfast at your hotel, you needn’t worry. There are tons of great rooftop cafes around Jaisalmer which serve as the perfect setting for a nice breakfast.

Our favourite spot for breakfast was Kuku Coffee Shop. The food is cheap and delicious, and the view is fantastic.

1.   Explore the Jaisalmer Fort

With a striking golden structure that can be seen from miles around, Jaisalmer Fort is the landmark of the city.  

This fort is unique as it is one of the only lived in forts in the world.   The towering sandstone walls encompass not only homes but shops, restaurants, temples and even hotels.  

Despite these modern developments, the fort retains all the feels of a medieval city.   And walking among the castle walls will have you feeling like you’ve stepped back in time.

Exploring the fort is one of the historical things you can do in the golden city and you never know where the labyrinth of alleyways might lead you.  

Laid within in the fort are cool rooftop bars, epic viewpoints of the cities, talented artisans, or eerie fortune tellers.  

Furthermore, it is completely free to enter.   This is quite a selling point considering most attractions in Rajasthan come with a steep price tag attached.

Entrance Fee – Free to enter

2.   Take a Walking Tour of the Havelis

Havelis are what we westerners know to be mansions, and a number of these buildings can be found in the city of Jaisalmer.    In true Rajasthani style, these grandeur buildings are the work of exquisite artistry and craftsmanship.

Patwon Ki Haveli is the largest and most important haveli in Jaisalmer.   Once home to a rich merchant, it is now a popular tourist attraction in the city.   The intricate sandstone design is quite remarkable and well worth visiting in Jaisalmer.  

Although it is just a small fee to go inside, we  were quite happy admiring the masterpiece from the outside.

Entrance Fee – Free to view outside. 100 IDR/pax to go inside.

3.   Visit Gadisar Lake

One of the more relaxing places to visit on this Jaisalmer Itinerary is Gadisar Lake. The lake is said to be spiritual and the religious temples seemingly floating in the water add to its charm.  

Many locals and tourists alike, come here to meditate  at sunrise.  Otherwise, it’s a nice spot to read a book, or simply immerse yourself in the serenity that such conditions provide.

Another relaxing activity you can take part in on the lake is peddle boating.  A 30-minute boat ride will set you back just 100 IDR for a 2 man boat and allows you to explore the lake at your own leisure .  

I t’s a relaxing experience and a chance to see the ‘floating’ temples in closer proximity.  Just try not to get too close in case you cause damage to the structures.

Peddle Boat Price – 100 IDR for 30 minutes

4.   Go Rooftop Hopping

The city of Jaisalmer is bursting at the seams with quirky rooftop bars and restaurants.  Each of them offering marvellous views over the Golden City.  

We made an effort to try a new one each day.  It is such a great feeling at the end of a busy day to kick back, enjoy an ice-cold beer and enjoy the sunset.

Our favourite rooftops include Pleasant Haveli, Kuku Coffee Shop, and Free Tibet Restaurant;   however, with so many great options both within and outside of the fort, you can’t go too far wrong.

Jaisalmer Itinerary Day 2

Camel Safari & Camping Under the Stars

OK, it’s day two and I highly recommend you make time to go on a camel safari in the Thar Desert. This experience is one of the most memorable of all our time in India.

If you aren’t interested in a camel safari, you can skip to the next section for more things to do in Jaisalmer.

5.   Camel Safari in Thar Desert

Jaisalmer borders the Thar desert, and one of the quintessential things to do when visiting the ‘golden city’, is a camel safari.

From trotting through the sand dunes atop camels, followed by nights under the milky way, it is no wonder that tourists travel from far and wide to take part in this magical experience.

If you can afford to spend another night in Jaisalmer, I can highly recommend the overnight camel safari. However, tours range from 1/2 a day to 3 days+, so there is something to suit everybody, regardless of your time constraints or budget.

Either way, I urge you to make a camel safari a priority when spending 2 days in Jaisalmer as it’s one of the most unique experiences in India.

6.   Visit Khaba Fort

Khaba Fort isn’t one of the popular attractions when visiting the Golden City;   however, its compelling history makes it one of the more interesting.   

The fort and neighbouring village date back to the 13th century.  Once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins, both were mysteriously abandoned some 200 years ago.  

It is said, that the inhabitants set a spell that forbids anybody else from settling in the village.   I don’t know if it’s all just ghost stories, but there is no denying the eerie solitude that consumes the area.

*Tip –  Khaba Fort is located in the desert, around a 30-minute drive outside of Jaisalmer.   It is usually included when booking an overnight camel safari. Check with your tour operator at the time of booking.

Save Time and Book a Tour

For a more local experience, we recommend checking out the guided tours on Get Your Guide :

More Things to do in Jaisalmer

If you plan on spending more than 2 days in Jaisalmer or you have some time to spare, here are some other things you can include on your Jaisalmer itinerary.

7.   Try a Bhang Lassi or Cookie

You didn’t hear this from us; however, Jaisalmer is one of the few cities in India where it is acceptable to consume Bhang .    That is, however, only if it  is purchased from the government approved bhang shop.  

For those of you unfamiliar with Bhang, it is an edible form of cannabis.   It is most commonly found in Bhang Lassis, a tasty beverage mixed with milk, sugar, and fruits.   Or alternatively in cakes or cookies.

Bhang forms a big part of ancient Hindu tradition and is believed to cure many ailments.   It produces a similar effect as smoking cannabis; however, can last longer and also take a lot longer to kick in.    

If it is your first time experimenting with Bhang , it is worth educating yourself on the effects before partaking.

*Travellers Tip – We bought some cookies to take with us on our desert camel safari.   Although we do not recommend taking Bhang in the heat, it certainly helped make an enchanting evening spent under the stars, that little more magical.   

8.   Watch the Puppet Show

Puppeteering plays a big part in traditional Rajasthani culture and Jaisalmer seems to be the heart of it it.  

Alongside artisans selling puppets throughout the golden city, a puppet show is just one of those things you should experience while you are here.

You can watch the 40-minute puppet show at the Desert Culture Centre every evening at 6.30 pm.

Entrance Fee:  100 IDR/pax

9.   Eat Momos at Free Tibet Restaurant

This may sound like an odd recommendation considering we are talking about India; however, the momos at Free Tibet are some of the best we’ve had.  Better even, than most, we tried in Nepal .

Not only is the food amazing, but the restaurant is one of the few that sell cold beer. Furthermore, the rooftop is a great sunset point in Jaisalmer.

  In addition to the momos, we can recommend the Malai Kofta curry and the vegetable enchilada.  

10.   Take a Trip to Bada Bagh

Located  6km outside of the city, Bada Bagh is essentially a cemetery for members of the royal family.  

The magnificently carved cenotaphs are what attracts most tourists here, and have even been the feature of numerous Bollywood films.

Despite being one of the recommended places to visit in Jaisalmer, unfortunately, we didn’t have time to make it to Bada Bagh on this occasion.  Although, it is at the top of our list for when we return.  

Top Tips for this Jaisalmer Itinerary

Here are my top tips for visiting Jaisalmer, which I hope will help you to better navigate and enjoy this wonderful city.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer

The best time to visit Jaisalmer is in winter (November to March) when the weather is dry and not too hot.  

We visited Jaisalmer in November and while you could still feel the burn of the desert heat , it was just about bearable for us pale-skinned folk.  

It’s best to avoid Jaisalmer during the months of Summer or Monsoon.  

Getting Around in Jaisalmer

Many of the Jaisalmer attractions are within walking distance of one another. However, If you want to go outside of the city the easiest and cheapest way to get around is by scooter.  

The cost is around 500 IDR for 24hrs; although, be aware that the roads in India are a bit of a rat race.   You should only consider this if you are confident and experienced on a motorbike .  

Another option is to hire a tuk-tuk .   This can be cost-effective if you are in a group, but be sure to haggle as the drivers are opportunists when it comes to tourists.    

Wherever you go in India, it is important that you dress appropriately.  Not only is it respectful, but it will help to avoid unwanted attention.

It is recommended that female travellers respect the local tradition of covering shoulders and legs from the knee upwards.  

The dress code for men is a little more relaxed; however, it is recommended to avoid revealing vests or tank tops.

Be Aware of Scams

In all touristy areas, there are many  travel scams you should be aware of  so consequently, you can avoid them.    There are also known to be skilled pickpockets operating in Jaisalmer so be sure to keep your valuables secured at all times.    We use either a small padlock or compartmental bag to keep our valuables safe.

Enjoy Your 2 Days in Jaisalmer!

Well, that concludes  our 2 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary .   We hope you enjoy your time in this magical city.

If you have any questions or feel we have missed anything, please reach out to us in the comment section below, or through our contact us page.

If you’re visiting India in the near future, perhaps you’ll find these related articles helpful:

• One month in India – Ultimate itinerary & guide
• The Golden Triangle India – itinerary & guide
• 2 Days in Jaipur – The Best Jaipur Itinerary
• 18 Amazing Places to Visit in Udaipur in 2 Days
• The Best Rajasthan Itinerary for 5 Days or More

Don’t forget to follow us on  Instagram where we share further travel advice & inspiration.

Stay adventurous and Happy travels.

Charlotte & Natalie x

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. That means that if you purchase through these links, we will earn a small commission,  at no extra cost to you.  And we can continue bringing you free travel tips and advice. If you found the content helpful and are kind enough to use our affiliates –  you are awesome, and we thank you! 

MORE ON  INDIA

AN ULTIMATE GUIDE TO HIPPIE ISLAND IN HAMPI

THE ULTIMATE HAMPI ITINERARY & TRAVEL GUIDE

17 AWESOME THINGS TO DO IN THE SOUTH OF MUMBAI

TOP 5 BEACHES IN SOUTH GOA, INDIA

24 HOURS IN BANGALORE – THINGS TO DO

PIN IT FOR LATER

Sharing is caring ♥

Related Posts

22 Responses

Thank you very much for this informative post…

Awesome blogs I love it while reading it is very informative for me well Jaisalmer is very beautiful City So you Can’t travel it in one day so you have to stay for 3 to 4 days their so I suggest you Book – Best Hotel In Jaisalmer For Amazing Experiance in Jaisalmer

Desert Camp in Sam Sand Dunes & Best Luxury Desert Safari Camp in Jaisalmer Since 2006.

Thanks for sharing this amazing article with us. I really like your article. Jaisalmer is such a wonderful place to visit in Rajasthan.

Thank you for writing such an informative blog about Jaisalmer attractions since it will be helpful for my next trip to Jaisalmer.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

We’re Charlotte & Natalie, a British lesbian couple with a passion for travel and adventure.

Here you will find everything from lgbtq+ travel & lifestyle advice, to comprehensive guides and itineraries designed to make your travel planning easier., we want to inspire you to live the life of your dreams..

💌 Get discounts & updates in our monthly newsletter

Find Hotels Via Booking.com

Book Tours & Activities Via GetYourGuide

Get Travel Insurance Via Heymondo

Get discounts & updates in our monthly newsletter

Destinations

LGBTQ+ Lifestyle

Start A Blog

Teach English

Digital Nomad

Privacy Policy

Guest Posts

Work With Us

© 2022 Our Taste For Life Blog – All Rights Reserved. Website Designed by us via Fresh Creatives

Jaisalmer Guide: Planning Your Trip

Michele Falzone/Getty Images

Remotely located in far western Rajasthan, near the border of Pakistan, Jaisalmer requires effort to reach but it's definitely worth it. Rising out of the sandy Thar Desert, this astonishing golden sandstone city will transport you to another era, back when it was a stop on the Silk Route from Central Asia to China.   Dominating the landscape is Jaisalmer's evocative 12th-century fort, which was once inhabited by royal rulers and is still home to a quarter of the city's residents.   It's one of the last living forts in India and the world, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  

Find out all you need to know in this Jaisalmer guide.

Planning Your Trip

• Best Time to Visit: Jaisalmer has an extreme desert climate with cold winter nights, scorching summer days, and very little rain. The tourist season runs from October to March during the coolest parts of the year. In January, overnight temperatures drop to around 41 degrees F (5 degrees C), but the days are pleasant, with highs usually above 68 degrees F (20 degrees C). It's not advisable to visit Jaisalmer from April through August, unless you can deal with searing daily temperatures above 104 degrees F (40 degrees C). The September shoulder season will still be hot, but it can be ideal for avoiding the crowds.
• Language: Rajasthani, Hindi, and English.
• Currency: Indian rupee.
• Time Zone: UTC (Coordinated Universal Time) +5.5 hours, also known as Indian Standard Time. Udaipur does not have daylight saving time.
• Getting Around: Much of the city can be covered on foot, so do bring comfortable walking shoes. Bicycles (useful for accessing narrow lanes and avoiding traffic bottlenecks) and motorcycles are also available for rent. Alternatively, auto rickshaws are convenient for short trips and can be readily flagged down. If you're venturing further afield into the desert, it's best to hire a taxi for the day. Rates start from around 3,000 rupees ($40). Taxi companies also offer half-day local sightseeing excursions from around 1,500 rupees ($20). App-based cab services such as Uber don't operate in Jaisalmer as of yet.
• Travel Tip: Try to catch the fun Jaisalmer Desert Festival, held over three days in late January or February each year.

Things to Do

Jaisalmer provides an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in a piece of living history and learn about desert culture. The city revolves around the fort and has magnificent 19th-century noble mansions, ornate Jain temples dating back to the 12th century, royal cenotaphs, and a serene 14th-century man-made lake dotted with small shrines. Sunsets over the fort are spectacular, as its structure appears to merge with the desert. You'll want to devote at least a day to exploring the surrounding desert landscape, too.

• Take a guided walking tour of the fort and surrounding vicinity. Several companies offer such tours, including this insightful Fort Heritage Walk by Jaisalmer Magic . There's a labyrinth of shops, restaurants, homes, hotels, places of worship, and a museum inside the fort. It's fascinating!
• Marvel at the architecture and intricate stone carvings of Patwaon ki Haveli , Nathmal ki Haveli, and Salim Singh ki Haveli mansions. Patwaon ki Haveli is the pick of the bunch if you're short on time or money.
• Go on a camel safari in the desert , or jeep safari if you don't have an affinity for camels.

Check out our article about the top things to do in Jaisalmer for more information.

What to Eat and Drink

Jaisalmer's distinctive regional cuisine is reflective of the ingredients available in the arid desert environment. It's typically vegetarian, and utilizes a lot of pulses and hardy grains such as millet. Ker Sangri is an unusual specialty of the region, made from pickled Indigenous berries and beans that grow wild in the Thar Desert. Try Haldi ki Sabji (turmeric yogurt curry) during winter. The city's most iconic drink is a cooling Makhania Lassi (sweet buttermilk with dry fruits). Pyaaz ki Kachori, a popular snack of deep-fried pastry discs with onion filling, is sold on streets all over the city. Local sweets include Ghotua Laddoo and Panchdhari Ladoo (balls of flour, ghee, and spices). Get them from Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia sweet shop near the fort.

You'll no doubt encounter government-authorized bhaang shops in Jaisalmer. Bhaang is a paste made from cannabis plant leafs, and it has an ancient connection with Hinduism and Lord Shiva  . It's commonly served in drinks during the Holi festival . The shops in Jaisalmer sell it in cookies, cakes, and lassi (a yogurt-based shake). Be careful to consume in moderation, though, because you won't feel the effects straight away.

Jaisalmer isn't known for its nightlife or extensive range of alcohol, so your best bet for a memorable evening is to head to a rooftop restaurant or bar with fort views at sundown. Cafe the Kaku at near Sunset Point and Helsinki House hotel near Gadi Sagar are both outstanding. The Dunes Bar at the Marriott Resort and Spa is more upmarket with cocktails and fine wines.

Where to Stay

Visitors to Jaisalmer are often keen to stay within the fort, which is understandable as it certainly is alluring. However, it's important to be aware of the environmental challenges the fort is facing, particularly damage from drainage and water seepage.   In addition, keep in mind that accessibility can be an issue, as cars aren't permitted inside the fort and auto rickshaws can only go up to certain points. As an alternative, there are many atmospheric accommodations for all budgets in the area below the fort, and they provide a panoramic vista of the fort from their rooftops. Tourists often spend a night or two in the desert near Jaisalmer as well. The majority of desert camps are situated around the Sam Sand Dunes. This area is very commercial, though; if noise is a concern, choose a camp that's further out from the tourist hub there, or stay in the Khuri Sand Dunes.

Check out our recommendations of the best Jaisalmer hotels with fort views for all budgets, and the top Jaisalmer desert camps for glamping .

Getting There

Jaisalmer's small airport operates out of an Indian Air Force base. It receives limited direct flights from nearby major cities such as Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Mumbai. By road, Jaisalmer is about five hours from Jodhpur and Bikaner. Expect to pay 4,000 to 5,000 rupees ($55 to $65) for a cab from Jodhpur (we recommend stopping at Pokhran Fort along the way). Regular, inexpensive buses also run from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer; tickets cost around 500 rupees.

Indian Railways train is another option. There are trains from major cities such as Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur. Two of the most prominent ones are the 14659 Runicha Express from Delhi (via Jaipur and Jodhpur), and the overnight 14810 Jodhpur Jaisalmer Express . You'll need to book well in advance.

Culture and Customs

Competition for tourist business is fierce in Jaisalmer, giving rise to the prevalence of touts and scams. You'll most likely be approached by someone wanting to provide their services or sell something outside the fort entrance, at the train and bus stations, and at the sand dunes. Touts can even be aboard buses from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer. Fortunately, locals have launched an anti-tout campaign to curb the harassment, but you should still be prepared to be firm in dealing with such people. Don't be swayed by their cheap prices for camel safaris and hotels, and don't believe it if they tell you your hotel has closed or burnt down. Touts and camel safari operators are also known to offer free accommodations on the Couchsurfing platform as a way of luring travelers in.

Conservative dress is most appropriate in Jaisalmer. It's respectful to keep your shoulders and legs covered. A shawl is handy to throw over a sleeveless top or dress.

Tipping isn't compulsory in India, although it's expected if you're happy with the service. A 10 to 15 percent tip is sufficient at a restaurant, or simply round the bill up on smaller amounts. Flag down the waiter to get your bill. Hotels will commonly have a tip box where you can leave gratuities for the staff.

Money Saving Tips

• The fort is free to enter and never closes. Gadisar Lake is another free attraction.
• You'll get hefty discounts from April to September if you can bear the heat.
• Research thoroughly and bargain hard to avoid being ripped off, especially when doing touristy activities such as desert safaris.
• Stay at a backpacker hostel such as Zostel.
• Hire a scooter or motorbike for the day to reduce transportation costs. Backpacker hostels provide this service at a reasonable price.
• Grab an unlimited Rajasthani thali (platter) for lunch. You'll be able to eat as much as you can for only a few dollars.

Forbes India, Jaisalmer and the Silk Route: An intimate acquaintance in the desert , March 28, 2015.

Indian Government, Know India Portal, Jaisalmer Fort .

UNESCO, Hill Forts of Rajasthan and Wooden Churches of the Carpathian region inscribed on World Heritage List , 21 June 2013.

Scroll.in, A short history of bhang in India , March 6, 2015.

Deccan Herald, Jaisalmer's "living" fort crumbling , November 19, 2018.

17 Top Tourist Places to Visit in Rajasthan

Your Ultimate Trip to India: The Complete Guide

Top 13 Things to Do in Jodhpur, Rajasthan

14 Top Things to Do in Jaisalmer, India

Your Trip to Udaipur: The Complete Guide

Camel Safaris in Jaisalmer and Bikaner: What to Know

6 Romantic Hotels and Honeymoon Places in India

Indian Railways Desert Circuit Tourist Train Guide

14 Famous Forts and Palaces in India that You Must See

15 of the Best Offbeat Places to Visit in India

Trips to Delhi: A Complete Guide

Jaipur Guide: Planning Your Trip

15 Top Tourist Places to Visit in North India

The 10 Best Places for Glamping in India

The Ultimate Guide to the Taj Mahal in India

The Top 11 Things to Do in Bundi, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer: The Ultimate Guide (Including 11 Best Things To Do)

This post may contain affiliate links. When you click an affiliate link, we may earn a small commission on qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Also, please check for opening times, restrictions, weather, etc., on the days of your trip. We do our best to keep the post updated, but these things can change quickly.

Jaisalmer, the Golden city of India, is in the far western part of the country in the state of Rajasthan, which means the land of Kings (huh, sounds much like King’s Landing). This region is filled with rich folklore, traditions, and architectural beauty, and they have the most delicious food.

How would you like to stay in one of the royal palaces or forts and be treated like a royal? Yes, this is absolutely possible in Rajasthan, as most of the stays are like small palaces, and some are even actual palaces and forts.

The golden city awaits you with a lot of experiences to offer. Let’s learn about Jaisalmer and the best things to do.

Oh, wait! Are you new to India and unsure how to plan a successful trip? I have added a lot of extra tips to help you plan your trip without breaking a sweat. Or maybe you will literally, while you are in Jaisalmer – because it’s a desert (pardon me for my bad jokes!).

Table of Contents

When is the Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer?

Jaisalmer has dry, mild winters and sweltering hot, humid, and windy summers. During summer where the temperature could soar as high as 48 degrees Celsius as it is a part of the Great Indian Thar desert.

So it makes it very obvious to visit only during the winter months, from late November till the end of February. This is the ideal time when the days are mild and comfortable (maximum of 26 degrees Celsius). Still, the nights are cold (mainly averages around 10 degrees Celsius). It remains clear throughout the year; hence, the chances of a cloudy day ruining your plan are very slim.

How to Reach Jaisalmer?

Jaisalmer has a domestic airport, but there aren’t many options to fly to Jaisalmer. Here, I have added a few options to reach Jaisalmer from  Jodhpur, Jaipur, and New Delhi . You’ll probably land in New Delhi if you fly in from abroad.

From Jodhpur

You could drive/ take a taxi  (preferred)  to Jaisalmer, which is around 300 km and should take about 5 hours by road.

You could also take a bus, tickets for which could be pre-booked through websites like Redbus. It should cost you around ₹400 , which should be around €5 .

Tip!   If you are unfamiliar with driving on the left side of the road, I highly recommend taking a taxi. You could hire a taxi to help you cover your entire journey.

From Jaipur

The distance from Jaipur to Jaisalmer is around 550 km which would take about 10 to 12 hours by road. So, driving or taxi would not be a comfortable option.

You could take a  train from Jaipur . Make sure to pre-book your tickets.

You could also fly to Jaisalmer for Jaipur, which would cost you around €55 one way.

The best and easiest option will be to travel by  bus . You could take one of the AC sleeper buses, which will cost around ₹600 (around €8 ).

From New Delhi

The best way to reach Jaisalmer is to fly from Delhi, which has flights to both Jodhpur and Jaisalmer.

By Train or Bus

You could also take a train from New Delhi to Jaisalmer or a sleeper bus. The journey by train or bus could take 15 hours or more so I would not advise taking this option.

Good to know!   Tourist scams are quite possible, so please book your taxi from a reputed travel agency. Or you could take the help of holiday planners like we did. More on that later in the post.

Now that we know when and how to reach the Golden city, let me describe some memorable things to do once you are in Jaisalmer.

What to Do in and Around Jaisalmer?

1. explore the massive jaisalmer fort.

Let’s begin our journey with  the Living Fort .

Yes, you heard me right! The Living Fort.  Most of the forts around the world are either being converted into luxury hotels or just abandoned. But the Jaisalmer Fort is the only fort in the world that houses thousands of people, most of whom earn their living through tourism.

A Short History of Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort was built by king Rawal Jaisal in 1156. This incredible fort has thousands of people still living in it. When I first visited the fort, I wondered how is that even possible? Could anyone buy a house (a part of the fort) and just live there?

The answer is a big NO. (A huge disappointment, right?)

The tale behind the fort!  They say that the last ruler who was in charge of the fort around 800 years back or more decided to give a significant part of the fort to be inhabited by the subjects. Now, so many centuries and generations later, around 4000 people live in their ancestral home, the fort itself. But they cannot sell any part of it. (Our guide who also lives in the fort told me this.)

The fort, also called Sonar   Quila  (Golden Fort),  due to the color of the sandstone, which shines in the desert sun, is so massive that you could get lost in all the tiny narrow streets.

The main part of it is mostly commercialized and is filled with many shops selling their famous handicrafts.

Do I Need a Tour Guide and Ticket?

I highly recommend hiring a guide during your visit as they know all the perfect viewpoints. And as you are basically walking around exploring someone’s house, it is inconvenient to just barge in to check the view. However, a guide could be of great help here as they know exactly where you can escape the crowd and enjoy great views of the fort. Some guides can also speak a bit of English.

Pro tip!  Watch out for scammers. The guides have an ID card, which is also their permit to serve as tourist guides, so check that. Also, talk to a few other guides and check for the price options. When we visited in early 2022, we paid around ₹800 (roughly €10 ).

Entry! Since it is a living fort, there isn’t an entry ticket or a specific opening time.

The fort is enormous, and it will take around half a day to enjoy the place in a relaxed way or a minimum of 2 to 3 hours.

Major Attractions Inside Jaisalmer Fort

This is the palace of the rulers located in the heart of the Jaisalmer Fort. It is a stunning seven-storied building known for its latticework.

Raj Mahal showcases a beautiful facade filled with delicate filigree stonework, an example of typical Rajput architecture.

The palace is just in front of the main squares of the fort. It is one of the first things that will make you turn your head once inside the fort.

Jain Temples

There are seven Jain temples located within the Jaisalmer Fort. These temples are famous among local devotees and tourists for their intricate artworks.

The temples within the fort are known to be some of the most beautiful ones in the world.

Entry!   Although entry to the fort is free, to visit a temple inside, you have to pay a small fee (around ₹10 per person). Also, to carry your electronic gadgets inside for the photographs, you must pay around ₹50 .

Random Fact!   Jain temples worldwide are known for their white appearance due to the marble used for their construction. But these temples in the Jaisalmer area are the only ones made of sandstone.

Good to know!  Carry cash, as you may need it to purchase the ticket for your electronics. Keep the ticket safe, as it could be used to enter all seven temples.

Shopping and Eateries

The fort is filled with a lot of shopping options as well as loads of food joints. Pick your choice and enjoy your food with fantastic fort views.

Consider a visit to Free Tibet (not to be confused with Little Tibet). It is a famous restaurant serving momos and thukpa noodle soup within the fort wall.

How to Reach the Fort?

The best way to explore Jaisalmer is to hire a taxi for the day or your entire trip. You could always take a tuk-tuk (called an auto in India) to the fort. But there is a hassle of negotiating the prices as they simply quote higher prices when they see a tourist.

2. Marvel at the Gadisar Lake

A lake in the desert? An actual lake would have been quite lovely for the people in Jaisalmer. But this artificial lake does the job. This is, in fact, the city’s lifeline and is now supplied by water from Indira Gandhi Canal to ensure it never dries.

The lake is filled with  chhatris , a dome-like structure also made of sandstone that gives it a golden tint when the sun shines. Actually, every other building in Jaisalmer has that tint.

Photo Alert!  This place, just a little away from the Jaisalmer Fort, makes it the perfect location to capture the golden hour. You could take stunning pictures for your Instagram feed. 

Best visited during sunset  time to give extra color to your picture.

Entry!  The lake is open throughout the day and is free of charge to visit. You could also take a boat ride in the lake which will cost anywhere from ₹10 to ₹100 based on the type of boat ride.

Uff!   I couldn’t visit this stunning place during my visit as I was too impressed by the beauty of the stay we had booked. So, we decided to spend the evening and the next morning in our hotel instead. More on that later in the post.

3. Admire All the Havelis in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer was known for its trade route, which was filled with wealthy merchants in the past. Havelis are similar to mansions or townhouses built by the wealthy merchants of the time. The detailing of the architecture in these traditional havelis is a symbol of their wealth. The more intricate the artwork is, the more prosperous the merchant who once built this was.

Let’s read about some of the famous havelis that will make your jaw drop with their facade.

Patwon Ki Haveli

This is not just a single haveli but a cluster of 5 different havelis. It is one of the area’s biggest, richest, and most well-maintained havelis. It also encloses a museum that preserves the artifacts from their rich past.

How to Get There?

It is a stone’s throw away from the fort in the middle of the main bazaar.

Nathmalji Ki Haveli

It is the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, former Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. It is known for its beautifully carved exterior with stunning paintings adorning the interior of this haveli.

Interesting fact!   This haveli was simultaneously built by two architects who were also brothers. It is said that they had built it independently, but it looks so harmoniously put together. At first glance, you cannot even tell it was built by two people.

Random Fact! Outside the homes in Jaisalmer Fort, you might see some paintings of Lord Ganesha with names written near them. These were painted when someone in the house was married. It is a tradition to welcome the newlyweds as Lord Ganesha is painted for good luck.

Fun things to do!   Stare at the facade indefinitely to figure out the differences between the two sections. Some are easy to find, but some require you to look closely into the details. (It might sound crazy to do this, but I enjoyed doing it.)

It is very close to the Patwon Ki Haveli, and you could just go there on foot within 5 minutes (only if you don’t stop to shop at every single shop on the way). Or perhaps, you could be delayed by a group of cows refusing to move (this actually happened to us).

Salim Singh Ki Haveli (Moti Mahal)

This haveli, which is around 300 years old, was built on the remains of another haveli. The haveli’s architecture is slightly different from the others. The roof of this haveli is made in the form of a peacock. It has around 38 balconies in total, with unique architecture.

A part of this haveli is still occupied by the descendants of the original owner  Salim Singh Mahto .

This is located around 500m from the Patwon ki Haveli, and you could easily walk up there.

Tip!   Some of the other havelis in Jaisalmer have been renovated and converted into luxury stays; staying in such a place could be an excellent experience.

4. Visit the Bada Bagh

Bada Bagh literally translates to a big garden. This is one of the must-see places in Jaisalmer. It is a conglomerate of a dam, a tank, and the surrounding cenotaphs.

Photo Alert!   The series of royal chhatris (cenotaphs) makes it an exciting place to visit. The architecture combined with the golden hour makes it even more attractive.

One of the cenotaphs is half-constructed, so let’s travel back in time to find out why!   Every place has a long history attached to it, but a very short version of it goes here. The first cenotaph was built to commemorate the death of Maharaja Jai Singh II. He founded the city of Jaisalmer and contributed significantly to its infrastructure and welfare. He also commissioned the dam “Jait Bandh”, the primary water source in this desert land. Do you see where I am getting at? Yes, the place’s name was Bada Bagh because of the dam, which helped cultivate the barren land.

Later, the construction of cenotaphs continued as a tradition. Each one was built to commemorate the previous king or queen. Eventually, this led to many cenotaphs until one day when Maharaja Jawahar Singh’s son passed away not long after he claimed the throne. He was having the cenotaph built for his father, Maharaja Jawahar Singh. But the construction was never completed after the son died, as it was considered bad luck. That marks the end of this story and the series of cenotaphs.

It is a little far up, around 7 km north of Jaisalmer Fort. Having a dedicated taxi for the day would be the best thing. It saves you the effort of negotiating a price every single time. But if not, you could always take a tuk-tuk or call a taxi as it is popular among tourists. It shouldn’t be hard to find one.

Best visited during sunset  time as the sunset could bring out the best background shades for your Instagram pictures in the cenotaphs. It is magical, with all the spectacular cenotaphs against the beauty of the open sky.

Entry!   Unlike other places, this one has entry restrictions and remains open from 9 am to 6 pm. There is an entry fee of ₹100 , and the rate is slightly lesser for Indian citizens. Also, you need to pay a small fee for taking your camera inside.

5. Wander Around in the Abandoned Village of Kuldhara

Kuldhara village, established around the 13th century, was inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins before it was abandoned overnight. (Yeah, overnight). Sounds fishy, isn’t it? When I heard of this, I wanted to know why the village was abandoned overnight. But, all I found was a bunch of tales, and no one actually knows why the villagers left their homes.

Tale or not!  One version of the legend claims that the lecherous minister Salim Singh was attracted to a girl from the village. The people were forced to hand over the girl to the minister one night. The villagers requested the guards to come over the following day, but the villagers fled the place overnight. No one knows what happened, but many believe the village was completely destroyed by a massive earthquake.

You could see the remains of the once prosperous village now just called a haunted ghost town.

It is quite a 45 minutes drive from Jaisalmer itself. You could plan this as one of the last things to do before parting goodbye to the city.

Entry!   It is open from 8 am to 6 pm, and there is no entrance fee. You will need about an hour or so to roam around the ruins of the village.

6. Go on a Camel Ride in the Dunes of the Thar Desert

I kind of saved it for the last! A trip to Jaisalmer wouldn’t be complete without a camel ride in the dunes. Jaisalmer, located in the heart of the Thar desert, has more than one sand dune around the city. You could spend a few hours in the dunes or even spend a night in one of the luxury camps around the desert. I highly recommend staying the night in one of those lovely camps where you could gaze at the stars at night and enjoy an early morning or a sunset camel ride.

Some popular activities you could do in the desert are:

• Desert safari
• Camel ride in the dunes
• Paragliding
• Camping in the desert with some of the best Rajasthani folk music and food

These activities can be arranged by your hotels as well. I stayed in a standard tent at Manvar Resort & Tented Camp . The place, the music, and especially the food and hospitality were so remarkable! If I get a chance, I will visit again and have their Kher Sangri (a Rajasthani special curry made from desert beans and berries).

Manvar also provides different stay options in their resort. So if you want to enjoy the desert camping experience, ensure that you choose a standard or luxury tent.

Read more about our complete desert experience in Manvar with loads of pictures .

7. Experience a Night in a Fort or a Palace

To be honest, we avoid luxurious stays as we are budget travelers. But we just couldn’t resist the chance of staying at a fort in the Golden city. Spending a night in one of those luxury forts or a palace in Rajasthan is more than just a stay. It is a complete experience, and their hospitality could make you believe that you are from a royal family.

It was such a unique experience to have stayed a night in Suryagarh Jaisalmer in one of their luxury suites. It is the best hotel I have ever stayed in, and it still feels like a dream after 1 whole year.

Imagine the perfect combination of a royal fort with all the modern amenities. To say that you will be treated like royalty would be such an understatement. Suryagarh was why I had to skip visiting a few places, as I didn’t have the time. Exploring Suryagarh and enjoying all its facilities took up most of my time. And I don’t regret it at all!

To read more about our complete experience with lots of pictures, please check out our post about Suryagarh .

Where to Stay in and Around Jaisalmer?

There are quite a few forts and palaces that have been converted into hotels. Jaisalmer also has regular hotels if you don’t wish to stay in a fort or palace.

Beyond Luxury

Suryagarh Jaisalmer

• WelcomHeritage Mohangarh Fort (An hour’s drive from Jaisalmer)
• WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace
• K D Palace Hotel
• Garh Meera – A Sensational Boutique Hotel
• Moustache Jaisalmer
• Hotel Lal Garh Fort and Palace
• Hotel Helsinki House

Desert Stays

There are a few desert stays if you want to stay a night or two in the Thar desert.

• Manvar Resort & Tented Camp (Located between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer)
• Kanak Jaisalmer
• Desert Heritage Camps & Resort
• Exotic Luxury Camps

Want to explore more options in and around Jaisalmer? Please search in Booking.com  here . We use Booking.com to book all our stays and have always had a good experience.

Where to Eat in Jaisalmer?

Some restaurants have good food and offer incredible views of the Jaisalmer Fort with their rooftop terraces. You could try dining at the following:

• Cafe the Kaku – A rooftop multi-cuisine restaurant with the best sunset views over the fort. Also, they have a cute pug to welcome guests.
• 1st Gate Home Fusion – A vegetarian rooftop restaurant serving Italian and Indian cuisine.
• Hotel Tokyo Palace – A hotel with a rooftop restaurant serving Indian, International, and Japanese cuisines.

Must Try Foods

• Kher Sangri – My favorite vegetarian food to date! The dish is made of a particular berry and bean available only in the desert region.
• Daal-Baati-Churma – Rajasthan’s most famous dish, made of wheat, lentils, and ghee.

Other famous delicacies you could try are:

• Bajre Ki Roti (millet bread) and Lashun Ki Chutney (hot garlic paste)
• Mawa Kachori – A Rajasthani sweet where a crunchy crust is filled with sweetened Khoya and a lot of nuts.
• Mirchi Bada – A spicy Indian snack consisting of chili (mirchi) stuffing battered and fried, served hot with mint and tamarind chutney.
• Pyaaj Kachori – A fried pastry filled with a spicy onion filling.
• Ghevar – A disc-shaped sweet made from ghee, flour, and sugar syrup.
• Alwar Ka Mawa (milk cake)
• Malpua (sweet dish)

How Did We Plan for the Trip in a Short Time?

Our entire trip was planned by  Happy Monk Holidays , and this is  not an advertisement or paid promotion . We accidentally found out about them through one of my endless Instagram strolls, and I am so glad I got to know them.

India was recovering from the pandemic. We were a little unprepared to plan the trip ourselves, so we reached out to them. They helped us plan an end-to-end trip, starting from the flights, stays, taxi, and a complete list of things to do and the best places to eat and shop. Although everything was planned, everything was curated based on our needs, and we had the ultimate flexibility to do what we wanted to do without any issues.

They were highly responsive and provided support throughout the trip. Everything was perfectly arranged, and there wasn’t any situation where we needed their help except when the airlines canceled our return flights a day before our return. Happy Monk Holidays immediately helped us pick the next feasible option based on our budget.

It was also our anniversary trip, and they gave us the perfect gift of upgrading our twin room to a luxury suite in Suryagarh. It was such a pleasant surprise for us!

If you would like to contact them, check out their Instagram and drop them a message – @happymonkholidays

Is Jaisalmer Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, yes! The Golden city is the best place to experience royalty and be one with the desert lifestyle. As an added bonus, you could enjoy the delicious Rajasthani cuisine, which serves drool-worthy vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

Hey, I am Kiki! A full-time software developer and hardcore travel enthusiast who is always up for a new adventure and the author of RooKiExplorers. I love to travel the world and enjoy talking about it, helping everyone around me plan their trips, and avoiding making the mistakes I made.

30 Photos of Ghent That Will Make You Fall in Love With the City

Suryagarh, jaisalmer: 9 reasons why the stay is beyond luxurious, 10 thoughts on “jaisalmer: the ultimate guide (including 11 best things to do)”.

I loved learning about Sonar Quila and the ruler who gave part of it to his subjects. That is such an interesting story!

We’re glad that you enjoyed reading it! 🙂

“…I really enjoy reading your posts where I can get such useful information.” Absolutely amazing …. Must must visit place! Wonder Haveli…interesting piece of architecture .. Exquisite carving.. “Your blog on Jaisalmer is so full of great insights. “Thank you so much for sharing all this wonderful info. I enjoyed reading your content. Keep doing your best work.

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed reading our post! 🙂

Visited Jaisalmer a few years ago, loved it, so this post brings back happy memories. Didn’t know about Kuldhara village, I would have been very interested to visit there.

We hope you get to visit it during your next trip to India! 🙂

The filigree stonework on the Raj Mahal is just stunning! This kind of craftsmanship is simply incredible!

Indeed they are! Unfortunately, it’s a dying art these days.

Goodness Jaisalmer is incredibly beautiful! I love the architecture and all the little stories to go along with it. It is soooo cool that 4000 people actually live in the fort, so it is alive with everyday giggles, not just a monument to the past.

Happy Monk Holidays sounds really great too!

Yes, the fort is very lively! It feels like you are in a city inside a city.

We’re glad that you enjoyed the post! 🙂

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

• Plan A Family Gap Year

• Travel Blog
• Overland Travel
• Central America
• Middle East
• North America
• South America
• Planning and Packing
• Family Gap Year

Select Page

The Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer – A 2 or 4 Day Jaisalmer Itinerary

Posted by Kyla Hunter | May 29, 2018 | Family Gap Year Travel , India | 11 |

Jaisalmer, in the far north-West of India, is a popular stop on any trip to Rajasthan. It’s also one of the best places to visit in India , especially if it’s your first trip! The town is compact and easy to navigate, with transportation readily available and inexpensive. The perfect Jaisalmer itinerary includes spending time both in the city and in the surrounding countryside.

There aren’t a lot of places to visit in Jaisalmer, but the culture is rich, and it’s got a lovely small town vibe. It was by far my favourite city during our 5-week tour of India.

Jaisalmer is a small enough town that you don’t have to spend many days there to make the most of it. If you’re on a tight budget, you can do a fair amount in 2 days. I highly recommend spending 4 days if you can!

Read through the itinerary, then find the details about all the different visiting places in Jaisalmer below!

The Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer in 2 Days

If you only have 2 days you can still fit in a lot of the things to do in Jaisalmer. There aren’t many tourist places in Jaisalmer, so you’ll be able to see most of them although you’ll be busy!

Spend a few hours resting up, enjoy breakfast, then take the morning to explore the Fort in Jaisalmer , including the Jain Temple of Ranakpur (see the note on guides below). It’s fun to just wander the little alleyways, or spend some time walking directly inside the walls and image what life would’ve been like hundreds of years ago when the fort was built.

Have lunch at one of the many restaurants within the fort, then take a moto-taxi to Gandisar Lake . Walk around the lake, check out a few of the temples, then rent a paddle boat and spend an hour paddling on the lake.

Afterwards, walk across the road to the Desert Cultural Center . Learn a bit about the desert heritage, and watch the 6:30 pm puppet show. Catch dinner, with a view of the fort, on the way back to your hotel at Pleasant Haveli or Romany.

*Note on guides – their prices are incredibly cheap but they will hard-sell you to purchase souvenirs at specific shops. If you arrive at a shop with a guide the prices are incredibly inflated as they receive a kick-back of up to 50%. Take one at your own risk, or ask for recommendations from your accommodation.

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then wander down to the local market and check out some of the beautiful old Havelis (mansions), including Mandir Palace Hotel . Enjoy a swim in the pool or just wander around the old hotel to escape the noise of the city.

Enjoy lunch on the patio by the pool at the hotel (with or without your bathing suit!).

Walk down the street for a post-lunch Chai at Natraj Restaurant (Chai stall) then go back to your hotel to get picked up for your desert safari.

If you only have 2 days you likely won’t want to spend the night, but no trip to Jaisalmer is complete without at least a bit of time on the dunes. You can still ride a camel on the dunes , enjoy dinner cooked over the fire, then take a jeep back to town.

*If you have more than 2 days, spend the night in the desert and keep scrolling.

The Best Places to Visit at Jaisalmer in 4 Days

Follow Day 1 & 2 above.

After your night in the desert, rather than driving back to Jaisalmer, have your ride drop you off at Badal’s House to spend the night in Khuri. Enjoy lunch and dinner with him, and in between, wander the village and help milk the cows.

After breakfast at Badal’s house, catch the late-morning bus back to Jaisalmer. Shower and change at Wanderlust, or wherever you’re staying. Trust me, you’ll want to do this before you do anything else!!

Walk down the road to Trio Restaurant for a late lunch.

After lunch, make your way to Vyas Chatri . Walk around the overgrown grounds, enjoy the quiet and then find a great spot to sit and watch the sunset. This is the best place to watch the sunset in Jaisalmer!

If you have more than 4 days, consider spending more than one night on a desert safari, or a second night in Khuri soaking up the village life. You could also spend more time on the outskirts of Jaisalmer as well, and visit Bada Bagh .

Need To Know About Jaisalmer

Places to visit in jaisalmer, jaisalmer fort.

The is definitely at the top of the list of the places to see in Jaisalmer. It’s the reason Jaisalmer is named the “golden city”, due to the golden colour of the rocks used to build the fort. It was built in 1156 AD and is possibly one of the only living forts still remaining in the world. It’s not without problems though. Tourism in Jaisalmer has brought more people into the fort, resulting in massive strain on the drainage system, and it’s slowly crumbling away. Restoration work is underway to protect this UNESCO world heritage site, but tourists can help by choosing accommodation elsewhere in the city.

Gadisar Lake

This is a man-made reservoir, built by Raja Rawal Jaisal, and was once the only source of water for the city. It’s importance to the history of the city makes it worth visiting alone, but it’s also surrounded by Chattris and temples, Shrines and Ghats (that aren’t often used). It’s also one of the best sunrise photography spots in town!! We visited for sunset, and it was quite beautiful then as well.

Cost – Free to visit. A paddle boat is 200rupees ($4CAD) for 1 hr

Desert Cultural Center & Museum with Puppet Show (Jaisalmer museum)

This is the passion project of Mr Sharma, a former teacher determined to keep the local desert culture alive. The museum itself is small, and can be visited in 30min prior to watching the puppet show. It’s an interesting visit, and supports the efforts to preserve the local culture.

There are 2 nighty puppet shows at 6:30pm and 7:30pm (accurate at time of writing!).

Cost – 100rupees ($2CAD) per adult, 50rupees ($1CAD) for kids 3-8yo, 50rupees ($1CAD) for camera. Cost includes a visit to the museum and the puppet show.

Mandir Palace

The Mandir Palace was the residence of the rulers of Jaisalmer for two centuries, and has now been converted to a hotel. The grounds are beautiful, and worth a wander even if you don’t want to swim.

Cost for the pool – 1350 INR for the fam (2 adults and 2 kids).

Places to Visit Near Jaisalmer

I highly recommend an overnight visit to Badal’s house in Khuri, but if you’re not interested in the basic accommodation, it’s still possible to visit on a day trip. You could take the local bus there and back, however the last bus returns to Jaisalmer before dark and it would be a shame to miss the sunset from the dunes. I’d suggest hiring a taxi or private driver for the return trip.

Vyas Chhatri

Set just on the outskirts of town, this Brahmin cemetery is reportedly the most beautiful place to watch the sunset. It’s worth a wander for a few minutes before the sun sets, then find a place to sit and watch the day end while contemplating life, religion and all things India.

We didn’t make it here, but I would’ve liked to if we had more time or energy! It sounds like a peaceful place to wander around with some beautiful cenotaphs for the city’s rulers from the past set in a wild garden.

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

*I only recommend accommodation OUTSIDE of Jaisalmer Fort, as the influx of tourism into the fort is causing it’s destruction. I think it’s irresponsible to stay within the fort and contribute to this.

Budget Accommodation: The Wanderlust Guest House

This is, in my opinion, the best guesthouse in Jaisalmer. It’s not fancy, but it’s clean and friendly, and exceptional value for the price. There are basic rooms with shared bath, as well as rooms with a private bath. The view of the city and the Jaisalmer Fort from the roof-top restaurant is absolutely fantastic!

Cost: 250 rupees ($5 CAD)/night for shared bath, 500-700 rupees ($10-14CAD)/night for private bath.

Check up to date prices for Wanderlust on Booking dot com!

If Wanderlust is booked up, there are a few other budget places in town that come highly recommended; Golden Sunrise , Golden Marigold and Sofiana Guest House .

Mid-range Accommodation:

Accommodation ranging from $30-70CAD/night for 2 people counts as mid-range accommodation in Jaisalmer. The places that were recommended were Hotel Lal Garh Fort and Palace , Hotel Fif , Hotel Nirmal Haveli and Pleasant Haveli (adults only).

Luxury Accommodation (with Pool):

In Jaisalmer, I consider luxury accommodation is anything around $100CAD/night for 2 people. For the price, it has to have a pool!! The two best luxury accommodation options are WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace and Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa .

Where to stay Outside of Jaisalmer

Badal house in khuri.

If you’re looking for a rustic, local experience, this is it. Badal is an incredible host and his wife cooks delicious, vegetarian food. It’s very basic, although he had a Western toilet installed a little while ago if you’re not good at squatting!

Cost: 4000INR for 2 nights full board. This was well above the actual price, he only asked for about 2600INR, but that seemed so ridiculously low (and meant the kids were basically free). Getting there: Bus to Khuri was 40 rupees/$0.80CAD each (we didn’t pay for the kids)

I recommend calling him yourself rather than booking online: +91 81073 39097

Where to Eat in Jaisalmer

Trio – This restaurant was recommended to us by a fellow traveler. The food was a bit on the expensive side, but the “real” tandoor naan made it worth it! We had 3 vegetarian dishes with naan and rice. Cost – 850rupees ($17 CAD)

Wanderlust – We ate here because it was convenient, and the food was freshly prepared, well priced, and tasted great. It wasn’t the most amazing food we had in India, but it was still pretty good and the convenience and view made it worth eating here a number of times during our stay!

Romany Restaurant – The view of the Jaisalmer Fort from this restaurant is fantastic! The food was average, and the naan was cooked on a tawa (which is always a bit of a let down for me). Plus, they were burning garbage below and it ruined the meal a bit. This wasn’t the fault of the restaurant, but it affected our experience nonetheless. Cost – 720rupees ($14.40CAD)

Jaisalmer Oasis Restaurant – We had drinks on the rooftop overlooking the fort. Cost 180 rupees ($3.60 CAD) for 2 teas, 2 soft drinks and water.

Pleasant Haveli & Restaurant – The restaurant was empty when we went in, which worried me a bit! The food was fantastic, the view of the fort was excellent, and the paneer butter masala was made not spicy at all for our kiddos (a highlight for them!) Cost 735rupees ($14.30 CAD)

Mandir Palace – The selling point for the food here was also the tandoor naan! We were able to sit and eat in our bathing-suits, beside the pool, and the food was really tasty. Cost 2000rupees ($40 CAD) for a light lunch and drinks (coke and water)

Natraj Chai Shop – There were so many different options for chai. The regular is delicious, and as you go “up” it becomes more cinnamon flavoured. The “super special” was the girl’s favourites, it basically tasted like a cinnamon heart! Cup of Chai starting at 10 rupees ($0.20 CAD) and increasing in price based on the type of chai and the size of cup. This was the only place we went in all of India that had different size of cups!

How to Get Around Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is relatively small and compact, so it’s possible to walk to most places in the center of town. It is the middle of the desert, and can get quite hot! Rickshaws are convenient and readily available. It’s possible to start walking and then flag down a rickshaw if you get too tired or hot! The average cost of a rickshaw journey in town is 100rupees ($2 CAD).

How to Get TO Jaisalmer

You can get to Jaisalmer by plane, bus or train. Jaisalmer has a small airport with flights once a day from both Jaipur (11am) and Delhi (3:20pm) on SpiceJet. The journey is just under an hour and a half from both airports, and costs approximately 4000rupees ($80CAD) one way.

The bus from Jaipur is also an option, but it’s a grueling 9-12+ hr ride that either leaves very early in the morning, or goes overnight. I’d been warned against night-time bus journeys as they’re not considered to be the safest thing. We did run into a number of people who’d done them however, with little complaint about safety. The biggest downside for the bus is that Randy is over 6’ tall and the “sleeping pods” are only about 6’. This would result in a very uncomfortable night for him (way worse than the train!). Between that and the fact that Calais gets car-sick, the train was a better option for us!

If you’re interested in taking the bus, I recommended checking out gobibo.com or redbus.in for schedules and tickets. Approximate cost starts at 500rupees ($10CAD) per person.

Jaipur Jaisalmer Train

The journey from Jaipur to Jaisalmer on the train is a long one, 12-14hrs. It’s possible to do the journey by day, but it’s much better to take the overnight train. The countryside is stark and dry, and really just repeats itself over and over, so you’re not missing a whole lot not being able to see at night! Indian trains are significantly wider than the trains in Europe or China. This was a surprise for me the first time we got on, as I wasn’t expecting the train car to be so open!

The most common train from Jaipur to Jaisalmer has AC3 as the highest class available. The car is arranged 3-bunks high on both sides, with 2-more across the aisle. There aren’t any cabins (these are only available in AC1) or even curtains for the individual bunks! Each pod of 8 people has a light, and by about 10pm most people had their lights turned off. This is, however, until the stop around midnight. We had one empty bed in our pod, and when the lady got on the train she flipped on the light and started banging around trying to put her bag away. It was incredibly disrespectful and woke everyone up! I don’t expect to get a great sleep on the train, but I also don’t expect people to come on with such blatant lack of consideration for everyone else in the middle of the night!

One thing that surprised me on this train was the lack of chai-wallas. There were a few early in the night, but then they stopped. There was also very little opportunity to buy food or drinks, so I highly recommend bringing lots of snacks and enough water for the journey.

Each train car had an “Indian style” bathroom at one end, and a “Western style” bathroom at the other end. There was toilet paper at the beginning of the journey, but it quickly ran out and wasn’t refilled. Definitely bring your own!

The bedding was delivered once we left Jaipur.  Each person got a package of bedding wrapped in paper, along with a pillow and a blanket. It was surprisingly clean (I was prepared for the worst) and we slept with the sheets without thinking twice. The floor on the other hand was a different story. Shoes that slip on and off easily is the way to go. You won’t want to walk around barefoot, but you also won’t want to put your shoes up on the bed!

Cost: 1150ruppees ($23CAD) each for an AC3 bunk.

What We Spent In Jaisalmer

We spent an average of $86.58/day for our family of 4, or $21.65 per person . And this included the Desert Safari. Jaisalmer turned out to be one of the most inexpensive places we visited in India. It was significantly below our average of $132.78/day ($33.20 per person) we spent during our 5 weeks in India.

Related Posts

• A Night in the Desert in Jaisalmer
• A Travel Journal: Jaisalmer with Kids
• Things to do in the Pink City of Jaipur
• Family Travel in India

Don’t forget to Pin this for later!

(This post may contain affiliate links, for which we earn a small commission at no additional expense to you. You can read our affiliate policy here .)

About The Author

Kyla Hunter

I am a wife, mother and professional schemer! I love planning travel...and of course, actually traveling with my family. My favourite experiences tend to happen off the beaten path, and I'd love to show you that it's possible to travel everywhere with your kids!

Fun Places in Delhi for Youngsters

August 23, 2018

A Salty Stop at The Dead Sea With Kids

February 28, 2019

India Family Travel Journal – Visiting Jaisalmer with Kids

May 16, 2018

The Best Walking Tours And Places to Visit in Jaipur With Kids or Solo

April 10, 2018

11 Comments

Photos are Awesome !!! Appreciate your work

Awesome Blog ! Thanks for posting such an informative & useful post with us. keep posting & inspire us like this post. If you are a travel freak & car rent in jaisalmer visit to get cab india site

Nice Blog! Jaisalmer is the most attractive place to visit. There are many places to visit for sightseeing. Very nicely written and information provided is quite helpful. Thanks for sharing Such great Information.

Jaisalmer is an incredibly beautiful city, with so much to see!

Such a nice information…. Taxi Service in Jaisalmer

Such a very useful blog, thanks for sharing…. Taxi Service in Jaipur

Thanks for sharing, helpful blogggg…. Taxi Service in Bikaner

Really wonderful blog. Thanks for sharing such a informative and useful travel post. Good you explained everything in detail it has been a great help.

Really very nice blog | India Tour By Tempo Traveller

Incredibly informative travel post – thanks for the detailed insights!

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

• India: Our Travel Journal - Wandering Wheatleys - […] Jaisalmer was a quaint little fort town with good shopping but most tourists seemed to only stop there as…

Tell me what you think! Cancel reply

Follow along on instagram, whereistheworld.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👧🇨🇦Overlanding around the 🌏 with 🚙 Gimli the #defender110 🎒Past Gap Year 🌍84 Countries, 76 with kids 🚙 29 with Gimli

Search hotels and more...

Destination, check-in date, check-out date.

Follow Along on Facebook

• The Perfect Do-It-Yourself Egypt Itinerary for 5, 7 or 10 Days
• What to Pack in a Kids Carry-on
• The Best Travel Water Bottle with a Filter

+91-9529753388

• +91-9782705705
• [email protected]

Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 Days a Complete Jaisalmer Travel Guide

Introduction to Jaisalmer: Exploring its Unique Charm

Jaisalmer Itinerary is a wonderful place located in Rajasthan, India. It is famous for its unique mix of history, culture, and adventure. What makes Jaisalmer Itinerary different from other cities is its special golden color that covers everything there, from tall forts to beautifully decorated homes. This golden hue gives the Jaisalmer Itinerary a magical feel, making it stand out. That’s why people also call it the “Golden City.

Day 1: Exploring Jaisalmer Itinerary

Embark on an enriching journey through Jaisalmer’s iconic landmarks, immersing yourself in its rich heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

Morning Exploration :

Begin your day by delving into the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire its intricate architecture and panoramic views of the city.

Continue your morning by exploring the serene Jain Temples within the fort premises, renowned for their exquisite marble carvings and architectural grandeur.

Afternoon Delights :

Relish a delectable lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Rajasthani flavors that tantalize the taste buds.

Afterward, wander through the labyrinthine streets to discover the ornate facades of Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of elaborately decorated mansions showcasing the city’s opulent past.

Evening Adventure :

As the sun begins to descend, embark on an unforgettable camel safari into the vast Thar Desert. Feel the rhythmic sway of the camels as you traverse the golden sands, witnessing the ever-changing hues of the desert landscape.

Conclude your day with a mesmerizing sunset spectacle at the Sam Sand Dunes, where the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors, casting a magical glow over the desert horizon.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty and rich cultural heritage of Jaisalmer on this unforgettable itinerary.

Day 2: Further Exploration in Jaisalmer Itinerary

Continue your adventure through Jaisalmer with a diverse array of experiences, from tranquil lakeside moments to exploring abandoned villages steeped in history.

Morning Serenity:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at your hotel, energizing yourself for the day’s exploration ahead.

Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance of Gadisar Lake, a man-made reservoir surrounded by intricately carved chattris and temples.

Afternoon Discovery:

Enjoy a flavorsome lunch at Rajwada Desert Camp, savoring local Rajasthani cuisine amidst the desert landscape.

Venture to Kuldhara Abandoned Village, a hauntingly beautiful site that whispers tales of a bygone era. Explore the ruins and unravel the mysteries of this deserted village.

Evening Return:

As the evening approaches, return to the bustling streets of Jaisalmer city, where you can indulge in shopping for vibrant textiles, traditional handicrafts, and exquisite jewelry.

Conclude your day with leisure time, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Jaisalmer and reflecting on the rich tapestry of experiences encountered on your journey.

Embark on this captivating itinerary to delve deeper into the cultural heritage and natural beauty of Jaisalmer, forging unforgettable memories along the way.

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

When planning your stay in Jaisalmer, immerse yourself in the authentic desert experience offered by Rajwada Desert Camp. Located amidst the golden sands of the Thar Desert, Rajwada Desert Camp provides a unique opportunity to stay in luxurious tents equipped with modern amenities, offering comfort and tranquility amidst the wilderness.

As an integral part of your Jaisalmer Itinerary, Rajwada Desert Camp offers not just accommodation but a complete desert adventure, including camel safaris, cultural performances, and mesmerizing sunset views over the dunes. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a family adventure, Rajwada Desert Camp ensures a memorable stay that perfectly complements your exploration of Jaisalmer’s rich heritage and natural beauty.

Experience the magic of the desert under the starlit sky, creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Choose Rajwada Desert Camp for an unparalleled desert retreat during your Jaisalmer Itinerary.

What to Eat in Jaisalmer

Indulge in the flavors of traditional Rajasthani cuisine during your Jaisalmer itinerary, immersing yourself in a culinary journey that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region.

• Rajasthani Thali: Savor a Rajasthani Thali, a quintessential meal offering a delightful array of dishes such as Dal Baati Churma, Gatte ki Sabzi, Ker Sangri, and more. The harmonious blend of spices and textures in this platter encapsulates the essence of Rajasthani gastronomy.
• Laal Maas: Delight your taste buds with Laal Maas, a fiery lamb curry cooked with a potent blend of red chilies and spices. This iconic dish showcases the bold flavors and culinary expertise of Rajasthan.
• Dal Baati Churma: Sample Dal Baati Churma, a classic Rajasthani delicacy consisting of baked dough balls (baati) served with lentil curry (dal) and a sweet crumbled wheat dessert (churma). This wholesome dish provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
• Ker Sangri: Experience the unique flavors of Ker Sangri, a traditional Rajasthani dish made from dried desert beans and berries sautéed with spices. This dish offers a taste of the arid desert landscape of Jaisalmer.

Immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Jaisalmer, where every dish tells a story of tradition, culture, and heritage.

Transportation in Jaisalmer

Navigating Jaisalmer during your itinerary is relatively straightforward, with various transportation options available to explore the city’s enchanting attractions.

• Auto Rickshaws: Auto rickshaws are a convenient mode of transportation for short distances within Jaisalmer. These three-wheeled vehicles offer flexibility and affordability, making them ideal for navigating through narrow streets and bustling markets.
• Camel Rides: Embrace the desert ambiance by opting for a camel ride, a quintessential experience in Jaisalmer. Traverse the golden sands and witness the city’s mesmerizing landscapes from a unique vantage point.
• Taxis: Taxis provide a comfortable and convenient way to explore Jaisalmer and its surrounding areas. You can easily hail a taxi or book one through various transportation services in the city.
• Local Buses: For budget-conscious travelers, local buses offer an economical option for getting around Jaisalmer. These buses connect different parts of the city and are frequented by both locals and tourists alike.

Exploring Jaisalmer’s vibrant streets and historic landmarks is made convenient with these transportation options, ensuring a seamless and memorable journey throughout your Jaisalmer itinerary.

Safety Tips for Travelers in Jaisalmer

When embarking on your Jaisalmer itinerary, it’s crucial to prioritize safety to guarantee a pleasant and memorable experience. Here are essential tips to ensure your safety during your Jaisalmer 2-day itinerary:

• Plan Ahead: Before setting off on your journey, take the time to research extensively about Jaisalmer. Familiarize yourself with its culture, customs, and safety guidelines. Having a well-thought-out Jaisalmer itinerary will enable you to navigate the city confidently.
• Stay Hydrated: The desert climate of Jaisalmer can be unforgiving, particularly during the summer months. Ensure you carry enough water with you to stay hydrated throughout your explorations.
• Protect Yourself from the Sun: Shield yourself from the intense desert sun by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Opt for lightweight, breathable clothing to remain comfortable under the scorching sun.
• Secure Your Belongings: Safeguard your valuables by using a money belt or a secure backpack. Be vigilant of pickpockets in crowded areas, and avoid carrying substantial amounts of cash.
• Be Cautious with Camels: If you plan to indulge in a camel safari during your Jaisalmer 2-day itinerary, exercise caution when mounting and dismounting the camels. Accidents can happen, so it’s essential to follow the instructions provided by experienced guides.

Incorporating these safety measures into your Jaisalmer itinerary will ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey through this enchanting desert city.

Weather in Jaisalmer: Best Time to Visit

Understanding the weather patterns in Jaisalmer is crucial for planning your itinerary effectively.

• Optimal Season: The best time to visit Jaisalmer is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather during this period is pleasant, with cooler temperatures ideal for exploring the city’s attractions.
• Avoiding Extreme Heat: Summers in Jaisalmer can be scorching, with temperatures soaring to uncomfortable levels. It’s advisable to avoid visiting during the peak summer months of May and June to prevent heat-related discomfort.

Cultural Etiquette: Respectful Behavior in Jaisalmer

Respecting the local customs and traditions is essential to ensure a harmonious experience in Jaisalmer.

• Modest Dressing: When visiting religious sites or rural areas, dress modestly out of respect for the local culture.
• Greetings: Greet locals with a polite “Namaste” or “Salaam” as a sign of respect. Learn a few basic phrases in Hindi to facilitate communication and show appreciation for the local language.

Additional Attractions: Places to Visit Beyond the Jaisalmer Itinerary

Explore these additional attractions to enhance your Jaisalmer experience and delve deeper into its rich heritage.

• Desert National Park: Discover the diverse flora and fauna of the Thar Desert at the Desert National Park, located near Jaisalmer. Embark on a wildlife safari to spot indigenous species such as the Great Indian Bustard.
• Kuldhara Abandoned Village: Delve into the eerie charm of Kuldhara, an abandoned village near Jaisalmer steeped in legends and folklore. Explore the ruins and unravel the mysteries surrounding its deserted streets.

By adhering to safety precautions, understanding the weather, respecting local customs, and exploring additional attractions, you can make the most of your Jaisalmer itinerary while ensuring a safe and enriching travel experience.

What to See in Jaisalmer in 2 Days:

• Jaisalmer Fort : Spend around 2 hours exploring this iconic fort, known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views.
• Nathmalji Ki Haveli : Allocate 30 minutes to admire the intricate craftsmanship of this beautiful haveli.
• Jain Temples : Within the Jaisalmer Fort, visit the Jain Temples for another 30 minutes to appreciate their architectural beauty.
• Sam Sand Dunes : Spend 4 hours or a half-day enjoying a desert safari and experiencing the mesmerizing sunset at the Sam Sand Dunes.

How Can I Spend 2 Days in Jaisalmer:

You can make the most of your 2 days in Jaisalmer with the following itinerary:

• Day 1 : Explore Jaisalmer Fort, Nathmalji Ki Haveli, and Jain Temples in the morning. Afternoon can be dedicated to visiting other attractions like Patwon Ki Haveli and Gadisar Lake. End the day with a cultural show or sunset view at a rooftop restaurant.
• Day 2 : Begin with a sunrise visit to the desert and enjoy a desert safari at the Sam Sand Dunes. Later, visit Kuldhara Village and Bada Bagh. Finish your trip with shopping for souvenirs in the local markets.

How Many Days Needed to Visit Jaisalmer:

While you can cover the major attractions in Jaisalmer in 2 days, ideally, spending 3 to 4 days allows for a more relaxed exploration of the city and its surroundings. This timeframe provides ample opportunity to delve deeper into the cultural heritage, indulge in desert activities, and explore nearby villages.

Related posts

Explore Jaisalmer War Museum: Timings, Fees, and Attractions

Exploring Sam Sand Dunes: Quad Biking in Jaisalmer

Rajasthan Folk Dance

Exploring the Vibrant Heritage: Traditional Dance and Music of Rajasthan

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

10 Must-Visit Places in Jaisalmer

• January 12, 2022

Jaisalmer is aptly called the “Golden City”. The entire city is dotted with golden-hued structures & historical monuments made with locally sourced yellow sandstone. You don’t have to go to any particular area to see it, it’s truly “golden” everywhere. Jaisalmer was established in the 12th century by Rawal Jaisal. The historical region is still drenched in past and you can experience architectural marvels, unique flavors, vibrant culture , and age-old traditions in every corner of the city. The Jaisalmer Fort sits on a three-peaked hill and towers over the entire town.  The unusual sight of a huge fort standing tall in the center of the city is mesmerizing.

The elegant city would give you Arabian Night vibes as the narrow streets are filled with lively crowds, colorful shops, and vivid offerings. Located deep inside the Thar desert, Jaisalmer also provides easy access to breathtaking dunes. From visiting the striking Havelis & gorgeous Jain temples to spending the evening on the mystical sand dunes and exploring the abandoned villages– there are lots of exciting things to do in and around Jaisalmer. The city is small & compact and 3 days are just perfect to cover most of the famed sites. We have listed the 10 must-visit attractions in Jaisalmer to help you chalk out an itinerary for your trip to Jaisalmer.

Must-Visit Places in Jaisalmer:-

1.  jaisalmer fort, jaisalmer.

A visit to Jaisalmer would be incomplete without a visit to the Jaisalmer Fort. Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 AD by Bhati ruler Rawal Jaiswal. The massive yellow crenelated sandstone fort is located on Tirkuta Hill and stands tall displaying the Rajasthan architecture in all its glory. The UNESCO World Heritage Site has four majestic gates and 99 bastions around its imposing facades. Also known as Sonar Qila, the fort had managed to survive multiple attacks from different rulers over the years.

Jaisalmer Fort is fondly called the ‘Living Fort’ as locals live inside as well outside the fort walls – more than 3000 people live within the fort premises. The fort is abuzz with activities and there are several temples, cafes, museums, palaces, and shops inside the fort. Walking through the labyrinthine lanes, visiting the gorgeous Jain temples, dining at the rooftop eateries, and bargaining for the local handicrafts are a few of the things that you can do while visiting the Jaisalmer Fort. The grand fort stands at a height of 250 ft and offers panoramic views of Jaisalmer city owing to its altitude. At night, the fort is all lit up and glowing and a sight to behold. Timing: Any Time Entry Tickets: Free, Time Required: 3-4 hours

2.  GADISAR LAKE, JAISALMER

On the outskirts of Jaisalmer, lies the Gadisar Lake. The artificial lake is fringed by shallow ghats, Hindu shrines, and elegant cenotaphs. Lake Gadisar was built as a conservation reservoir under the rule of Raja Rawal Jaiswal in 1156 AD. It was later rebuilt by Gadsi Singh in 1367 AD. According to the locals, the man-made oasis was once the source of water for the entire parched region. Now the lake gets water from the Indira Gandhi Canal.

The idyllic getaway is one of the top attractions of Jaisalmer to spend a tranquil evening away from the bustling city – Watch a magical sunrise/sunset while boating in the shimmering lake, visit the sacred temples in the compound, and enjoy scenic views of the lake and the adjacent fort. Thirty minutes of boating will cost you less than 2 dollars. During winter, Gadisar Lake is heaven for bird lovers. The place is flocked by different species of migratory and exotic birds due to its proximity to Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary. Timing: 8 am-7 pm Entry Tickets: Free Time Required: 1-2 hour s

3.  BADA BAGH, JAISALMER

Constructed in the 16th century, Bada Bagh has a huge collection of Chhatris (cenotaphs) made in honor of Maharajas of Jaisalmer. The construction of the Bada Bagh and the surrounding park was commissioned by Jait Singh but after his death, it was completed by his son Raja Lunakaran. From the 16th-20th century, more Chhatris were added to the Bada Bagh and it served as a crematorium for the members of the royal family.

The royal domes scattered across the park can be found in a variety of shapes – square, circular, and pyramid-shaped. Bada Bagh has other interesting attractions like a huge dam and a central pillar (Govardhan Stambh). The massive wind turbines lurking in the background add to the charm of the gardens. The picturesque Bada Bag is located around 5 km from the city center. The gardens are in a neglected state, but Bada Bagh is a sought-after location for pre-wedding shoots and Instagram clicks because of the dramatic setting of the honey-combed cenotaphs. Timing: Open all days, 8 am-6 pm Entry Tickets: Rs100 for Foreigners and Rs50 for Indians, Camera Fees: Rs100 Time Required: 1 hour

4.  VYAS CHHATRI, JAISALMER

Another edifice of Rajasthani architecture, Vyas Chhatri is located 4kms away from the city center. It also boasts an array of intricately carved sandstone Chhatris. Built on an old Brahmin graveyard, it is dedicated to Sage Ved Vyasa, author of Mahabharata. His Chhatri is placed on the northern side of the structure. Vyas Chhatri is also known as the city’s sunset point as it offers panoramic views of Jaisalmer city and Sonar Fort. Built on a hill, Vyas Chhatri is an ideal place to visit if you want to watch a scintillating sunset in peace. Timing: Open all days, 8 am-7 pm Entry Tickets: Rs100 for Foreigners and Rs50 for Indians, Camera Fees: Rs100 Time Required: 1 hour

5.  KULDHARA VILLAGE, JAISALMER

Situated 18 km from the city center, Kuldhara Village is popularly known as the Ghost Village of Jaisalmer. It was built in the 13th century and was habituated by the Paliwal Brahmins. However, the Kuldhara village and the neighboring 83 villages were abandoned overnight in the 19th century. The reasons why the whole town was abandoned still remain a mystery. According to folklore, a state minister Salim Singh wanted to marry the chief’s daughter. The villagers did not want to succumb to the minister’s demand and vanished in the dark to escape the dire consequences. It is believed that because of the villager’s curse, there has been no human settlement in the village for centuries. There is nothing much to see in the village but a few ruins of temples, step-wells, and other structures. The mystery surrounding the Kuldhara Village attracts tourists and they visit the village to get a closer look. Timing: Open all days, 8 am-6 pm (recommended) Entry Tickets: Rs10 For Car: Rs50 Time Required: 2-3 hours

6.  JAIN TEMPLES, JAISALMER

There is a group of seven Jain temples in Jaisalmer Fort that deserves a separate entry. The Jain temples, made entirely of yellow sandstone, were built in the 12th century and have great archeological value. The spectacular temples are built in the distinctive style of the Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu. The walls and the domes of the temples are adorned with intricately carved sculptures of human figures and animals. They are dedicated to Parshavnath, Rikhabdevji, Shambhadevji, and a few other Jain Tirthankara (Spiritual Leaders). The seven Jain temples are connected and are considered a very significant pilgrimage spot for the Jains. Visit them to soak the spiritual vibes and admire the exquisite and detailed carvings. Gyan Bhandar Library, located on the campus, possesses some old texts & rare manuscripts that are worth checking.

Timing: 8 am-12 pm Entry Tickets: Free, Foreign Tourists Rs10; Camera: Rs50, Video Camera: Rs100 Time Required: 1-2 hours

7.  PATWON KI HAVELI, JAISALMER

Jaisalmer is known for its stunning Havelis that are scattered all over the region. One of the oldest, largest, and most famous Haveli is the Patwon ki Haveli. It is a magnificent cluster of 5 small Havelis that were built between 1800 and 1860 by Guman Chand Patwa for his five sons. The Havelis has wooden ceilings, airy courtyards, and 60 balconies, each uniquely carved. The gateways, balconies, and arches of the 5 Havelis are decorated with beautiful mirrorwork, murals, and paintings. Each Haveli depicts a specific style making it different from the other Havelis. The interiors are as regal as the exteriors, and you will be impressed by the grandeur and architecture on display. One of the Havelis has been converted into a museum that displays rare artifacts, paintings, furniture, miniatures, stonework, and mirrorwork. The Havelis are located in a narrow lane. There is a compound in front of one of the Haveli that has been taken over by street vendors selling local handicrafts. Timing: 9 am-5 pm Entry Tickets: Indians: Rs20 Foreign Tourists Rs100; Camera: Rs50, Video Camera: Rs100 Time Required: 1 hour

8.  NATHMAL KI HAVELI, JAISALMER

Another popular spot to visit in Jaisalmer is Nathmal ki Haveli, which was built in 1885 by two Muslim brothers. Maharaja Beri Sai commissioned it to serve as the residence of prime minister Diwan Mohata Nathmal, hence the name. The two buildings are very similar but they are not identical. The architecture is a perfect blend of Islamic and Rajputana architecture. The Haveli has a remarkably carved exterior and is guarded by two elephants. The highlight is the beautiful paintings on the first floor that have been made using 1.5 kg of gold leaf. The walls are engraved with horses, cattle, flora, etc., and would give you a glimpse of life in the bygone era. The illustration of cars and fans carved on the walls is mystifying as such luxuries did not exist in that period. Timing: 8 am-7 pm Entry Tickets: No Fees Time Required: 30 minutes

9.  SALIM SINGH KI HAVELI, JAISALMER

Another Haveli that makes it to the list is Salim Singh ki Haveli. It was constructed in 1815 by Salim Singh and is famous because of its Incredible silhouette, unique peacock-shaped roof, and elegantly designed pavilion. The entrance of the Haveli is guarded by pair of sandstone tuskers and looks royal. The front facade of the Haveli resembles a ship’s stern, so it is also referred to as Jahaz Mahal. It has around 38 balconies, each constructed with distinctive carvings and styles. Timing: 8 am-6 pm Entry Tickets: Rs20 Foreign Tourists Rs100; Camera: Rs50 Video Camera: Rs100 Time Required: 1 hour

10.  SAM SAND DUNES, JAISALMER

If you are visiting Jaisalmer, you have to explore the vast expanses of dunes stretching into the horizon. Sam Sand Dunes, located 42km from the city, is the best location to enjoy an authentic Desert safari. The dunes stretch for miles and miles, and you could easily get lost if you are not careful. You have the option to explore the sand dunes on a camel or in a jeep. Sunsets are truly magical as the crimson horizon reflects enchantingly on the golden dunes. If you want to spend the night under the star-lit sky and enjoy a complete desert experience, stay overnight at one of the countless camping sites in the area.

The Desert festival is celebrated in Feb- March . Folk dances, camel races, puppet shows, and other cultural events are organized at that time. If you are visiting the area during those months, don’t miss the opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Rajasthan . If you are looking for sand dunes that are not as commercialized as Sam Sand Dunes, you can also opt for Khuri Sand Dunes. They are located around 40 km from the city and offer similar experiences sans the crowds and chaos. Timing: Open All days Entry Tickets: No Entry Fees. Camel Ride: Rs50-Rs200, Jeep Safari: Rs500-Rs1500 Time Required: Depends on the activities

How to spend three days in Jaisalmer?

Most of the attractions are within a short distance of each other, so it is quite easy to explore Jaisalmer in 3 days.

Day 1 – First-day itinerary depends on the time you arrive in Jaisalmer. Whatever may be your arrival time, you should still have time to check in at your hotel and enjoy the sunset at Gadisar Lake. If you reach Jaisalmer in the morning or early afternoon, you can check out some local shops or visit a couple of Havelis. Enjoy dinner on a rooftop to get incredible views of the Jaisalmer Fort.

Day 2 – Start your day with a visit to the Jaisalmer Fort. You can hire a guide who will help you navigate the narrow lanes of the fort so that you can make full use of your limited time. The Havelis are also within a walking distance and you can check them out easily. Leave around 4 pm for Sam Sand Dunes, so that you are in time to catch the eloquent sunset. You have the option to stay overnight in the camp or enjoy the evening programs and come back to Jaisalmer.

Day 3 – Next day’s itinerary will depend on where you spend your night. If you have slept overnight in Sam Sand Dunes, start early and stop at Kuldhara Village. The distance is 40 km. After spending a couple of hours in Kuldhara, leave for Jaisalmer. In case you have spent the night at Jaisalmer, take a round trip to Kuldhara village which is 18kms away from Jaisalmer. You will be back in Jaisalmer by the afternoon. After resting for a while (or maybe some last-minute shopping?), leave for Bada Bagh and Vyas Chatri to catch another gorgeous sunset. You can then catch a night train or leave the next morning by flight or car.

How to Travel in Jaisalmer?

Jaisalmer is a small city, so commuting is not an issue. You can easily catch an auto-rickshaw to go from one place to another. They will take anything from Rs50-Rs100. Another option is to rent a two-wheeler which is easily available. One of the best ways to explore Jaisalmer City is by walking. Jaisalmer Fort, the Havelis, local shops, and other attractions are all close by and you can conveniently explore them on foot. This is your chance to stumble upon hidden street shops and buy some local treasures. Meandering in crowded lanes is the best way to absorb the cultural heritage and lifestyle of Jaisalmer. The last option is, of course, taxis/private cars/tours. If you are not comfortable riding a two-wheeler, you will need a four-wheeler to reach Kuldhara Village and Sand Dunes. Ola and Uber are not available in Jaisalmer.

Things to know before you travel:

• The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March when the weather is pleasant. Nights can be chilly. April-July is scorching hot and the worst time to visit Jaisalmer. There is hardly any rainfall in the region, so you can plan a vacation in August and September , but there will find limited activity and camping options to choose from.
• 2-4 days are enough to experience Jaisalmer and the neighboring areas.
• There are about 30 hotels inside the Jaisalmer Fort and it is possible to stay within the fort walls.
• Parasailing, quad biking, dune bashing, camel safari, jeep safari, and paramotoring are a few of the activities that you can enjoy in Jaisalmer
• Sadar Bazar, Pansari Bazar, Sonaron Ka Bass, Light of the East, and Manik Chowk are the best places to shop in Jaisalmer
• Silver jewelry, camel-wool shawls, applique-work bedcovers/cushions, fossil stones, carpets, and textiles with mirror work embroidery are some of the things you can buy in Jaisalmer.
• If you have the budget, a stay in Suryagarh is highly recommended.

This Post Has 10 Comments

Comprehensively covered Seema. Fantastic narration is all I can say.

Thank you for checking it.

So nice and wonderful of you in bringing out best of Jaisalmer certainly beautiful….. and we are blessed to have such a wonderful place golden place in our state and our country….. dhanyvad regards. Keep it up. God bless

Like a travel through these places. Excellent 👍 Seema.

Must-Visit definitely

Fine travel write up with brilliant photographs.

Very nice Seema

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

You may also like.., andaman itinerary, philippines itinerary: 10 days, best places to visit in croatia.

• United Arab Emirates
• Switzerland
• The Netherlands
• Puerto Rico
• United States
• New Zealand
• ➨ Choose from World Map
• Budget Travel
• Family Travel
• Getting Around
• Visas & Passports
• Work with Us

Browsing Category

• Czech Republic
• Saint Martin
• Uncategorized

Travel Guide: Is Jaisalmer Worth Visiting? [2023]

Located in the northwestern corner of India near the Pakistan border, Jaisalmer is a city filled with history and a rich heritage. It used to be the stomping grounds of royalty, and some parts of the city still resemble its previous esteem.

While this is true, Jaisalmer is a bit of a hike from just about anywhere else you would plan to visit in India. Even the closest cities in Rajasthan are between 5-10 hours away by car.

This post is going to lay out all you need to know about planning a Jaisalmer trip, as it can be a pretty tricky place to visit. This is especially true if you are unfamiliar with traveling around India or other buzzing southern Asian countries!

This post is going to lay out all you need to know about planning a Jaisalmer trip, as it can be a pretty tricky place to visit.

Is Jaisalmer Safe to Visit?

Jaisalmer is located in the northwestern corner of India, just a stone’s throw from the border with Pakistan. As India and Pakistan do not share the friendliest of histories, this border has been a bit touchy at times, to put it lightly. When visiting Jaisalmer, the biggest concern is absolutely an escalation at the border, at least from what locals told me during my time there.

We visited Jaisalmer with a toddler and felt relatively comfortable throughout our visit.

Jaisalmer is a big military city in India because of this border. There is a big Indian Army base, and the airport is actually predominantly used as a military airport. While the increased military forces provide a great layer of safety, their presence definitely does make the place feel a bit more dangerous than it probably is.

In my own experience, Jaisalmer is as safe of a place to visit as anywhere else in Rajasthan. Like any Indian city, there is always a risk of pickpocketing and scamming, but there aren’t really any other risks unique to Jaisalmer aside from its proximity to the border.

We visited Jaisalmer with a toddler and felt relatively comfortable throughout our entire visit. As long as you are comfortable walking past pesky vendors and hecklers and you avoid the street food and tap water, you should be fine.

Best Things to Do in Jaisalmer

1. go luxury desert camping.

By far, the best thing to do in Jaisalmer is going camping at a luxury desert camp. These camps are situated between 45 and 75 minutes into the desert outside of Jaisalmer, and they are loaded with unforgettable experiences. From going on a jeep safari or a camel safari to experiencing local folk dance around a campfire at night, the top camps in Desert National Park are absolutely worth visiting.

The camp we stayed at taught us all about folk music, local musical instruments, local cuisines, and ancient desert culture. Our post on desert camping outside of Jaisalmer contains everything you need to know about to plan an amazing experience, including which cultural events and experiences to prioritize during your stay.

While the city is regarded as the main destination, there is no better way to learn about the local culture and the local cuisine of the desert region than being in the desert itself.

2. Explore the Famous Jaisalmer Fort

The 12th century Jaisalmer Fort is easily the most popular tourist destination in all of Jaisalmer. In fact, its color is largely what gives Jaisalmer its reputation as the Golden City of India. The Jaisalmer Fort has been occupied since Medieval times, and it is still occupied by thousands of people today, earning the classification of a living fort.

The fort is unique, as it is like an entire section of the city. While many forts are just historical complexes that you tour, the Jaisalmer Fort is alive and bustling, much like it would have been hundreds of years ago. From the Fort Palace Museum to many rooftop restaurants and one of the prettiest Jain Temples in Rajasthan, the Jaisalmer Fort is easily one of the city’s top places to see.

3. Visit the Ruins of Bada Bagh

Bada Bagh is a complex of ruined royal cenotaphs about 20 minutes outside of the city. The cenotaphs are made of local yellow sandstone, and while the complex is not a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it sure feels like one. Just about any organized Jaisalmer tour will include a stop at Bada Bagh, and you can tour the whole place in under an hour.

4. Catch a Sunrise at Gadisar Lake

Gadisar Lake is a small lake located just to the east of the city. This is a great place to catch a sunset, and the structures built around the lake are very pretty. There are also several restaurants and small shops here that can be visited if you have some extra time to kill, but there are much better options for both shopping and dining in the city itself. The main reason to visit Gadisar Lake is just to catch a sunset or go for a quick boat ride.

How To Get to Jaisalmer

Driving to jaisalmer.

Jaisalmer is pretty distant from most other places you’ll visit in India, and driving to it can be impractical depending on your circumstances. The nearest major Rajasthani city, Jodhpur, is 5 hours away by car. After that, it’s about 5 more hours to get to the other nearby major cities of Jaipur and Udaipur. From Delhi , Jaisalmer can be reached in about 12 hours by car if you don’t stop.

As we were traveling with a toddler, we didn’t plan on driving the long distances to or from Jaisalmer. We planned to fly from Delhi to Jaisalmer, and then from Jaisalmer to Udaipur. Unfortunately, our flight to Udaipur was canceled and there was no good alternative heading out for several days.

As we were short on time and had reservations in Udaipur, we decided to book a van with Lucky Tours and Travels , which was recommended by the host at our luxury desert camp. The driver picked us up in a large van and drove us safely to Udaipur. The service was exceptional, the vehicle was new and clean, and the driver was very friendly despite having to pick us up at the crack of dawn and drive us 10 hours through the desert.

Lucky Tours and Travels operates all throughout Rajasthan and is a great option if you are looking for a transportation company. I can provide a contact number if you need one!

Flying to Jaisalmer

We flew from New Delhi to Jaisalmer, and it was quite an adventure. Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) is very small, and there are not many flights into or out of it each day. There were only a couple of flights each day between Delhi and Jaisalmer, and our initial flight was delayed 36 hours. Unfortunately there isn’t really another nearby city to fly into and then transit to Jaisalmer, as the next-closest airport is over 5 hours away in Jodhpur.

Once we finally got on the plane, the flight was a smooth hour and a half. There is only one baggage claim, so you can expect to get your checked bags within 10-15 minutes of landing. Don’t plan on eating at the airport, as the airport literally has nothing to offer other than a bathroom and a baggage claim.

The airport sits about 20 minutes outside of the city, and there are often taxi drivers sitting outside waiting. To avoid the need to negotiate, we prearranged a taxi with Rajasthan Royals Holidays . Most taxis in India do not use a meter, and as we don’t speak any Hindi, negotiating can be a tall task.

How To Get Around Jaisalmer

TUK TUK | RIDESHARING | TAXI

Tuk-Tuks in Jaisalmer (Auto Rickshaw)

Getting around India can be very difficult, especially if you are not used to traveling in southern Asia. As we first learned in Chittagong, Bangladesh , the traffic is wild, and the most popular means of transportation within a city is actually by tuk-tuk.

Tuk-tuks are small, three-wheeled motorbikes with an enclosed cab for passengers. They are very popular, as they can weave efficiently through traffic jams and ultimately get you where you want to go faster. They aren’t the most comfortable or safe vehicles around, but they are definitely the best way to get from point A to point B.

As with any taxi in Jaisalmer, you will need to negotiate a rate and pay in cash. You should be able to get just about any ride for 100 rupees ($1.25) or less if you negotiate hard enough.

Ridesharing in Jaisalmer

There is no Uber or Ola in Jaisalmer. To get around, you will need to hire a traditional taxi or a private driver, like the ones mentioned in the next section.

Taxis in Jaisalmer

Other than Tuk-Tuks, cars and taxis are easily the most popular way to get around Jaisalmer. While taxis are everywhere, it is easier to just hire a private driver if you plan on exploring the city. Prices are very affordable, and having a driver available to you at all times can really come in handy.

It can be difficult to find trustworthy drivers when traveling in India, and I feel comfortable recommending Rajasthan Royals Holidays for your transportation within Jaisalmer. While the cars they sent for us had definitely seen better days and the driver didn’t know much English, the prices were good, the service was on time, and the company has an English-speaking Whatsapp number that can be contacted at any time.

As a note, I do not share any affiliation with either Rajasthan Royals Holidays or Lucky Tours and Travel, and I earn no form of compensation for recommending their services. Rajasthan Royals Holidays sent a driver to pick us up at the airport and take us to our luxury camp in the desert, and then later in the week they picked us up at the camp, drove us to a couple of popular tourist sites, and dropped us off at our hotel in the city. Lucky Tours and Travel drove us all the way from Jaisalmer to Udaipur .

How Many Days Should You Visit Jaisalmer?

Jaisalmer is a pretty small city, and there really isn’t all that much to see. Jaisalmer city and its top things to do can all be visited in a day or a day and a half. The Golden Fort, Bada Bagh, and Gadi Sagar Lake are all within 30 minutes of each other, and can easily be visited in the same day.

If you plan on visiting one of the luxury desert camps in the Sam sand dunes, or at least going on a desert safari, I recommend visiting for three days. This is enough time to thoroughly experience all the entire city of Jaisalmer, at least at a tourist level.

The Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer

The best season to visit Jaisalmer is absolutely the winter months. The winter season is the busy season in the area, due to the much more comfortable weather. The desert heat of the summer season can be unbearable, and the daytime temperatures between October and March are very pleasant.

Many popular tourist amenities, including many of the best places to stay in the desert, shut down during the summer months, too.

We visited at the end of January, and while the nights were certainly cold, the daytime weather was perfect.

Is Jaisalmer Worth Visiting?

Visiting a desert city offers a lot of unique experiences, and these experiences are the main reason to visit Jaisalmer. If you plan on going glamping in a luxury desert camp outside of Jaisalmer, then spending a day or two in Jaisalmer beforehand or afterward is worth doing.

Desert camping is a really great experience, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. There is nowhere better in India to do it than in the heart of Thar Desert right outside of Jaisalmer!

However, on its own, I would not say that Jaisalmer is worth visiting. As a city, we found it to be excessively dirty and underwhelming. The fort was very nice, but the area surrounding the fort was a real letdown for us.

If you aren’t going to camp in the desert, visiting Jaisalmer on its own isn’t worth the trip.

We initially had budgeted two full days to explore the city of Jaisalmer, and our 36-hour flight delay eliminated one of them. While we were initially upset about that, we were very grateful in hindsight, as an extra day at our nice hotel in Delhi was much more valuable to us than a second day in Jaisalmer.

All in all, I don’t recommend going out of your way to visit Jaisalmer. I only recommend visiting it if you plan on also going desert camping (which I DO highly recommend doing). Without desert camping, Jaisalmer is pretty underwhelming and is not worth the significant hassle it takes to get there in the first place.

That’s all we have for you about Jaisalmer! Hopefully, this Jaisalmer travel guide is helpful as you start planning your journey to the Golden City of India.

Have you been to Jaisalmer? Do you agree with our recommendations? Are you planning a trip and have more questions for us?

Please comment your thoughts and questions!

Hi, I'm Greg. I'm an avid traveler who has traveled to over 50 countries all around the world with my wife and kids. I've lived in Italy, Mexico, China, and the United States, and I dream of moving abroad again in the future. With this blog, I provide my audience with detailed destination guides to my favorite places and pro-tips to make travel as stress-free as possible.

shivani rathore

are you planing to visit jaisalmer and other city of rajasthan like jodhpur, ajmer, bikaner, jaipur, pushkar https://indiavacationexperts.com/ provide a wide range of travel pacakages and services . we also provide budget friendly taxi services in rajasthan tour.

Leave a comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Meet The Author - Greg

Recent Post

10 Best Coffee Drinks to Buy From Starbucks in India

April 26, 2024

How Much Does a Trip to Egypt Cost: Budget Breakdown

March 10, 2024

Best Time to Visit the India Gate in Delhi [2024]

March 1, 2024

Flying with a Sinus Infection: Tips to Avoid Pain

February 20, 2024

11 Best Things to Do in Breckenridge Besides Skiing

February 12, 2024

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Jaisalmer Trip Planner

Top attractions in jaisalmer.

Other notable attractions

Top searches in Jaisalmer

Popular road trips from jaisalmer, all road trips from jaisalmer.

• Jaisalmer to New Delhi drive
• Jaisalmer to Jaipur drive
• Jaisalmer to Mumbai drive
• Jaisalmer to Jodhpur drive
• Jaisalmer to Udaipur drive
• Jaisalmer to Agra drive
• Jaisalmer to Ahmedabad drive
• Jaisalmer to Kathmandu drive
• Jaisalmer to Bengaluru drive
• Jaisalmer to Hyderabad drive
• Jaisalmer to Amritsar drive
• Jaisalmer to Pune drive
• Jaisalmer to Shimla drive
• Jaisalmer to Manali Tehsil drive
• Jaisalmer to Kolkata (Calcutta) drive
• Jaisalmer to Srinagar drive
• Jaisalmer to Varanasi drive
• Jaisalmer to Mount Abu drive
• Jaisalmer to Chandigarh drive
• Jaisalmer to Mysuru (Mysore) drive
• Jaisalmer to Pushkar drive
• Jaisalmer to Leh drive
• Jaisalmer to Dharamsala drive
• Jaisalmer to Chennai (Madras) drive
• Jaisalmer to Bikaner drive
• Jaisalmer to Amer drive
• Jaisalmer to Kochi (Cochin) drive
• Jaisalmer to Pokhara drive
• Jaisalmer to Sawai Madhopur drive

Explore nearby places

• Mirpur Khas

All related maps of Jaisalmer

• Map of Jaisalmer
• Map of Kanoi
• Map of Khuri
• Map of Pokaran
• Map of Ramdevra
• Map of Barmer
• Map of Phalodi
• Map of Khichan
• Map of Balotra
• Map of Osian
• Map of Golasani
• Map of Khairpur
• Map of Mandore
• Map of Sukkur
• Map of Jodhpur
• Map of Salawas
• Map of Ranipur
• Map of Gajner
• Map of Mirpur Khas
• Map of Jalor
• Map of Jalore
• Map of Rohet
• Map of Tando Adam
• Map of Nawabshah
• Map of Deshnoke
• Map of Bikaner
• Map of Pali
• Map of Larkana
• Map of Nagaur
• Map of Jacobabad

Jaisalmer throughout the year

• Jaisalmer in January
• Jaisalmer in February
• Jaisalmer in March
• Jaisalmer in April
• Jaisalmer in May
• Jaisalmer in June
• Jaisalmer in July
• Jaisalmer in August
• Jaisalmer in September
• Jaisalmer in October
• Jaisalmer in November
• Jaisalmer in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Jaisalmer?

Get inspired for your trip to Jaisalmer with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

• 1-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
• 2-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
• 3-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
• 4-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
• 5-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary

Weather in Jaisalmer

Add places from guides with 1 click, collaborate with friends in real time, import flight and hotel reservations, expense tracking and splitting, checklists for anything, get personalized suggestions.

4.9 on App Store, 4.7 on Google Play

2 Days in Jaisalmer Itinerary: Best Places to Visit!

Last Updated on February 16, 2024 by Natalia

Situated in the heart of Rajasthan’s Thar Desert, the Golden City of Jaisalmer is best known for its magnificent fort. Visiting the city gives you the unique opportunity to actually stay inside a fort, as it’s one of the world’s last living forts. On top of that, a trip to Jaisalmer gives you the chance to venture into the Thar Desert to see vast sand dunes and get a glimpse of what desert life is really like, with the option to camp out under the stars if you wish! There are a number of great things to do in the city, so it’s a worthy inclusion on any Rajasthan itinerary. Find out how to see the best the city has to offer in a short space of time, with this itinerary of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days.

Wondering where to stay in the Golden City? Check out our guide to the best places to stay in Jaisalmer!

Table of Contents

2 Days Jaisalmer Itinerary

Start day 1 of your 2 day Jaisalmer itinerary by wandering the ancient streets of the city’s fort. Built in 1156 AD, Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the main attraction of this beautiful desert city.

What makes Jaisalmer Fort stand out when compared to other forts in Rajasthan is that it’s one of few ‘living forts’ in the world, meaning that many people actually still live inside the fort itself. Family homes within the fort have been passed down from generation to generation, so the locals that live there descend from families that have lived there for hundreds of years.

As it’s a living fort, there is no entrance fee and you can visit 24 hours a day. There are a number of accommodation options and hotels inside Jaisalmer Fort, and we personally recommend staying there as it’s not every day you get to stay inside a fort!

Take the time to roam the fort’s small alleyways and discover various viewpoints of Jaisalmer and the surrounding Thar Desert. There are a number of these viewpoints to be found as you wander the streets, so keep an eye out and walk up any staircases you discover as they’re likely to lead to the top of the fort walls.

You can easily pass at least an hour just walking through the streets and enjoying the views, as well as visiting the various artisan stores found inside the fort.

After you’ve taken the time to familiarise yourself with your new surroundings, make your way to your next stop in this 2 day Jaisalmer itinerary – the magnificent Jain Temple. We visited a number of Jain Temples in India and found them to be incredibly beautiful with amazingly intricate designs.

The entrance fee to the Jain Temple in Jaisalmer Fort is just 200 Rupees, which we recommend paying to be able to see the wonderful interior. If you don’t fancy going in then simply visit the outside of the temple, which is still an impressive sight. It’s also possible to get nice views of the top of the temple from nearby rooftop restaurants.

Visit in the morning to see one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer as tourists can only visit the Jain Temple in Jaisalmer Fort before 12pm.

Aside from the fort, Jaisalmer is also famous for its havelis – traditional townhouses and mansions known for their stunning architecture. The most well-known haveli in Jaisalmer is the Patwon Ji Ki Haveli, which is a truly beautiful building to admire and one of the best places to visit.

If you wish to take a look inside then the Patwon Ji Ki Haveli has an entrance fee of just 100 rupees, plus an additional fee of 50 rupees if you have a camera. Inside the haveli you will find a collection of art and artefacts, although we personally decided against this as we were more interested in admiring the wonderful architecture from the outside.

There are a number of other havelis in the city, so if it’s something that interests you then make sure to add a visit to some of the others to your 48 hour Jaisalmer itinerary!

For the remainder of the day hire a tuk-tuk to take you to the Jaisalmer War Museum and Bada Bagh. There is no exact price when hiring a tuk-tuk to visit these places, but we’d say between 600-800 rupees is a fair price as both sites are quite a way from the main city.

We recommend visiting the Jaisalmer War Museum first, which gives an insight into the history of the Indo-Pakistani wars throughout the 20th century. In particular, it was established to honour the soldiers of the ‘Battle of Longewala’, which took place in 1971.

Although the museum is relatively small, it displays a vast amount of information about the wars between India and Pakistan. On top of this there are fighter jets, tanks and more on display at the museum.

When you’ve finished exploring the museum, get your driver to take you to Bada Bagh to see the impressive cenotaphs for Jaisalmer’s Maharajas. There is a small entrance fee in 2024 of just 80 Rupees for Indians and 100 Rupees for foreigners at Bada Bagh, but this beautiful complex is well worth it.

The architecture of the cenotaphs is wonderful and so it’s an incredibly picturesque spot. We recommend visiting towards sunset as the sandstone cenotaphs glow in the light of the golden hour, which makes for some stunning photos!

If you don’t end up spending sunset at Bada Bagh then we recommend heading back to Jaisalmer itself to watch it from one of the many rooftop restaurants. Alternatively you can ask your driver to take you to what is known as ‘sunset point’, which has a nice view of Jaisalmer Fort but we personally think the views from rooftop restaurants are better!

One of the most popular things to do in Jaisalmer is to take a desert safari in the Thar Desert to see vast sand dunes which is what we recommend to do on your second day in this itinerary. There are a variety of desert safaris available from Jaisalmer, from day trips to overnight trips, each offering a different itinerary.

Before arranging your trip, you need to decide exactly what you want to do and what your budget is. The majority of desert safaris in Jaisalmer include riding a camel, but we recommend avoiding tours that offer this as camel rides are unethical and they camels are poorly treated.

Although most tours do involve a camel ride, it is possible to arrange one without this. Instead of riding a camel you will be taken between all the stops on your tour by jeep, which avoids unnecessary animal cruelty.

The best way to arrange a tour without a camel ride is to do so in person once you’re in Jaisalmer, but it’s also possible to do via email if you contact companies directly and make this request before you get to the city.

If you love animals then be sure to visit Ranthambore National Park where you can see tigers in the wild.

There are a number of operators running trips, and the price can vary massively between them depending on the quality of service and what’s included on the tour. It’s important to research companies and look for reviews on Trip Advisor and Google before booking with them, as that way you can tell whether their tours are of a good standard.

We personally opted to take a tour with Ganesh Travels , as they are one of the best reviewed companies offering desert safaris in Jaisalmer. The company is run by a friendly guy named Sebastian, who grew up in the desert and was very knowledgable about the area.

Sebastian and Ganesh Travels do offer camel rides on their trips, but were more than happy to arrange a trip for us that didn’t include this. We also liked that the trip was to a more secluded area of the desert and we saw barely any other tour groups.

This is partly because our trip avoided the famous Sam Sand Dunes, and instead went to a less touristy area. We opted for a half day trip as we didn’t fancy staying overnight in the desert.

If you are interested in staying overnight in the desert then many companies (including Ganesh Travels) offer trips for this. Be careful when arranging these trips, as some companies just provide a blanket and a mattress on the sand, whereas some actually provide tents for you to sleep in. Make sure to clarify exactly what you’re getting and to check reviews before booking any trip!

The itinerary of a desert safari from Jaisalmer will vary depending on the operator and whether you’re doing a day trip or overnight trip. Our half day trip included a stop at 2 desert villages, an oasis, dinner on sand dunes during sunset, a brief lesson in making chapattis, as well as a return jeep ride from Jaisalmer to the desert.

As we’ve already mentioned, there are a variety of different itineraries to choose from, so pick the one that interests you the most. Some people love the chance to spend a night out in the desert, but some people find it cold and prefer the comfort of a hotel room. Many tours also offer the chance to enjoy a Rajasthani folk dance and music during/after dinner.

Whatever you opt for, a tour of the Thar Desert and its sand dunes is an essential inclusion on any 2 day Jaisalmer itinerary.

How to get to Jaisalmer

The best way to get to Jaisalmer is to take the train from one of the other cities in Rajasthan. If you’re not in Rajasthan yet then you’ll need to get there first, which will probably involve taking a flight – especially if you’re not in India yet!

Click here to book train tickets or flights for your journey to Jaisalmer!

If you want a bit more information on how to get to Jaisalmer from other cities in Rajasthan then check out our handy guides below!

How to get from Udaipur to Jaisalmer!       How to get from Jaipur to Jaisalmer! How to get from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer!

For more information on what to do in these cities click here to read our 2 day Udaipur itinerary as well as our 48 hour Jodhpur itinerary!

Please note that some links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you make a purchase we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This money is used to support this website and cover the costs of keeping it online and free to access!

Like this 2 days Jaisalmer itinerary? Pin it!

© Something of Freedom 2015-2024

• Tour Enquiry
• Sign up | Login
• My Bookings
• New User? Sign-up
• Domestic Tours
• South India
• Maharashtra
• Golden Triangle
• North India
• North East India
• International
• Maldives (Discontinued)
• All Domestic Tours
• All International Tours
• Offbeat Tours
• Domestic Cruise Tours
• Jungle Lodges by JLR
• Kabini River Lodge
• Bandipur Safari Lodge
• JLR Kings Sanctuary
• River Tern Lodge
• Kali Adventure Camp
• Hampi Heritage & Wilderness Resort
• K Gudi Wilderness Camp
• Car Rentals
• Destinations
• Tourist Places on Drive
• Driving Directions
• * Workation
• * Tour Plans
• List Property
• Itineraries
• Best of Jaisalmer in 2 Days (from Jaisalmer)

BEST OF JAISALMER IN 2 DAYS (FROM JAISALMER)

ITINERARY SUMMARY

Day 1 : jaisalmer fort ? nathmal ki haveli ? patwon ki haveli - sam sand dunes day 2 : lodurva - bada bagh - gadisar lake, trip starts from: jaisalmer, mode of travel: car (or cab), trip ends at: jaisalmer, total places visited: 9, trip starting point: jaisalmer railway station, total distance (round trip):, travel time (round trip):, trip duration: 2 days, ideal start time: 10 am (day 1) & 9 am (day 2), sightseeing time: %%itinerary_sightseeing_time%%.

DAY 1 : JAISALMER FORT � NATHMAL KI HAVELI � PATWON KI HAVELI - SAM SAND DUNES

Travel from to, 1 jaisalmer fort.

At a distance of 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Jaisalmer Fort locally known as Sonar Quila (Golden Fort) is located in the heart of Jaisalmer city. It is one of the largest forts in India, and among the must include places in Jaisalmer holiday packages . Jaisalmer Fort is a World Heritage Site declared by UNESCO under the group hill forts of Rajasthan . Jaisalmer Fort was built atop the Trikuta Hill in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Maharawal Jaisal Singh. It was the center of several historical encounters between the Bhattis, Mughals, and Rathores of Jodhpur. The Fort of Jaisalmer survived several attacks by the Muslim rulers like Aladdin Khilji and Mughal Emperor Humayun. The city also served as a refuge and way-station for caravans and travelers along the Silk Road. Standing proudly in the middle of the great Thar Desert, this fort is regarded as 'The Pride .....

2 Nathmalji Ki Haveli

At a distance of 500 m from Jaisalmer Fort and 2 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Nathmalji ki Haveli is a renowned architectural marvel in the heart of Jaisalmer near Patwon ki Haveli. It is one of the prominent Jaisalmer places to visit . Nathmalji ki Haveli was constructed by Maharawal Berisal in 1885 CE, to serve as the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. The chief architects of this haveli were two brothers, named Hathi and Lulu. There is a very interesting story regarding its construction. It is believed that both the brothers started building the facets of the haveli simultaneously. The two sides are similar, but not identical. This haveli is famous for its architecture that reflects the fusion of both Rajput and Islamic styles. The building is planned around two courtyards; the one in the front is much smaller than the rear one. The front part of the .....

3 Jain Temples - Jaisalmer Fort

At a distance of 2 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, the Jain Temples are one of the oldest temples in Jaisalmer which are situated inside the Jaisalmer Fort complex. These Jain temples are the most important religious attractions in Jaisalmer . There are seven Jain temples in total which are built during the 12th and 15th centuries AD. These Jain temples are dedicated to different Jain Tirthankaras. Among these temples, the biggest one is the Parsvanath Temple and is most attractive; others being Chandraprabhu temple, Rishabdev temple, Shitalnath Temple, Kunthanath Temple, and Shantinath Temple. These temples are famous for their Dilwara style paintings and architecture that were predominant in the medieval era. The temples are built out of yellow sandstone and have intricate engravings on them. These temples have archaeological and religious .....

4 Sam Sand Dunes

At a distance of 40 km from Jaisalmer, Sam Sand Dunes are situated at the edge of Jaisalmer Desert National Park in Rajasthan. Lies in the midst of the Thar Desert, these sand dunes are amongst the most popular places to experience Rajasthan Tourism , and also one of the prime places to visit during Jaisalmer tour . Sam has a truly magnificent stretch of sweeping dunes, with sparse or no vegetation. The 3 km long, and 1 km wide sand dunes reflect the true image of Rajasthan. Undeniably one of the most picturesque spots in the desert, the Sam Sand Dunes have gained a tremendous tourist reputation over time. The unrelieved ocean of sand constantly changes its appearance at every gentle gush of wind. The whirling air currents of this area match with those of the sandstorms in the Sahara. Camel Safari at Sam Sand Dunes is one of the top things to do in Jaisalmer . The .....

Overnight Stay in Jaisalmer

Day 2 : lodurva - bada bagh - gadisar lake, resume jaisalmer sightseeing.

At a distance of 8 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, Lodurva is a village in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. Famous for Jain temples and other historical monuments, Lodurva is one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer . Lodurva was the ancient capital of the Bhatti dynasty till 1156 AD, when Rawal Jaisal founded the Jaisalmer state and shifted the capital to Jaisalmer. The town of Lodurva is much older than Jaisalmer and was sacked several times, most notably by Mahmud of Ghazni in the 11th century CE and then by Mohammad Ghori in the next century. Today, it is a popular tourist destination, known for its architectural ruins and Jai temples. The temples at Lodurva exhibit some more fine examples of intricate craftsmanship on yellow stone. The Parshvnath Temple is the oldest and the most beautiful of the Jain temples. The temple is dedicated to 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvnath. The walls of the sanctum .....

2 Bada Bagh / Bara Bagh

At a distance of 8 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station and 7 km from Jaisalmer Fort, Bada Bagh or Bara Bagh is a historical garden located on Ramgarh road and halfway between Jaisalmer and Lodurva in Rajasthan. Bada Bagh means big garden. It is a garden of cenotaphs or chhatris of the royal family of Jaisalmer . A descendant of Maharawal Jaisal Singh, Jait Singh II, commissioned a dam to create a water tank in the 16th century AD. This made the desert green in this area. After his death, Bada Bagh was fully developed by his son Lunakaran. The garden stands at the foot of a hill and several chhatris or cenotaphs stand in memory of the late rulers of Jaisalmer. Cenotaphs are also known as chhatris and one cenotaph is erected for each ruler. The cenotaph of Maharawal Jait Singh is the oldest of all. Many cenotaphs were built by subsequent rulers for the Bhatti royal family of Jaisalmer. This continued till the 20th century when .....

3 Desert Cultural Centre & Museum

At a distance of 1 km from Jaisalmer Fort and 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, the Desert Cultural Centre & Museum is located on the Gadisagar Road in Jaisalmer. It is one of the popular tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. The museum was established by Mr. N. K. Sharma in the year 1997. The Desert Cultural Centre and Museum exhibits the art, craft and culture of Jaisalmer beautifully. The museum has a large collection of traditional instruments, medieval coins and ethnic artifacts. This is the treasure trove of ethnic Rajasthani jewellery, handicrafts, weapons and fossil works. The museum is maintained by the Tourism Department of Jaisalmer and is a must-visit for history buffs. Various musical instruments and folk dance related costumes can be found in this museum. Costumes of the erstwhile maharajas and maharanis can also found in the museum. Kitchen tools and culinary tools can be found here, while the Rajasthani arts are presented in the walls, which belonged to painters .....

4 Folklore Museum

At a distance of 1 km from Jaisalmer Fort and 1.7 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station, the Folklore Museum is a private museum situated on the banks of the pristine Gadsisar Lake in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer Folklore Museum was founded in 1984 by N. K. Sharma, a local connoisseur. The museum is a treasure trove of cultural heritage of Thar Desert, the people, their traditions and culture. One can understand the evolution of the Jaisalmer city through ages by seeing the artifacts in this museum. The stunning architecture of the museum is one of the highlights. The museum is organized into six sections and features a rich collection of paintings, photographs, costumes, hairstyles and jewelry. Other items on display include utility articles of rural life, camel and horse decorations, fossils, ornamental arches, as well as articles connected with folk and cultural lifestyles. It also features various kinds of puppets and other traditional items. Tourists can watch a video in the .....

5 Gadisar Lake / Gadsisar Lake

At a distance of 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station and 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake or Gadsisar Lake is an artificial reservoir in Jaisalmer. It was the only source of water for the Jaisalmer city in the olden days and also one of the best sightseeing places in Jaisalmer . The Gadisar Lake was constructed by Raja Rawal Jaisal, the first ruler of Jaisalmer, and later reconstructed by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the year 1367 AD. It is said that this rainwater lake once provided water to the entire town. At present Gadisar Lake gets water from Indira Gandhi Canal so it never dries. Located towards the south of Jaisalmer city, the entrance to the Gadisar Lake is through a magnificent and artistically carved yellow sandstone archway that is known as the Tilon-Ki-Pol. There are numerous shrines and small temples on the embankment of this lake which can visit during your trip to Jaisalmer . The .....

END OF THE TOUR

Top 5 jaisalmer packages, similar tours.

Jaisalmer Related Pages

Jaisalmer 2 day trips.

• Jaisalmer with Sam Sand Dunes (from Jaisalmer)

Jaisalmer Tours from Jaisalmer

• Extensive Tour of Jaisalmer in 3 Days (from Jaisalmer)
• Heritage Tour in Jaisalmer (from Jaisalmer)
• Must Visit Places in Jaisalmer

Enter Email

* if you don't have access to this tour plan, you will be redirected to payment process, access tour plan, you don't access to this tour plan, please proceed to pay to access this plan, planning self-drive tour, get advanced tour plan for this tour which includes:, map overview of the places covered, day wise tour plan with distance & travel time for each place, driving directions from place to place, duration of visit & timings for all places, important alerts & notes about places, details of safari/entry ticket booking websites, get sample tour plan for free, access this advanced tour plan at only.

100% SECURE PAYMENTS

Domestic & International Cards Accepted

Our WhatsApp Numbers

International Tours

South India Tours

Goa, Maharashtra, Gujarat Tours

North India Tours

Rest of India

Request Quote

Travellers #

Explore Tour Packages

Discover Affordable Tour Packages

Need Customized Tour? Request Quote

Login / sign-up.

Your Sign in was successful! Itinerary will be downloaded shortly.

Sign up with Trawell.in

Already Created Account? Login Here

Sign in with Trawell.in Account

Forgot Password?

New User? Sign Up Here

Activate Your Trawell.in Account

Your account is activated successfully. Login Here

Reset Your Trawell.in Password

Your password has been reset successfully. Login Here

Booking Policy

• Car Rentals
• Airport Transfers
• Attractions & Tours
• Flight + Hotel
• Destinations
• Trip.com Rewards

How to Spend 3 Days in Jaisalmer - A Complete Itinerary for Jaisalmer

by Trip.com

May 15, 2024

• Jaisalmer 3-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights to Jaisalmer

Crossed out prices are calculated based on the average price of the corresponding route on Trip.com.

Day 1 | Morning

Jaisalmer fort.

Opening Hours: Open from 9:00am-9:00pm

Ticket Price: 150 INR

Recommended Length of Stay: 1.0-2.0 Hours

Location: Fort Rd, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan ,

This fort made of yellow sandstone is the symbol of Jaisalmer . It has a long history and is one of the oldest castles in Rajasthan. It was built by the Rajput ruler Jaisala in 1156, and subsequent rulers also built fortifications for it. Several wars between the Mughals in Delhi and the Rasores in Jodhpur. The bottom layer of the three-story city wall here is made of hard stones to consolidate the gravel surface on Sanfeng Mountain. The second layer of the city wall has to be guarded around the castle, forming a mezzanine with the third layer of the inner wall, from which the Rajput warriors poured hot oil and water on the unknowing enemies below, as well as cover Bombing in the sky. Although there are many residents in the castle now, the charm of the former frontier city is still vaguely visible. The main attractions in the castle are the City Palace Museum (FortPalaceMuseum) and the Jain Temple (JainTemples). The City Palace Museum is just above the main courtyard of the old castle. The seven-story palace of the former prince stands tall and has now become the City Palace Museum. Floor after floor of small rooms, you will be more and more amazed how these buildings are designed and how they spy on the outside world. Highlights here include the mirrored and painted RangMahal, a small art gallery with exquisite 15th-century sculptures, and a rooftop space with 360-degree views. In Jainism, there are seven temples of yellow sand and stone connected to each other like a labyrinth.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: this is the largest fort in rajasthan also called as golden fort.this is a must visit when you are in rajasthan. there are huge collection of things from history. do not miss the sunset view of the fort

Day 1 | Afternoon

Patwon Ji Ki Haveli nearby is the top choice before you leave Jaisalmer Fort and hit the road.

Patwon Ji Ki Haveli

Opening Hours: Open from 8:30am-7:00pm

Ticket Price: 120 INR

Recommended Length of Stay: 3-3 Hours

Location: No. 3129, opposite Choora Paada, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

Its tall towers and honey-colored stone carvings can be seen from the narrow streets, and it is a luxurious palace. This mansion was the private residence of the Patwan family who ran the gold and silver processing business in the 18th century. This mansion, which was built with no expense, is made of exquisite reliefs in all places, which can be said to be ingenious and jaw-dropping. From the outside it is more spectacular, and part of it has been converted into a museum, displaying some headscarves, household items and postcards, with traces of original painting and fine mirror craftsmanship.

Day 1 | Evening

For convenient access to more popular attractions, Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa is the best places.

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa

Soak in the beauty of the authentic architecture of a fascinating bygone era and discover the rich history of Jaisalmer . One of Rajasthan’s biggest tourist destinations, Jaisalmer with its resplendent fort, elaborate havelis and vast sand dunes is a getaway to the seemingly endless Thar Desert. Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa is suitably located at just 3.3 km from the Jaisalmer Railway Station and a few minutes away from all major shopping points and attractions of the city. The luxurious desert property offers 137 exquisitely designed rooms and suites offering deluxe bedding and marble bathrooms to 42 inch LED TVs and 24-hour room service. Start your day with an elaborate buffet breakfast or indulge in a quick workout at our fitness center. Rejuvenate yourself with personalized therapies at Quan Spa or simply unwind in serenity by our poolside. Plan a meeting or a social event in one of our beautiful indoor or outdoor venues, or spend some time exploring Jaisalmer’s exotic attractions.

Airport pickup service

Swimming pool

Check Availability

Day 2 | Morning

Jain temples.

Ticket Price: 20 INR

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-3 Hours

Location: Lodurva, Rajasthan, India

There are also seven Jain temples connected to each other like a labyrinth in the Jaisalmer Fort, which were built between the 12th and 16th centuries. The intricate carvings here are exquisite, and the soft, warm stone has a special texture. Chandraprabhu Temple: Dedicated to the eighth tirthankar (one of the 24 great Jain teachers) marked by the moon, and several fine sculptures are placed in the attic in front of the sanctuary. There are 12 statues of Ganesha in the temple, and there are many statues of tirthankar in the hall surrounding the inner sanctuary. Rikhabdev Temple: There are many exquisite sculptures on the surrounding walls, they are all covered with glass, and the stone pillars here are beautifully carved with images of gods and fairies. There is an atmosphere of comfort and tranquility in this temple. Parasnath Temple: You enter it through an archway, and its porch is carved with the image of a Jain tirthankar. There is also a statue of a sexy little fairy who is balancing a few balls on the front wall. Shitalnath Temple: The 10th tirthankar is enshrined here. The Shitalnath statue here is made of eight precious metals. A door on the north wall leads to a charming dimly lit room. Sambhavanth Temple: In the courtyard in front of it, Jain clerics press sandalwood in sand for sacrifice. Gyan Bhandar Temple: This wonderful little library was built in 1500. In this small basement there is a collection of precious ancient illustrated manuscripts, some dating back to the 11th century. Temple of Shantinath and Temple of Kunthunath: They were built in 1536 and both are located under the library. They both have many sculptures that express sensuality.

Day 2 | Afternoon

When time permits after visiting Jain Temples, don’t forget pay a visit to Fort Palace Museum of Jaisalmer.

Fort Palace Museum of Jaisalmer

Ticket Price: 300 INR

Recommended Length of Stay: 2.0-3.0 Hours

Location: Fort Rd, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

The Jaisalmer Palace Museum is located in the Jaisalmer Fort and only a small part of it is open. The museum displays some exquisite frescoes and porcelain, as well as some sculptures from the 15th century, which are of great artistic value.

Day 2 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Fort Palace Museum of Jaisalmer? The Carvaan Resort is one of your top choices.

The Carvaan Resort

The Carvaan Resort provides a great place for travelers to relax after a busy day. The Carvaan Resort offers a pleasant stay in Jaisalmer for those traveling for business or leisure.

From the hotel, Jaisalmer Airport is approximately 16km away. The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport, approximately 16km from the hotel. Guests will find Mandir Palace, Basant Art Emporium and The Thar Heritage Museum just a short distance from the hotel.

In their spare time, guests can explore the hotel's surroundings. This Jaisalmer hotel features parking on site.

Pets allowed

Day 3 | Morning

Salam singh ki haweli (moti mahal).

Location: Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India

The Salim Mansion was the official residence of the Prime Minister of Jaisalmer, Salim Singh, from the 18th to the 19th century. Standing on the beautifully carved balcony will make you linger. This 300-year-old private mansion has a unique look. Its ground floor is narrow, but the top floor is rich in carvings, with vaulted balconies and pale blue spires. It has a beautiful vaulted roof and ledges shaped like peacocks. There is also an elephant stone sculpture in front of the mansion.

Day 3 | Afternoon

Now we come to another great highlight in the city: Thar Desert.

Thar Desert

Recommended Length of Stay: 0.5-1.0 Days

Location: Thar Desert, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India

The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is located in Rajasthan, east of the Indus River. The humid air of the summer monsoon passes not far to the east, but not a drop of rain falls on the desert. Most of the roads in the area are gentle and straight, and the sparse vegetation on both sides of the road gives people a sense of desolation. However, you are often excited by the color blocks that suddenly appear in front of you, especially when the majestic palaces standing on the highlands are in contrast to the mountains and lakes. When a scene of women in colorful sarees traverses the scene appears.

• Jaisalmer 3-Days Itinerary: Cheap Flights from Jaisalmer

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.

Table of Content

• Day 1: Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ji Ki Haveli
• Day 2: Jain Temples, Fort Palace Museum of Jaisalmer
• Day 3: Salam Singh Ki Haweli (Moti Mahal), Thar Desert

Jaisalmer Weather

Find What to Do in Jaisalmer in 3 Days Tour

Sunset camel safari in jaisalmer sand dunes & dinner with cultural program, jaisalmer street food walk, <h3>besides jaisalmer itinerary 3 days, people also search for ...</h3>.

Popular Content

• Lyon Itinerary 4 Days
• Mykonos Itinerary 1 Day
• Mombasa Itinerary 1 Day
• Sakaiminato Itinerary 1 Day
• Qujing Itinerary 1 Day
• Genting Highlands Itinerary 5 Days
• Mariposa County Itinerary 1 Day
• cheap hotel arlington tx
• Waterfalls in NJ
• Paris Attractions
• Things to Do Los Angeles
• Is Thailand Open to Tourists
• Mandai Wildlife Reserve
• Lost World of Tambun Ipoh
• 10000 Consumption Voucher
• Best Breakfast in NYC
• dandeli resorts
• Where to stay in Hawaii
• Romantic Getaways in Florida
• Spain Holidays 2022
• Flight Deals
• Romantic Getaways
• Customer Support
• Service Guarantee
• More Service Info
• Website Feedback
• About Trip.com
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Statement
• About Trip.com Group

Other Services

• Investor Relations
• Affiliate Program
• List Your Property
• Become a Supplier

• International
• Personal Travel Planning

7-Day Jaipur, Udaipur & Jaisalmer Itinerary: Ultimate Rajasthan

Step into the mesmerising world of Rajasthan and embark on the ultimate adventure with an 8-day Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer itinerary!

This captivating journey will take you through the vibrant cities of India’s royal state, offering a kaleidoscope of rich history, cultural treasures, and breathtaking landscapes.

Please note that this is a fast-paced Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer itinerary covering the most popular sights. However, if you have any specific interests or time constraints, customise the itinerary accordingly.

Let’s begin.

The Ultimate Rajasthan Adventure: 7-Day Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer Itinerary!

Day 1: arrival in jaipur and exploring the pink city, day 2: discovering the rich history & culture of jaipur, day 3: travelling to udaipur, day 4: enjoying the scenic beauty of udaipur and its lakes, day 5: travelling to jaisalmer and experiencing the desert life, day 6: sand dunes/camel safaris in jaisalmer, day 7: leave from jaisalmer, where to stay in jaipur, where to stay in udaipur, where to stay in jaisalmer, getting around.

Your adventure begins in Jaipur, also known as the Pink City, famous for its historic buildings and vibrant markets.

Day 1: Places to Explore

1. city palace.

After admiring the stunning architecture of Hawa Mahal, head to the nearby City Palace, a blend of Mughal and Rajasthani architectural styles.

The palace is a sprawling complex of courtyards and gardens of Mubarak Mahal and Chandra Mahal. It also houses a museum displaying the artefacts of the royal family.

• Timings:  9:30 am to 5:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee:  ₹ 190 (Indians); ₹ 500 (Foreign Nationals).

2. Hawa Mahal

In the afternoon, head to the city centre to explore the stunning Hawa Mahal, an iconic pink sandstone structure with intricate honeycomb-like windows. Constructed in 1799 by Maharaja Sawai Pratap Singh, this palace is an essential destination for visitors in Jaipur.

• Timings : 9:00 am to 4:30 pm; Everyday
• Entry   Fee : ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 200 (Foreign Nationals)

3. Jantar Mantar

Don’t forget to visit the Jantar Mantar Observatory nearby, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest stone observatory in the world.

• Timings:  9:30 am to 4:30 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee:  ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 200 (Foreign Nationals).

4. Albert Hall Museum

After arriving in Jaipur, check in to your hotel and relax. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Albert Hall Museum, a stunning museum showcasing the rich history and culture of Rajasthan. Explore the incredible collection of artefacts and displays, and learn about the rich history and culture of the state.

• Timings:  9:00 am to 5:00 pm, 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee:  ₹ 20 (Indians);  ₹ 150 (Foreign Nationals).

5. Birla Mandir

After visiting the museum, head to the nearby Birla Mandir, a stunning Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi. Its stunning architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning murals make the temple famous.

Timings:  6:00 am to 12:00 pm, 3:00 pm to 9:00 pm; all days of the week.

6. Vibrant Markets of Jaipur

In the evening, head to the vibrant markets of Jaipur, including the Johari Bazaar and Bapu Bazaar, to indulge in some retail therapy and enjoy the local delicacies.

Try the famous Rajasthani sweets and snacks like Ghewar, Pyaaz Kachori, and Dal Baati Churma, and shop for souvenirs like colourful textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts.

1. Amer Fort

Start your day early and visit the Amer Fort, a magnificent fort complex on a hilltop overlooking the Maota Lake.

The fort was built in the 16th century by Maharaja Man Singh I and showcases a blend of Hindu and Mughal architectural styles.

Explore the stunning palaces, courtyards, and gardens of the fort complex, and don’t forget to take an elephant ride to the main entrance.

• Timings:  10:00 am to 5:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee:  ₹ 100 (Indians); ₹ 550 (Foreign Nationals).

2. Jal Mahal

Jal Mahal is a palace in Man Sagar Lake, Jaipur. Its five floors make it appear to be floating on the water.

The palace is a remarkable instance of Rajput architecture, and it is visually stunning. It was once used as a duck-hunting retreat by the king of Jaipur.

While close to visitors, you can still enjoy its beauty by boat-riding on the lake.

Timings:  6:00 am to 6:00 pm; all days of the week.

3. Nahargarh Fort

Head to the nearby Nahargarh Fort, another stunning hilltop fort with panoramic city views. The fort was built in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II and served as a retreat for the royal family.

Explore the fort complex, admire the stunning architecture, and take in the breathtaking views of Jaipur.

• Timings:  10:00 am to 5:30 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee : ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 200 (Foreign Nationals)

If you’re not interested in forts or the Jal Mahal, consider taking a half-day tour of Chokhi Dhani for a cultural experience.

Chokhi Dhani is a cultural village showcasing Rajasthan’s rich culture and traditions.

Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner, watch cultural performances like puppet shows, folk dances, and music, and participate in activities like camel rides, pottery making, and mehndi art.

Leave early morning from Jaipur and journey towards Udaipur, popularly known as the “City of Lakes”

How to reach Udaipur from Jaipur:

There are several transportation options:

By Road : The distance is approximately 400 kilometres; the journey takes 6-7 hours.

Route: You can take the NH48 (National Highway 48), which connects Jaipur and Udaipur. The route passes through cities like Ajmer and Beawar.

By Car: You can either drive your own car or hire a taxi. Ensure your vehicle is in good condition for a long journey.

By Bus: Various private and state-run buses operate between Jaipur and Udaipur. Book a bus ticket in advance for a comfortable journey. Check your Volvo bus options on Red Bus .

By Train : Several trains connect Jaipur to Udaipur, including the Mewar Express and Chetak Express. It takes about 6-7 hours, depending on your chosen train.

Check the availability and book your tickets on Rail Yatri .

By Flight: Udaipur’s Maharana Pratap Airport (UDR) is well-connected to Jaipur’s Jaipur International Airport (JAI). You can book a domestic flight for a quick journey. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour. You could opt for this mode if you are short on time and have a tight budget. Check Skyscanner for good deals on flights.

Places to explore on Day 4: The Royal Palaces and Forts of Udaipur

In the afternoon, head to the City Palace, a stunning complex of palaces, courtyards, and gardens overlooking Lake Pichola.

The palace was built over 400 years ago by various kings and showcased a blend of Mughal, Rajput, and European architectural styles. Explore the complex’s stunning palaces, museums, and galleries, and don’t forget to take a boat ride on Lake Pichola to enjoy the spectacular views of the palace and the surrounding hills.

• Timings:  9:30 am to 5:30 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee : ₹ 30 (Indians); ₹ 300 (Foreign Nationals)

2. Jagdish Temple

After visiting the City Palace, head to the nearby Jagdish Temple, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu. The temple was built in 1651 by Maharana Jagat Singh and is famous for its stunning architecture and intricate carvings.

Stroll through the old town’s narrow streets and explore the local markets to shop for souvenirs like colourful textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts.

Timings:  4:30 am to 1:00 pm and 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm; all days of the week.

3. Monsoon Palace

In the evening, head to the nearby Monsoon Palace, a stunning hilltop palace built in the 19th century by Maharana Sajjan Singh.

The palace offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills and is a popular spot for watching the sunset.

• Timings:  9:30 am to 6:30 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee : ₹ 110 (Indians); ₹ 300 (Foreign Nationals).

Places to Explore on Day 4: Natural beauty and Udaipur Lakes

1 Fateh Sagar Lake

Located in Udaipur, Rajasthan, India, Fateh Sagar Lake is a captivating attraction worth visiting. The Aravalli Hills surround the serene and scenic artificial lake, offering a perfect escape for locals and tourists.

Some activities near Fateh Sagar Lake include taking a boat ride, enjoying the Nehru Garden, and spending time at Ambrai Ghat.

2. Saheliyon Ki Bari

After visiting the Lake Palace, head to the nearby Saheliyon Ki Bari, a stunning garden Maharana Sangram Singh built in the 18th century.

The garden is well-known for its beautiful fountains, intricate marble elephants, and stunning architecture. It is a favourite destination for picnics and relaxation.

• Timings:  9:00 am to 7:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee : ₹ 10 (Indians); ₹ 50-100 (Foreign Nationals).

3. Lake Pichola

In the late afternoon, enjoy stunning views of the City Palace, Lake Palace, and the surrounding hills on a boat ride through Lake Pichola.

Don’t forget to visit the Jag Mandir Island Palace, a stunning palace built in the middle of the lake and famous for its stunning architecture and gardens.

• Timings (Jagmandir) :  1:00 am to 6:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee (Jagmandir) : There is no entry fee but only a boat ride fee, which is ₹ 450 (Indians); ₹ 500+ (Foreign Nationals).

4. Bahubali Hills

In the evening (or early morning), visit Bahubali Hills, nestled on the outskirts of Udaipur. Bahubali Hills is a charming spot that attracts nature lovers. It takes its name from the renowned Bahubali statue that adorns this scenic spot.

Bahubali Hills offers a panoramic and calming vista of Badi Lake, with the Aravali mountain range as a majestic backdrop, providing a complete 360-degree view.

Jaisalmer is a stunning city located in the heart of the Thar Desert.

How to reach Jaisalmer from Udaipur:

There are primarily two ways to travel between Udaipur and Jaisalmer: by road or train.

By Road (Bus or Car) :

By car: Udaipur to Jaisalmer by road is approximately 440-500 kilometres, depending on your route. If you’re driving, you can follow the NH62 and NH68 highways, which connect the two cities. The journey can take around 7-9 hours, depending on road conditions and stops.

By Bus : It takes about 11 hours, depending on the traffic. Check the availability and book tickets either on Red Bus or RSRTC .

By Train: Jaisalmer is well-connected to Udaipur by train. The train journey usually takes around 8-10 hours, depending on the type of train and stops. Note that there are no direct flights to Jaisalmer from Udaipur.

Places to Explore on Day 5: Forts and Lake

1. Jaisalmer Fort

In the afternoon, head to the Jaisalmer Fort, a stunning fort built in the 12th century by Rawal Jaisal. Explore the fort’s stunning palaces, temples, and courtyards, and admire the spectacular views of the city and the surrounding desert.

• Timings:  9:00 am to 5:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee : ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 250 (Foreign Nationals).

2. Patwon Ki Havelipa

The Patwon Ki Haveli is Jaisalmer’s biggest and most important Haveli. It was constructed in the 18th century by a wealthy merchant and is now a popular tourist destination in the city.

The Haveli is renowned for its breathtaking architecture, intricate carvings, and stunning murals.

• Entry Fee : ₹ 20 (Indians); ₹ 100 (Foreign Nationals).

3. Gadsisar Lake

One of the most tranquil places to see on your Jaisalmer itinerary is Gadisar Lake. The lake exudes spirituality, and the temples, seemingly floating on the water, add to its enchantment.

The lake is surrounded by stunning temples, ghats, and chhatris and is a popular spot for picnics and relaxation.

4. Go Rooftop Bars/Café Hopping

Jaisalmer is a city packed with unique rooftop bars and restaurants, all offering stunning views of the Golden City.

Our top picks for rooftops are Kuku Coffee Shop and Free Tibet Restaurant . However, there are so many excellent options inside and outside the fort that you can’t go wrong.

1. Bada Bagh

Bada Bagh is a stunning garden complex on Jaisalmer’s outskirts (12 km).

It is famous for its stunning cenotaphs, built in memory of the royal family. It is one of the best places to see the sunset!

• Timings:  8:00 am to 6:00 pm; all days of the week
• Entry Fee : ₹ 50 (Indians); ₹ 100 (Foreign Nationals).

2. Sam Sand Dunes

In the evening, head to Sam Sand Dunes. Sam Sand Dunes , located in the Thar Desert, are 42 km from Jaisalmer and among Rajasthan’s most famous sand dunes.  

Enjoy a camel ride, witness a mesmerising sunset over the dunes, and indulge in local delicacies like Ker Sangri and Laal Maas.

3. Thar Heritage Museum

After the safari, head to the nearby  (around 3 km) Thar Heritage Museum, a stunning museum showcasing the rich history and culture of the Thar Desert.

Learn about the local customs, traditions, and lifestyle of the people living in the desert, and admire the stunning collection of artefacts and displays.

ALV Recommendations of additional places:

If you have enough time and if it interests you, I recommend visiting these places:

1. Kuldhara Village

A stunning but abandoned village on Jaisalmer’s outskirts.

The village was abandoned in the 19th century by the Paliwal Brahmins, a community of traders, and is now a popular spot for tourists to explore the stunning architecture and learn about the rich history and culture of the village.

2. Jain Temples

You can head to the Jain Temples, a group of stunning temples dedicated to the Jain Tirthankaras.

The temples were built between the 12th and 15th centuries, showcasing a blend of Hindu and Jain architectural styles.

3. Visit Khaba Fort

Khaba Fort is an intriguing attraction located in the desert outside Jaisalmer (30-40 minutes away) .

It dates back to the 13th century and was once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins. The fort and neighbouring village were abandoned 200 years ago.

Concluding our “Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jaisalmer Itinerary,” on day 7, depart from Jaisalmer for your flight back home, carrying cherished memories with you.

Best Area to Stay

Jaipur, a city in India, boasts numerous hotels and havelis that are well-spread across the city. The good news is that many are located near heritage sites and landmarks. Some of the popular areas to consider for your stay in Jaipur include Old City (home to many of Jaipur’s most famous attractions), C Scheme (known for its upscale hotels), Raja Park (famous for shopping and dining), and Bani Park (a peaceful and budget-friendly option).

Accommodation Options:

If you are looking for hostels , Jaipur has numerous hostels that provide affordable accommodations for backpackers and budget-conscious travellers. Some popular hostels include Zoste l Jaipur , The Hosteller Jaipur, and Moustache Hoste l , Hotel Sarang Palace .

For mid-range , consider staying at places like S hahapura Hotel , Le mon Tree Premier , Park Inn by Radisso n . If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, Jaipur offers several mid-range resorts with swimming pools, spas, and lush gardens. Check out resorts like Pride Amber Vilas Resort .

For Luxury Experience : Jaipur is famous for its heritage hotels, once palaces or havelis converted into luxurious accommodations. Staying in these properties is a royal experience. Some iconic ones include The O beroi Rajvilas , Jai Mahal Pala ce , Ramba gh Palace , The Leela Palace , and Samode Haveli .

Jaipur also offers luxurious resorts like The Tree of Life Resort & Spa , Chokhi Dhani Resort , and ITC Rajputana for those seeking a tranquil escape outside the city.

The best area to stay in Udaipur is the Old City . This area offers the largest selection of hotels, restaurants, and bars. Moreover, you can easily access most of Udaipur’s tourist attractions on foot or by public transportation.

For Budget travellers: Zostel , Hotel Padmini Palace , Hotel Krishan Niwas , Karohi Haveli.

If you are a on a mid-range budget, consider: Bloom Boutique , Lake Pichola, Hotel Mahendra Prakash , Old City, Akshay Niwas , Lake Pichola, Ram Pratap Palace , Fateh Sagar Lake.

If you wish to experience Luxury, consider : Taj Lake Palace, The Leela Palace, The Oberoi Udaivillas, Amet Haveli.

If you are a on a mid-range budget, consider: The Hosteller, Moustache , hotel himmat niwas ,

For Mid-range : Prince Desert Camp , Hotel Prithvi Palace , Countryside resort (Sam Dunes).

For Luxury experience : Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa , Suryagargh Palace , Hotel Heritage House , Sujan The Serai (desert camp).

If you need to travel within the city, there are several modes of transportation available for you to choose from, including auto-rickshaws, tuk-tuks, and cabs. Auto-rickshaws can also be hired for an entire day for your convenience. Additionally, you can avail the services of Ola and Uber operators who operate in Jaipur and Udaipur. However, please note that no Ola or Uber services are available in Jaisalmer.

I hope this blog helps you to plan your perfect Rajasthan trip! 😊

Are you feeling stressed about planning your upcoming trip due to lack of time? Don’t worry! ALV Travel is here to help. We offer Customised Travel itineraries and Readymade ALV itineraries that make your trip stress-free and enjoyable.

Discover all the details about ALV Personal Travel Planning , and let us assist you in planning your dream trip today!

Also, please follow me on Instag ram for some vibrant travel feed.

You may also like to read:

15 Best Offbeat Places In India You Would Love To Visit

7 Epic & Cheaper Countries To Visit From India  

Share this:

You may also like, leave a reply cancel reply.

My goal is to create a warm space for sharing my travel blogs coupled with personal growth ideas, thus, giving inspiration to always be happy!  

Hope you find something here that interests you, and your mood shines a little brighter because of it.

Popular Posts

• 1 Places 11 Unique Resorts Near Mumbai For A Perfect Weekend – (Within 200 km)
• 2 India , Itineraries Pondicherry Itinerary for 3 Days – Feeling French
• 3 Places Best Places To Visit In India In January 2024
• 4 India A Complete Mussoorie Itinerary For Your 3-day Trip

Subscribe and follow

• International (8)
• Itineraries (23)
• Places (77)

Beware of rip current dangers on Long Island and the Jersey Shore: What to know

By lauren maroney • published june 24, 2024 • updated on june 25, 2024 at 3:58 am.

After a series of sweltering days – and with more on the way – a trip to the beach sounds great.

And it almost is. Afternoon temperatures continue to be at or above normal with at least a couple more bouts of extreme heat in the forecast in coming days. Sunshine is and will be abundant.

24/7 New York news stream: Watch NBC 4 free wherever you are

But there is one hazard that will continue to plague beachgoers in the tri-state, or at least along the Jersey Shore and the south shore of Long Island: rip currents. Monday’s risk was moderate to high. Tuesday’s risk will be marginally lower, but the risk is expected to increase again Wednesday.

Get Tri-state area news and weather forecasts to your inbox. Sign up for NBC New York newsletters.

Weather Stories

Powerful heat-fueled storms threaten NYC area Sunday night

How do heat domes work and how long will it last for NYC area?

What causes rip currents.

Wave heights are a key factor in determining the potential for rip current development. For all New York beaches, five-foot waves on Monday made swimming risky. At the Jersey Jersey Shore, waves were between two and four feet.

Don’t let wave heights fool you, though.  It is a common misconception that dangerous rip currents only occur on stormy days when waves are large. Rip currents can develop on fair weather days when waves are as low as two feet.

Wind direction impacts rip current formation, too. Onshore winds are particularly dangerous because they pile water onto the shore.  That excess water has to flow back out to sea somehow.  A rip current, the narrow channel of water flowing back out to sea, is the mechanism for that to happen.

Tides also play a key role in potential rip current development. Rip currents are more likely during low tide, when waves are breaking over sand bars. Exercise extreme caution at low tide for this reason.

There are multiple factors that make rip currents likely.  The most important thing you can do if you plan to visit the beach and swim is to swim near a lifeguard. Wear brightly colored clothing so that you are very visible.

What to do if caught in a rip current

If you get caught in a rip current, do not try to swim against the pull; this will only tire you out.

Rip currents are strong and fast, capable of pushing you out much faster than you can swim. The best thing to do is remain calm, stay afloat and let the rip current pull you out.

The current usually weakens once it gets beyond the breaking waves. At that point, you can swim parallel to the shoreline and get yourself out of the current.

And if you see someone else caught in a rip current, the best thing you can do for them is alert a lifeguard. Never attempt to go in the water yourself.

This article tagged under:

Visa-free travel to China welcomed by people wanting to reunite with family

Jenny Zhang has plans to travel to China soon to reunite with her 100-year-old mum, and she has welcomed a move to give Australians visa-free entry for short trips.

"This is the best policy. It will provide great convenience to Chinese people living in Australia," she said.

"The Chinese community is very happy about this news."

The 15-day visa-free travel for Australians was announced by Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Monday, after a formal meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

"We agreed to provide each other with reciprocal access to five-year multiple entry visas for tourism, business and visiting family members — so as to better facilitate personal exchanges, China will also include Australia in its Visa Waiver Program," the premier said.

This change will also save Australians about $110, the current cost for a single-entry tourist visa.

The new visa-free travel scheme is due to come in within the next few months.

China's tourism industry peaked in 2019 at a value of $580 billion and has been recovering slowly, according to Statista.

They had forecast that it could take another five years to bounce back to pre-pandemic levels.

Not everyone happy with move

While Ms Zhang was thrilled with the upcoming change, Ramila Chanisheff, the president of the Australian Uyghur Tangritagh Women's Association said it would not help members of her community.

"Our family members … we can not even talk to them — let alone visit them," she told the ABC.

"Not all of us will be given visas to visit our family members. And if we do, we will be worried about our safety."

Dawa Sangmo, the Chinese liaison officer of the Tibet Information Office in Canberra raised similar worries.

"The visa-free policy is not only an issue that relates to our safety, but a matter that is more beneficial to China and its government," she told the ABC.

There was not much detail in the announcement, but Premier Li did mention it would be "reciprocal", making it easier for Chinese travellers to enter Australia.

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the second highest amount of tourists visiting Australia came from China, only behind arrivals from New Zealand, as of April this year.

However, overall, the amount of people travelling out of China is down 40 per cent from pre-COVID levels in 2019, Reuters reported.

• X (formerly Twitter)

Related Stories

Beijing offers visa-free entry to australians with defence talks flagged to avoid military clashes.

Calls for government assistance as Chinese tour groups allowed to return to Australia

'You are a liar': Chinese wannabe working holiday-makers furious over suspension of visa applications

• Federal Government
• Foreign Affairs
• Government and Politics
• Tourism and Leisure Industry
• World Politics

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

So Many Sandals Are on Sale Right Now

Summer sales are in full swing, and as I’ve been scrolling through it all, I couldn’t help but notice that there are tons of sandals marked down to some of the best prices I’ve seen all season (and I’ve been keeping close tabs after writing our guide to the best sandals ). I’m talking “up to 60 percent off” and “here’s an extra coupon code at checkout” kind of deals. Here, I’ve rounded up the best of what I found — all of which are under $200 — including a pair of cherry red Camper sandals and some lovely lip-printed Castañer espadrilles.

Catbird founder Rony Vardi says these sandals have a favorable “cute-to-comfortable ratio.”

I let out a loud “ oh” when I realized this pair comes out to $30 at checkout.

These come in goes-with-everything neutrals: olive, cedar, and black.

The woven-leather upper on these reminds me of Bottega’s Andiamo .

Some strappy platforms from Vagabond that I found hiding in Anthropologie’s sale.

If you’re headed to Nantucket anytime soon …

… Or planning an outdoorsy trip (a mileslong city walk counts).

A pair of playful cross-straps from Camper in cherry red.

I’m sort of a sucker for a good gradient, and this is a good gradient.

A tasteful take on the whole logomania thing.

The non-boring Birkenstocks we named the Deal of the Day a few weeks ago are a couple dollars cheaper now.

Here are Crocs that don’t look like Crocs.

These sandals from Dr. Scholl’s are a little less obvious than the ones Sarah Jessica Parker was seen wearing while filming And Just Like That … and won’t make clomping sounds either, thanks to the rubber sole.

Switch out your cold-weather Docs for warm-weather Docs.

Bathen co-founder Hannah Zisman always packs these sandals — which she calls “elevated Tevas” — for warm-weather vacations.

Missed Castañer’s collaboration with Diane von Furstenberg? You’re in luck: These lip-printed, jute-wrapped wedge espadrilles are a real steal now.

Some shimmer to peek out from under your wedding-guest dress .

Net-a-Porter’s stock of Ancient Greek Sandals is selling out — surprisingly, this pair is still fully stocked in all sizes.

An asymmetrical strap makes for a sleek sandal.

A square toe, thick straps, and silver buckles make for a very handsome shoe.

A good dupe for Hermès’s Oran sandals. (Available in silver and white too.)

A little intel: You can’t even get these on Rachel Comey’s own site anymore — so grab them for half-off on Shopbop while you can.

The minimalism-minded will like these Vince sandals.

The metallic braiding on these looks boho but not too boho.

Strategist senior writer Liza Corsillo wore these heels on her wedding day.

These combine bubblegum pink (delightful), the fisherman silhouette (classic), and jellies (trendy).

Suicoke makes some of the best slippers ( Baz Luhrmann is a fan), so I have no doubt this pair of sandals will feel broken in from the get-go.

Step up your flip-flop game.

The Strategist  is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about  here . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

• the strategist
• women's fashion
• women's shoes

Every product is independently selected by (obsessive) editors. Things you buy through our links may earn us a commission.

Deal of the Day

Micro sales, greatest hits, most viewed stories.

• This Is the Best Sock Height, Actually
• All the Best Walking Shoes We’ve Ever Written About
• How I’d Redo My Baby Registry: 3 Kids Later …
• All the Best Fourth of July Sales (So Far)
• With Help from Menswear Reddit, We Found Jeremy Allen White’s Tees From The Bear
• The 11 Very Best Shampoos
• The Best Body Lotions, According to Dermatologists and Aestheticians

Today’s Top Clicked

CDK Global: Restoration underway after auto dealer software supplier hacked

After a cyberattack at CDK Global led to the shutdown of computer systems at auto dealers nationwide, the company said it has begun work to restore systems .

CDK, which provides software to car dealerships , shut down operations Wednesday after back-to-back cyberattacks. Bloomberg reported a group claiming to be the hackers is asking for tens of millions of dollars in ransom .

While work is underway to get services back up and running, CDK estimates the process will take several days.

Auto dealers including AutoNation and Peer Lithia Motors said they have experienced disruptions that are likely to negatively impact business, Reuters reported Monday. Some dealerships have reverted to paper methods to conduct business.

USA TODAY reached out to CDK for an update Monday.

More: New car inventory and prices: What shoppers need to know

Hackers targeted CDK Global car dealer management system 

The cyberattack on CDK was first reported Wednesday, prompting the company to shut down most of its systems "out of an abundance of caution," a CDK spokesperson previously told USA TODAY.

CDK restored some systems that afternoon, but another cyberattack later that evening prompted the company to take the systems offline once again, according to a letter sent to customers.

The work to completely restore the software is expected to take several days.

What is CDK Global? 

One of the leading providers of cloud-based software to dealerships in the country, CDK's software  helps dealerships manage  vehicle acquisitions, sales, financing, insuring, repairs and maintenance. The company's website says it offers a “ three-tiered cybersecurity strategy  to prevent, protect and respond to cyberattacks.”

CDK works with more than 15,000 retail locations nationwide, according to its website.

Is CDK still down? 

CDK did not immediately respond to USA TODAY's request for an update Monday on how many businesses were impacted and if any have been restored.

However, CDK started a restoration process Saturday that was expected to take "several days" to complete, according to a company spokesperson.

CDK hackers asked for millions in ransom: reports

An eastern European cybercrime group is claiming to be behind the attack, according to Bloomberg . CDK reportedly intends to pay the tens of millions of dollars they are demanding, but negotiations could evolve, according to Bloomberg.

I booked an all-inclusive trip to the Amazon rainforest, and I can't believe how much I got for $90 a day

• I spent about three days at an all-inclusive lodge in the Amazon rainforest for $270.
• I had to take a two-hour bus and a two-hour canoe ride to get to my overwater lodge . 
• I spent my time spotting animals, hiking, swimming, and taking in the peaceful setting.

As a child, I dreamed of visiting the Amazon rainforest, but I always envisioned it being wildly inaccessible.

Traveling, especially internationally, is expensive. Looking at lodging alone, hotel prices shot up by 1.7% between April and May, according to NerdWallet's Travel Price Index .

So when I found a three-day, all-inclusive tour of the Amazon rainforest at Green Forest Ecolodge for just $270, I knew I had to go.

The package included all my meals, bus and canoe transfers, a private lodge, and up to four activities a day.

Here's what it was like.

It was a bit of a hike to get there

After landing in Ecuador, I hopped on an overnight shuttle from Quito to Lago Agrio. Still slightly sleepy, I splurged and spent a few dollars on a taxi from the bus station to Magic Hostal, the designated meeting spot.

From there, a driver met me for a complimentary transfer to the canoe launch. The drive took about two hours, winding through suburbs and navigating a mixture of tarmac and grit roads.

After jumping off the minibus, the real adventure started. I was ushered toward the river, where a guide placed my luggage in a thick plastic bag on a canoe to keep it dry.

He then helped me board the precariously wobbling vessel and gave me a green poncho (it's not called the rainforest for nothing).

With that, we were on our way to the lodge

A driver steered the vessel while a tour guide kept a sharp eye out for wildlife. They seemed to understand that time was of the essence in my short three-day stay.

The most exciting sighting was squirrel monkeys — sociable little primates that leaped along overwater branches. But by the time the two-hour canoe ride was over, I'd already seen multiple monkey species, birds, and a sloth.

It started raining as the canoe navigated the last few bends of the Cuyabeno River. I was dry under my fancy green poncho, but not wearing waterproof mascara was definitely a poor choice.

The overwater lodges were connected by a green boardwalk

I was ecstatic as we approached the wooden dock and I got my first glimpse of the lodge I'd be staying in.

I opted for a private overwater bungalow with a terrace and hammock. The double bed inside came equipped with a mosquito net, and the bathroom was semi-open and overlooked the jungle.

Related stories

It was truly beautiful.

Meals were a sociable and elaborate occasion with the other guests

Lunch was served right away. Everyone staying here ate together three times a day in the main lodge, and a bell rang to announce each meal.

Meals consisted of three courses of traditional Ecuadorian cuisine.

There was a starter, main, and dessert at lunch and dinner , and breakfast was a mixture of fruit, toast, and a hot meal. Unlimited hot drinks and bottled water were also available 24/7.

I'm vegetarian, and I was a little worried about the food and drink situation, but I didn't have any issues during my stay. The staff were very conscious of food quality and water safety, so I wasn't worried about getting sick.

I experienced so many excursions as part of my all-inclusive package

On the first day alone, I saw caimans (alligatorid species) and took a guided night hike.

I spotted all kinds of nocturnal creatures like tarantulas.

The second day was busier, starting with a hike through the thick jungle.

While treading through the wet soil — that's almost orange from the high levels of clay — I saw a snake and owl monkeys before crossing some swamp terrain.

Along the way, our guide, Elvis, taught us about the rainforest. I learned poisonous snakes in the Amazon have a triangular head and that indigenous Cuyabeno communities believe copal resin wards off negativity.

I'd been nervous about swimming in the Amazon, but it was surprisingly warm

Later on the second day, I'd scheduled a sunset lagoon swim.

On the way, we saw pink dolphins and woolly monkeys and heard roaring howler monkeys.

I wasn't sure what to expect, and I was a little nervous about swimming (it wasn't exactly balmy). But after diving into the lagoon from the canoe, everything was peaceful.

It was a refreshing bit of solitude as Elvis played music from a speaker.

On the boat ride back, we spotted adult caimans that looked straight out of "Jurassic Park." Their unnerving yellow eyes were shuddering but impressive.

The third day was short and sweet but still amazing

My final morning started with a quick birdwatching excursion. I spotted toucans, macaws, and a nesting red heron.

But after breakfast, it was time to head back out on the canoe to transfer to Lago Agrio.

I couldn't believe the value I got for my money

Visiting the Amazon rainforest was the opposite of what I expected. It was budget-friendly and serene, not expensive and uncomfortable.

After my stay, I realized $270 for three days of food, lodging, and activities was a ridiculously good deal — especially since I got to see caimans, pink river dolphins, five species of monkeys, and hundreds of insects and birds.

I'd definitely recommend the experience, even for the squeamish or those who don't think they're outdoorsy.

Watch: How 40,000 Brazil nuts are collected deep in the Amazon rainforest

• Main content

India Becomes Third-Largest Domestic Aviation Market – India Report

Bulbul Dhawan , Skift

June 24th, 2024 at 11:00 PM EDT

There is an overall push in India to enhance air connectivity to smaller regions across the country. An increase in number of airports, increase in disposable income, and heightened interest in travel have given airlines the confidence to invest in expansion of their domestic operations. This is leading to Indians traveling more, domestically and internationally.

Bulbul Dhawan

The Skift India Newsletter is your go-to platform for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

India is now the third-largest domestic aviation market, after the U.S. and China, according to data by aviation analytics firm OAG. In April 2024, India’s domestic airline capacity was about 15.6 million, up from 8 million in April 2014. 

Over the past decade, the Indian domestic market grew at an annual rate of 6.9%. The firm studied India, China, U.S., Indonesia, and Brazil, and India is the fastest-growing market, it said. 

Factors for India’s Growth: Low-cost carriers accounted for 78.4% of the domestic airline capacity in India in the month of April, the highest of the five markets that OAG studied. 

“The LCC sector has been key to driving growth in India’s domestic market. In the last 10 years IndiGo has almost doubled their market share, from 32% of capacity in 2014 to 62% today. Whilst the rest of the market has barely grown, averaging just 0.7% a year, IndiGo has a domestic capacity growth rate of 13.9% annually,” the firm said. 

The Air India group accounts for 28% of the capacity. “This means that India’s two largest carriers account for 9 out of 10 airline seats,” OAG said. 

Both IndiGo and Air India are expanding their operations and upgrading their fleets. Last year, IndiGo placed an order for 500 narrowbody aircraft, while Air India ordered 470 aircraft last year. 

The Indian Aviation Industry: The Indian aviation industry has been growing as new airports are coming up. Between 2014 and 2023, the number of airports in the country doubled from 74 to 149. India’s domestic air passenger traffic during 2023-24 financial year surpassed pre-Covid levels and increased 13% compared to the year before. 

The aviation industry in India is underserved. However, the annual passenger capacity at Indian airports is set to increase by 60 million.

India Gets Trusted Traveler Program at Airports to Fast Track Immigration

The Indian government has inaugurated the ‘Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Program’ (FCI-TTP) to quicken the process of immigration for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders by allowing them to scan their boarding passes and passports, and undergo biometrics authentication themselves. According to the plan, the program will also eventually cover foreign travelers.

To implement the program, e-gates or automated border gates have been installed to minimize human intervention in the immigration clearing process at 7 major Indian airports, including Delhi. FCI-TTP is being implemented through an online portal, requiring applicants to register online with their details and documents to be verified.

Ease of travel is quickly becoming a focal point for airlines and airports. Last week, the Delhi international airport installed self-service baggage quick drop machines across terminals 1 and 3 to facilitate faster baggage check-ins within 30 seconds. 

Earlier this month, former national carrier Air India announced its partnership with Delhi Metro and Delhi airport to facilitate check-in and baggage drop for international passengers at the New Delhi and Shivaji Stadium metro stations. 

The Mumbai international airport also created a digital gateway solution to expand its DigiYatra and non-DigiYatra facility to 68 e-gates for quicker airport entry process for passengers. It is also working to deploy 118 e-gates at the Pre-embarkation Security Check (PESC) area at Terminal 2 to simplify passenger movement.

ITC Hotels Signs Two Storii Resorts in Rajasthan

ITC Hotels has signed two Storii resorts in Rajasthan’s Jaipur and Jawai cities. Last month, the company signed a Storii property in Jaisalmer. With this, the brand’s portfolio in Rajasthan has reached 3 properties. Both 52-key Storii Jaipur and 15-key Storii Jawai are expected to open next year. 

ITC’s Storii brand focuses on boutique premium properties that are small in size.

The company has been expanding its Storii brand portfolio. Earlier this year, it signed a Storii property in Rishikesh. In May last year, ITC signed 3 hotels under Storii – in Goa, Manali, and Prayagraj. 

Over the past two years, ITC Hotels opened 22 new properties in India. It is looking to add 70 hotels to its portfolio in the next five years.

Air India Express Partners With Zoomcar

Low-cost carrier Air India Express has partnered with car rental company Zoomcar. The partnership aims to provide the airline’s passengers with the option of self-drive car rentals for travel across multiple cities in India. 

The facility will be available to Air India Express flyers in 19 cities across India, and they will be able to book the service on the airline’s app and website.

Air India Express is in the process of being merged with sister low-cost airline AIX Connect, previously known as AirAsia India. Amid this, it is enhancing its services and expanding its operations. Earlier this month, the airline announced that it will be commencing operations from the Hindon airport in the national capital region (NCR), in addition to its ongoing operations from the Delhi airport, becoming the first airline to operate from two airports in the NCR.

IndiGo Launches Booking Assistant 6Eskai on WhatsApp

Budget airline IndiGo has launched its AI-powered conversational booking assistant 6Eskai on WhatsApp. The service will allow customers to book tickets, check-in, generate boarding passes, check their flight status, and get their queries answered using the chatbot.

Initially, the service has English, Hindi, and Tamil language support. 

IndiGo is India’s largest airline in terms of market share, accounting for more than 60% of the passengers carried in the month of May. So far this year, it has carried over 40 million flyers, and is looking to enhance its offerings. 

The airline announced its decision to introduce business class to its in-flight cabin classes. It also added a hotel booking option to its website and mobile app to provide customers with a one-stop solution.

Skift India Report

India is booming. Discover the subcontinent’s most important travel news here every Tuesday-Thursday.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: air india , Air India Express , air traffic , airline , Airline Capacity , airline passengers , airlines , aviation , aviation industry , aviation news , boutique hotels , car rental , car rental companies , car rentals , car service , chatbots , domestic travel , hotels , immigration , india , india travel , indian airlines , indigo , itc hotels , oag , skift india report , tourism , Travel Trends , traveler , whatsapp

Photo credit: Over the last decade, the Indian domestic market grew at an annual rate of 6.9%. ThePixelman / Pixabay