40 Best Places To Visit In Jaisalmer

Places to visit in Jaisalmer encompasses Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh-ki Haveli, Nathmal-ki-Haveli, Khuri Sand Dunes, Khaba Fort and Indo-Pak border amongst many others. Popularly known as the ‘Golden City’, the city has a golden atmosphere due to the use of marvelous yellow sandstone in the local architecture of the Jaisalmer is a land with frontier to the neighbouring nation and dotted with temples, havelis and of course, beautiful Jaisalmer Fort. The geological history of Indian sub-continent could be noticed by visiting Wood Fossil Park or Aakal whereas a vivid picture of camels and bounteous sand dunes could be noticed at Thar desert which is also one of the most terrific tourists’ places to visit in Jaisalmer

From ancient to medieval signature styles, all are compiled in this small city with large desert as a backdrop. The desert proximity is studded with comfortable camps and safaris while delectable Jaisalmer’s Cuisine wants everyone to try vegetarian as well as a non-vegetarian course to satiate a hungry side.

Keep the spirits high in the high temperature of the city and explore the various congested but cool streets.

Famous Places to Visit in Jaisalmer

 Jaisalmer Fort

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

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.

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

Gadsisar Lake

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.

Patwon Ki Haveli

An architectural marvel in the streets of the city and marked by intricate carving and murals is what Patwon ki Haveli is. Built in the 19th century, this Patwon ki Haveli is a combination of 5 different havelis in one single premise. It consists of a museum having rare artifacts, furniture work, miniatures, mirror-work and a large collection of paintings and interestingly, used to be a hotspot for travelers all around the world. The haveli is also known for residences of merchants who sold gold and silver items, amongst which some threads were used in ornamental dresses. It houses the office of Archaeological Survey of India today, managed by the government as a whole.
Timing: 9 AM to 5 PM; Everyday

Location: In Jaisalmer city

Indo-Pak Border

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

Location: 350 KM from Jaisalmer

Timing: Best to visit from 9 AM to 6 PM

Salim Singh-ki Haveli

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!

Nathmal-ki-Haveli

This haveli has derived its origin from the late 19th century and has extraordinary exterior, dripping with carvings. The 1st floor of the haveli has some beautiful paintings that are made using 1.5kg of gold leaf. Apparently, the left and right wings were the work of two brothers-Hathi and Lulu. The competitive spirit in them apparently produced this virtuoso work. If you closely observe, the two sides are similar, however not identical.

There are pictures engraved on pillars and walls that consist of horses, cattle, and depiction of flora among many other things. The most interesting aspect of this haveli that draws instant attention are the modern amenities such as cars, fans etc. It is said and believed that the architect brothers never saw these things in reality and engraved it with the mere help of their descriptions. These interesting facts surely make visiting Nathmal ki haveli on your list of things to do in Jaisalmer.

Location: In the heart of Jaisalmer

Kuldhara Abandoned Village

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!

Khaba Fort

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.

When you are at the fort, you get amazing panoramic views of the village. Upon strolling inside the fort, you can experience the old world charm from the remnants of the structure. There is also a museum here that houses rare artefacts dating back to several centuries. Now this place and the surrounding regions are rarely visited by the locals who believe that this place is a cursed one.

Amar Sagar Lake

Amar Sagar Lake is situated at a distance of 7 km towards the western outskirts of Jaisalmer. It is a lake cum oasis, which lies adjacent to the Amar Singh Palace.

This palace was constructed during the 17th century by Maharawal Akhai Singh in honour of his predecessor Amar Singh. There are pavilions with stairs near the palace that lead down towards the Amar Sagar Lake. The whole construction of this palace resembles pattern of apartments. It is a 5 storey building which is famous for its murals.

This complex of Amar Sagar Lake and Palace includes various ponds and wells, along with an old Shiva Temple. Amar Singh, who was a great follower of Lord Shiva, built this temple in this complex.

Location: Situated close to the Jaisalmer Fort, tourists can take taxis or shared auto rickshaws from the fort to reach this lake and palace.

Timings: Opened daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.

Vyas Chhatri

Vyas Chhatri is an air array of brilliant sandstone chhatris and is located on an old Brahmin graveyard on an ascent on the northwestern edge of town.

It is a well known sunset point from you can have the sight of fort. You can enter in Vyas Chhatri from Ramgarh Rd, which is just opposite to the Himmatgarh Palace Hotel.

Timings: 8 AM to 7.30 PM

Desert National park

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.

Surya Gate

Surya Gate is one of the doors of the antiquated Jaisalmer Fort situated in the Thar Desert. This twelfth century AD fort is in yellow sandstone, and also called as ‘Brilliant Fort’, remains on top of Trikuta Hill.

Visitors need to go through four progressive doors, Akhai Gate, Surya Gate, Ganesh Gate and Hawa Gate to reach the castles. Surya Gate, the second one is a slender door with stone carvings. The entryways are not in straight line.

This is to anticipate simple passage of the foe. Between first door and Surya Gate there are little shops offering blessing things.

The Thar Heritage Museum

This private Thar Heritage Museum has an interesting variety of Jaisalmer antiquities, from turbans, musical instruments, fossils and kitchen hardware to shows on birth, marriage, demise and opium traditions. It has brought alive by the guided visit you’ll get from its organizer, neighborhood student of history and folklorist LN Khatri.

It is delighted in the snakes and stepping stools amusement that goes about as an instructing manual for Hinduism’s profound adventure. On the off chance that the entryway is bolted you’ll discover Mr Khatri at his shop, Desert Handicrafts Emporium, adjacent on Court Rd.

Location: The Thar Heritage Museum is located on the Off Court Road in Jaisalmer

Mandir Palace

A conspicuous historic point in this staggering legacy city is Mandir Palace, which had been the living arrangement of the leaders of Jaisalmer for over two centuries.

Mandir Palace is a dazzlingly cut compositional wonder of fancy galleries, coverings and carefully cut screens that speak to a high purpose of neighborhood craftsmanship in its finest and purest structure.

A recognizable element of Mandir Palace is its tower called ‘Badal Vilas’, which emerges as the tallest structure underneath the slope top city post.

Location: The Mandir Palace is located on Sadar Bazar in Jaisalmer

Desert Culture Centre and Museum

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.

The museum displays rare Rajasthani textiles, utensils, and weapons. There is also a collection of musical instruments which are rarely seen today. ‘Karal’, an opium mixing box is one of the most popular attractions among the tourists. It is believed that the use of opium was common several centuries ago in Rajasthan where it was used as a substance to relax and rejuvenate. The museum also has some of the ancient scriptures written by ancient poets and litterateurs.

Bada Bagh

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.

Khuri Sand Dunes

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.

Akal Wood Fossil Park

The Akal Wood Fossil Park is a kind of a destination that is loved by all. People of all ages usually love to go and explore the prehistoric era here. Once you reach the park, you will notice the area is covered with large fossilized tree trunks of various sizes and seashells. The largest of which is about 13 meters long and 1.5 meters wide. There are around 25 numb trees and some of the oldest fossils are about 200 years old. Since the climate here is hot and humid, it helps in preserving these fossils.

Location: The Akal Wood Fossil Park is located 17 km away from the main city of Jaisalmer on Barmer Road

Shantinath Temple

Shantinath Temple is situated inside the Jaisalmer Fort. This shrine is visited for its brilliant architectural style and remarkable sandstone carvings. The temple is dedicated to Shri Shantinath, fondly referred as a Jain Tirthankara and is one of the seven prominent Jain temples within the Golden Fort. It stands in the form of a majestically carved, beautiful idol that attracts a number of pilgrims from across India. The temple dates back to the 16th century and it holds a religious significance among its believers. There are a total of 24 Tirthankar statues which are placed inside this temple and is a remarkably serene location to spend some time in solitude. The tranquillity and architectural significance of this temple make it as one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.

Location: Near Golden Fort, inside the Jaisalmer Fort.

Opening Hours: Opens for visitors from 9 am to 6 pm on all the days.

Type of Landmark: Pilgrimage site.

Maharaja’s Palace

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.

Best season to visit: Winter season (November to February)

Location: Main Chowk, Jaisalmer Fort.

Opening hours: 8 am to 6 pm (from April to October), 9 am to 6 pm (from November to March)

Chandraprabhu Temple in Jaisalmer

The geometrical patterns and the curved facades beautify the charm of the red stone carvings which is influenced by the Rajput style in this temple. This Jain shrine located inside the Jaisalmer Fort dates back to the year 1509. The Chandraprabhu Temple in Jaisalmer is dedicated to the 8th Jain Tirthankara, Chandraprabhu Ji (a Jain prophet), and it is considered as one of the prominent seven Jain temples in the fort. People who have visited this Jain temple already boast of the intricate designs and carvings, the pretty edifices and the corners. Wherever you see there is something to catch your eyes and that brings a number of visitors every day to this holy shrine.

Location: Off the Jaisalmer-Sam Road, Jaisalmer 345001, India

Famous for: Rajput style architecture and religious significance.

Tazia Tower

Tazia Tower of Jaisalmer can certainly be considered to be one of the major tourist attractions on your Jaisalmer tour. If you are fond of the Rajputana architectures scattered in the city, Tazia tower will come as a welcome break to you. It is situated in the excellent ‘Badal Palace’ complex located near Amar Sagar Gate. These were once the homes of the former royal family.

The Tazia tower is a 5-storied structure where each story has significance in its own. On each floor there is a balcony that is famous for their individual designs. This tower was built by Muslim craftsmen and is based on the shape of Tazia; which is actually the replica of Mausoleum of various Imams. The construction is made of wood, thermocol and coloured papers. The architects gifted it to the then royal patrons to honour them with love and respect.

Location: Badal Palace complex located near Amar Sagar Gate

Jaisalmer War Museum

The Indian Army has set up a historical war museum in Jaisalmer. This war museum which is the first-of-its-kind on the western front traces the evolution of the Indian Army and covers in detail its inspiring contribution in mainly 1965 Indo-Pak War and 1971 Longewala battle including all combat operations and other nation building activities.

‘Jaisalmer War Museum’ has been established in the military station of Jaisalmer to showcase the bravery of the Indian Army and also to commemorate the sacrifice of its heroes displaying valour and courage of exceptional order during India’s wars.

The museum boasts 106 mm Recoilless Gun employed to destroy a number of Pakistani tanks, occupy a place of pride in the memorial. The memorial also has a state-of-the-art audiovisual theater for screening the movie on the battle of Longewala.

Location: The war museum is located 10 km short of Jaisalmer on the Jaisalmer to Jodhpur highway and can be easily reached by taxi.

Timings: Opened daily from 10 AM to 6 PM.

Jain Temple

The fun fact about the Jaisalmer fort which is also called as ‘sonar quilla’ is that It is just not a tourist attraction site or a world heritage site but a huge settlement that houses temples, havelis, shops, houses etc. This group of Jain temples in Jaisalmer dates back to the 12th century and are of great archaeological value. These temples are a great example of a Dilwara style built with animals and human figures carved on the walls of Yellow stones. The Jain temples in the Jaisalmer Fort are dedicated to Rikhab Devji and Shambhavi Dev Ji, the famous Jain hermits which are fondly called as ‘Tirthankars’. Gyan Bhandar library is one of the interesting features that you will find on the campus, prowl on some of the rare manuscript preserved in India at this place.

Location: Jaisalmer Fort.

How to reach: Share an auto rickshaw or take a rickshaw up to Jaisalmer fort.

Famous for: Dilwara style paintings, and architecture.

Opening hours: Early morning till 12 noon.

Tanot Mata Temple

Located in western Rajasthan, this temple is located nearby to the site of war that elapsed between India and Pakistan in 1971. It is believed that this area was peppered with bombs but none of them hit the temple. The Tanot Mata temple is located in an impressive tourist location. This temple has also been featured in movies and several documentaries. Visiting this temple is also an opportunity to visit the Thar Desert. During the modern times, numerous wind based renewable energy projects can be found in this region.

Longewala War Memorial

Longewala War Memorial is the spot where the battle of Longewala in 1971 between India and Pakistan was fought. The popular movie “Border” is based on this story. It is the last point up to which civilians are allowed, just 12 km from Pakistan. The museum was constructed right on the spot of the battle and is maintained by Indian Army. This area faces rather harsh conditions such as the temperature in summer easily goes beyond 50 degrees, and water is rare, no vegetation, food transportation from Ahmedabad or Mumbai. Despite all these conditions, the museum is well maintained.

There is an audio-visual show chronicling the Longewala battle, giving out interesting details of those days. There are actual battle tanks, jeeps and weapons from the battle displayed over here, both from Indian and Pakistani sides. They have also preserved photos of and after the battle. The museum also houses the actual bunkers used by the soldiers which are reconstructed for public display. What grabs your attention and is heartening to see is that the place is given as much importance as a religious spot and the upkeep is in line with the same.

Location: Thar Desert of Rajasthan state

Lodhurva

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

Dussehra Chowk

Enclosed in the Golden Fort (Sonar Quila) of Jaisalmer, the Dussehra Chowk sprawls as a large courtyard that is shrouded with tales of ceremonies and celebration of the festival of Dussehra during the reign of Rajput in Jaisalmer. The edifices and edges of the marvellous Royal fort can witness from all the angles from the Dussehra Chowk. Hawa Pol, Akshya Pol, Ganesh Pol, and Suraj Pol are the four getaways to enter the fort and one can reach the Dussehra Chowk by Hawa Pol (the last of the four getaways). There is a marble throne which is said to be the place where the King would sit and watch the proceedings in the complex.

Location: Golden Fort.

Opening hours: From 9 am to 6 pm on all the days.

Pokaran Fort

Fort Pokaran; the fourteenth-century bastion otherwise called “Balagarh” remains as a paragon in the midst of the Thar Desert.

This landmark is the head post of The Chief of Mighty Champawats (the family of Rathores) has to its past distinguished title appended the prestigious honor “Pradhan” ( The Premier Noble ) to perceive each Thakur of Pokaran as of the main honor in The Darbar (the court) of the state Marwar-Jodhpur.

It has become one of the most famous places to visit in Jaisalmer and has attracted millions of visitors in the recent years.

Location: It is located in the Pokhran city, in the district of Jaisalmer
Offbeat Experiences in Jaisalmer