Top Activities to Experience in Jaisalmer: A Journey through Rajasthan’s Golden City

Nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer, also known as the Golden City, is a mesmerizing blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. With its golden-hued sandstone architecture, Jaisalmer stands as a living testament to Rajasthan’s royal heritage and desert charm. From exploring ancient forts and havelis to experiencing the allure of the vast desert, Jaisalmer offers a range of unique activities that make it a must-visit destination in Rajasthan.

Here’s a guide to the top activities to do in Jaisalmer for an unforgettable experience.

1. Explore Jaisalmer Fort: The Golden Fort

No visit to Jaisalmer is complete without exploring Sonar Quila, better known as Jaisalmer Fort, which is the heart of the city. Built in the 12th century, this fort is one of the largest living forts in the world, meaning that it still houses shops, homes, temples, and restaurants within its walls.

• Walk Through the Fort’s Narrow Lanes: Take a walk through the narrow, winding lanes of the fort, lined with intricately carved sandstone structures, ancient temples, and bustling shops selling handicrafts and souvenirs.
• Visit the Fort's Temples and Palaces: Inside the fort, explore temples dedicated to Hindu gods like Lord Lakshmi Narayan and Jain Temples that are famed for their delicate carvings. Don't miss a visit to the Maharawal Palace, which offers a glimpse into royal life and showcases grand courtyards, royal chambers, and fantastic views of the city.

The fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is often referred to as the “Golden Fortress” because of the way the golden sandstone reflects the sunlight, especially at dawn and dusk.

2. Camel Safari in the Thar Desert

One of the most iconic activities in Jaisalmer is a camel safari through the vast, golden sands of the Thar Desert. Riding a camel through the desert is a quintessential Rajasthani experience, offering a chance to witness the beauty and tranquility of the desert landscape.

• Sunset Camel Safari: A sunset camel safari is an absolute highlight. As the sun sets over the dunes, the entire desert is bathed in golden hues, creating a magical atmosphere. This is one of the most scenic and unforgettable experiences in Jaisalmer.
• Overnight Desert Safari: For a more immersive experience, you can embark on an overnight desert safari where you’ll camp in the desert, enjoying traditional Rajasthani music, folk dance, and a bonfire under the stars. These safaris typically include a traditional Rajasthani dinner and provide a unique opportunity to connect with nature in the heart of the desert.

3. Visit the Patwon Ki Haveli

Jaisalmer is renowned for its stunning havelis, and Patwon Ki Haveli is among the most beautiful and famous ones. This collection of five havelis was built in the 19th century by a wealthy merchant and is known for its intricate architecture, stunning carvings, and historical significance.

• Explore the Architecture: The Patwon Ki Haveli is a great example of the exquisite craftsmanship of the time, featuring stunning facades, intricate woodwork, and beautiful stone carvings. It’s one of the finest examples of Jaisalmeri architecture.
• Visit the Museum: The haveli houses a small museum where you can view artifacts and exhibits that reflect the culture and lifestyle of the bygone era. You can also enjoy panoramic views of Jaisalmer from the rooftop.

4. Discover the Jain Temples

Jaisalmer is home to a series of beautiful Jain temples, located within the Jaisalmer Fort. These temples are known for their extraordinary architecture and intricate carvings, making them a must-see for anyone visiting the city.

• Temples Inside the Fort: The Jain Temples inside Jaisalmer Fort are dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras and are famous for their delicate marble carvings, ornate ceilings, and detailed stonework.
• Shree Shantinath Temple: Located near the fort, this temple is another prime example of Jain architecture, with its intricate designs and serene atmosphere.

These temples not only serve as places of worship but also showcase the artistic and spiritual heritage of Jaisalmer.

5. Visit the Sam Sand Dunes

Located about 40 km from Jaisalmer, the Sam Sand Dunes offer a true desert experience. This popular destination is known for its wide expanse of sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see.

• Jeep Safari: For those who prefer a faster, more exhilarating way to explore the desert, a jeep safari is a great option. This thrilling ride takes you across the sand dunes, offering stunning views of the desert and a sense of adventure.
• Cultural Performances: At Sam Sand Dunes, you can also experience Rajasthani folk music and dance performances around a campfire. Traditional Kalbeliya dance and puppet shows are among the most popular performances.

It’s a perfect place for those seeking an authentic desert experience combined with a cultural touch.

6. Visit the Kuldhara Village

Located 18 km from Jaisalmer, Kuldhara is a deserted village with an intriguing history. Once a thriving settlement, it was abandoned overnight in the 19th century by the Paliwal Brahmins due to the oppressive actions of a local ruler. Today, the village is a popular tourist attraction due to its mystery and historical significance.

• Explore the Abandoned Village: Wander through the ruins of the village and get a feel for the ghostly atmosphere. The old stone houses, with their crumbling walls and narrow lanes, add to the mystery of this place.
• Learn the Folklore: Local guides tell the fascinating story of the village’s sudden abandonment, which adds to the allure of this deserted village. It’s an excellent spot for photography and history enthusiasts.

7. Shopping at Jaisalmer Market

The vibrant local markets in Jaisalmer are perfect for shopping traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. The bazaars around the fort, especially the Sadar Bazaar and Puppet Bazaar, are filled with shops selling colorful tie-dye fabrics, handwoven textiles, brassware, and silver jewelry.

• Camel Leather Products: Jaisalmer is also famous for its camel leather products, such as bags, belts, and slippers. The markets offer a wide range of these products, which are beautifully crafted and durable.
• Traditional Handicrafts: You can pick up mirror work items, wooden artifacts, miniature paintings, and traditional jewelry.

8. Sunset Point

For those seeking breathtaking views of the Thar Desert and the city of Jaisalmer, Sunset Point offers an excellent vantage point. Located just outside the city, this spot is ideal for watching the sun set over the golden sandstone buildings of the city and the endless desert dunes. The sight of the sun casting a golden glow over the landscape is truly magical.