Jaisalmer Delights: Check Out the Top Places to Visit in Jaisalmer and Explore the Thar Desert Tourism.
The enchanting realm of Jaisalmer, the shimmering golden city, rises amidst the Thar Desert like a mirage where the history and heritage weave together. It is spread over about 200,000 square kilometres showing off the timeless beauty etched in sandstone, echoing the grandeur of Rajputana. In the heart of the Thar desert, get ready not only to be captivated by the allure of this radiant Oasis but also to find peace in the Golden Fort. Admire the mesmerising dunes riding over the camels and the immense tapestry of Rajasthani culture. Witness the golden haven and unravel the secrets that make Jaisalmer a shimmering gem on India’s travel map. Explore all the places to visit in Jaisalmer.
Gilded Golden History of Jaisalmer
Founded in 1156 AD by Maharawal Jaisal Singh, this “Sone ki Nagri” emerged as a formidable fortress strategically located along the ancient trading routes. The most enchanting Jaisalmer fort, also known as Golden Fort, is the sun of the city around which the whole city thrives. Over the centuries, Jaisalmer found itself as the most crucial crossroad linking India with Central Asia and beyond. As of now, it’s quite close to the India-Pak border serving as a base for the Indian army.
Jaisalmer’s strategic importance also made it a coveted prize, leading to numerous unwanted battles in the fields of this magical place. Despite the shifting sands of time, this city has stayed indestructible.
The most enchanting scenes of Jaisalmer are when the sun sets painting the city in a golden glow, resonating historical stories through its time-worn walls, and inviting all who visit to become a part of its timeless narrative.
Places to visit in Jaisalmer
However, the most fascinating part about Jaisalmer is the Thar Desert Safari but there are other amazing not-to-miss things too. Let’s dive into the list of top places to visit in Jaisalmer other than the desert.
Golden fort
Starting from the Golden Fort, also known as the Jaisalmer Fort. Built in 1156, this fort is still home to nearly one-fourth of the population of Jaisalmer. Moreover, This fort being UNESCO’s World Heritage site, has a history of 860 years. The Sonar Quila is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan situated on Trikuta Hill serving as a major landmark since its establishment. There’s a mystery novel written on this fort by Satyajit Ray and the same was directed for a film with the name “Sonar Kella.”
Vyas chhatri
For the breathtaking sunset views, this is a perfect place to be. Made up of finely carved sandstone and marble, it displays the rich Rajasthani architecture. It is a memorial dedicated to the writer of Mahabharata, the sage Vyas. Positioned within Bada Bagh, it’s a paradise for photographers. As the day wanes, a profound sense of tranquility envelops the surroundings making one immense in serenity. The best time to enjoy – 5.00 pm to 7.00 pm.
Patwon ki Haveli
Situated near the Patwa Valley, Patwon ki haveli was the second haveli to be constructed in Jaisalmer. It has 5 different palaces for the five brothers. Walls are adorned with mirror work and beautiful paintings. The first mansion was built in 1805 and in 60 years the whole 5 were built. Again being a mesmerising sunset point it attracts most of the tourism in the evening itself.
Gadisar lake
It is a manmade lake in Jaisalmer by King Rawal Jaisal himself. Later rebuilt by Gadsi Singh Bhati. Water flows in this lake from the Indira Gandhi Canal to keep it from drying. One can enjoy the captivating view while boating inside this lake with minimal charges. Gadisar Lake is a palace of stunning beauty offering a picturesque view during sunrise when the eastern sky is painted in shades of red.
Salim Singh ki haveli
Situated beside the hills near the Golden Fort, it is a well-known tourist attraction. This haveli was built in the 17th century. In 1815 when Salim Singh was the prime minister he created this mansion an architectural wonder with 35 balconies. This marvellous structure is said to be a sign of vengeance. The prime minister wanted it to look grander than the king’s residence. Just to avenge his father’s death and overthrow the king, he ordered this haveli to be the largest one but later two stories were called off making it shorter than the Jaisalmer fort.
Kuldhara village
In the list of places to visit in Jaisalmer, there is this extraordinary place. This village was established in the 13th century, a prosperous place inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins but was abandoned in the 19th century. This place currently has acquired the status of one of the scariest haunted places. There is no reason defined for residents to leave this village. Reasons like water supply issues and the cruelty of Salim Singh are often offered as explanations.
Tanot Mata temple
This temple was the divine protector for the Indian army back in 1965 when Pakistan dropped around 3000 shelling on this temple and not even one could destroy any bit of it. The win of Indian soldiers in the battle of 1971’s sudden attack is often said to be the goddess’s grace. There is also a BSF museum witnessing this interesting fact. Special permission from BSF is required to visit the border of Longewala but the temple is accessible to all.
Bada bagh
As the name resembles it is a big garden, but the interesting fact is this garden doesn’t have plants or trees. Rather it is a garden of cenotaphs (chhatris) in memory of the late rulers and royal families of Jaisalmer. This tradition of building one chhatri for each ruler by succession ruler was discontinued in the 20th century when the last one for Maharawal Jawahar Singh’s cenotaph was left incomplete due to the death of the next ruler, his son within one year of ascension. This garden also has a tank, a dam and a Stambh. Timing of this place is restricted to 6.00 pm only.
All About the top attraction in Jaisalmer, the Thar Desert Safari
There are three types of safari tours available. Starting from the half-day safari tour where you do not get to spend the night but explore the desert throughout being on the camel. Then the next one is an overnight camel safari tour which lets you have an amazing starry night view while you sleep there. Ask your tour operator for exact night staying details to avoid insects harming you. The longest and the last option is a three-day camel safari tour, this one offers 3 days and 2 nights of camping and staying in the Thar desert. Better to choose the last one in cold weather as you can enjoy camping there too.
How to book
Either you can book a tour operator or ask your hotel to do it for you. The prices are often negotiable. You will get a host in all the packages for being therein throughout your journey. Sleeping at night mostly is about using sleeping bags in the sand. However, talk it all out before you book.
Best time to visit, how to reach places and other tips
The best time for Jaisalmer is October to February, as the summer season heat will not let you enjoy the desert and camel safari.
There is no airport in Jaisalmer, the nearest one is 12.6 km. Other options are by road and train. You will find plenty of them available from almost all the cities.
Itinerary for the places to visit in Jaisalmer
Day 1 – Explore Golden Fort and the Heritage Havelis.
Start your trip with the enchanting fort. Explore narrow lanes, architecture and panoramic views. Next, head on to the Patwon ki Haveli. Try nearby Rajasthani cuisine. Then go to visit Salim Singh ki haveli, the beauty of vengeance! Spend your evening, boat ride at Gadisar Lake. later, you can also explore the local markets.
Day 2 – Desert Adventure and Kuldhara village
Embark on your second day with a camel safari to Sand dunes. Witness the most beautiful sunrise on your way. Explore the vibrant local culture there (it is a half-day safari itinerary).
Have lunch back at Jaisalmer and visit the desert culture centre after that. Head to the haunted, Kuldhara village to explore the mysteries lying there. Back to Jaisalmer in the evening to relax after an exhausting day.
Day 3 – Vyas Chhatri and other attractions
Start your day with another breathtaking sunrise view from Vyas Chhatri. Next is Bada Bagh to explore royal cenotaphs. Lunch at a local restaurant nearby and a visit to Tanot Mata temple.
Spend your evening exploring the markets and enjoying the atmosphere there.
ALSO READ: Jodhpur – Lost in the Blue Bylanes