30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Jaisalmer | Dec 2024

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What activities can I do in Jaisalmer?

Jaisalmer, also known as the ""Golden City,"" is a popular tourist destination in India. Here are some things to do in Jaisalmer: 1. Visit Jaisalmer Fort: Explore the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world and offers stunning views of the city. 2. Explore Patwon Ki Haveli: Visit the intricate Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five havelis, showcasing exquisite architecture and beautiful artwork. It offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of wealthy merchants in ancient times. 3. Desert Safari: Experience the thrill of a desert safari in the Thar Desert. Ride a camel or go for a thrilling jeep safari through the sand dunes. Enjoy the mesmerizing sunset and indulge in traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances. 4. Sam Sand Dunes: Visit the Sam Sand Dunes, located about 45 kilometers from Jaisalmer. Enjoy an overnight stay in a desert camp, go for a camel ride, and witness the breathtaking sunrise over the sand dunes. 5. Visit Gadisar Lake: Take a peaceful boat ride or a leisurely walk around Gadisar Lake. This man-made lake is surrounded by temples, ghats, and cenotaphs, making it a serene and picturesque spot. 6. Jain Temples: Explore the intricately carved Jain Temples in Jaisalmer. These temples are dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras and are known for their architectural beauty and detailed artwork. 7. Visit Kuldhara: Take a trip to the abandoned village of Kuldhara, located about 18 kilometers from Jaisalmer. This ghost village is known for its mysterious history and is a fascinating place to explore. 8. Havelock Museum: Visit the Havelock Museum, also known as the Desert Culture Centre and Museum. It houses a collection of artifacts, textiles, and artwork that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Thar Desert region. 9. Shopping: Explore the vibrant markets of Jaisalmer and shop for traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. The Sadar Bazaar and Manak Chowk are popular shopping destinations. 10. Attend the Desert Festival: If you visit Jaisalmer in February, don't miss the Desert Festival. It is a three-day extravaganza showcasing the rich cultural traditions of Rajasthan, including camel races, folk music and dance performances, and traditional competitions. Remember to savor the local Rajasthani cuisine, try the famous daal baati churma, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the people of Jaisalmer.

When is the best time to travel to Jaisalmer?

The best time to travel to Jaisalmer, India is during the winter months, from October to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant with temperatures ranging from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius (50 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). The days are sunny and the nights are cool, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions. Moreover, Jaisalmer is known for its desert landscape and the famous Jaisalmer Desert Festival, which takes place in February. This festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region with traditional music, dance performances, camel races, and other exciting activities. It is a great time to experience the vibrant culture of Jaisalmer. However, it is important to note that Jaisalmer can get crowded with tourists during the peak winter season. So, if you prefer fewer crowds, you can plan your visit during the shoulder months of October and March. Avoid traveling to Jaisalmer during the summer months (April to June) as the temperatures can soar up to 45 degrees Celsius (113 degrees Fahrenheit), making it extremely hot and uncomfortable for outdoor activities. The monsoon season (July to September) is also not recommended as Jaisalmer receives very little rainfall and the desert landscape may not be at its best during this time.

Travel culture you should know when traveling to Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, located in the state of Rajasthan, is a city known for its rich culture and heritage. Here are some aspects of Jaisalmer's travel culture: 1. Forts and Palaces: Jaisalmer is famous for its magnificent forts and palaces. The Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or Golden Fort, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction. The fort is home to several palaces, temples, and havelis (traditional mansions) that showcase the architectural brilliance of the region. 2. Desert Safari: Jaisalmer is situated in the heart of the Thar Desert, and a desert safari is a popular activity here. You can experience the thrill of riding a camel across the sand dunes, witness mesmerizing sunsets, and spend a night in a desert camp under the starlit sky. Cultural performances like folk music and dance are also organized at the camps. 3. Folk Music and Dance: Rajasthan is known for its vibrant folk music and dance forms, and Jaisalmer is no exception. The city is a hub of cultural activities, and you can witness performances of traditional Rajasthani music and dance, including the famous Kalbeliya dance, during your visit. Many hotels and restaurants in Jaisalmer organize cultural evenings where you can enjoy these performances. 4. Local Cuisine: Jaisalmer offers a delectable range of Rajasthani cuisine. The local dishes are known for their rich flavors and unique preparation methods. Some popular dishes include Dal Baati Churma (lentils, baked bread, and sweet crushed wheat), Ker Sangri (a traditional Rajasthani vegetable dish), and Gatte ki Sabzi (gram flour dumplings in a spicy gravy). Do try the local street food and sweet delicacies like Ghewar and Mawa Kachori. 5. Handicrafts and Shopping: Jaisalmer is famous for its exquisite handicrafts and traditional artwork. The city is known for its skilled artisans who create beautiful items like leather goods, embroidered textiles, mirror work, wooden carvings, and silver jewelry. The markets in Jaisalmer, especially the Sadar Bazaar and Manak Chowk, are perfect places to shop for these unique handicrafts. 6. Festivals: Jaisalmer celebrates various festivals with great enthusiasm. The Desert Festival, held in February every year, is a major attraction. It showcases the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan through folk music and dance performances, camel races, turban tying competitions, and more. The festival is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions. Jaisalmer's travel culture is deeply rooted in its history, traditions, and vibrant Rajasthani heritage. Exploring the city will give you a glimpse into the royal past and the rich cultural tapestry of this enchanting destination.

Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Jaisalmer

When visiting Jaisalmer, there are several unique shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider buying. Here are some suggestions: 1. Camel Leather Goods: Jaisalmer is known for its camel leather products such as bags, wallets, belts, and shoes. The leather is of excellent quality and beautifully crafted. 2. Embroidered Textiles: Jaisalmer is famous for its vibrant and intricate embroidery work. You can find a wide range of textiles like bedspreads, cushion covers, wall hangings, and clothing with colorful mirror work and embroidery. 3. Handmade Jewelry: Jaisalmer is home to skilled artisans who create exquisite jewelry pieces. Look for silver or gold-plated jewelry with traditional Rajasthani designs like Kundan, Meenakari, or Thewa. 4. Rajasthani Handicrafts: Jaisalmer is a treasure trove of Rajasthani handicrafts. You can find beautiful wooden carvings, marble sculptures, pottery, and metalwork like brass and copper items. 5. Puppets and Dolls: Rajasthani puppets and dolls are popular souvenirs. These colorful and intricately designed puppets are made using cloth, wood, and strings. They make for unique decorative pieces. 6. Rajasthani Spices and Tea: Jaisalmer is known for its aromatic spices and teas. Look for locally sourced spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and chili powder. You can also find a variety of flavored teas like masala chai or herbal infusions. 7. Bandhani and Batik Fabrics: Bandhani is a traditional tie-dye technique, and Batik is a wax-resist dyeing technique. These fabrics are used to create beautiful sarees, scarves, and dress materials. They make for excellent gifts or personal keepsakes. 8. Rajasthani Paintings: Jaisalmer is known for its miniature paintings. These intricate artworks depict scenes from Rajasthani folklore, royal life, and nature. Look for paintings on silk, paper, or camel bone. Remember to bargain while shopping in Jaisalmer's local markets like Sadar Bazaar and Bhatia Bazaar to get the best prices.

Jaisalmer travel review

Jaisalmer: A Gem in the Desert Nestled amidst the vast expanse of the Thar Desert in the state of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is a city that exudes an old-world charm and offers an unforgettable travel experience. Known as the ""Golden City"" due to its golden-hued sandstone architecture, Jaisalmer is a destination that will transport you back in time to the era of Rajput warriors and grandeur. One of the main attractions of Jaisalmer is its magnificent fort, known as Jaisalmer Fort or Sonar Quila. Built in the 12th century, this fort stands tall on a hilltop and offers stunning panoramic views of the city. As you enter the fort, you will be greeted by narrow lanes, intricate carvings, and beautiful havelis (traditional mansions). The fort is also home to several temples, including the Jain Temples, which are known for their exquisite architecture and intricate sculptures. A visit to the Patwon Ki Haveli is a must when in Jaisalmer. This cluster of five havelis is a testament to the opulence and artistic skills of the merchants of the bygone era. Each haveli is adorned with intricate carvings, balconies, and jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies) that offer a glimpse into the grandeur of the past. The havelis also house museums that showcase artifacts and relics from the bygone era, providing a fascinating insight into the history and culture of the region. Jaisalmer is also famous for its sand dunes, and no trip to the city is complete without experiencing a desert safari. Hop on a camel and embark on a thrilling ride through the undulating sand dunes, as the sun sets and paints the sky in hues of orange and gold. Spend a night in a traditional desert camp, where you can enjoy folk music and dance performances, savor traditional Rajasthani cuisine, and sleep under a blanket of stars. It is an experience that will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime. For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Desert Culture Centre and Museum is highly recommended. This museum showcases the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan, with exhibits on traditional costumes, jewelry, artifacts, and musical instruments. It is a treasure trove of knowledge and a perfect place to delve deeper into the history and traditions of the region. Jaisalmer is also known for its vibrant markets, where you can shop for intricately embroidered textiles, mirror work garments, leather goods, and traditional Rajasthani handicrafts. The bustling streets of Sadar Bazaar and Bhatia Bazaar are a shopper's paradise, offering a plethora of options to indulge in retail therapy and take home souvenirs that reflect the essence of Jaisalmer. In conclusion, Jaisalmer is a city that captivates with its rich history, architectural splendor, and desert landscapes. From exploring the majestic Jaisalmer Fort to witnessing the mesmerizing sunset over the sand dunes, every moment spent in this golden city is a magical experience. So, pack your bags, embrace the desert vibes, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to Jaisalmer, the gem in the desert.