FAQs
How do I get to Jaisalmer?
By air: The closest airport to Jaisalmer is in Jodhpur. Flights are available from most cities like Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore. From Jodhpur, you can either take a train or taxi to get to Jaisalmer.
By train: Cities like Delhi and Mumbai have direct trains to Jaisalmer. If you're travelling from other cities such as Bangalore and Chennai, going to Jodhpur and catching a train from there would be your best bet.
By bus: Taking a bus from Delhi to Jaisalmer wouldn't be the best option as it can get tiring and is quite time consuming.
By car: If you're planning to drive from Delhi to Jaisalmer, you can make pit stops at Jaipur or Ajmer which will be on your way. It could take about 12-13 hours to cover a distance of approximately 760 km between Delhi and Jaisalmer.
How do I get around Jaisalmer?
Jaisalmer is a small tourist town. You can get around by autorickshaws. The most convenient option, however, is to rent out a car, scooter, or a motorcycle and discover the region at your own pace.
When is the best time to visit?
The state of Rajasthan is known for extreme temperatures during the day - dry and hot during the day, and cold at night. The best time to visit Jaisalmer is between October and March - when it's not too warm during the day, which makes sightseeing and outdoor activities comfortable. It can get chilly during the nights, so make sure you carry warm clothes as well.
What are the main attractions?
Jaisalmer is also known by its nickname "Golden City" because of the shades of this colour that you'll find in this city. There are a number of locations to visit, and you are sure to remember it for many years to come.
Rising above all the other buildings, the world famous Jaisalmer Fort looks like a giant sandcastle. It is also known as "Sonar Quila" after the yellowstone used to build it. People still live and work within its walls. This majestic structure boasts incredible architecture and artwork that are worth viewing. There are guided tours within the fort for visitors. There are seven beautifully carved Jain Temples built within the fort walls in the Dilwara style that are famous all over the world for their architecture.
Lining the streets, you'll find majestic "Havelis", which are the mansions rich business families used to live in. The most famous haveli is the Patwon-ki-Haveli which has been turned into a museum. You can take guided tours to learn more about the history of these mansions.
The Badal Palace has a cloud-like appearance with the Tazia Tower emerging from it. All the floors of this 5 storey structure have different stories to tell; each floor has a unique balcony of a different design. This mansion stands out because of its Islamic architecture.
Back in the day, Gadsisar Lake used to supply fresh water to the entire city. The lake is surrounded by temples and tombs of saints. You can go boating in this lake. Nearby, there is a Desert Cultural Centre and a Local Museum which conduct puppet shows in the evening.
An overnight excursion will take you to Sam Sand Dunes about 43 kms away from the main town. This region is known to resemble the Sahara Desert, and has spectacular sunsets.
What are the things to do?
You can't leave Jaisalmer without going to the desert to go on camel rides! Go on camelback desert safaris; but if you're not comfortable with camels, you can always take a jeep tour! At Sam Sand Dunes, you can even go on the adrenaline-pumping activity called dune bashing, which is driving a hefty 4-wheeler on the dunes. Witness the dying art of puppetry at the Desert Cultural Centre and a Local Museum. Tour the palaces, the marketplace, and discover the town. If you're one for adventure, you can experience desert life on the 14-day desert safari which will take you to neighbouring towns and villages!
What to eat and where?
Because of its popularity among tourists from India and across the world, Jaisalmer offers its visitors with a variety of cuisines, mostly directed at foreign tourists; Indian food may be hard to find. Restaurants in Jaisalmer serve Austrian, Italian, Continental, German, Tibetan, Chinese, Indian, and authentic Rajasthani food. To feast on the region's traditional food, visit Aanchal Sweet Shop, Artist Hotel Restaurant (very popular), Milap Restaurant, and Royal Rasoi, to name a few.
What do I take back?
Handicrafts, woodwork, and handloom are popular souvenirs bought in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Rajasthani sweets and snacks can also be carried home to taste a little of Rajasthan after your holiday comes to an end.
