From Pink Walls to Golden Sands – Discover Rajasthan with Us.
Jaisalmer Travel Guide: 5 Must-Visit Places in the Golden City
Welcome to Our Rajasthan Travel Guide Series!
Welcome, traveler! Comprehensively open here with this grand blog series of our Rajasthan Travel Guide, exploring royal attraction and hidden gems, and adventures in every nook and corner of this majestic Indian state.
Journeying through the Land of Kings, city by city, this is about where to go and where to skip, the best time to visit, and secret tips for creating that little magic. Whether you fancy a romantic getaway in Udaipur or get a desert safari’s thrill by riding over sand dunes in Jaisalmer or enjoy exploring the cultural avenues of Jaipur’s palaces, this series will map your way out.
So now tie on your turban (or hat!), pack up your camera, and get ready for having the time of your life in Rajasthan!
Jaisalmer, famously known as the Golden City of India, is a mesmerizing destination in Rajasthan. This enchanting city, surrounded by the vast Thar Desert, is a dream for history buffs, adventure lovers, and culture enthusiasts. From exploring the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort to riding camels over golden dunes, this Jaisalmer trip itinerary covers the top 5 places you cannot miss!
Day 1: The Grand Fort & Architectural Marvels
1. Jaisalmer Fort – The Living Fort of Rajasthan
Start your tour from the Jaisalmer Fort, one among the few living forts in this world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, much unlike most forts, is actually inhabited by thousands of people today. Walk through its narrow lanes flowing with ancient temples, cafes & handicraft shops. Do not forget to visit the gorgeous Raj Mahal Palace and the Jain Temples which lie imprisoned inside the fort.
- Entry Fee:
Indians: INR 50 per person
Foreigners: INR 250 per person - Camera Fee: INR 50
- Video Camera Fee: INR 100
- Opening Daytime: Normally 9 AM to 6 PM.
- Note: The fort is a living fort with people residing within its walls, which makes it crowded.
- History
2. Patwon Ki Haveli – The Jewel of Jaisalmer
After exploring the fort, come to Patwon Ki Haveli, an architectural marvel with delicately carved designs and wonderful balconies. This cluster of five havelis was built in the 19th century and offers a window into the luxurious past of rich trading families.
- Entry Fee:
Indians: INR 20 per person
Foreigners: INR 100 per person - Camera Fee: INR 50
- Video Camera Fee: INR 100
- Opening Daytime: Normally 9 to 5 PM.
- History
Day 2: Desert Adventures & Local Experiences
3. Sam Sand Dunes-An Ultimate Desert Safari
No Jaisalmer trip is complete without a trip to the Sam Sand Dunes. Located some 40 km away from the city, these rolling golden dunes provide an outstanding setting for camel safaris, jeep rides, and breathtaking sunset ambiance views. Spend the night at a desert camp to enjoy Rajasthani folk music and relish a sumptuous traditional dinner.
- Entry Fee:
Entry is free - Camel safaris: INR 20-200
- jeep safaris Fee: INR 500-1500
- Opening Daytime: Normally 9 AM to 5 PM.
4. Kuldhara – The Abandoned Ghost Village
An outdoorsy short trip Kuldhara- a very haunting, yet beautiful abandoned village. Legend says that the whole village has disappeared overnight due to a curse. The ruins of this once-bustling settlement are today an almost mystical attraction, perfect for inquisitive travelers.
Here’s a more detailed breakdown:
Timings: The village welcomes guests from Sunday to Saturday- from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
Entry Fees:
Indian Citizens: Rs. 10 a person.
Foreign Nationals: Rs. 100 a person.
Vehicle Entry: 50 Rs.Location: The village of Kuldhara is situated almost 18 kilometers southwest of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan.
History: This village was once surrounded by a great community of the people who belonged to Oriya Brahmins-they left the village suddenly in the dead of night which is mainly the reason why the village is called “ghost village”.
Legends: Various stories of abandonment have circulated over many generations, often involving the worst kind of cruel prime minister demanding submission of a daughter of the village through marriage, or just barely some combination of factors like droughts and earthquakes.
What to Expect: Explore Ruins of Houses, Temples and Other Structures, as Well as the History of the Village and What Led to Its Abandonment.
Day 3: History, Culture & Shopping
5. Gadisar Lake – A Serene Escape
Initiate your last journey in peace by visiting Gadisar Lake, a historical reservoir constructed in the 14th century. Take a boat ride and view the chhatris or cenotaphs in and around the lake. In winter, you may find various migratory birds that would add beauty to the place.
A more extensive analysis is as follows:
Timing- 8:00 A.M; 8:00 P.M Entry Fee-No entry fees for the lake. Boating Fees: 2-seater pedal boat – INR 100; 4-seater pedal boat: INR 200; 6-seater rowboat: INR 300. Most Suitable Time to Visit-Recommended by Desert Heritage Camp And Resort, morning and evening will serve the purpose to enjoy cool weather as well as the sunrise or sunset.
How to Reach Jaisalmer
1. By Train – The Most Budget-Friendly Option
| From City | Train Name | Departure Station | Arrival | Fare (Sleeper/3AC) |
|---|
| Delhi | Ranikhet Express (15014) | Delhi Sarai Rohilla (DEE) | Jaisalmer (JSM) | ₹370 / ₹990 |
| Jaipur | Leelan Express (12467) | Jaipur Jn (JP) | Jaisalmer (JSM) | ₹300 / ₹800 |
| Jodhpur | Jodhpur Jaisalmer Express (14810) | Jodhpur Jn (JU) | Jaisalmer (JSM) | ₹180 / ₹600 |
| Udaipur | Udz Jsm Express (22931) | Udaipur City (UDZ) | Jaisalmer (JSM) | ₹330 / ₹890 |
🎟️ Where to Book: IRCTC (https://www.irctc.co.in) or RailYatri app
