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Places To Visit In Jaisalmer

Amongst all the places to see in Jaisalmer, the Jaisalmer Fort is the largest. It is in fact, one of the largest forts around the world. Located on the Tirukuta Hill, this fort was built by Rao Jaisal, one of the mightiest rulers of Jaislamer. Due to its location at the golden stretches of the Thar Desert, this fort is also known as the ‘Sonar Quila’ or the ‘Golden Fort’.

Over the past few centuries, this fort has witnessed several battles and has successfully endured its pride and glory of being one of the magnificent forts in Rajasthan. However, kings and battles are no more persistent and can be found on the pages of history books, leaving behind their immortal legacy and bonding with this fort. 

In addition to the beguiling beauty of the fort, it is also bejeweled with several astounding monuments within it premises. Raj Mahal, Laxminath Shrine, Merchant Havelis, the ornate Jain temples and the gateways are some of the major attractions of this fort.

The walls of this 250 feet tall fort are made of crenelated sandstone and they soar 30 feet high from the ground. The golden yellow reflections of these walls, which can be seen from a distance, have gained it the title ‘Golden Fort’. Masking the fort in a yellowish fog, the fort’s main entrance is a sight to behold. Elevated to about sixty feet, the entrance is made from the finest quality rosewood. Inside the fort, there are stables and fortresses of erstwhile kings of the Rajputana pride.

Sam sand dunes are indeed one of the most authentic desert dune sites in whole India and truly deserves to be on your list of things to do in Jaisalmer. Here, you find 30 to 60-meter tall sand dunes and many travellers enjoy Desert Safari on camels or jeep. Sam is 45 kilometres west of Jaisalmer city where you can reach by hiring a vehicle. You may further choose to stay in one of many desert camps that are mostly built in 2 to 3 km radius of sand dunes.

The best time to reach Sam sand dunes is around evening to enjoy the desert sunset at around 4 to 7 PM or early morning, during the sunrise time of 4 to 6 am. You can book a camel or jeep well in advance or on the spot as they are also available at desert camps. The best time to visit Sam or even Jaisalmer is from the months of October to March as during the renaming months, all the camps are closed and only few camel riders are made available. Moreover, the evening musical program at Sam at the desert camps are not available in summer and monsoon months and makes it as one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.

Location:  Sam Sand Dunes, Near Sam Toll Barrier, Right Side Of Sam Road, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Maharwal Gadsi Singh, the then Maharaja of Jaisalmer constructed this lake in 1400 AD. The lake was originally built as a conservation reservoir for rainwater harvesting; during the ancient times, and it happened to be one of the major water sources for the entire city.

Named after the Maharaja, this reservoir has now earned the fame of being the most popular places to visit in Jaisalmer, and is visited by people from various corners of the world. Located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, it is an idyllic getaway to seek peace and tranquillity of mind, away from the bustling and chaotic city life.

Fringed with several temples and shrines, the lake also serves as an ideal place for the birdwatchers. During the winters, it is flocked by different species of exotic and migratory birds and thus it attracts a number of birdwatchers and nature photographers. Shallow ghats, intricately carved cenotaphs and delightful gardens around this reservoir add to its splendid beauty, and are also one of the main reasons; the lakeside has become one of the popular picnic spots in Jaisalmer.

Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM; Everyday

Location: In Jaisalmer city

Located 18 km away from Jaisalmer, the Kuldhara village is known as the ghost village. Lying abandoned from the past few centuries, this village has no signs of human life and is also known as one of the haunted places in Rajasthan. However, during the contemporary times, this hamlet has become one of the significantly visited places in Jaisalmer.

A clan of eighty-five villages, Kuldhara was once inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins, but due to some adverse happenings, the natives evacuated the village within a night. Also, there have been no traces, where and how the villagers left their homes; only assumptions and wild guesses hinted their invasion to some of the nearby regions. Since then there has been no signs of human dwelling or any other activities within the surroundings.

It is also said that while leaving the village, the villagers put a curse on it. According to the curse, anyone dwelling within the village will have to meet a fearful fate, death in the worst cases!

Location: Jiyai, Rajasthan 345001

Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Kuldhara would be from October to March when the heat is a little bit less, and you can enjoy walking around in the desert without getting tortured by the sun.

Even though Jaisalmer is known to be a desert city, the rulers made attempts to add some greenery to its landscape. The Bada Bagh was one such endeavour that stood the test of time and is now a sprawling garden. Located six kilometers from Jaisalmer, this garden complex is home to the royal tombs and is among the popular places to visit in Jaisalmer.

An artificially built dam is the main source of water to this garden. Commissioned by Maharawal Jaisal Singh, this artificial dam also served as one of the major source of water for the inhabitants of the city. While visiting this garden, the Govardhan Stambh will greet you. This pillar was constructed to celebrate the construction of the dam.

Also, while within the garden premises, you can visit the cenotaphs or the tombstones of the royal families. Built in ancient Hindu architecture, the surrounding has cenotaphs dedicated to each of the Bhatti rulers. Some of these tombstones are as old as the history of Jaisalmer and are a perfect delight for the visitors and make it as one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.

This haveli is one of the popular tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. Salim Singh-ki Haveli is built on an older structure. This building was constructed during the early part of the eighteenth century. It was the residence of the Mehta family, one of the influential families in Jaisalmer during the early 18th century. Salim Singh, the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer commissioned the building of this haveli.

Having a unique architectural identity, the haveli’s roof is based on the peacock’s physical form and it lies within the vicinity of the Jaisalmer fort. In the background you can see high hills overlooking the mansion.

It is believed that two extra floors were built in this building, but was apparently disapproved by the Maharaja and were eventually eradicated down. But there seems to be no indication that these floors existed. The gateways of this building are flanked by a pair of tuskers. Even though the tuskers are made of sandstone, the perfection of their size, shape and carving can make you believe them to be real!

This museum and culture centre is the place to visit to know more about the culture of Jaisalmer and its rich heritage. On display in the Desert Culture Centre and Museum are artefacts relating to the ancient customs of Jaisalmer. A visit to this place reveals a lot about the people and cultures of this region. Abundant with artefacts and items of cultural interest, the museum also displays rare coins; some of the coins date back to the medieval period.

Located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, Khuri sand dunes are a popular visiting spot. The Khuri village is one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer to witness how people live in a desert. You can see the many mud and straw houses at Khuri. These homes have impressive exterior decorations.

Camel riding is one of the main activities in this village and while visiting this village, you can explore the vast expanses of the desert outskirts on a camel back. The crests and troughs of the dunes will intrigue you. Some dunes reach mesmerizing heights.

Whilst experiencing the terrain of the desert, you can also visit the local settlements to experience the culture. Sit in the verandas of the straw thatched homes. A visit to the local bazaar will get you acquainted with the way of trading in the Thar Desert and will also offer you the chance to live their lives. The music of the Kalbeliyas is something you should not miss when at the Khuri Sand Dunes.

The vast expanse of the Khuri Sand Dunes stretches into the horizon. It is a perfect place to find unparalleled solitude as you ride your camel into uninhabited areas. It is a unique adventure activity where you feel like a nomad wandering through the desert in search of an oasis. Campfires during the night are one of the main attractions in this region.

A visit to the Desert National Park will give a better understanding of how the plants and animals have survived the aridness of the Thar Desert. Displaying the unique range and collection of different species of flora and fauna, this museum attracts the nature enthusiasts and the botanists to a large extent.

The terrain of this forest is multifaceted with craggy rock surfaces interspersed between the vegetation. The animals you can see here are the wolf, chinkara, blackbuck and desert cat. Considerable number of sand-grouses can also be seen near the water holes. During the mornings, you can witness the abundant activity of early birds such as the grey partridge for instance.

The park is known to be the abode of the Great Indian Bustard, the state-bird of Rajasthan. The national park is located as a part of the Sudashri forest. The national park houses animals and birds that thrive in the desert. The wildlife sanctuary spans an area of about 3100 square kilometers and also houses some of the exotic animals like the desert wolves, nilgai and spotted eagles.

Located within the vicinity of the Kuldhara village, the Khaba Fort is an abandoned structure that is yet another eerie place in Jaisalmer. This fort holds great potential for photography enthusiasts and is one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer to click amazing snapshots. The surroundings of the fort are intriguing enough to let you have a chilling experience!

This fort was inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmins, and the reason behind this desertion is not entirely known till date. It is believed that when the Paliwal Brahmins deserted the village, they deserted this fort too.

A five storied building in the Main Chowk of Jaisalmer Fort is what is recognized as the Maharaja’s Palace. The palace has meticulously carved stone balconies and window arches as some of the alluring features. The official name of “the palace” is Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum & Heritage Center but the locals and tour guides commonly refer to it as “the palace” as it is easy to spit out.

The palace showcases the lavish and grand rooms like the King’s bedroom, exercise room and the audience room of the King to its visitors. The main hall displays paintings of Maharaja in different periods and the walls of the palace recite the tales of the royal legacy and makes it as one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.

When looking for distinct shopping experiences in Jaisalmer, a visit to its oldest market, Pansari Bazaar, is a must. The place, which once was a villager’s market, is today a vibrant thoroughfare where you can buy a plethora of goods.

Most commonly visited for its wealth of colourful puppets made out of fabrics, the bazaar also sells wall hangings, antique bells and chimes, etc. When at the market, you can also buy beautiful fabrics in different colours, patterns, prints, etc. to make into dresses and bedding. The bazaar is situated 0.2 kilometres away from the Jaisalmer Fort, allowing you to easily fit a visit to the market on a Jaisalmer sightseeing day.

Location: Dhibba Para, Amar Sagar Pol, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

Timing: Daily; 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Price: Free

‘Sonaron ka baas’ translates into an abode of goldsmiths. The name truly, but not entirely represents what the market sells and is best known for! When looking for places to visit in Jaisalmer for jewellery shopping, do add this vibrant market on your list.

Here, you can buy both traditional and contemporary jewellery in a range of materials. You will find jewellery shops selling the jewellery pieces in gold, silver, precious and semi-precious stones. If you are looking for something more pocket-friendly, you can find a wide range of imitation jewellery which will go with both western and Indian outfits. Because Indians love to shop for gold around festivals, you will find the place to be particularly vibrant and decked with lights around the time. 

Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

Timing: Daily; 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Price: Free

Sadar Bazaar is another shopping favourite amongst both local and foreign shoppers. The market is laid out in the form of small shops sitting adjacent to one another, selling a wide variety of goods. The narrow streets run for long distances, allowing you to feast your eyes on a plethora of goods, including hand-embroidered leather footwear (juttis and mojaris), carpets made out of camel hair, tie-and-dye fabrics, etc.

You can also find cloth puppets, carved wooden ornaments, furniture, blankets, shawls, etc. When going to the bazaar, just remember to take cash with you because just like any other market in Jaisalmer, cards are not accepted at Sadar Bazaar.  

Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan 345001

Timing: Daily; 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Price: Free

Lodrawa, also known as Lodurva or Lodarva is a village in Jaisalmer district of state Rajasthan in India. It is 15 kilometres to the north-west of the popular city Jaisalmer. Lodrawa was the ancient capital of the Bhatti dynasty till 1156 AD when Rawal Jaisal founded the Jaisalmer state and shifted the capital to Jaisalmer. This village is a popular tourist destination that is known for its architectural ruins and surrounding sand dunes.

It is also famous for the Jain temple which is dedicated to 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvanath destroyed in 1152 AD when Muhammad Ghori sacked the city but was reconstructed in 1615 by Seth Tharu Shah and further additions were commissioned in 1675 and 1687. The temples were rebuilt in the late 1970s, as reminders of the city's former glory. Some of the other places for you to add on your list of things to do in Jaisalmer are Rishabh Nath Temple and Sambhavnath Temple, Hinglaj Mata temple, Chamunda Mata temple, and an old temple of Shiva.

Location: 15 kilometres to the north-west of the popular city Jaisalmer

For an average Indian, this border gives a feeling of proud nationalism whereas others know the history between two countries well and love being here. Since ancient times, this zone was used by travelers to visit and export items to other countries.

Now this zone has the Border Pillar No. 609 which is situated in the No Man's Land near the Line of Control on the Indo-Pak Border. At BP 609, one can see the check post, the fencing of wires on the Indian side and watchtower of BSF.

Only Indians are allowed to go up to BP 609, and that too after a proper permission from the BSF authorities. Visiting here is possible only if you are going by your own vehicle. Yes, it could be a little tough to get permission but the nationalist in you will definitely bring you here and make it as one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.

Location: 350 KM from Jaisalmer

Timing: Best to visit from 9 AM to 6 PM