Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, also known as the "Golden City," is a captivating gem nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India.
Towering over the city, the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, explore its detailed carvings, ancient palaces, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Jaisalmer serves as the gateway to the Thar Desert, a land of golden sands and rugged beauty.
Jaisalmer's vibrant culture is a captivating blend of Rajasthani traditions and desert influences.
Why Jaisalmer is a must visit destination?
Jaisalmer is well-connected by air, train, and road to major Indian cities. You can also take a connecting flight or train from Delhi or Jaipur.
Explore the city on foot within the fort walls. For exploring other attractions, hire a taxi, rickshaw, or join a guided tour.
Jaisalmer offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxurious heritage hotels within the fort to budget guesthouses outside.
Explore the Jaisalmer Fort, embark on a desert safari, visit Jain temples and havelis, experience local culture, and explore offbeat destinations like Kuldhara and Bada Bagh.
How to Visit Jaisalmer?
Air: Jaisalmer has a domestic airport with connections to major Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai. However, flight options might be limited. Consider flying into Jodhpur (approximately 300 km away) and taking a taxi or train to Jaisalmer for more frequent connections.
Train: Jaisalmer is connected to several Indian cities by train. This can be a budget-friendly and scenic option, especially if you take the luxurious "Palace on Wheels" train for a unique travel experience.
Road: Jaisalmer is accessible by road from various Indian cities. You can either take a public bus or hire a car for a road trip adventure.
Best Time to visit Jaisalmer
October to March is the peak tourist season, offering comfortable temperatures (between 15°C to 30°C) ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, expect larger crowds and slightly higher prices.
1. Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is also called as the " Golden Fort", is one of the largest fully-inhabited forts in the world. Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 AD, and is made up on thr Trikuta Hill from where you can have an amazing view of city of Jaisalmer.
The Jaisalmer Fort is built with yellow sandstone which gives the fort a yellow golden hue which looks absolutlely surreal especially during sunrise and sunset. Travelers visitng this historical masterpiece can discover detailed architecture and can explore through narrow lanes and make a visit to various maginificent havelis and temples. You can feel the magic of this place once you visit. All of these reasons make Jaisalmer Fort one of the Top Places To Visit In Jaisalmer.
How to visit Jaisalmer Fort
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the fort. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
The fort is accessible by bus from the city center.
Visitors can walk to the fort from the city center. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
Book a guided tour to explore the fort and learn about its history and architecture.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians, ₹200 for foreigners
2. Gadisar Lake
Gadisar Lake is a scenic artificial lake which is situated in the heart of Jaisalmer. The lake is surrounded by beautiful ghats, temples, and cenotaphs. Gadisar Lake was originally built by Rawal Jaisal, the founder of Jaisalmer. He established the city in 1156 AD and, due to water scarcity in the region, he prioritized creating a rainwater harvesting reservoir.
In 1367 AD, Gadsi Singh Bhati, undertook a major renovation of the lake.Following this renovation, the lake was renamed Gadisar Lake, reflecting the role of Gadsi Singh in its restoration.
Travelers visiting Gadisar lake can take a boat ride on the serene waters, enjoy the scenic views, and explore the nearby temples and monuments. Gadisar lake is also a popular spot for birdwathcing as varieites of migratory birds visit the area.
How to visit Gadisar Lake
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the lake. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the lake from the city center. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.
Take a boat ride on the lake to enjoy the scenic views and relax.
Book a guided tour to explore the lake and learn about its history and significance.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹20 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
3. Kuldhara Village
Kuldhara is an abandoned village which is situated approximately 18 km far from Jaisalmer. This once flourishing village was mysteriously abandoned in the 19th century, and the reasons behind its abandonment is still a mystery.
The village had a well-defined social structure with a headman and well-maintained houses made from locally available sandstone. These houses, though abandoned, still stand today as an example to the village's past.
Despite the unsettling mystery, Kuldhara village attracts tourists interested in its history and atmosphere. It's a popular day trip destination from Jaisalmer.
Visitors can explore the deserted streets and crumbling structures, which have a haunting charm. The village offers a unique insight into the region's history and the resilience of its people. All these reasons make Kuldhara Village one of the top places to visit In Jaisalmer
How to visit Kuldhara Village
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the village. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the village from the city center. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
Book a guided tour to explore the village and learn about its history and significance.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
4. Patwon ki Haveli
Patwon ki Haveli is a stunning complex with five interconnected havelis in Jaisalmer. These traditional mansions or called as havelis were made in the 19th century and are well- known for their detailed sandstone carvings, decorated balconies, and beautiful jharokhas (windows).
The Patwon ki Haveli was built in the early 19th century by the wealthy Patwa family, famous merchants of gold, silver, and brocade threads. The construction of the haveli was spanned nearly 55 years, with each of the five brothers contributing to the creation of their respective sections.
Visitors can explore the havelis, have a look at the architectural details, and learn about the lives of the wealthy merchants who once lived here.
How to visit Patwon ki Haveli
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the haveli. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the haveli from the city center. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.
Book a guided tour to explore the haveli and learn about its history and architecture.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
5. Jain Temples
Jaisalmer is home to several beautiful Jain temples, including the Chandraprabhu Temple, the Parasnath Temple, and the Shantinath Temple. These temples are known for their exquisite marble carvings, detailed architecture, and serene ambiance.
Travelers visiting Jaisalmer can immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere and learn about the rich Jain heritage of the region in these magnificent Jain Temples.
How to visit Jain Temples
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the temples. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the temples from the city center. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
Book a guided tour to explore the temples and learn about their history and significance.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹20 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
6. Thar Desert
The "Golden City" Jaisalmer is located in the heart of Thar desert, which makes it easy for travelers to explore the Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert.
Thar desert is a vast and arid region that covers across western India and into eastern Pakistan.
Explore on an unforgettable journey through the desert on a camel safari. Explore the sand dunes, visit desert villages, and witness a mesmerizing desert sunset.
Immerse yourself in the rich culture of the Thar Desert.
Interact with local communities, learn about their way of life, and witness traditional performances. All of these reasons make Thar Desert one of the top places to visit In Jaisalmer.
How to visit Thar Desert
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the desert. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the desert from the city center. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.
Take a camel safari to explore the desert and enjoy the scenic views.
Book a guided tour to explore the desert and learn about its history and significance.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
7. Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh is a complex of royal chhatris which is situated about 6 km from Jaisalmer. These beautifully carved structures were built to celebrate the Rajput rulers of Jaisalmer.
Bada Bagh is not a traditional garden full of flowers and plants, but it is a collection of cenotaphs, or chhatris, built by the Maharajas of the Jaisalmer State in the 18th, 19th and early 20th centuries. These chhatris serve as memorials to deceased rulers and their families.
Visitors can explore through the serene gardens, admire the detailed architecture, and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
How to visit Bada Bagh
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the complex. The journey takes approximately 15 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the complex from the city center. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
Book a guided tour to explore the complex and learn about its history and significance.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹20 for Indians, ₹50 for foreigners
8. Maharaja's Palace
The Maharaja's Palace, also called as the Jaisalmer Fort Palace, is a perfect example showcasing the Rajput architecture. This palace was the former residence of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer and is now a museum.
Maharaja Palace showcases the lifestyle of the royal families. Travelers visitng this place can explore the palace's detailed architectural rooms, courtyards, and terraces, and learn about the Jaisalmer's rich history. Maharaja's Palace is one of the top places to visit In Jaisalmer.
How to visit Maharaja's Palace
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the palace. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the palace from the city center. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.
Book a guided tour to explore the palace and learn about its history and architecture.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
9. Nathmal Ki Haveli
Nathmal Ki Haveli is a beautifully preserved haveli in Jaisalmer it is known for its detailed sandstone carvings and stunning architecture. The haveli was built in the 19th century and is an example of the the skilled craftsmanship of the Jaisalmer's artisans. Nathmal ki Haveli is one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer, visitors can admire the detailed jharokhas (windows), decorated balconies, and can get a overall feel of this historic structure.
How to visit Nathmal Ki Haveli
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the haveli. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the haveli from the city center. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.
Book a guided tour to explore the haveli and learn about its history and architecture.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
10. Salim Singh ki Haveli
Salim Singh ki Haveli is an iconic haveli located in Jaisalmer. The haveli is known for its unique curved roof and intricate sandstone carvings. Salim Singh ki Haveli is 300-year-old mansio, which was once the residence of the Prime Minister of Jaisalmer.
Travelers visitng here can explore the haveli's beautifully decorated rooms, courtyards, and terraces, and gain insights into the region's rich architectural heritage.
How to visit Salim Singh ki Haveli
Visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from the city center to reach the haveli. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Visitors can walk to the haveli from the city center. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes.
Timings and Entry Ticket
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Entry Fees: ₹50 for Indians, ₹100 for foreigners
Jaisalmer Tour with Journey Fiesta
Jaisalmer is a city that has it all, scenic landscapes, mind-blowing history, and a plethora of experiences to cherish. When visiting Rajasthan, Jaisalmer should definitely be on your travel checklist.
Planning a trip can be a hassle, but with Journey Fiesta, you can rest assured that we will handle all the logistics for you. From transfers to the best guides and accommodation, we have got you covered. Contact us today to make your Rajasthan dream come true!
FAQs
Q1. What is Jaisalmer famous for?
Jaisalmer is known as the "Golden City" due to the golden-hued sandstone used in its architecture. It's famous for its majestic Jaisalmer Fort, vibrant culture, and its location at the heart of the Thar Desert, offering opportunities for desert safaris and exploring sand dunes.
Q2. Best time to visit Jaisalmer?
The ideal time depends on your preferences. The peak season (October to March) offers pleasant weather, but with larger crowds and higher prices. The shoulder seasons (April & September) are budget-friendly with fewer crowds, but April-June can be very hot. The monsoon (July-August) brings occasional rain and some attraction closures but offers a unique desert landscape.
Q3. How many days do you need in Jaisalmer?
To experience the top attractions, 2-3 days are ideal. However, if you plan on including a desert safari or exploring offbeat locations, you might want to allocate more time.
Q4. Is Jaisalmer Fort worth visiting?
Absolutely! The Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the city's crown jewel. It offers stunning architecture, historical significance, and panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.
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