Jaisalmer, also known as “The Golden City,” is a beautiful place in Rajasthan filled with history, culture, and desert charm. Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, this city is famous for its yellow sandstone buildings that shine like gold in the sun. If you love old forts, colorful markets, or just want a fun trip, the places to visit in Jaisalmer will make you happy.
The city was founded in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal. It was once an important stop for traders and also helped protect the region. Today, Jaisalmer is home to grand forts, royal homes (called havelis), quiet lakes, and even empty ghost villages. Every part of the city tells a story from the past. You can explore the amazing Jaisalmer Fort, visit temples, or take a camel ride through the sand dunes. Colorful shops and busy streets give a feel of local life. You can also enjoy folk music and tasty Rajasthani food here.
Jaisalmer is great for many kinds of travelers - families, couples, or even solo visitors. Whether you want peace or adventure, it has something special for you. You can ride camels, take desert safaris, see ancient carvings, and more. So, whether this is your first visit or a return trip, come explore the top places to visit in Jaisalmer. This golden desert city will leave you with amazing memories and a lot of photos.
Why is Jaisalmer Famous?
The Golden City: Jaisalmer is called "The Golden City" because its buildings and forts are made of yellow sandstone, which shines like gold in the sunlight.
Jaisalmer Fort: One of the largest living forts in the world, built in 1156 AD. It's still home to many people and has temples, palaces, and markets inside.
Camel Rides in the Thar Desert: You can take camel rides through the sand dunes and enjoy a thrilling desert safari.
Old Havelis: Jaisalmer has beautiful havelis with intricate carvings that show the city’s rich history and royal past.
Colorful Markets: The city’s markets are full of colorful handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs, giving a glimpse into local life.
Folk Music and Dance: The city is known for its traditional folk music and dance performances, which add to its cultural charm.
You check out the exciting things to do in Jaisalmer, like camel rides across the dunes and thrilling desert safaris before planning your trip.
Top 10 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)
Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Quila, is one of the largest living forts in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's one of the famous places to visit in Jaisalmer and is made of golden sandstone. This gives it a bright, golden look in the sunlight. Built in 1156 AD, the fort is not just a historical landmark, but it’s also still home to many people. Inside the fort, there are old palaces, Jain temples, and beautiful houses. There are also lively markets where you can buy handmade crafts and souvenirs. The fort’s narrow alleys and beautiful architecture make it feel like a step back in time.
Unique Feature: It’s one of the largest living forts in the world. Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: Free (some attractions inside charge) Best Time to Visit: October to March
Patwon Ki Haveli
Patwon Ki Haveli is a group of five beautiful havelis built by a rich merchant named Guman Chand Patwa in the 19th century. Each haveli is famous for its beautiful designs, including carved balconies, mirrors, and intricate patterns. The havelis show the wealth and artistic skill of the people who lived in Jaisalmer during that time. Inside, you’ll also find a museum that displays old furniture, artwork, and traditional clothes. This place is a great example of Jaisalmer’s history and architecture, and it gives you a glimpse of the lifestyle of wealthy merchants in the past.
Unique Feature: It has five havelis with beautiful designs and carvings. Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: ₹20 (Indians), ₹100 (Foreigners) Best Time to Visit: November to February
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Salim Singh Ki Haveli, built in 1815 by Prime Minister Salim Singh, is famous for its unique roof shaped like a peacock. The building’s upper floors look like the back of a ship, which makes it stand out. It also has beautiful carvings on the walls and narrow passageways. The haveli was once home to the royal family and tells many interesting stories about the city’s history. The combination of Mughal and Rajput styles of architecture gives the haveli its stunning appearance. If you visit, make sure to go up to the rooftop for breathtaking views of the city during sunset.
Unique Feature: It has a unique peacock-shaped roof. Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: ₹20 Best Time to Visit: October to March
Nathmal Ki Haveli
Nathmal Ki Haveli was built in the 19th century by two architect brothers who worked separately, which led to the building having an asymmetrical design. The facades of the haveli are decorated with beautiful carvings of animals, flowers, and even modern objects like cars and fans. The mix of Islamic and Rajput styles makes it a unique architectural piece. The haveli is also known for its beautifully hand-carved exteriors, which makes it a photographer’s dream. It’s a great place to visit if you want to see the fine craftsmanship and artistic beauty of Jaisalmer.
Unique Feature: It has an asymmetrical design with beautiful carvings. Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM Entry Fee: ₹20 Best Time to Visit: October to February
Gadisar Lake
Gadisar Lake was built in the 14th century by Maharawal Gadsi Singh. It was originally created as the city’s main water supply, but now it’s a peaceful and scenic spot for visitors. The lake is surrounded by temples, pavilions, and ghats that reflect in the calm waters, making it a great place for photography. You can also enjoy boating on the lake and watch many different kinds of birds, especially in the winter when migratory birds visit. The peaceful atmosphere and beautiful surroundings make it one of the amazing places to visit in Jaisalmer.
Unique Feature: The lake is surrounded by temples and beautiful pavilions. Timings: 8 AM – 8 PM Entry Fee: Free Best Time to Visit: November to March
Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh, meaning “Big Garden,” is a historical place with royal cenotaphs (memorials) built from golden sandstone. These cenotaphs are dedicated to Jaisalmer’s royal family. The site offers stunning views, especially during the sunset, making it a favorite spot for photographers. The cenotaphs have beautifully carved pillars and domes, showcasing the fine craftsmanship of Rajput architecture. The peaceful atmosphere and the garden’s elevated location make it a perfect spot for a quiet walk or a relaxing time surrounded by history. It’s a must-see place for those who love art and history.
Unique Feature: It has royal cenotaphs with great sunset views. Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: ₹50 Best Time to Visit: October to March
Vyas Chhatri
Vyas Chhatri is a collection of beautiful cenotaphs built in honor of Sage Vyas, who wrote the Mahabharata. These intricate sandstone structures are a tribute to Jaisalmer’s Brahmin community. The cenotaphs are designed with umbrella-shaped domes, and they are decorated with beautiful carvings. The location on a hill offers a panoramic view of Jaisalmer, including the fort and the vast desert landscape. The site is quiet and peaceful, making it one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer for a relaxing visit. It’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset, with the cenotaphs casting long shadows over the desert.
Unique Feature: It has beautiful umbrella-shaped cenotaphs. Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: ₹50 Best Time to Visit: November to February
Kuldhara Village
Kuldhara Village is an ancient village located 18 km from Jaisalmer. It was abandoned overnight in the 13th century, according to legend, due to heavy taxes and a curse. Today, the village remains in ruins, and the layout is still preserved. Kuldhara is known for its mysterious and eerie atmosphere. Many believe it’s haunted, and the village is a popular spot for those interested in ghost stories. It’s also one of the great places to visit in Jaisalmer to learn about the past of Jaisalmer and its people. Visiting Kuldhara is a fascinating journey into the history and mystery of the region.
Unique Feature: It’s an abandoned village full of mystery and legend. Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: ₹10 Best Time to Visit: October to February
Akal Wood Fossil Park
Akal Wood Fossil Park is a special place located 17 kilometres from Jaisalmer, where you can see fossilized trees that are over 180 million years old. The park covers 21 hectares and gives visitors a rare chance to see ancient tree fossils. A long time ago, this area was covered by the sea, and now the fossils are a reminder of the region’s prehistoric past. If you enjoy nature or studying ancient history, this park is a must-see. The park is also a great spot for those who want to learn about Earth’s early days.
Unique Feature: It has ancient fossilized trees over 180 million years old. Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: ₹20 Best Time to Visit: November to March
Jaisalmer War Museum
The Jaisalmer War Museum is dedicated to the brave soldiers of the Indian Army, especially those who fought in the 1965 and 1971 wars with Pakistan. The museum displays tanks, airplanes, and weapons used in these wars. It also has an audio-visual room where you can hear stories about the sacrifices made by Indian soldiers. Visiting this museum gives you a deeper understanding of India’s military history and the courage of its soldiers. Thus, this place is counted as one of the popular places to visit in Jaisalmer. It’s both educational and emotional, and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Unique Feature: It honors India’s soldiers and their bravery during wars. Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM Entry Fee: ₹30 Best Time to Visit: October to March
How to reach Jaisalmer
By Train
You can reach Jaisalmer by train. The city has its own railway station. Many trains come here from big cities like Delhi, Jodhpur, and Jaipur. It’s a fun way to travel because you can see lots of places along the way. Some trains even have sleeper seats, so you can rest during the trip. If you like long journeys and want to see the countryside, traveling by train to Jaisalmer is a great choice for families and travelers.
By Road
Jaisalmer is well-connected by good roads, so you can easily reach it by bus or car. People often travel from Jodhpur, which is about 5 to 6 hours away. Buses are comfortable, and you can also hire a taxi or drive your own car. The roads go through desert areas, so the ride can be very scenic. It’s a nice way to enjoy the journey and stop at other places on the way to Jaisalmer.
By Air
You can also fly to Jaisalmer. It has a small airport, and there are seasonal flights from cities like Delhi and Jaipur. That means flights may not be available all year. The nearest big airport is in Jodhpur, about 300 kilometers away. From Jodhpur, you can take a train or car to reach Jaisalmer. Flying is the fastest way to reach if you’re coming from far. It saves time and is good for those who don’t like long travel.
Discover the best time to visit Jaisalmer and plan your trip during that time for the perfect weather and festivals.
Travel Tips for Jaisalmer
Pack Light, Pack Right: Jaisalmer is in the desert, so it can be very hot during the day and chilly at night. Bring comfortable clothes like cotton t-shirts, hats, sunglasses, and a light jacket for the evening.
Stay Hydrated: The desert can be dry, and you might feel thirsty often. Always carry a water bottle and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
Sun Protection: Don’t forget sunscreen to protect your skin from the strong desert sun. Wearing a scarf or cap will also help you stay cool.
Respect Local Culture: Jaisalmer is a place full of tradition. Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting temples and local villages. Also, try to be polite and learn a few local words to make your visit more enjoyable.
Plan for Desert Safari: If you plan to go on a camel ride or desert safari, book your trip in advance. These are popular activities, and it’s best to secure a spot before your visit.
Explore the Jaisalmer trip cost options that fit your budget, offering everything from luxury stays to affordable tours.
Your Jaisalmer Journey Starts Here
Jaisalmer is a unique and beautiful city full of history, adventure, and charm. With its golden forts, ancient havelis, and peaceful desert landscape, it offers something for everyone. To make the most of your trip, plan your visit in the cooler months and remember to stay prepared for the desert conditions.
For a smooth and memorable experience, choose Jaisalmer tour packages by Travelfika for your vacation planning!
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