Every historical city has stories to tell and truths to reveal. One such city is Jaisalmer, located in Rajasthan. It tells stories of unrivalled bravery, is incomparable in its splendour, and has an unshakable spirit. A significant portion of the world-famous Thar Desert serves as the location for the city. If Jaisalmer is going to be your next vacation spot, make sure you don’t miss out on these must-see attractions.
How to reach?
By air: The Jodhpur Airport is the one that is the most convenient for getting to Jaisalmer by air since it is the domestic airport that is located the closest to the city.
By train: The city of Jaisalmer is linked to a number of other cities by means of both wide gauge and metre gauge railway connections. It is possible to go to Jaisalmer by rail from both Delhi and Jaipur without changing trains.
By road: Jaisalmer is well-connected by road to other cities in Rajasthan and Gujarat. There are public and private buses that run between the cities. Jaisalmer has two major bus terminals, the Golden Bus Station and the Roadways main bus stand.
15 best Jaisalmer tourist places
Jaisalmer Fort
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The Jaisalmer Fort has earned a well-deserved reputation as the “Golden Fort of Rajasthan.”It was built in 1156 AD by Raja Jaisal, the monarch of the Rajput people. It is regarded as one of the biggest forts on the whole globe. The golden and yellow blended sandstone gives the fort an almost enchanted appearance.
The fort, with its 99 turrets, seems to be an illusion morphing out of the dunes of the desert at night when viewed from a distance, and is a must see Jaisalmer places to visit. The fort is an outstanding example of the majesty that can be found in Rajasthani craftsmanship. Street shopping and dining at one of the numerous restaurants in the area are two activities that may be enjoyed close to the Jaisalmer Fort.
The city of Jaisalmer may be found in the very centre of Rajasthan, while the Fort can be found on the very outskirts of the city, at a distance of 1.5 km from the Jaisalmer railway station. You may get about the city in the most cost-effective manner possible by using an auto-rickshaw, which is readily available in every neighbourhood. In addition, there is access to taxis and cabs.
You’ll have to pay an entry fee of Rs 30 if you are an Indian national, and there is an entry fee of Rs 70 for foreigners. Also, if you are carrying a still camera, you’ll have to pay Rs 50, and for a video camera, the entry fee is Rs 150.
Bada Bagh
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Bada Bagh translates to ‘Huge Garden’. It was under the reign of Maharawal Jait Singh, around the commencement of the 16th century when its construction took place. After his death, his son Lunakaran finished the building work that his father had started. The nobility and their relatives were cremated in the garden, which served as a monument for the occasion.
A breathtaking panorama may be seen from this visiting place in Jaisalmer. The location is really remote. It is sure that you will experience stunning moments if you explore the location around dawn and sunset, and you will not be able to resist taking pictures of them.
Approximately 6 kilometres separate Bada Bagh and Jaisalmer. One has the option of travelling to Ramgarh by bus and getting out at one of the stops along the way, or they may drive themselves there in their own car.
If you are an Indian national, the entry ticket will range from Rs 20 to Rs 50, and if you are not an Indian citizen, the ticket will range from Rs 50 to Rs 100. In addition, the entry fee is between Rs 20 and Rs 100 if you are bringing a still camera, and it is between Rs 50 and Rs 100 if you are taking a video camera.
Patwon-Ki-Haveli
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In the heart of the main city is where you’ll find Patwon-Ki-Haveli. It was constructed by a well-known merchant by the name of Guman Chand and his children. This enormous building includes five stories and five big suites, each of which is elaborately furnished and adorned. The dominant style of art is very well represented by both the elaborately adorned walls and the spacious hallways that run through the building. The sandstone of yellow colour was used in the building’s construction in its entirety.
The majesty of this tourist place in Jaisalmer, as well as its architectural design, contribute a great deal to the significant worth of the city’s cultural identity. Only one of the five palaces has been preserved and turned into a museum. The artefacts of local artisans from past eras are kept in the third haveli of the complex.
November through February is the prime season to visit Patwon Ki Haveli. The city of Jaisalmer is located in a very hot and dry region of India; nevertheless, the winter months are much more pleasant for visiting the haveli and other sights in the area. The haveli’s design helps maintain a comfortable temperature even in the middle of the day, when temperatures outside may soar to as high as 30 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, the tourist destination is open for business 24/7.
The historic Patwon Ki Haveli may be found at Amar Singh Pol, which is situated in the middle of Jaisalmer at a distance of 9.5 km from the Jaisalmer railway station. The majority of the main highways in the city link to the location, but at a certain point, visitors have to walk through the winding alleyways to get to the haveli. To get to the attraction from anywhere inside the city, one may use any of the available public transportation options. Budget-friendly choices include bicycle rickshaws and auto rickshaws.
You’ll have to pay an entry fee of Rs 20 if you are an Indian national, and there is an entry fee of Rs 100 for foreigners. Also, if you are carrying a still camera, you’ll have to pay Rs 50 and for a video camera, the entry fee is Rs 100.
Sam Sand Dunes
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Participating in a desert safari is a must if you want to get a real sense of what it’s like to be in the desert. The Sam Sand Dunes are the perfect place to begin the adventure of a Desert Safari. You are going to have a wonderful time on the camelback safari that will take you around the peaks and valleys of the desert, and you will be able to take in the breathtaking scenery of the desert sunset.
In addition, there is the possibility of going on a Jeep safari. February and March are reserved for the desert festival’s event planning and preparation. Traditional dances, camel sprints, and other traditional events are held across this region at this time of year, and you would be remiss to miss out on any of these if you happen to be in the area around this time.
Camel riding, desert camps, camel safaris, parasailing, and a trip to the neighbouring Desert National Park and Sanctuary are among the activities that visitors may enjoy while visiting this place in Jaisalmer.
Depending on the season, the perfect time to pay a visit is either between 4:00 AM to 6:00 AM (which corresponds to dawn) or from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (which corresponds to sunset). In the early morning and late evening, when the sun is rising or sinking, the intensity of the sun’s rays is not as severe, and the scenery is more beautiful, making for an experience that will be with you forever.
It is possible to rent a vehicle in Jaisalmer and drive the 40 or so kilometres to the Sam Sand Dunes and the accompanying campground. Under the watchful eye of the Indian Army, the road has been kept in secure and extremely good condition over its whole length. Camel rides or jeep rides will take twenty-five to thirty minutes to get you to the sunset location from the main campground.
The Thar Heritage Museum
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The Thar Heritage Museum may be found in the heart of the city’s marketplace. The name of the individual who established this museum is Laxmi Narayan Khatri. This museum will enlighten you about the heritage of the famed Thar Desert as well as its culture, artwork, and craftsmanship. This place to visit in Jaisalmer is home to one-of-a-kind decorations that were taken from the ship that sailed over the desert as well as horses. This museum is home to a variety of artefacts, some of which are Jaisalmer’s documents and coinage, as well as old texts and weaponry.
Activities available at the Thar Heritage Museum include seeing a puppet performance and going to the Silk Route Art Gallery nearby.
It is possible to enjoy a trip to the wonderful museum at almost any point in the day or year. On the other hand, if you want to see the one-of-a-kind puppet performance that this location has to offer, it is strongly suggested that you schedule your visit for the evening.
The Heritage Museum may be found in Jaisalmer’s Artist Colony, which can be found in the Malka Pol neighbourhood of the city. The city has a wide network of both public and private transportation, therefore it is quite well linked. To get here, you may either take a bus that is part of the public transportation system or a shared auto rickshaw. You also have the option of using a private taxi service or driving yourself to the location.
There is an entry fee that you’ll have to pay in order to enter the museum. For Indian nationals, the entry fee is Rs 30, while for foreigners, the entry fee is Rs 70.
Gadisar Lake
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A distance of one kilometre separates the fort from Gadisar Lake. It was first built by Raja Rawal Jaisal, the very first monarch of the area, and then in the year 1367 AD, it was restored by Maharawal Garsi. The water requirements of the residents living in the city in the desert were met by this reservoir. Along the shores of this lake are many places to visit in Jaisalmer, including temples, and chattris for you to visit. The spectacular view may be seen via the intricately carved entryway composed of yellow sandstone.
A picnic, a ride on the water in a boat, a trip to the ancient Tilon Ki Pol gate, and a trip to the neighbouring Folklore Museum are all things you can do in the area of Gadisar Lake.
The summers at the Gadisar Lake are rather scorching due to the lake’s location in a desert zone. As the colder months of the year approach, the temperature begins to drop, and at the same time, a large number of migrating birds arrive at the location. Consequently, the months of November through the beginning of March are wonderful times to make a trip.
A rickshaw or auto rickshaw may take you throughout Jaisalmer and the surrounding area. Simply mentioning the name of the lake will prompt them to let you off at its location. If you are travelling a significant distance, it is recommended that you take a taxi or rent a vehicle so that you can get here. The Gadisar Lake may be reached by foot in little under three miles from the Jaisalmer train station.
Nathmal-ki-Haveli
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On the orders of the prime minister of the time, two Muslim brothers who worked in the jewellery trade rather than stone carving constructed Nathmal Ki Haveli. The brothers began their labour on opposing sides of the structure, which ultimately resulted in the left and right corners of the building that were comparable but not identical. This haveli is well-known not just for the magnificent carvings that adorn its outside but also for the stunning interiors that are decorated with murals and have contemporary conveniences.
The Nathmal Ki Haveli, which is a mix of Islamic and Rajputana architectural history, is well-deserving of its reputation as being one of the most magnificent Havelis in Jaisalmer.
It is recommended that tourists pay a visit to Nathmal Ki Haveli during the winter season, which spans the months of November through February. During this time, the weather is mild and the landscape is beautiful. Because of the Thar Desert, summertime temperatures may reach intolerable levels, and the monsoon season is made much worse by the combination of high temperatures and excessive humidity.
The Nathmal Ki Haveli can be found in Jaisalmer’s Sadar Bazar, which is considered to be the very centre of the city. Taxis, state-operated buses, and auto rickshaws are only a few of the forms of public transportation that are easily accessible throughout the city. You are able to reach the location from any section of the city by using any of these services and amenities. You also have the option of hiring private taxis or driving down to the location on your own.
Jain Temples
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The history of the Jain temples, which can be dated back to the 12th century and are found within the Jaisalmer Fort, may be linked to a sequence of temples devoted to Jain Tirthankaras. The Dilwara temple on Mount Abu served as the inspiration for the particular traditional architecture seen in these temples named after that temple. These temples are a sight to see because of their intricate carvings and the seamless way they link to one another; they are built entirely of yellow sandstone.
The months of October through March are ideal for travelling to the city in order to see the Jain Temples since during these months, there is no blazing heat in the city, and the weather is rather lovely and pretty much pleasurable. The Jain Temples are not hard to get to by any means. It is simple to move around inside the city of Jaisalmer, and one may catch an auto rickshaw to go to the location of interest.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
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The Salim Singh Ki Haveli stands out among the other Havelis in Jaisalmer owing to the one-of-a-kind and visually appealing design of its edifice. It was constructed by Salim Singh, a minister at the time. Singh intended to build it as tall as the fort, but the monarch forbade him to do so. In all, this place to visit in Jaisalmer includes 38 balconies, each of which is uniquely designed architecturally, and a ceiling in the form of a peacock. This haveli offers a fascinating peek into the past, and it is easy to imagine how stunning the images shot here would be.
You should have no trouble getting to this architectural masterpiece under any circumstances. You will have to go all the way to Jaisalmer if you plan on checking out the Salim Singh Ki Haveli. Once you have arrived in Jaisalmer, you won’t have any problems hailing a taxi and making the journey to the Haveli on your own time. Local buses and auto-rickshaws will also sometimes be travelling down the path leading to the Haveli, so keep your eyes out for them.
Indian nationals will have to pay Rs 50, and foreigners will have to pay Rs 100 to access this Haveli. Also, there is an entry fee of Rs 50 for a still camera and Rs 100 for the video camera.
Vyas Chhatri
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The Vyas Chhatri is an assembly of golden sandstones that have been constructed into a structure in the style of Rajasthani craftsmanship. It was constructed in commemoration of Sage Vyasa, who was responsible for compiling the 300,000 verses that make up the epic Mahabharata. The location of his mausoleum on the building may be found to the north. Due to the fact that it provides a view of Jaisalmer from above, it is often referred to as the area’s sunset viewpoint. It is among the most recognisable monuments in Jaisalmer since it is housed within the Bada Bagh.
It is located on the northwestern border of town inside a Brahmin Cemetery, which is the burial site of monarchs and is overseen by the Royal house of Jaisalmer. An impressive sight to witness are the sculptures as well as the towering pavilions in the style of domes. An awe-inspiring sight to see is the sophisticated edifice made of sandstone with a golden colour that has delicate sculptures that were painstakingly carved. Vyas Chhatri is indeed a beautiful location that is ideal for tourists who would want to watch the sunset over the desert while surrounded by golden sandstone formations.
The months of October through March, which include the winter season, are the ones that are ideal for a trip to Vyas Chhatri. The high temperatures that occur throughout the summer months (March to June) in Jaisalmer are a result of the city’s proximity to the Thar Desert. These temperatures might make travelling less enjoyable. It is also not a good idea to go during the monsoon season, which lasts from June to September and has intermittent bouts of rainfall.
The main bus terminal in Jaisalmer is located about 1.7 kilometres away from the Vyas Chhatri and can be reached in around eight minutes due to the short distance between the two locations. In order to get to your location in a timely manner, you may use one of the several forms of local transportation, such as an auto-rickshaw, a cycled rickshaw, or a taxi.
Jaisalmer War Museum
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In order to pay respect to the service members who served in the ‘Combat of Longewala’ in 1971, the Jaisalmer War Museum was constructed in the defence facility. It honours the valour and part played by members of the Indian Army. On August 24, 2015, it was officially inaugurated, and the following day, it was made available to the public.
Two noteworthy exhibition rooms, an audio-visual theatre, and a memento store can be found inside the JWM, which is the common name for the museum. In addition to that, it has a wall of remembrance on which the names of those who have been honoured with the Param Vir Chakra and the Maha Vir Chakra for their bravery are inscribed. In addition to battleships, cannons, and other military hardware, the exhibit features a variety of trophies and antique pieces of military hardware.
In addition, there are paintings depicting troops who were martyred during the battle, along with murals depicting the weapons used in the conflict. In the video shown in the audio-visual chamber about the combat, a person who was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra, Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, provides a thorough description of the men who participated in the battle. The monument is a tribute to the Indian Army and can be found on the Jaisalmer-Jodhpur route, which is about two hours away from Jaisalmer.
The Jaisalmer War Museum can be found at Thaiyat, which is situated in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. It is close to the highway that connects Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. The Jaisalmer Bus Stand is located 11 kilometres away from the Jaisalmer War Museum, the Jaisalmer has located 10.5 kilometres away, as well as the Jaisalmer Airport is located around 20 kilometres far from the Museum. When travelling to the museum, visitors have the option of using auto-rickshaws, public buses, private taxis, or taxis provided by the government.
Tazia Tower and Badal Palace
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The Tazia Tower, which is five stories high and can be seen inside the stunning Badal Palace complex, is significant to the city of Jaisalmer. The Tazia tower is indeed a recreation of the burial site of numerous Muslim leaders. It has elaborate embellishments on the exterior of the gravestone that represent rich old craftsmanship and are constructed of thermocol, hardwood, and multicoloured papers.
The Badal Palace can be found close to the Amar Sagar Gate and has the impression of a cloud. The Tazia Tower can be seen sprouting from the centre of the cloud. The typical Rajputana style of building seen in Rajasthan is not at all represented in this tower. The Muslim artisans who worked on these residences gave them the form of a Tazia as a representation of their faith. These buildings once served as houses for the royal family of Rajasthan.
It is a tower that has 5 levels, and each level has its own unique narrative to tell. Each level has a terrace that is well-known for its architecture, and the whole building has an Islamic influence to it, with each one of the patterns being chiselled in an artistic manner. Artists of the Muslim faith created the framework of the balconies in the form of a Tazia and presented it as a gift to the Imperial Benefactors of the Badal Palace, which is a collection of buildings that are distinguished by the sculptures that cover their walls. The Royal Family now resides in this palace. The building is a stunning example of old Muslim architecture because it combines the classical magnificence of the time with the intricate tapestry work that was done by Muslim craftsmen.
The period October to March is the ideal time to visit the Tazia tower. Right after the monsoon season ends, the city takes on a pleasant temperature and humidity level, making it the ideal time to visit the Tazia Tower.
Due to the location of the tower in the middle of the city, getting here shouldn’t provide any difficulties. The Jaisalmer Railway Station is the most convenient stop for passengers travelling by train in the area. It is around 2.8 kilometres away from the tower, and guests may take a cab from the area to get there.
Amar Sagar Lake
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The Amar Sagar lake provides a haven for relaxation not far from the Amar Singh Palace. It is near the fortress that Maharawal Akhai Singh built in the 17th century and that is situated on the edge of the town of Jaisalmer. The palatial complex is laid out like a series of rooms, and it has a number of wells and ponds in addition to the chhatris. It was widely known that Amar Singh was a devout worshipper of Lord Shiva. As a result, a historic temple dedicated to Shiva that was crafted out of marble was built in the eighteenth century. The haveli, which comprises apartments and has a total of five stories, is well-known for the exquisite paintings that adorn its walls.
Next to the palace is a structure that resembles a pavilion and a set of stairs that go down to the lake. There is a finely carved Jain temple located on the other side of the lake, and it takes pride in the fact that its exquisite construction is composed of Jaisalmer stones. The chiselled figureheads made of stone are a fascinating feature of the lake, and it is widely believed that they serve the purpose of guarding the royals.
It is possible to reach the Amar Sagar Lake using the NH11 in about 29 minutes, which is the equivalent of 19 kilometres. To get here, you may choose from a number of different bus companies and taxi companies who provide their services. If you take the Jaisalmer Sam Dhanana Road from the Jaisalmer BSF Bus Station, you will get to Amar Sagar Lake in about 16 minutes.
Mandir Palace
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The Mandir Palace in Jaisalmer is one of the city’s most opulent and well-known historical hotels, and its construction dates back two centuries. The hotel has an atmosphere reminiscent of mediaeval times, yet it also has some contemporary conveniences. It is embellished with excellent stone carvings, elegant staircases, and pavilions, all of which are examples of workmanship in its most basic form.
The Maharaja Jawahir Singh erected Jaisalmer’s Mandir Palace, which has a large collection of skillfully engraved stones, yellow stone chambers, majestic columns, and an overseeing balcony. The view from the palace over the city and its environs is unsurpassed. As a further amenity, the hotel offers a variety of leisure pursuits, including a pool area and indoor games, as well as a home museum and a collection of antique silverware. The cafeteria of the Mandir Palace Luxury Resort serves delectable Rajasthani food.
Autumn and winter are the most pleasant times to visit Mandir Palace, so plan your trip accordingly. During the summer, it might be difficult to withstand the severe temperatures and the searing, dry, and unpleasant heat that prevails. Bus services are really the fastest ones to reserve out of all the many kinds of transportation that are offered. The bus stop is around one kilometre away from the palace, while both the airport and the train station are approximately two and a half kilometres apart.
Pokhran Fort
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It was in the fourteenth century that the Marwar Thakur, Rao Maldeo, constructed the Balagarh Fort, which is also recognized as the Pokhran Fort. The name Pokhran refers to a location that is surrounded on all sides by dusty, gravel, and saline mountains. The fort is devoted to the deity Durga, despite the fact that it only has a modest temple built of red sandstone. This place to visit in Jaisalmer is located in a remote part of the Thar desert.
The terrible spikes that protrude from the massive entryway of the imposing fort are there to prevent elephant stampedes. It is the location of a museum that showcases the weaponry, ceramics, miniature sculptures, and outfits used by royals during the ancient period. The friendly people of Pokhran, who live in the settlement that Pokhran shelters, extend a hearty welcome to each traveller that passes through. The splendour of Pokhran comes from a variety of sources, including a safari ride over the dunes, a settlement that feeds migrating birds, and the native weavers and sculptors who trade in the markets.
The Pokhran Fort is at its most beautiful during the cold winter months of November through February. It is about 110 kilometres from the heart of Jaisalmer City to the Pokhran Fort, which is located close to the Jodhpur – Bikaner route. The most direct method to reach the destination is by highway. Therefore, vacationers have the option of hiring a taxi, using an auto rickshaw, or pedalling their way to the destination, depending on how near they are.
FAQs
Why is Jaisalmer such a popular tourist destination?
Is it worthwhile to take a trip to Jaisalmer?
Only those who are interested in having a desert experience will find Jaisalmer to be worthwhile. You may visit Osian, which is close to Jodhpur and has desert camps and safaris that are quite similar to those in Jaisalmer if you are pressed for time.
How many deserts does Jaisalmer possess?
Within the Thar desert region of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is often considered to be among the greatest cities. The Sam Sand Dunes and the Khuri Sand Dunes are two of the most well-known desert dunes that can be seen here. The area is dominated by desert.
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