Jaisalmer Destination invites and welcomes you to visit Jaisalmer, one of the most worth visiting cities in India as part of Rajasthan Tours, which is one of the Jaisalmer Fort. We provide you with a comprehensive City Guide of Jaisalmer to make your tours to Jaisalmer more convenient. Details about the Jaisalmer City Guide that we provide will certainly be very useful to you Jaisalmer Destination.
Jaisalmer Fast Facts :
Founder : Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput Chief
Also Known as : Golden City of India
Location : In the western Rajasthan region amid Thar Desert, close to Indo- Pak boarder
Distance : Jodhpur (280 km), Barmer (155 km), Gajner (289 km), Khimsar (320 km), Pokran (110 km), Bikaner (330 km), Sam (40 km), Khuri (50 km).
Area : 126.27 sq. km.
Population : 2,324,319 (approximately)
Temperature : Max 46 º C, Min 35 º C (summer); Max 14º C, Min 02º C (winter)
Languages : Hindi, Rajasthani and English
Major Attractions : Jaisalmer Fort, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, Patuwon Ki Haveli,
Excursions : Khuri Village & Sand Dunes, Kuldhara & Khabha Villages, Desert National Park, Pokran, Barmer, Bada Bag, Baisakhi, Luderwa, Mool-Sagar, etc
Best Time to Visit : October to March.
Jaisalmer Information
Jaisalmer Destination Located on the edge of vast Thar Desert’s yellowish sandstone, the desert town of Jaisalmer is one of Rajasthan, India’s most important cities and travel destinations. Also known as India’s Golden Capital, Jaisalmer’s capital is crowned with a fantastic fort, named Sonar Quila or Golden Fort, which is Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India’s main landmark. The fort is also known as Fort Jaisalmer. The fort houses many magnificent palaces and splendid Jain Temples. In the tourism boom in Rajasthan , India, Jaisalmer plays a vital role. Rajasthan Tourism’s main draw is the desert city of Jaisalmer Destination. Without participating in Jaisalmer Travel, one can not imagine complete tours to Rajasthan.
You’ll have the opportunity to experience the rich culture and history of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan , India during your Jaipur tours. Jaisalmer Destination very interesting legends and history draw the tourists from far and wide. Jaisalmer ‘s desert city was founded on the order of Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput chief in 1156 after moving his capital from his former capital, Lodhurva, here. Jaisalmer’s legend says a Brahmin hermit told Rawal Jaisal that Arjuna, one of five brothers from Pandava, had come here and they predicted that one day a ruler would build a magnificent fort along the crest known as Trikuta or Triple Peaked Hill. Trikuta Hill is the hill where Jaisalmer ‘s magnificent Golden Fort stands proudly Jaisalmer Destination.
The desert city of Jaisalmer Destination, popularly identified as India’s Golden City, is also renowned for the spectacular sand dunes and adventurous camel safaris. You can note during your tours to Jaisalmer as part of Rajasthan tours that Jaisalmer golden city is also rich in its culture and heritage. Arts and architecture, festivals and exotic crafts, The attractions of Jaisalmer Destination , India are all worth a visit. Jaisalmer City is a fascinating tourist destination in Rajasthan’s vibrant and colorful state waiting for you to arrive in the area. Become a part of the Jaisalmer Destination and indulge yourself with Rajasthan Travel to experience the various attractions of Jaisalmer Town. Learn more about attractions of Jaisalmer tours in this article of the Jaisalmer City Guide.
Major Attractions in Jaisalmer – Jaisalmer Destination
Jaisalmer Fort
Also known as the Golden Fort, Jaisalmer Fort is a majestic fort made of yellow sandstone that reflects golden hues and thus gets its name. Raja Jaisal designed this fort, which is a fine epitome of architectural style of Rajasthani and a must-visit name among the places to see in Jaisalmer Destination. The best time to see the fort is at night when all of it is illuminated and sparkling! That’s one of the best tourist spots in Jaisalmer Destination.
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
- Tickets: 30 INR for Indians, 70 INR for other nationalities. 50 INR for still camera and 150 INR for videography.
- Opening Timings: Open all days (9 AM – 5 PM).
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
About Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is famously referred to as the Rajasthan Golden Fort. It was built in the year 1156 AD by Raja Jaisal, Rajput king. It ranks amongst the world’s largest forts. The blended sandstone golden and yellow give a mystical look to the Castle. Rising like a mirage from the desert sands, the fort is a real sight during the night, with its 99 turrets. The Fort stands tall and proud displaying the magic of architecture Rajasthani.
Things to Do around Jaisalmer Fort
- Street shopping.
- Sampling cuisines in the many eateries.
Bada Bagh
It was built by Maharawal Jait Singh and is popular as Huge Garden. Bada Bagh was designed as a memorial to the nobles who fought for the city. Not only the nobles but also the cremation of their families took place here. The heritage stories make Jaisalmer a famous name among the places to visit. Just taking a walk in this huge space and watching the royal edifices blend well with the green surroundings is simply charming.
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography, Gardens.
- Tickets: 50 INR for Indians and 100 INR for foreigners.
- Opening Timings: Open all days (9 AM – 6 PM).
- Duration: 45 min to 1 hour.
About Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh means Great Garden. The time of Maharawal Jait Singh saw its building, in the early 16th century. Following his father’s death his son Lunakaran completed the construction. The garden served as a memorial where they cremated the nobles and their families. The garden offers a panoramic view. The location is isolated. If you visit the place during sunrise and sunset, beautiful moments are guaranteed which you can’t help but click.
Patwon-Ki-Haveli
Patwon ki haveli was designed by Guman Chand-one of the city ‘s prominent merchants, this hasli is known for its huge, intricately carved suites. The walls are beautifully decorated and the corridors are large, covered with the art of the early era, making it one of the best places for travelers of all kinds to visit in Jaisalmer, especially art enthusiasts, school students and history geeks.
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
- Tickets: 20 INR for Indians and 100 INR for other nationalities plus 50 INR for still camera and 100 INR for videography.
- Opening Timings: Open all days (9 AM – 5 PM).
- Duration: 1-1.5 hours.
About Patwon-Ki-Haveli
Patwon-Ki-Haveli is located in the center of town. It was founded by Guman Chand, a famous merchant, and his sons. This huge, five-story building has five intricately decorated huge suites. The wide corridors and the ornamented walls are outstanding representations of the dominant art form. The entire structure is constructed from yellow sandstone. The monument’s grandeur and architecture bring tremendous importance to the town’s cultural heritage. Of the five havelis, one has been turned into a museum. The third hasli houses the works of bygone-era local craftsmen.
Sam Sand Dunes
Another name among Jaisalmer ‘s places to visit offers a vast expanse of sandy soil and sandcrests to break. Sam sand dunes require visitors to explore the dunes‘ crests and troughs while on a camel or a safari in a jeep. Campfires are held in the evenings, along with folk music and dances providing a peek into the city’s rich culture. In well-maintained tents, there are also many camps set up here to give you a royal desert camping experience.
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
- Tickets: No entry fee.
- Opening Timings: Open all days.
- Duration: Depends upon the activity you perform here.
About Sam Sand Dunes
You need to do Desert Safari to get a feel of the desert. Sam Sand Dunes is the ideal spot to set off for the Safari Desert. On camelback you’ll love the safari that would take you over crests where troughs where you could watch the picturesque desert sunset. It also offers jeep safaris. During the months of February and March desert festival is held. When you’re around this time, you wouldn’t want to miss the folk dances, the camel races and other cultural activities that have been taking place here.
Things to Do at Sam Sand Dunes
- Desert Camping.
- Desert Safari.
- Paragliding and other adventure sports.
- Camel rides.
- A visit to the nearby Desert National Park and Sanctuary.
The Thar Heritage Museum
Desert Culture Center and Museum is an arts and heritage center devoted to Rajasthani. This provides a detailed insight into the rajasthani people’s cultural beliefs, customs and traditions. Located in Amar Sagar Pol State, it features numerous puppet shows, music and dance performances, all you need to do is get ready to beat the sun, as the weather typically stays hot here.
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Photography.
- Tickets: 30 INR for Indians and 70 INR for other nationalities.
- Opening Timings: Everyday (9AM – 8 PM).
- Duration: 2 hours.
About Thar Heritage Museum
The Thar Heritage Museum is situated on the city ‘s principal street. The museum’s founder was Laxmi Narayan Khatri. The museum presents you with the famous Thar Desert’s history , culture, art and architecture. Sea fossils aging over a million years let us in on how the Thar Desert eventually became the sea. The museum houses rare desert ship and horses ornaments. Jaisalmer ‘s records and coins, ancient manuscripts and arms are some of this museum’s collections.
Things to Do at Thar Heritage Museum
- Enjoy a puppet show (charges separate).
- Visit the nearby Silk Route Art Gallery.
Gadisar Lake
Raja Rawal Jaisal built Lake Gadisar to satisfy the then Jaisalmer’s water requirements. Beautiful chhatris, temples and holy shrines were built around the lake, creating a peaceful atmosphere for a romantic retreat and making it a popular name among Jaisalmer‘s places to visit. With an extra dose of fun in the winter season, you can also go for a round of boating in this wonderful lake.
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
- Tickets: Entry free. Boating charges (Row boat 10 INR, Paddle Boat 50 INR, Shikara- 100 INR) for a 30 min ride.
- Opening Timings: Open all days (8 AM – 8 PM).
- Duration: 2-2.5 hours.
About Gadisar Lake
Lake Gadisar is situated just a kilometer from the fort. This was built by the first land ruler, Raja Rawal Jaisal, and later restored in 1367 AD by Maharawal Garsi. The desert town people depended on this tank for their water needs. You will find temples, Holy Shrines and Chattris all around this lake’s banks. The artistically carved entrance made of yellow sandstone provides stunning views.
Things to Do around Gadisar Lake
- Picnic.
- Boat riding.
- Visit the historic Tilon Ki Pol gate.
- Visit the Folklore Museum nearby.
Nathmal-ki-Haveli
Nathmal-ki-Haveli It is an old hasli from the late 19th century, whose roots lie. Known for its extraordinary exterior and intricate carvings, this hasli is home to some of the most beautiful paintings made using 1,5 kg of gold leaf in all of Rajasthan. Believed to be two brothers’ works-Hathi and Lulu, Those paintings on the left and right wings of the hasli attract travelers and art enthusiasts from all over the world. Clear depictions of horses, goats, flora and numerous other facets of Rajasthan’s early life are graven on pillars and walls that will certainly fascinate you!
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
- Tickets: No fee.
- Opening Timings: Open all days (8 AM – 7 PM).
- Duration: 1-2 hours.
About Nathmal Ki Haveli
Nathmal Ki Haveli was founded on the orders of the then prime minister by two Muslim jeweller brothers not stone carvers. The brothers began working on the building’s opposite sides, contributing to a similar but not identical left and right floor. This hasli is known for its beautiful interiors filled with paintings and equipped with modern facilities, in addition to its extraordinary exterior carvings. Nathmal Ki Haveli, an amalgamation of Islamic and Rajputana architecture, is well justified as being one of the most beautiful Jaisalmer hasli.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
The entrance of this hasli exudes of tuskers made of sand stones protecting the structure with a roof in the shape of a peacock is Salim Singh ki Haveli’s prime attraction. The hasli has its own artistry, somewhat different from the other similar architectures of the present day. It is also known as Jahaz Mahal as the front of the hasli resembles a ship stern and is one of the prime highlights of this splendid attraction that distinguishes it from the other Jaisalmer havelis. It is certainly one of the best tourist destinations in Jaisalmer.
Visitor Information
- Famous for: History, Architecture, Photography.
- Tickets: 10 INR for Indians and 15 INR for foreigners. Extra charges for photography (50 INR) and videography (100 INR).
- Opening Timings: Open all days (8 AM – 6 PM).
- Duration: 45 min.
About Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Salim Singh Ki Haveli is renowned for its distinctive and eye-catching architecture amongst all the havelis in Jaisalmer. It was built by the minister of that time, Salim Singh who wanted to make it as high as the fort but was banned by the King. It has 38 balconies with a peacock-shaped roof and its own distinctive architectural theme. This hasli offers a nice glimpse of the past and inspiring will be the images taken here.
Kuldhara
Kuldhara is an abandoned village, now known as the Rajasthan ghost town. For several years now the village has been lying abandoned and there is absolutely no trace of human life.
It has become one of the most important tourist attractions near Jaisalmer, owing to the ‘haunted’ name attached to this area. A long time ago, Kuldhara, consisting of over 85 villages, was once home to the Paliwal Brahmins.
The natives are said to literally take their belongings and leave the village within a single night due to any adverse (maybe even paranormal) events.
There is no sign of where the villagers went when they left, so one can only presume they took refuge in the villages nearby. It is also claimed that before leaving the village, the villagers put a curse on the village, because of which there were no human settlements in the village and no one could remain for the night here.
Visitor Information
- Famous for: Ruins, Ghost Town, History.
- Tickets: Entry free.
- Opening Timings: Open all days from 8am – 6pm.
- Duration: 1 hour.
- Distance from Jaisalmer: 49 min (32.0 km).
About Kuldhara
Kuldhara was once an abandoned ghost town and was a prosperous town inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins. It is not clear why an entire city was abandoned within a night, but the popular belief holds the then state minister Salim Singh to be responsible for the same. The minister wanted to marry the daughter of the village chief and therefore gave the village chief an ultimatum to accept his demands, or let the whole community face dire consequences. Instead of giving in to the demands of the Minister, the entire village decided to move away. They cursed this place before leaving to never have any kind of human settlement and this has been proved true to this day. Visit Kuldhara for an insight into the past and get spooked by its stories.