Published March 03, 2025

Best Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Top Attractions

Set amidst the middle of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is a city in Rajasthan famous for its golden sandstone architecture, rich cultural heritage, and scintillating landscapes. Commonly referred to as the “Golden City,” it houses the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, one of the largest living forts in the world, where the past comes alive in the form of bustling markets, old havelis, and a dynamic culture. The city has the finest blend of royal splendor, desert excitement, and cultural flamboyance to make it an essential travel stop. From the heart-pumping camel safari over dunes to a romantic folk music and dance show or a treat to the Rajasthani delicacies, Jaisalmer has everything in store for an experience never to be forgotten. This blog will explore the best things to do in Jaisalmer.

Explore the Magnificent Jaisalmer Fort

It is also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort. It was built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, and it is one of the largest forts in the world. The golden sandstone glows beautifully under the sun. It is a perfect place to click awesome pictures with your friends or family.

Enjoy a Camel Safari in the Sam Sand Dunes

A trip to Jaisalmer would be incomplete if you haven’t had the adventure of a camel safari through the expansive Thar Desert. Sam Sand Dunes, located around 40 km from the city, is where you can experience the real desert adventure. You travel on camelback and can view the magic sunset over the dunes, watch cultural events, and dine on Rajasthani fare beneath the open night sky. For the high-rollers, you can go in for luxury desert camping too, with all of the above as part of it.

Marvel at the beauty of Gadisar Lake

Gadisar is known for its beauty, and it was built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the 14^th century. The lake was once the primary source of water. Today, it is a favorite tourist destination, providing boating and breathtaking scenery of chhatris (cenotaphs) and temples covering the lake. An imposing Tilon Ki Pol, a beautifully decorated entrance of the lake, welcomes visitors.

Discover the Enchanting Kuldhara Village

Kuldhara was an affluent village with the inhabitants of the Paliwal Brahmins, a wealthy and powerful clan renowned for their farming skills and conservation of water. But in the early 19th century, the whole village was deserted overnight under strange conditions.
As per local folklore, Salim Singh, the tyrannical and powerful prime minister of Jaisalmer, had his sights set on the village chief’s daughter and wished to marry her against her will. Terrified of his tyranny, the whole population of Kuldhara and 83 surrounding villages disappeared overnight, never to be seen again. Before they left, they are believed to have cursed the village so that no one would ever be able to inhabit it again.

Explore the Bada Bagh Cenotaphs

The golden color of the cenotaphs against the desert landscape is an apt sight and, hence, is a wonderful location for photography. Bada Bagh, or “Big Garden,” is a historic place that contains the royal cenotaphs of the rulers of Jaisalmer. The chhatris (domed pavilions) are constructed in memory of the royal family members and are adorned with beautiful Rajasthani architecture. The golden color of the cenotaphs against the desert landscape is an apt sight and, hence, is a wonderful location for photography.

Witness the Beauty of Tanot Mata Temple

Located on the India-Pakistan border, the Tanot Mata Temple serves as both a spiritual and patriotic site. The temple gained prominence during the 1965 Indo-Pak War when Pakistani bombs failed to detonate near the shrine, fostering its reputation as a guardian angel. The Border Security Force (BSF) manages the temple, and visitors can also explore the nearby Longewala War Memorial, which honors India’s victory in the Battle of Longewala.

Must-Try Rajasthani Dishes

A favorite vegetarian option among locals is Gatte Ki Sabzi, which consists of dumplings made with gram flour, steamed and cooked in a sour yogurt-based curry. For those in search of something different, Ker Sangri, which is a dish prepared with dried desert beans and berries, provides a real flavor of Rajasthan.

Refreshing Beverages & Desserts

For those with a sweet tooth, Ghotua Laddoo, a popular Jaisalmer sweet dessert prepared with Malpua, a deep-fried pancake immersed in sugar syrup, usually served with rabri (thickened sweet milk).gram flour, ghee, and sugar, is a delight that dissolves in your mouth.

Chokhi Dhani Desert Camp – A Must-Visit Place in Jaisalmer

Chokhi Dhani Desert Camp invites you to unlock the remarkable journey where luxury meets tradition in the heart of Rajasthan. Chokhi Dhani Desert Camp is a unique experience of Rajasthan’s rich heritage, royal hospitality, and desert activities. Located in the midst of the expansive Thar Desert, this luxury camp replicates the beauty of a traditional Rajasthani village yet provides all modern comforts, and hence, it’s a perfect holiday destination for travelers who want to experience Jaisalmer’s natural and cultural heritage.