This is about the incredible Things To Do in Jaisalmer – and why we keep returning.
Because in all our visits to India it is Jaisalmer, the Golden City, that we return to every time. There is something about the people, the colours, and the incredible landscape that draws us to return and explore more of this amazing desert city.
Right from arriving, Jaisalmer is a breathtaking sight. It is like a scene from a fairytale with golden sandcastle on the hilltop and locals dressed in unbelievably bright and coloured flowing dresses and turbans.
Our guide is designed to help you navigate the history, the logistics, and the absolute best Things To Do in Jaisalmer – the beautifully golden corner of Rajasthan.
- About Jaisalmer
- Getting There
- Getting Around
- Best Time to Visit
- Things To Do in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort
Camel Safari
Gadisar Lake
Jaisalmer Market
Bada Bagh
Desert Art Gallery - Where To Eat
- Where To Stay
Part 1: About Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is known as the ‘Golden City’ in India.
There is nowhere in India like it.
About the Golden City
Jaisalmer is located in the far west of Rajasthan, close to the Pakistan border. It is a desert outpost that was once a vital stop on the ancient silk routes.
Today, it remains a vibrant hub of Rajasthani culture—famed for its intricate embroidery, folk music, and the incredible hospitality of the desert people.
That, plus being now famous for the incredible Camel Safari’s in Jaisalmer!
A Brief History
The city was founded in 1156 AD by the Rajput king Maharawal Jaisal, from whom the city takes its name.
For centuries, Jaisalmer grew wealthy by taxing the caravans that passed between Egypt, Persia, and India, carrying silk, spices, and precious stones.
Today it is India’s oldest continuously inhabited or “living fort”. Unlike most other forts in India, which were eventually abandoned for newer city centres, Jaisalmer Fort remained inhabited.
Even today, roughly a quarter of the city’s population still lives within the ancient fort walls, making it a unique living monument!
Part 2: Logistics – Getting There and Around
First things first: getting to Jaisalmer and getting around plus the best time to visit the Thar Desert region of India.
Best Time to Visit
Because Jaisalmer is in the heart of the Thar Desert, timing is everything.
- October to March (The Golden Window): This is the best time to visit. The days are sunny and pleasant, and the nights are cool (sometimes even cold in the desert!).
- April to June: Avoid this time if possible. Temperatures can soar to 45°C (113°F) and higher.
- July to September: The monsoon brings a slight reprieve from the heat, but humidity is high, and rain is rare.
Getting There
Despite being the end of the line and quite literally the furthest west city in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is connected by road, rail and air.
- By Train: This is our favourite way to arrive. The Shalimar Express or the Jaisalmer Express from Delhi or Jaipur offers a classic desert rail experience. There is something magical about waking up as the train pulls into the golden station at dawn.
- By Air: Jaisalmer has a small domestic airport with seasonal flights (usually October–March) from Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur.
- By Road: Many travellers hire a private driver from Jodhpur (a 4–5-hour drive) as part of a larger Rajasthan loop.
Read (Honestly) About Train Travel In India.
Getting Around in Jaisalmer
It is (comparatively) much smaller than the other Indian mega-cities so getting around in Jaisalmer is more convenient.
- Inside the Fort: No cars are allowed. Your only options are your own two feet or the occasional motorcycle.
- Outside the Fort: Auto-rickshaws are plentiful and cheap. For trips to the lake or the edge of town, they are the most convenient way to travel.
- To the Desert: Your guesthouse will arrange a Jeep out to the desert.
Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
We have a very specific recommendation for Jaisalmer: Wanderlust Guesthouse.
Every time we visit Jaisalmer – including with our Group Trips – we stay here, and it truly feels like a home in the desert.
It’s located outside the fort (which we recommend to reduce the structural pressure on the ancient fort walls). But the rooftop views of the fort at sunset are arguably the best in the city.
The owner, Padam, and his team do an amazing job of hospitality with beautifully clean rooms and delicious food. They treat you like family and run what we consider the most ethical and authentic Camel Safari in Jaisalmer.
It is a great place to stay, and no doubt will become a favourite of yours in India too.
Part 4: Best Things To Do in Jaisalmer
The Golden City is famous for a Camel Safari in the Thar Desert and the majestic Jaisalmer Fort. But there is much more to this historic city too.
Here is our recommendations for 10 Must-See Things To Do in Jaisalmer.
1. Explore Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Qila)
This is the heart and soul of the city. As a “living fort,” it is filled with narrow alleys, shops, homes, and guesthouses. Spend an afternoon getting lost in the labyrinth.
- Note: While it’s beautiful, please be mindful of water usage inside the fort. The ancient drainage systems weren’t built for modern plumbing, and water seepage is the biggest threat to the fort’s structural integrity.
2. The Camel Safari (The Must-Do) in Jaisalmer
This is the most famous of things to do in Jaisalmer! You cannot come to Jaisalmer and not head into the desert.
However, we strongly recommend avoiding the tourist traps at Sam Sand Dunes and instead opting for a non-tourist Camel Safari (like the ones organised by Wanderlust Guesthouse).
Riding a camel through the scrub desert, watching the sun set over the dunes, and sleeping under a blanket of a million stars is a memory that will stay with you forever.
3. Visit the Jain Temples (Inside the Fort)
Inside the fort walls lies a complex of seven interconnected Jain temples dating back to the 12th and 15th centuries.
The level of detail carved into the yellow sandstone is breathtaking. There are thousands of figures, animals, and geometric patterns that look like they’ve been lace-cut rather than chiselled from stone.
4. Gadisar Lake: Things To Do in Jaisalmer
This man-made reservoir was once the only source of water for the city. It is surrounded by beautiful temples and shrines.
If you are visiting Gadisar Lake, you can’t help but walk past the two metal camels and the ‘I LOVE JAISALMER’ sign on your way.
This is a popular place for photos (no surprises there). So you will be asked for a selfie or two (or more)!
- Tip: You can hire a small rowboat at sunset. Watching the golden fort reflect in the calm waters while the sky turns purple is pretty magic!
5. Get Lost in the Jaisalmer Market
The markets around the fort entrance and Sadat Bazaar are a riot of colour. Look for hand-stitched leather bags, vibrant mirror-work style textiles, and traditional Rajasthani puppets.
- Haggling: Like anywhere in Rajasthan, haggling is expected. I’d recommend starting at about 50% of the initial price and meet (friendly so) in the middle.
6. Jaisalmer Heritage Haveli’s
A Haveli is a traditional grand townhouse in India. But in Jaisalmer, they are particularly stunning made out of the iconic golden sandstone of the region.
These three famously beautiful Haveli are more of the iconic ‘golden’ things to do in Jaisalmer:
Patwon Ki Haveli
Patwon Ki Haveli is the largest and most ornate in Jaisalmer.
It’s actually a cluster of five small havelis built by a wealthy trader. The stone lattices (Jali work) are so fine that they allowed the women of the house to look out without being seen.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
This haveli is famous for its unique shape—it’s narrow at the bottom and flares out at the top, resembling a peacock’s tail. It was built by a powerful (and somewhat feared) Prime Minister of Jaisalmer.
Nathmal Ki Haveli
This haveli was built by two brothers who started carving from opposite sides and met in the middle. While they tried to make it symmetrical, there are slight, charming differences if you look closely at the left and right sides.
7. Bada Bagh (The Royal Cenotaphs)
Located about 6km north of the city, this is a complex of ‘Chhatris’ (cenotaphs) dedicated to the Maharajas of Jaisalmer.
It is perched on a hill and offers a stunning, slightly eerie view of the desert landscape, especially at sunset.
- Tip: Ask your guesthouse to take you for a sunset drive before dinner.
8. Rajwadi Safa House: Rajasthani Turbans
This bustling little shop is a kaleidoscope of colour, specialising in the traditional turbans—or safas—iconic to Rajasthan.
The owner and his brother are masters of their craft. They are friendly and (very) eager to showcase the diverse styles used for weddings and ceremonies in Jaisalmer.
Even if you aren’t looking to add a vibrant turban to your permanent travel wardrobe (are you not?) it is well worth stopping by to admire the incredible craftsmanship and the sheer variety of hues on display.
- Tip: Having the chance to try on a Rajasthani turban yourself is a unique cultural highlight that captures the spirit of things to do in Jaisalmer!
9. Lunch With a Local Family in Jaisalmer
Beyond the golden sandstone of the fort and the many historical things to do in Jaisalmer, our most cherished memories anywhere in travel stem from meeting locals.
In Jaisalmer we have made amazing contacts and every time we return – as a family or with our Group Trips – we feel privileged sharing a meal in a local family home.
Sharing lunch with Bhawani, Sawai, and their family is an experience we can’t recommend highly enough. It offers a genuine glimpse into daily life within a traditional Jaisalmeri home.
You can step into the kitchen to try your hand at rolling chapatis or brewing a pot of chai, before sitting down to enjoy a home-cooked feast. Then the afternoon usually wraps up with local sweets and the beautiful artistry of henna.
It is a truly intimate and special encounter.
- Tip: To arrange a lunch in their family home or for a personalized tour of Jaisalmer Fort, you can contact Bhawani +91 94147 63000.
10. Desert Art Gallery: Jaisalmer Fort
Even if you aren’t planning on shopping, the family-owned Desert Art Gallery is another of the standout things to do in Jaisalmer.
Brothers Bhawani and Sawai (above, with lunch in their family home) have curated what is arguably Jaisalmer’s most extensive collection of handicrafts.
Historically, the city served as a vital crossroads on the ancient Silk Road, connecting the Indian subcontinent with the trading routes of Central Asia. Then while the rise of major ports like Mumbai eventually shifted global trade, the local tradition of exchanging intricate textiles as tribal dowries kept this heritage alive in the Thar Desert.
Go inside, have a Chai and a chat. You can see the beautiful traditional dresses, vintage saris, and hand-stitched dowry items that have been passed down through generations. It is seriously stunning!
- Location: You can find the gallery just inside the fort, situated to the left of the original Ganesh Pol Gate. If you have trouble finding it, a quick mention of the name to any local will point you in the right direction.
Part 5: Food-Things To Do in Jaisalmer
Like with any Indian city there is a seemingly limitless choice of new foods to try and places to eat in Jaisalmer with its endless array of street-side stalls, hidden chai shops, and rooftop eateries.
Here are some of our favourite Places To Eat in Jaisalmer. Plus be sure to try ‘Ghotua’ – the traditional Jaisalmeri sweet that the city is famous for!
- Tip: Before you dive in, we recommend reading our guide on How To Avoid Delhi Belly In India to help you navigate the scene with confidence.
Our Favourite Places to Eat in Jaisalmer
- Dhanraj Bhatia Sweets (Bhatia Market): This historic shop has been crafting Rajasthani sweets for 12 generations! It is the best place to try the city’s famous Ghotua and fresh, syrupy Jalebis.
- Natraj Restaurant (Gandhi Chowk): A reliable, long-running local spot serving Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisine, complete with rooftop views of the Salim Singh ki Haveli.
- Wanderlust Guesthouse Café: We love Wanderlust. It’s the perfect, safe environment to try the regional delicacies like gatta curry or ker sangri. Or they do great pasta and toasted sandwiches if you need something familiar!
- The Trio Restaurant (Gandhi Chowk): A popular spot right in the heart of town. Plus they’ve curated a small museum of historic chapati boxes.
- Mandir Palace Restaurant (Gandhi Chowk): Dine within the grounds of the historic palace. The rooftop offers a stunning lookout over the palace estate.
- Kum Kum Sophty Corner: Located right under the fort walls. This is the perfect spot to grab an ice block for 20 INR when the desert heat hits its peak.
Our Favourite Places For Chai or a Cold Drink in Jaisalmer
- Prabhu Tea Stall (Hanuman Chowk): A buzzing, authentic spot for a 10 INR cup of tea. Gavin considers this the best chai we’ve tried in all of India.
- Wanderlust Guesthouse Café: You have to try the Banana Lassi here on the rootop!
- Natti’s Chai Shop (Gandhi Chowk): Located at Natraj Restaurant, this is our go-to stop to cool down. Natti is a true local character—expect puzzles, magic tricks, and a fantastic chai.
- Bharat Juice Shop (Pansari Bazar): One of the oldest cafes in the city. Perfectly positioned between the Fort and Gadisar Lake. It’s great for fresh juices and cooling coconut water.
- Bhang Lassi Shop (Gopa Chowk): An iconic, long-running backpacker favourite situated beneath the First Fort Gate. Approach with caution!
Part 6: Planning Things To Do in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is our favourite place in India and somewhere we know we will keep returning to.
It is a long journey to get to this far-western corner of the country. But as soon as you see that first golden glimpse of the fort on the horizon, you’ll know it was worth every mile.
We hope our Travel Guide to Jaisalmer has given you inspiration for your trip too. 🙂
Ready to plan your full Rajasthan adventure? Check out our Ultimate Golden Triangle Itinerary to see how to link Jaisalmer with Jaipur and Agra!
Have you been to the Golden City? Let us know in the comments which were your favourite Things To Do in Jaisalmer!
Safe travels, adventurers!
Read More India Inspiration
- Our Detailed & Easy 2-Day Itinerary Of Jaipur.
- Train Travel In India.
- India Tourist e-Visa: Our Step-By-Step Guide.
- 10 Things To Do In Mumbai.
- 10 Things To Do In Kochi & Kerala.
- Best Tourist SIM Card For India.
- What To Wear In India.
- 4-Day Kochi & Kerala Itinerary.
- Travelling India By Bus: Intercity, Tourist & Sleeper Buses.
Travel Planning for India & Beyond
These are the companies we use while traveling and that we would recommend to anyone planning and booking travel.
- Booking.com – The best all-around accommodation booking site. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. It’s easy to filter and sort into price and availability with all the extras you are looking for personally.
- 12GoAsia – Book trains anywhere in Asia through 12Go.
- Skyscanner – Our favourite flight search engine. They can search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites often miss. We book all our flights through Skyscanner.
- GetYourGuide – A huge online marketplace for tours and excursions offered all around the world. Everything from walking tours to street-food tours, cooking classes, desert safari’s and more!
- SafetyWing – A global travel insurance that covers people from all over the world while outside their home country. You can buy short or longterm; and even if you are out of the country.
- World Nomads – Travel insurance tailored for short or longterm travel and nomads (including those who have already left home). Make sure you have travel insurance before planning these things to do in Jaisalmer!
Hi! I’m Sarah. I am the self-confessed dreamer, travel-schemer and the main editor behind this blog. I love to write, and it is a dream come true to share so many experiences together and inspire others in our stories.
