Things To Do
in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer, known as the 'Golden City', is a stunning desert town in Rajasthan, India. It is famous for its exquisite sandstone architecture, particularly the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, which is one of the largest forts in the world. The city is rich in culture, with colorful markets and traditional Rajasthani music and dance.

Visitors are drawn to its unique landscapes, vibrant local lifestyle, and the enchanting Thar Desert.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Golden Fort
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the Jaisalmer Fort, exploring its narrow alleys, shops, and stunning temples.

afternoon
:

Head to Patwon Ki Haveli, a beautiful collection of havelis showcasing intricate carvings and architecture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the fort illuminated at night.

day 2
Day 2: Desert Adventures
morning
:

Take a camel safari in the Thar Desert, experiencing the serene beauty of the dunes.

afternoon
:

Visit the Kuldhara Village, an abandoned village that tells the story of the region's history.

evening
:

Return to the city and attend a cultural show featuring Rajasthani folk music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍛Meal at a Local Restaurant$3-5
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10-20
🚕Local Taxi Ride$2-5
🥤Bottle of Water$0.30
🛍️Souvenirs$5-15

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Stunning desert landscapes and unique architecture.
  • Friendly locals and vibrant markets.
  • Extreme temperatures in summer.
  • Limited nightlife options.
  • Water scarcity issues in the region.
  • "नमस्ते" - Hello
  • "धन्यवाद" - Thank you
  • "कृपया" - Please
  • "आप कैसे हैं?" - How are you?
  • "मुझे मदद चाहिए" - I need help

Places to Visit in Jaisalmer

Visit one of these nice places.

Jaisalmer Fort

Capture the golden hue of the fort during sunrise or sunset, providing a breathtaking backdrop.

Patwon Ki Haveli

The intricate architecture and detailing make for stunning close-up shots.

Sam Sand Dunes

A picturesque desert landscape perfect for sunset photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer offers a vibrant culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage, with an array of flavors and ingredients that are a must-try for every visitor.

Jaisalmer Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Dal Baati Churma

A traditional Rajasthani dish consisting of lentils, baked wheat balls, and sweet crumbled bread.

Must-Try!

Gatte Ki Sabzi

A curry made from gram flour dumplings, cooked in a spicy yogurt sauce.

Ker Sangri

A unique dish made using desert beans and berries, flavored with spices.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sadar Bazaar

A bustling market where you can find local snacks and handicrafts, perfect for a quick bite.

Bada Bagh

Famous for street food stalls serving delicious samosas, kachoris, and sweets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Jaisalmer has a desert climate, characterized by hot summers, mild winters, and very little rainfall. Summer temperatures can exceed 40°C, while winters can drop to around 5°C at night. The monsoon season brings some rain, but it is generally brief and does not significantly affect travel plans.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Dress Modestly

Respect local culture by dressing conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites.

Greetings

A traditional greeting is to say 'Namaste' with palms together.

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; it is customary to greet them first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Jaisalmer is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid wandering alone at night in less crowded areas and keep an eye on your belongings in busy markets. Always drink bottled water and be cautious of food hygiene.

Tipping in Jaisalmer

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, and small tips for guides and drivers are appreciated.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, many establishments accept credit cards. Ensure to carry adequate cash for markets.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Winter (November to February)

Pleasant weather with temperatures ranging from 5 to 20°C, ideal for exploring.

Summer (March to June)

Hot and dry with temperatures soaring above 40°C; it's best to explore early morning or late evening.

Monsoon (July to September)

Light rainfall may occur, cooling temperatures, but can make outdoor activities difficult.

Autumn (October)

A great time to visit with moderate temperatures and vibrant festivals.

Nightlife Guide

Jaisalmer at Night

Jaisalmer's nightlife is relatively calm, with most activity centered around cultural performances at local restaurants. Some rooftop cafes offer music and dance shows, providing a glimpse into the rich traditions of Rajasthan. Bars are limited, but a few places serve local drinks and host gatherings for both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Jaisalmer

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Sam Sand Dunes

A scenic hike through the dunes that allows for stunning views of the sunset.

Kuldhara Village Trail

A moderate hike that takes you through the history-laden abandoned village, offering picturesque desert landscapes.

Airports

How to reach Jaisalmer by plane.

Jaisalmer Airport (JSA)

Located about 15 km from the city center, it connects to major cities like Delhi and Jaipur with limited flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Jaisalmer is quite walkable, especially around the fort and main market areas. The narrow streets are pedestrian-friendly, allowing for easy exploration on foot. However, be mindful of the heat during the day, and carry water to stay hydrated.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Rajasthani Locals

The majority of the population consists of Rajasthani locals known for their rich culture and hospitality.

Tourists

Jaisalmer attracts a mix of domestic and international tourists, particularly during the winter season.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Cricket

A favorite pastime among locals, played in parks and streets.

Kabaddi

A traditional team sport that is popular in rural areas around Jaisalmer.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Jaisalmer is generally manageable, with fewer vehicles compared to larger cities. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are popular for getting around, while walking is encouraged in the central areas. Public transportation is limited, so pre-arranged transport is often the best option for tourists.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Jaisalmer.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most restaurants offer a wide variety of vegetarian dishes due to the cultural norms of the region.

Spicy Food

Dishes tend to be spicy; ask for less spice if you have a low tolerance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Jaisalmer are limited, with a few local clinics and a government hospital. For serious medical issues, it is advisable to travel to Jodhpur, which has better healthcare facilities. Travelers should have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover India

Read more in our India 2025 Travel Guide.

India Travel Guide