Jaisalmer – Things to do and Places to See

A massive fort lolls on the barren hill top under the endless blue sky. Below stands the city smothered with yellow honeycombed houses. Narrow streets fringed with ancient shops and ornate sandstone buildings open into bustling markets and opulent palaces. Every scene in Jaisalmer makes you feel as if a time warp has chucked a city from the Arabian fairytales to the present day.

Though Sush and I always had our hearts set on the desert of Jaisalmer, it surprised us in so many other ways. So here we are, back after 3 fulfilling days in the golden city and penning down this list of things to do and places to see in Jaisalmer.

The Desert

No trip to Jaisalmer can ever be complete without a rendezvous with the desert. Indeed desert is that one element which makes Jaisalmer the most coveted destination in Rajasthan. So spend at least a night camping in the desert and indulge in some adventure in the day bashing the expansive golden dunes. Embrace the evening with a yon orange sunset and be whisked away to the era of Maharajas with cultural programs under a star studded sky. 

Read more about desert camping in our detailed article here.

The Living Fort

One monument that is hard to miss in Jaisalmer town is the Jaisalmer Fort. Perched on a hill top it literally follows you everywhere you go. Unlike any other fort we have visited so far, this is a bustling fort with many people still living inside its walls since generations. With shops, cafes, temples and stunning local houses, the fort feels like a different world on its own. 

The entry to the fort is via cobbled streets lined by indigenous handicraft shops. As you enter the main chowk area, a myriad of colourful shops and meticulously carved facades will welcome you. And the finest masonry on the walls, windows and overhanging balconies inside the fort will leave you spellbound. Check out the fort museum which has an interesting collection of artifacts and provides an insight in to the life of the kings. Then head to the terrace of the museum for the most incredible views of the city. And yes, do not forget to visit the Jain temple inside the Fort which is a stunning piece of architecture and totally not to be missed.

The Havelis of Jaisalmer

The Havelis of Jaisalmer definitely need a special mention. Being home to some affluent merchants in the past, the city is scattered with many palatial Havelis. Made out of yellow sandstones, these Havelis emit a vibe of elegance and grandeur with beautifully carved facades, Oriel windows and ornate doorways. There are 3 popular Havelis in Jaisalmer – Patwon Ki Haveli, Nathmal Ki Haveli and Salam Singh Ki Haveli. But of all the three, Patwon Ki Haveli is the most impressive one. This is actually a cluster of 5 Havelis placed at the end of a narrow lane. Spare at least an hour to explore this one. Read More….