Jaisalmer Travel Guide
Rajasthan, India
About Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a stunning desert city in Rajasthan known for its magnificent golden-hued fort and intricate havelis that showcase Rajasthani architecture. The city serves as the gateway to the Thar Desert, offering unforgettable camel safaris and desert experiences. Jaisalmer seamlessly blends rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, making it one of India's most enchanting destinations.
Famous places
- Jaisalmer Fort — A 12th-century golden sandstone fort rising majestically from the desert, with intricate carvings and narrow lanes housing shops, temples, and havelis. It's one of India's most well-preserved living forts and a UNESCO W… (₹50)
- Sam Sand Dunes — Rolling sand dunes 40km from Jaisalmer offering camel safaris, desert camps, and stunning sunsets over the Thar Desert. This is the quintessential Rajasthan desert experience most travelers seek. (₹500-1500)
- Patwon Ki Haveli — A stunning five-story golden sandstone mansion built in 1805 with intricate carved facades and latticed windows showcasing Rajasthani architectural brilliance. It's the most ornate haveli in Jaisalmer with breathtaking … (₹60)
- Gadisar Lake — A scenic artificial lake built in 1367 surrounded by temples, ghats, and colorful boats, offering serene walks and water activities. It's a peaceful retreat from the desert heat with stunning reflections. (Free)
- Nathmalji Ki Haveli — A 19th-century haveli with distinct architecture blending Mughal and Rajasthani styles, featuring detailed carvings and a functional museum inside. It's a living example of merchant-class opulence. (₹80)
- Khimsar Sand Dunes — A less crowded alternative to Sam Dunes located 50km away, offering a more authentic and peaceful desert experience with fewer tourists. Perfect for travelers seeking solitude in the Thar Desert. (₹800-2000)
- Amar Sagar Lake and Temple — A historic lake and deserted temple complex with atmospheric ruins surrounded by desert landscape, offering peaceful exploration away from main tourist crowds. The ruins evoke a sense of timeless desert mystery. (Free)
- Jain Temples in Fort — A cluster of seven interconnected 12th-century Jain temples within the fort displaying intricate marble and stone carvings with remarkable architectural details. They represent the wealth and artistry of Jaisalmer's Jai… (₹50 (included in fort entry))
Best time to visit
- Jan: best — Perfect weather, cool temperatures (15-25°C), clear skies, ideal for desert exploration and sightseeing
- Feb: best — Pleasant climate, minimal rainfall, excellent visibility for forts and temples, Desert Festival season
- Mar: good — Warm but manageable (20-32°C), good for outdoor activities, fewer crowds than peak season
- Apr: good — Hot season begins (25-38°C), manageable early morning and evening exploration, fewer tourists
- May: avoid — Extreme heat (35-43°C), harsh sun, very uncomfortable for tourism, low water availability
- Jun: avoid — Pre-monsoon heat (38-45°C), dust storms, extremely uncomfortable conditions
- Jul: avoid — Monsoon season, heavy rainfall, waterlogged areas, poor visibility, transportation difficulties
- Aug: avoid — Monsoon continues, high humidity, occasional flooding, reduced visibility for sightseeing
- Sep: good — Post-monsoon, temperatures cooling (28-38°C), refreshed landscape, fewer crowds
- Oct: best — Ideal weather (22-35°C), clear skies, perfect for desert tourism, popular festival season
- Nov: best — Excellent climate (18-32°C), comfortable for all activities, peak tourist season, crisp air
- Dec: best — Cool temperatures (15-28°C), clear nights perfect for stargazing, peak season, pleasant overall
Local food
- Natraj Bhojnalya
- Gajraj Restaurant & Sweet Shop
- Mohan Juice & Lassi Corner
- Khandelwal Samosa Stall
- Saffron Restaurant
- Bhang Ki Lassi & Chai Stand
Train routes
- From Delhi: Jaisalmer Express (18 hrs), Delhi-Jaisalmer Superfast (18 hrs)
- From Jodhpur: Jodhpur-Jaisalmer Passenger (5 hrs)
- From Bikaner: Bikaner-Jaisalmer Passenger (5 hrs)
- From Jaipur: Jaipur-Jaisalmer Express (12 hrs)
Estimated daily cost
- backpacker: ₹800-1400/day per person
- midRange: ₹2000-3500/day per person
- comfort: ₹4500-7000/day per person
- luxury: ₹10000-15000/day per person