Jaisalmer – “The Golden City”
Jaisalmer - Rajasthan
Overview
Jaisalmer, the “Golden City,” rises majestically from the Thar Desert with its honey-colored sandstone architecture. Dominated by the living Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the city exudes a medieval charm with its narrow winding lanes, ornate havelis like Patwon ki Haveli and Salim Singh ki Haveli, and intricately carved Jain temples within the fort walls. Beyond the fort, Gadisar Lake offers serene moments, while the Sam Sand Dunes beckon with desert safaris and cultural experiences, making Jaisalmer a captivating blend of history, culture, and desert adventure.
Included/Exclude
- Pick and Drop Services
- 1 Meal Per Day
- Cruise Dinner & Music Event
- Visit 7 Best Places in the City With Group
- Additional Services
- Insurance
- Food & Drinks
- Tickets
Tour Plan
-
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM):
- Begin your exploration at the majestic Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila), a living fort and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Unlike most forts, a significant portion of Jaisalmer's population still resides within its walls.
- Wander through the narrow, winding lanes, marvel at the intricate architecture of the havelis (traditional mansions), temples, and shops.
- Visit the Maharaja's Palace within the fort, offering insights into the royal history and providing panoramic views of the city.
- Explore the beautiful Jain Temples inside the fort, known for their exquisite carvings.
- Afternoon (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM):
- Enjoy lunch at one of the many rooftop restaurants inside the fort, offering delicious local cuisine and stunning views of the city.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM - 5:00 PM):
- Step outside the fort and visit the impressive Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five intricately carved havelis that showcase the rich artistry of the bygone era.
- Explore Salim Singh Ki Haveli, another remarkable haveli known for its distinctive peacock-shaped roof and projecting balconies.
- Visit Nathmal Ki Haveli, built by two brothers with different architectural styles, resulting in a unique blend.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards):
- Take a leisurely walk around Gadsisar Lake, a scenic rainwater lake surrounded by temples and ghats (steps leading to the water). You can enjoy a boat ride on the lake, especially during sunset, for picturesque views of Jaisalmer Fort.
- Explore the local markets near Gadsisar Lake or the fort area for souvenirs, handicrafts, and textiles.
- Enjoy dinner at a restaurant in the city, perhaps trying some local Rajasthani specialties like Dal Baati Churma or Gatte ki Sabzi.
- Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM):
-
- Morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM):
- After breakfast, depart for a desert safari experience. Many tour operators offer various options, including half-day and full-day safaris.
- Choose a safari that suits your interests, whether you prefer a camel safari, a jeep safari, or a combination of both.
- Late Morning/Afternoon (11:00 AM - 4:00 PM):
- Embark on your chosen desert adventure. A camel safari offers a traditional and slower-paced way to explore the sand dunes and the arid landscape. A jeep safari allows you to cover more ground quickly.
- Experience the vastness and tranquility of the Sam Sand Dunes (about 42 kilometers from Jaisalmer) or the Khuri Sand Dunes (less crowded, about 50 kilometers from Jaisalmer).
- Late Afternoon/Evening (4:00 PM onwards):
- Enjoy the mesmerizing sunset over the sand dunes – a truly unforgettable experience.
- Many desert camps offer cultural programs in the evening, including traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances around a bonfire.
- Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner at your desert camp under the starlit sky.
- Consider an overnight stay in a desert camp for a more immersive experience, allowing you to witness the sunrise over the dunes as well.
- Morning (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM):
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):
- If you stayed overnight in the desert, enjoy the sunrise and breakfast at the camp before heading back to Jaisalmer.
- Visit Bada Bagh, a garden complex with royal cenotaphs (chhatris) of past rulers of Jaisalmer. The intricate carvings and the serene atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit.
- Explore Amar Sagar Lake, located about 5 kilometers from Jaisalmer. It features a beautiful palace (Amar Singh Palace) on its bank.
- Late Morning/Early Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM):
- Visit the Jaisalmer Government Museum, which houses a collection of archaeological artifacts, historical exhibits, and local art and crafts, providing insights into the region's history and culture.
- Have lunch at a restaurant of your choice in the city.
- Afternoon (2:00 PM onwards):
- Depending on your departure time, you can do some last-minute souvenir shopping in the local markets or revisit your favorite spots in the city.
- Alternatively, you can relax at your hotel before heading to the railway station or airport.
- Transportation: Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw for getting around within the city and for excursions. For desert safaris, transportation is usually arranged by the tour operator.
- Best Time to Visit: October to March offers the most pleasant weather. Summers (April to June) can be extremely hot.
- Dress Code: Wear comfortable and breathable clothing, especially during the desert safari. Carry a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, especially during desert excursions.
- Bargaining: Bargaining is common in the local markets.
- Desert Safari Choices: Research and choose a reputable desert safari operator. Consider the type of safari (camel, jeep, or both), the duration, and the inclusions (meals, cultural program, accommodation if opting for an overnight stay).
- Flexibility: This is a suggested itinerary and can be customized based on your interests and the time you have.
Related Tours
Review Scores
Booking Tour
Last Minute Deals
Dwarka and Somnath Pilgrimage
₹5999.00
Leh Ladakh Cultural Tour
₹15999.00