Rajasthan
Jaisalmer Travel Guide
The Golden City: a living sandstone fort and Thar desert dunes.
- Best months Nov–Feb
- Ideal trip length 2–3 days
Jaisalmer, the Golden City, rises from the Thar desert in western Rajasthan, built of honey-coloured sandstone. Its living fort, carved havelis, desert dunes and camel safaris make it one of India's most atmospheric destinations. Plan two to three days, with a night in a desert camp.
Best time to visit
Recommended
November to February is the best season, with warm days and cold nights. Summers from April to June are extremely hot, and the monsoon from July to September brings occasional rain. The Desert Festival, usually held in February, brings extra crowds and events.
How to reach
Jaisalmer has an airport with limited flights, so check current schedules. Jodhpur is the more common gateway, followed by a drive or train.
Jaisalmer railway station has trains from Jodhpur, Jaipur and Delhi, including overnight services. The journey from Jodhpur takes several hours.
A highway links Jaisalmer with Jodhpur, roughly five to six hours' drive, and it also connects to Bikaner. Local taxis serve the dunes and nearby sights.
Where to stay
Staying inside the fort lets you wake up among the lanes, though the area is crowded and sewage systems are under strain; many travellers choose guesthouses just outside the fort walls. Desert camps near Sam or Khuri give you a night under the stars, in a range of comfort levels.
Top things to see and do
- 1
Jaisalmer Fort
A living fort with shops, hotels and homes inside its walls, built in the 12th century and listed by UNESCO among the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
- 2
Patwon Ki Haveli
A group of ornately carved sandstone mansions built by merchants, one of which can be visited as a museum.
- 3
Sam Sand Dunes
Large dunes west of the city, used for camel rides, jeep safaris and sunset views. Expect crowds near the main spots.
- 4
Gadisar Lake
A rain-fed reservoir with temples, ghats and pavilions at the edge of the old city.
- 5
Bada Bagh
A group of royal cenotaphs on a ridge north of the city, atmospheric at sunset.
- 6
Kuldhara
A ruined village abandoned centuries ago, now an archaeological site.
Food to try
Look for ker sangri, a desert bean and berry dish, bajra roti, dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi, with sweets such as ghotua laddu. Rooftop cafes serve meals with fort views.
Travel tips
- Winter nights in the desert are cold, so carry warm clothing even if days are warm.
- Choose a desert camp by checking recent reviews, sanitation and what is included, since quality varies widely.
- Respect the fort's fragile infrastructure by using water carefully and avoiding littering.
- Camel safaris are best in the late afternoon; carry sun protection and water.
Frequently asked questions
How many days are enough for Jaisalmer?
Two days cover the fort, the havelis and a desert evening. Add a third day for Kuldhara, Bada Bagh or a longer safari.
What is the best time of year to visit Jaisalmer?
November to February offers the most comfortable weather. Summers are intensely hot, so avoid April to June if you can.
Is the fort safe to stay in?
Staying inside the fort is popular, though there have been concerns about the strain on the old structures. Many visitors choose guesthouses just outside the walls.
Official sources
Timings, fees, permits, closures and transport change often. Please confirm current details with the official sources above before you travel.