Last updated on March 19th, 2025 at 11:15 am
Jaisalmer, often called the “Golden City” of India, is a mesmerizing desert destination that stands out even among the more famous fort cities like Jodhpur and Jaipur.
While most travelers to India follow the well-trodden path of the Golden Triangle (Delhi, Agra, and Jaipur), we’re here to tell you why Jaisalmer is worth visiting. After three months of traveling across India, Jaisalmer turned out to be our absolute favorite Indian city.
In fact, when it comes to the best fort cities in the world, Jaisalmer is at the top of the list.
Don’t have time to read the full guide? This full-day private tour of Jaisalmer showcases the very best of what India’s Golden City has to offer.
In this guide to India’s most beautiful city, we’ll explain why you should visit Jaisalmer, showcase the best things to do in the Golden City, provide tips on how to dress, and answer essential questions like how to get to Jaisalmer, whether it’s safe to visit, and, of course, if it’s worth the trip.
Trust us, after reading this, you’ll be adding Jaisalmer to your India itinerary!
Where is Jaisalmer in India?
Jaisalmer is located in the northwestern part of India, in the state of Rajasthan.
Situated in the heart of the Thar Desert, it lies near the borders of Pakistan, making Jaisalmer one of the most western cities in India.
Jaisalmer is part of the Marwar region of Rajasthan and is 285 kilometers (177 miles) from Jodhpur, the nearest major city with an airport.
Check out the very best flight deals to begin your Indian Adventure.
What is Jaisalmer Famous For? Top Reasons to Add It to Your India Itinerary
Ok, we have started strong with our love for India’s Golden City, so let’s keep the enthusiasm going with the top reasons why Jaisalmer is famous.
A Living Fort City with History Like No Other
One of the main reasons why you should visit Jaisalmer is to witness the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden City, due to the yellow sandstone used in its architecture.
This UNESCO World Heritage site in India is one of the largest living forts in the world. Built in 1156 AD, Jaisalmer Fort still houses a vibrant community of people living inside its walls.
Exploring this living fort is a unique experience, as most fortified cities around the world have been abandoned. In our view, this is why Jaisalmer stands out as the best city in India.
Exploring this magnificent Indian fort gives you the chance to witness centuries of history in a single place. Jaisalmer Fort’s architecture, temples, havelis, and narrow streets provide an unforgettable experience that makes Jaisalmer a must-visit destination for anyone interested in Rajasthan’s rich culture.
Read our top tips for visiting India to ensure you are best prepared for your trip.
The Majestic Sand Dunes and Desert Adventure
Another reason why you should visit Jaisalmer is its proximity to the stunning Thar Desert – the largest desert in India.
Jaisalmer’s golden sandstone architecture blends beautifully with the desert landscape and the vast sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a surreal, otherworldly experience.
For those looking to add some adventure to their India itinerary, there are plenty of activities in the Thar Desert, such as camel safaris, jeep safaris, and stargazing.
The tranquility of the Thar desert and the thrill of exploring it on a camel truly make Jaisalmer a unique travel experience and one of the best places to visit in India.
Rich Rajasthani Culture and Traditions
Jaisalmer is also home to a thriving cultural scene. From folk music and dance to colorful festivals, Jaisalmer offers a deep dive into the heart of Rajasthani culture.
The city comes alive during the Jaisalmer Desert Festival in February, where visitors can witness traditional dance performances, camel races, and music.
Experiencing this vibrant culture like nowhere else in the world is another reason why you should visit Jaisalmer.
Have you heard of the Rat Temple in India? This famous Karni Mata Rat Temple is located in Bikaner, and during our India trip, we traveled from Bikaner to Jaisalmer as part of our itinerary. If you’re looking to add a truly unique attraction to your Indian adventure, this is definitely worth considering!
The Top Attractions in Jaisalmer
Now that you know what Jaisalmer is famous for and why you should visit, let’s dive into the best things to do in Jaisalmer.
Here’s a list of must-do activities in India’s Golden City.
Best Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Visit Jaisalmer Fort
As mentioned above, the Jaisalmer Fort is the crown jewel of the city and the top thing to do in Jaisalmer.
Wandering around Jaisalmer Fort feels like stepping into a different time. The narrow streets of India’s living fort are filled with beautiful buildings, temples, and markets.
The golden fort walls shine in the sunlight, and you can enjoy stunning views of the Thar desert. It’s bustling with life yet peaceful at the same time.
Walking through the maze-like streets is a unique experience in India where the past and present seamlessly blend. You will feel like you are in a movie set, there is nothing quite like it.
There will be plenty of Jaisalmer tour guides available offering tours through the Fort, Maharaja’s Palace, and Jain Temples for 300 INR ( USD 3) excluding the entry fees for the palace and temples.
*Tickets for Jaisalmer Fort: Visiting Jaisalmer Fort is free, but entry to Maharaja’s palace is 500 INR (6 USD) at the time of writing.
Best Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Explore the Jain Temples Inside the Living Fort
There are seven Jain temples within the Jaisalmer Fort. These Jain temples are considered some of the most beautiful and significant Jain architectural marvels in India.
The Jain Temples were built between the 12th and 15th centuries, and each one is dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras.
*Tirthankaras are revered spiritual leaders in Jainism, one of the ancient religions of India.
The Jain temples are known for their intricate carvings, sculptures, and the remarkable use of yellow sandstone that blends seamlessly with the fort’s golden color. Visiting these Jaisalmer Temples offers a calm break from the bustling markets and streets outside.
Honestly, just getting lost on purpose and wandering around the Golden City is the best thing to do in Jaisalmer. Every corner you turn will be something unique to marvel at or a friendly local to chat with. We spent 3 days in Jaisalmer with our jaws dropped at the sheer beauty of this living Fort.
Best Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Discover the Beauty of Patwon Ki Haveli
The most historical landmark of Jaisalmer is Patwon Ki Haveli, one of the largest Havelis in the Golden City.
Patwon Ki Haveli is a stunning collection of five havelis, each decorated with intricate carvings and paintings.
*Havelis are traditional mansions or large homes, often built by wealthy merchants, traders, or noble families in India, particularly in Rajasthan and Gujarat.
Visiting this architectural masterpiece is one of the most iconic things to do in Jaisalmer and without a doubt the most popular Haveli in the Golden City.
This must-visit attraction in Jaisalmer is a museum dedicated to Rajasthan’s heritage. The intricate marble carvings and stunning murals depict the rich history of Jaisalmer, and exploring each haveli offers a glimpse into the unique past of this Living Fort.
Best Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Stay in a Heritage Hotel Inside the Fort
Who doesn’t want to spend a night in an ancient Indian Fort?!
For a truly unique experience in India, you should consider staying in a heritage hotel within Jaisalmer Fort.
These Jaisalmer heritage hotels are built in former havelis and offer a glimpse into the city’s past. Staying inside the living fort allows you to experience the Golden City at its best, especially when you venture out at night to see the fort illuminated under the starry sky.
Now that is something truly unique in Jaisalmer to add to your India bucket list.
Where is the best place to stay in Jaisalmer?
Linking with the above best thing to do in Jaisalmer is our top recommendation for where to stay when visiting the Golden City.
In our opinion, Desert Haveli Guesthouse offers the best accommodation in Jaisalmer, and staying here is truly an experience in itself. This historic hotel is located just steps away from the iconic Jaisalmer Fort and Jain Temples.
To add to your already amazing visit to Jaisalmer, you can treat yourself to relaxing onsite massages or rent a bicycle to explore this amazing Rajasthan city your own way.
The views from this popular Jaisalmer hotel are absolutely stunning, and the best part? You can start your day with a complimentary breakfast while soaking in the best views in Jaisalmer!
We love our complimentary breakfasts! Check out other ways we eat cheap around the world.
Best Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Gadisar Lake
Gadisar Lake is an artificial lake in the southern part of the city of Jaisalmer.
Built in the 14th century, Gadisar Lake was once the main water source for Jaisalmer. Today, it’s a peaceful spot in India’s Thar desert, offering a cool break from the scorching Rajasthan heat.
Visit Gadisar Lake for sunset to enjoy the calm waters, take a boat ride, and admire the beautiful floating chhatris.
*Chhartris are decorative, umbrella-like pavilions with domed roofs, commonly seen in Indian architecture, often serving as memorials or cenotaphs to honor royalty or important figures.
After sunset, you can also catch the nightly water show at Gadisar Lake.
Best Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Take a Camel Safari at the Sam Sand Dunes
One of the best things to do in Jaisalmer is taking a camel safari through the Sam Sand Dunes, located just outside the city.
This is the best way to experience the Thar desert. A camel ride at sunset is especially magical, as the sky turns orange and pink, casting a golden glow over the sand. Another tick of the Rajasthan travel bucket list!
Top-rated Jaisalmer Camel Safari Tour:
If you have more time to spend in the Golden City you can experience the very best of Jaisalmer with a unique tour of the Thar Desert with visits to local villages, camel safari, cultural show, and delicious traditional foods. Finish off your Thar desert tour by enjoying a delicious dinner in the Thar desert and a blissful night under the stars.
We honestly don’t think a Jaisalmer Tour gets much better than this, with many reviews stating it was the best part of their India trip!
Top-rated Jaisalmer Tours in Thar Desert:
Where to Eat in Jaisalmer: The Best Views in Jaisalmer
Our top recommendation for visiting Jaisalmer is to not only enjoy the incredible restaurants within the Golden City but also to explore dining options outside the Living Fort, where you can enjoy a meal with stunning views of Jaisalmer Fort.
- Our Top Recommendation of where to eat in Jaisalmer with views of the Fort is Sukoon (a City View Cafe And Restaurant)
Just check out our dinner views of India’s most beautiful fort in the photo below.
- Another top restaurant in Jaisalmer is inside the fort at Lake View Restaurant, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city below, especially as it lights up at night. Dining inside the fort walls of Jaisalmer was truly a magical experience, offering delicious Indian cuisine and certainly a reason why you should visit Jaisalmer.
How to Get to Jaisalmer: Travel Options and Costs
Getting to Jaisalmer requires a bit of planning, but allow us to suggest some of the best ways to get to India’s Golden City.
All major cities in Rajasthan are well-connected to Jaisalmer by trains, buses, and private drivers, each offering different travel times, costs, and classes.
Be sure to check out 12go to find and book the best transportation to Jaisalmer that suits your preferences.
If you’re seeking more luxurious or first-class transportation to Jaisalmer, it’s recommended to book in advance, as these options tend to fill up quickly.
If you’re short on time during your India itinerary, consider taking a flight to Jaisalmer from major cities like Mumbai or Delhi. While this option may be more expensive, it could be worth the investment if you’re looking to experience the best of India without compromising on time.
Getting Around Jaisalmer Once You Arrive
After arriving in the Golden City, getting around Jaisalmer is quite straightforward.
You can explore Jaisalmer’s major attractions by walking or hiring auto-rickshaws or taxis for short trips around this Living Fort.
Here are some local transport options for getting around Jaisalmer
- Auto-rickshaw/Tuk-Tuk: Tuk-tuk fares should typically cost INR 20 to INR 50 (about $0.25 to $0.60 USD) for short distances around Jaisalmer Fort. Hiring a tuk-tuk from here to attractions like Gadisar Lake should cost 150 to 200 INR, but depends on your bargaining skills.
- Taxis: For longer trips, a half-day taxi rental can cost around INR 1,000 to INR 2,500 (approximately $12 to $30 USD).
- Wander: Our favorite way of getting around Jaisalmer!
*Note that taxis are not allowed within Jaisalmer Fort walls – that is where your love for wandering comes in (alternatively you can still hire a rickshaw to get around Jaisalmer Fort)
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities like camel safaris in the Thar Desert and exploring Jaisalmer Fort.
Winter months in Jaisalmer offer the perfect combination of comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making it the ideal time for a desert adventure.
How Many Days to Spend in Jaisalmer: The Ideal Itinerary
The ideal amount of time to spend in Jaisalmer is 2 to 3 days. This gives you enough time to fully explore the city’s major attractions, such as the Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and the Jain Temples within the fort walls.
You can also experience a memorable camel safari in the Sam Sand Dunes, visit to nearby Kuldhara village, and enjoy a cultural evening with folk music and dance.
If you’re looking to relax and soak in the desert atmosphere, an extra day can be added to just enjoy all the delicious Indian food with incredible Fort views!
With 2 to 3 days in Jaisalmer, you’ll have a perfect balance of sightseeing, adventure, and relaxation, making the most of your trip to India’s Golden City.
Is Jaisalmer Safe to Visit?
Jaisalmer is generally safe to visit for travelers, including solo women travelers. It is one of the most welcoming cities in Rajasthan and is accustomed to tourists from around the world.
Jaisalmer’s peaceful atmosphere, with its small-town charm and friendly locals, makes it one of the safest cities to visit in India.
As with any destination, it’s always important to take basic safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings, being aware of your surroundings, and dressing modestly to respect local customs.
Solo women travelers find Jaisalmer safe, but it’s always a good idea to travel in well-populated areas after dark and use reputable transportation services.
Travel Insurance for India – Even with the luck of the Irish, things can still go wrong. World Nomads Travel Insurance is our top choice for travel coverage for India. With the best transparent fine print in the industry, it’s no wonder they’re ranked number one. Even though Jaisalmer is safe to visit, don’t let your adventures turn to mishaps, and get a free quote today!
What Should I Wear in Jaisalmer?
When visiting Jaisalmer, or any part of Rajasthan, it’s important for women to dress modestly and respectfully, as the region has a conservative culture. Here are some clothing suggestions to help you blend in comfortably while ensuring you stay cool in the desert heat:
Loose-Fitting Clothes: Opt for loose, lightweight fabrics such as cotton or linen. These materials help keep you cool in the heat and allow your skin to breathe. A long, loose top or tunic paired with pants or a skirt is a great choice.
Avoid Revealing Clothing: While Rajasthan, and in particular Jaisalmer, is a tourist-friendly destination, revealing clothing like shorts or sleeveless tops can attract unwanted attention. It’s better to err on the side of modesty for a more respectful and comfortable experience in Jaisalmer.
Long Sleeves and Full-Length Pants: While it’s not necessary to cover your entire body, it’s respectful to wear clothes that cover your shoulders, cleavage, and knees. Long sleeves and full-length pants or skirts are ideal, especially when visiting Jaisalmer temples, forts, and rural areas.
Scarves or Shawl: Carrying a scarf or shawl is a great idea to cover your shoulders or head when visiting religious sites in Jaisalmer. You can easily drape it over your shoulders or head as a sign of respect when entering temples in Rajasthan.
Kate from Happy Irish Wanderers decided to wear a headscarf while exploring the fort city of Jaisalmer and was warmly approached by a local woman (see photo above) who thanked her for showing respect for the local culture.
This thoughtful gesture highlights the importance of considering cultural norms when deciding what to wear in Jaisalmer, making your trip to India’s UNESCO Heritage Site more enjoyable and immersive.
Is Jaisalmer Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, Jaisalmer is worth visiting! We are sure that you have realized our opinion on visiting Jaisalmer at this point!
Often overshadowed by other more famous fort cities like Jaipur and Jodhpur, Jaisalmer stands out as one of the best fort cities in the world.
Its unique blend of stunning desert landscapes, ancient forts, intricate havelis, and rich cultural experiences make it a must-visit for anyone traveling to Rajasthan.
The Jaisalmer Fort is a living testament to the city’s rich history and architectural brilliance.
Beyond Jaisalmer Fort, unique experiences like camel safaris in the Sam Sand Dunes, and visits to Jain Temples ensure you have an unforgettable Indian adventure.
If you’re seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in India, Jaisalmer is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding destinations to explore. It was, without a doubt, the standout location during our travels across India.
Conclusion: Why Jaisalmer Should Be on Your India Travel List
If you’re looking for a truly unique experience in India, Jaisalmer should honestly be at the top of your list of Indian attractions.
From exploring the majestic Jaisalmer Fort to taking a camel safari in the Thar desert, this Golden City offers a rich cultural experience and beautiful landscapes that few places in the world can match.
We traveled across India for three months, and we can say without a doubt that Jaisalmer was the best fort city in India.
We can guarantee that you will love visiting Jaisalmer. This magical city in India was like stepping back in time and simply blew our minds.
What’s one extra train journey, when in India and all that!
Trust us, adding it to your India itinerary will be a decision you won’t regret!
FAQs About Jaisalmer Summary
Q: What are the best things to do in Jaisalmer? A: Some of the best things to do in Jaisalmer include visiting Jaisalmer Fort, going on a camel safari, exploring Patwon Ki Haveli, and experiencing the desert landscapes at Sam Sand Dunes.
Q: Why should I visit Jaisalmer? A: Jaisalmer is one of the most unique and beautiful cities in India, with its rich history, golden sandstone architecture, and proximity to the Thar Desert. It’s a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Rajasthan.
Q: When is the best time to visit Jaisalmer? A: The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for exploring the city and the surrounding Thar Desert.
Q: How can I reach Jaisalmer? A: Jaisalmer is accessible by air, train, and road. You can easily find trains and buses connecting Jaisalmer to other major cities. Book all your India transport via 12go.
Q: Is Jaisalmer safe for tourists? A: Yes, Jaisalmer is generally safe for tourists. As with any destination, it’s important to exercise caution, especially in crowded areas, and keep your belongings secure.
Enjoy Jaisalmer, India’s Most Beautiful City!
Are you convinced why you should visit Jaisalmer yet? Feel free to let us know if we missed any of the best things to do in Jaisalmer!
We have spent a lot of time exploring India so if you need any help planning your India itinerary, please do not hesitate to get in touch, we are always more than happy to help.
Please feel free to leave us a message below or contact us through our socials.
Slán go fóil
This post contains affiliate links. If you click on the links to make a purchase, we will earn a small commission. This is at NO EXTRA COST to you. This is a free way to support us and allow us to continue to create inspiring adventure travel guides.
