Jaisalmer’s best attractions: Best things to do in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, The Golden City needs no further description. It’s much popular for its aesthetically appealing forts, breathtaking dunes and royal charm. There are many places that you can visit & things to do in Jaisalmer if you want some sand dune structures that depict a sense of royalty like Jaisalmer fort for some Rajputana charm, sand dunes safari, Gadisar Lake to witness some exquisite carvings, a blissful sunset can also be experienced at Amar Sagar Lake etc.

A state rich in its culture, traditions and cuisines is much popular amongst the tourists and it’s for sure a place worth visiting. There are many spots and activities that are offered to you as a tourist and it’s so much different from any other state in India. Here you can witness a world heritage site, Patwon ki Haveli, Jain culture at Jain temple etc. A lot of art and culture is also popular here due to the construction of epic forts, and palaces built by the rulers of Rajasthan. 

After knowing so much about Jaisalmer who won’t be excited to visit this amazing location? Let’s help you figure out some of the best things you can do in Jaisalmer while visiting it with your family and friends. 

Here is a brief list of best things to do in Jaisalmer:

#1. Jaisalmer Fort

A world heritage site declared by UNESCO, the Jaisalmer fort is a location that is a mandatory visit for every tourist. This ancient fort in the midst of the Thar desert is more than a fort. It’s a tiny town that has a small market, temple, shops and even restaurants. This is one of the largest Hill forts in India. The fort was built on the orders of ruler Rao Jaisal. The height of this grand fort is 250 ft and it has a 30 ft wall all around it. Being at the top of this fort you can see the entire golden city of Jaisalmer from a beautiful view. 

This is popularly known as “Sonar Qila” as well as the “Golden Fort”. 

The fort is made in a mix of Muslim and Rajput styles. This is also called the only living fort of India as there are commercial activities and local people are allowed to live and do business on the fort premises. 

Timings: 9 Am to 5 Pm

Entry fee: INR 30 for Indian citizens, INR 70 for foreigners, you will have to pay INR 50 and INR150 extra for photos and video cameras respectively.

#2. Gadisar Lake

A very popular attraction in Jaisalmer was built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh. In the past years, this lake was a lifesaving water reservoir for the local people. Even though it’s largely believed that it’s a natural oasis, this is a man-made lake. This lake is a must-visit tourist spot as you can experience boating here. To make the experience even better try boating with the sunset view. It’s time you book a boating spot and absorb the peaceful surrounding as you take a break from your hectic city life. 

Timings: 7 AM to 7 PM

Entry Fee: INR 100 for a two-seater pedal boat, INR 200 for a four-seater pedal boat, and INR 300 for a 6-seater rowing boat.

#3. Sand dune safari 

Jaisalmer is famous for its unique safari that takes place in the Thar Desert. This sand dune safari takes place in the Sam sand dunes. It begins with a camel ride which is for about 90 minutes. On the way a few tourist attractions also take place. Here one of the tourist attractions is a place where local cuisine is served with a short Rajasthani dance performance. This is optional and another experience that can be chosen instead of this is a remote sand dune safari where you cross Khuri sand dunes for a more genuine desert experience. 

The meal served here is simple local cuisine and at night you can stay here as the tents are good enough for you to sleep in. This is one of the best places for astronomy tourism too. You can be here in silence and simply fall on your back for star gazing. 

Timings: N/A

Entry Fee: The sand dune safari prices depend on your selected package. It can vary from INR 500 to INR 2500.

#4. Kuldhara Village

This is a popular haunted place in Jaisalmer known as the abandoned village. This village was once a crowded village where more than 1500 Paliwal Brahmans used to live. One night it was abandoned all of sudden by each and every person.

The legends say that the Paliwal Brahmans were harassed by the local tax collectors for revenue. One day the tax collector humiliated the community by setting his eye on one of the Brahmans’ daughters. As a response to this humiliation out of remorse the entire community vacated the village and cursed the king. Till today the lands remain deserted. One can visit and see the temples and homes here but they all remain abandoned. 

Timings: 8 Am to 6 Pm 

Entry Fee: INR 10 and INR 50 for car parking

#5. Taste the Divine at Jaisalmer

The cuisine available in Jaisalmer is mainly vegetarian and it’s made after hours of preparation. The variety here is mouth-watering and you must try options.  The rich in colour culture have some popular delicacies here like Dal Bati Churma, Ghevar, Rabdi, Moong Dal Ka Halwa etc. To try everything at once you must visit the fort restaurants here that offer amazing Thali so that you get to taste a little of everything here in one place.

Visit Jaisalmer to live the royal Rajasthani culture in one place. It has all the cultural activities and traditions that you would love to experience. Try the cuisine here is also a very easy option as you will get to eat all the sweets, main course as well as the street food here in one place. 

Also read:- Best Places to visit in Rajasthan

There are many other activities you can do and locations you can visit while in Jaisalmer like:

Go shopping: In Jaisalmer, you can shop for handmade jewellery, sandstone décor pieces, and wooden items in markets like Sonoran ka Bazar, Pansari Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar etc. 

Parasailing at Kanoi: Fly high over the sand dunes and see the entire Jaisalmer. This sky-hugging experience is an amazing treat to your mind and body. This might charge you around INR 800.

Quad Biking in Sam Sand dunes: Quad biking is a must-try super thrilling activity you can choose. This dusty pool of sand can actually be a memorable event on your trip to Jaisalmer. This activity will cost you around INR 1700. 

Indo-Pak Border: Visiting the Indian and Pakistan border is a lifetime experience. The travellers can see the neighbouring country and also seek blessings in the nearby temple. The Tanot Mata temple lies on the border.  

Drink Bhang Lassi: Relish and relax by trying this unique lassi at Jaisalmer. The Bhang lassi shop offers a mind-relaxing formulation of Lassi with a blend of cannabis in yogurt. 

Puppet Show: The puppet shows the root of Rajasthani culture. It is more than 100 years old. Here you can watch a brief play of puppets dancing and entertaining everyone. If you are visiting Jaisalmer with your kids then this is a must-visit place. 

Light and Sound Show: The light and sound show of Jaisalmer is another amazing show you can attend. This event also attracts a huge crowd.

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