Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer | Golden City of Rajasthan

Jaisalmer with its royal forts and palaces has the distinction of being the Golden City of India. Jaisalmer is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Rajasthan. Jaisalmer’s attractions, despite rampant commercialization, are its sprawling sand castles, forts, and colorful bazaars. Just below the urban surface are the narrow streets of the old town lined with elaborate Havelis. This is for the traveler wishing to explore places in Jaisalmer that have a rich heritage, religious significance, and delicious food. Jaisalmer hotel booking can be done easily for online booking.

Named after Maharaja Jaisal Singh, Jaisalmer is one of the most popular historical places not only in Rajasthan but across the country. Situated amidst the wondrous terrain of the vast Thar Desert, Jaisalmer makes for a truly mesmerizing sight. Apart from the picturesque surroundings, Jaisalmer has exciting adventure sports, desert safaris, unparalleled hospitality, and delectable cuisine! And these are some of the amazing things to do in Jaisalmer tourist places.

Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer

Here is the list of popular places in Jaisalmer that you must explore during the Jaisalmer Trip.

1.  Jaisalmer Fort- Splendor and Grandeur

Jaisalmer is known for the majestic Jaisalmer Fort that surrounds the city. It Comes into beautiful places in Jaisalmer. The most amazing thing about this fort is that it is a vibrant urban center. About 3,000 residents of Jaisalmer live on the walls of this fort. It is lined with houses and temples and beautifully woven into the narrow winding streets. A large number of handicraft shops are spread along the way, with some excellent traditional items, guesthouses, and restaurants serving mouth-watering Rajasthani cuisine. The entrance to the fort is from the east, near Gopa Chowk, and then you make your way upstairs, passing through four massive gates. The final gate opens to the Dussehra Chowk, which is the center square. Book Jaisalmer hotels now as you may not get the chance to book them later.

The fort was founded by the Rajput ruler Jaisal in 1156 and was fortified several times after that. The fort never lost its importance and was a focal point during many battles between the Bhatis, the Mughals, and the Rathores of Jaipur.

2.   Boating in Gadisar Lake

Gadisar Lake is a man-made reservoir built in 1367 by Maharawal Gadsi Singh, after whom it is named. This luxurious pond served as an important water supply for Jaisalmer till 1965. Since it was very important to the people of Jaisalmer, small temples and shrines were built around it which are present even today. It is considered as most places to see Jaisalmer.

The Til-ki-Pol Gateway leading to the lake is said to have been built by a famous prostitute in that area. Fearing that Maharawal would tear it down, considering it below his dignity, he added a Krishna temple on top. Apart from this, one needs to make a Jaisalmer hotel booking in advance because it comes in the most famous tourist places in Jaisalmer.

3.  Patwa Ki Haveli

This traditionally, ornately decorated haveli is one of the most famous buildings in Jaisalmer as well and it is a popular place in Jaisalmer. Nestled in a narrow alleyway, the haveli captures the relatively modest surroundings. But the people there do not mind, because it adds a lot to the beauty of the area. The Haveli was constructed between 1860 and 1865 and is divided into five sections. The exteriors are quite impressive, and the first of the mansion’s five volumes is privately owned. Kothari’s Patwa Ki Haveli Museum, which gives us an insight into the life of the royals in the nineteenth century, is a must-visit.

 4 . Jain Temple

Nestled amidst the maze of fort walls, these interconnected Jain temples form a beautiful sight. Constructed of yellow sandstone and dating from the 15th and 16th centuries, these temples carry with them memories of bygone eras. Time has not been able to affect their spiritual relevance, nor has it erased the intricate carvings that adorn the interiors of the temple walls. These temples are exceptionally beautiful with architecture resembling the marble Jain temples found at Mount Abu and Ranakpur that’s why this Jain Temple is the most beautiful place in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer hotels are found in abundance near the temple.

And Read: Must see these 7 Jain temples in Jaisalmer

5.  Sam Sand Dunes

Situated at a distance of 41 km from the main city of Jaisalmer, these silky sand dunes are one of the most popular city excursions. They are spread over an area of ​​2 km and are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Jaisalmer that can be seen with the human eye. From noon to evening, the atmosphere of the place suddenly changes. It no longer remains a beautiful, secluded place, rather it turned into a big extravagant carnival with food, and fun all around. If you want to immerse yourself in a full desert experience, stay at one of the many tent resorts near the dunes.

6. Tanot Mata Temple

Tanot Mata Temple situated on the Indo-Pak border is one of the most popular tourist places in Jaisalmer. Situated close to the battle site of Longewala, the goddess worshipped here is believed to have magical powers that protect the village from Pakistani incursions. To visit the region, travelers need prior permission and a permit pass from the Indian Armed Forces.

7. Admire the Wildlife in the Desert National Park

The Desert National Park spread over an area of ​​3162 sq km is an exciting place for lovers of flora and fauna. The lush green surroundings, and an impressive number of bird, animal, and plant species found here make this park the best tourist place in Jaisalmer. The Desert National Park is also home to the state bird of Rajasthan – the Great Indian Bustard.

8. Kuldhara Village

19 km west of Jaisalmer lies the mysterious abandoned village of Kuldhara. The Paliwal Brahmins, who were residents of the village, had left it 200 years ago. They were burdened with heavy taxes, their property was looted, and the daughter of a family was kidnapped. His complaint fell on deaf ears, so he left the village one night, never to return. According to legend, he had a lot of money and gold, which he could not take with him. This myth has attracted many treasure hunters to the region. While most of the houses are in dilapidated condition, some of them have been restored for use as film sets for popular Bollywood films and also famous Tourist attractions in Jaisalmer.

9. Desert National Park

Located near the city of Jaisalmer, the Desert National Park is the largest of its kind in the country, covering an area of ​​3162 square kilometers. The park covers a vast area extending from Jaisalmer/Barmer to the Indo-Pakistan border. Despite being right in the middle of an arid, arid, and sandy desert, the Desert National Park presents a great opportunity to spot wildlife such as camels, desert foxes, Bengal foxes, chinkaras, wolves, desert cats, and blackbucks. The breathtaking landmark offers everything one might expect from a desert ecosystem, craggy cliffs and compact Salt Lake bottoms, intermediate areas, and fixed dunes. The dunes cover about 20% of the park. The entire area is covered with thorny shrubs, cacti, and some desert plants. If you want to explore the majestic wildlife in the Desert National Park, then the best way to do so is by taking a thrill-filled jeep safari which will be a whole new thrilling experience. Due to all these characteristics, Desert National Park is the best tourist place in Jaisalmer.

10. Windmill Park

India’s largest operational onshore windmill farm, Jaisalmer Wind Mill Park is located in Rajasthan between the Vindhya Mountains and the Himalayas on the Yamuna River. Tourists often like to visit this park to see these huge windmills and to know more about them, this huge windmill project attracts people as a lot has been spread and heard about them because of that it comes in famous places in Jaisalmer.

11. Salim Singh ki Haveli

Salim Singh Ki Haveli is a beautiful building in the heart of Jaisalmer city. It is one of the major tourist attractions in Jaisalmer built in the late 19th century on the remains of an old haveli and was commissioned by the then Prime Minister of the state, Salim Singh. It also has another beautiful name – Jahaz Mahal as the front part of the haveli resembles the stern of a ship. Made with strong iron rods made of cement and mortar; The haveli is famous for its architectural beauty.

The Haveli is about 300 years old and adorns a beautiful arched ceiling in the shape of a peacock. Renowned for its distinctive architecture, the haveli has 38 beautifully carved balconies with light blue domes on them, and different designs for all. The entrance is guarded by two stone-carved elephants whose inner walls are covered with royal paintings. Salim Singh ki Haveli is built on the ruins of an old haveli which was built in the late 17th century. The haveli also houses a beautiful Moti Mahal where dances were performed for the entertainment of the aristocrats and royal courtiers. Later the most influential Mehta family of Jaisalmer took over the piece of this grandeur.

12. Mandir Palace, Jaisalmer

The temple palace of two-century-old architecture is the most beautiful heritage hotel in Jaisalmer city. The hotel exudes an ambiance of medieval charm with a tinge of modern amenities. It is adorned with exquisite stone carvings, ornate balconies, and chhatras which reflect the craftsmanship in its purest form. Its architecture makes this temple to beautiful place in Jaisalmer.

The rooms and interiors have been renovated while retaining the pristine ambiance, yet are newly furnished. Badal Vilas is an important attraction of this palace. This hill is the tallest tower-like structure below the city fort. The Mandir Palace of Jaisalmer was built by Maharaja Jawahar Singh, with a vast collection of finely carved stones, yellow stone interiors, and grand pillars and balconies overlooking. The palace provides an unmatched view of the entire city and its surrounding structures. Apart from this, the hotel has a list of amenities and recreational activities like air-conditioned rooms, suites, vintage silver furniture, organized safaris, internet access, a swimming pool, a badminton court, laundry service, a house museum, etc. Mandir Palace Heritage Hotel has one of the finest restaurants serving exquisite Rajasthani cuisine.

13. Kuldhara Village, Jaisalmer

Located at a distance of about 20 km from the Golden City of Rajasthan, Kuldhara village is one of the most interesting attractions that you must include in your itinerary and it’s worth among of top Jaisalmer visiting places. The village, rich with its fair share of legends and myths, is said to be a spooky and haunted village. Its abandoned and terrifyingly beautiful form, standing secluded among vast stretches of desert, lives up to its reputation. There have been stories of ghostly and paranormal activities in and around the village, but as usual, no one could provide any concrete proof of this. If you want to be surrounded by an air of mystery, check this out.

Legend says that residents of the entire region left the place overnight to save their honor and life from the hands of the tyrannical minister. Thus, the whole area is quiet but terrifyingly silent! There is nothing to do, but experience itself prepares for all this. The government is setting up cafes, restaurants, and even lodges for overnight stays to turn this place into a full-fledged tourist destination with the help of some private construction companies.

14. Bada Bagh

One of the relics of Rajasthan’s illustrious past, Bada Bagh in Jaisalmer is primarily a series of cenotaphs set amidst a garden. The glorious golden cenotaphs gleam in the deserts of Jaisalmer and the adjoining garden. It is located about 6 km north of Jaisalmer, on the way to Ramgarh. Bada Bagh, translated literally as ‘Big Garden’, is a garden complex nestled between Jaisalmer and Lodhruva in Rajasthan. This is a popular place to see the Jaisalmer because it is a garden that has the cenotaphs of all the Maharajas and other prestigious family members of Jaisalmer; all royal Rajputs kings of 6 centuries!

Bada Bagh is actually located on a small hillock and the entrance to the cenotaphs is set at the bottom of the hill. The setting of Bada Bagh is dramatically stunning. The chhatris are the same color as the landscape around them, a dull brown of the sand, and hence, appear like a mirage in the desert. The towering windmills in the distance only add to the beauty this site has to offer. The bases of the various chhatris at Bada Bagh are square or hexagonal. The domes, however, can be found in a variety of shapes, ranging from a simple circular to squarish to a slight pyramid shape. These are free from any kind of artwork and only depict some information about the Raja they depict in particular.

15. Nathmal Ki Haveli

Nathmal ki Haveli is an ornate architecture situated in the heart of Jaisalmer city, also known as the land of Golden Fort, considered to be one of the most popular places to visit in Jaisalmer. It was commissioned to serve as the residence of the then Prime Minister Dewan Mohta Nathmal. The extravagant exterior dripping with carvings and the virtuoso work of the haveli (same but not identical on both sides) with two elephants made of limestone guarding the entrance are fortunate to see the work of the virtuoso.

As the name suggests, the architecture and carvings that adorn the Jaisalmer Fort are mostly made of yellow sandstone. Thus when the sun’s rays fall on these structures, they radiate like gold. Apart from the extraordinary paintings using 1.5 kg gold leaf and carvings on the walls, this amalgamation of Islamic and Rajput styles of architecture has an enthralling story. It is said that two architects, Hathi and Lulu, started the construction of two different aspects of the building. Since there were no devices to keep track of continuity in those days, the building took on an irregular shape. Surprisingly, the paintings on the interior are depictions of modern features like cars and fans, which were painted by the two architects with details given by people who had never seen them themselves in real life. Interesting? Well, see it for yourself.

16. Khaba Fort

Khaba Fort in Jaisalmer is a ruined citadel situated amidst the scorching heat of the Thar Desert. The history of this barren, eerie, and mystical village dates back to the 13th century. Its features make it the best Tourist attraction in Jaisalmer. The architecture once belonged to the Paliwal Brahmins of Kuldhara village, who fled the city in the 19th century, leaving a ghost town. Stairs at the entrance of the fort led to the focal point of the entire village and the surrounding countryside. You can also walk through the ramparts and quiet streets of the fort to the mysterious Kuldhara village that stretches from the base of the fort for a spooky experience. Khaba Fort in Jaisalmer is also the best place to visit in Jaisalmer, you must visit this place.

The turreted towers, intricate latticework, and graceful windows add beauty to the structure. Its charm is enhanced by a herd of peacocks. It also houses a small museum with ancient artifacts and a variety of rock fossils. Shiva temple, and mud hut are other remains of this place. Stairs that lead to the underground contain 80 deserted sandstone dwellings. There is something unique here – before anyone can leave the fort, its former inhabitants cast a spell to prevent anyone from settling in the village again. To this day, the fort is nothing but the ruins of what was leftover 200 years ago.

17. Tazia Tower

Situated in the beautiful Badal Palace complex, the five-story Tajia Tower in Jaisalmer has its own significance. Tazia Tower is a replica of the tomb of various Muslim Imams with intricate carvings on the walls of the tomb that depict the rich ancient art made of thermocouples, wood, and colored papers. The Badal Palace, near the Amar Sagar Gate, has a cloud-like appearance and the Tajia Tower emerges from it. This tower is completely different from the typical Rajputana architecture of Rajasthan. These were the homes of the royal families of Rajasthan built by Muslim craftsmen who gave it the shape of a tazia as a symbol of their religion. Worth visiting places among the popular places in Jaisalmer.

It is a 5-storey tower and each floor tells a different story. Each floor has a balcony renowned for its design, and the entire structure has an Islamic touch, with each of its models intricately carved. Tazia in Urdu means the boat carried during the Muharram procession. Muslim craftsmen built the balcony structure in the shape of a tazia and gifted it to the royal patrons of Badal Palace. Badal Palace, on the other hand, is a group of structures with distinctive carvings on the walls. It is the current home of the royals. The structure is a beautiful amalgamation of architectural splendour and rich tapestry of Muslim craftsmen which serves as a paradigm of ancient Muslim architectural style.

18. Pokhran Fort

It was built in the 14th century by the Marwar Thakur, Rao Maldev, This fort is also known as Balagarh Fort which is must place to visit in Jaisalmer. Pokhran means the place of five mirages surrounded by sandy, rocky, salt ranges. Although a small temple made of red sandstone, the fort is dedicated to Goddess Durga. It is located in a remote region of the Thar Desert which also served as a test site for India’s first underground nuclear weapon explosions.

The majestic fort has a huge gate with sinister spikes to prevent elephant stampedes. It houses a museum displaying armory, pottery, miniature paintings, and costumes worn by the Maharajas of the bygone era. The fort is surrounded by the village of Pokhran which warmly welcomes every traveller. The local weavers and potters working in the market, safaris on the sand dunes, and community feeding the migratory birds are the beauty of Pokhran.

19. Khuri Sand Dunes

The Khuri sand dunes, located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, are popular sightseeing spots. Khuri village is one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer to see how people live in the desert. In Khuri you can see many muds and straw houses. These houses have impressive exterior decoration. It is also one of the best Photography Spots in Jaisalmer.

Camel ride is one of the main activities in this village and while visiting this village, you can explore the vast expanse of desert outskirts on the back of a camel. The rocks and pools of the dunes will amaze you. Some of the mounds reach mesmerizing heights.

While experiencing the desert terrain, you can also visit the local settlements to experience the culture. Sit on the verandahs of straw-thatched houses. A visit to the local market will introduce you to the way of business in the Thar Desert and also give you a chance to live your life. The music of the Kalbelis in the rough sand dunes is something you should not miss as well as the best tourist place in Jaisalmer for camel safari and jeep safari.

A vast expanse of rough sand dunes stretches across the horizon. It is the perfect place to find unparalleled solitude while you ride your camel in deserted areas. It is a unique adventure activity where you feel like a nomad wandering in the desert in search of an oasis. Campfires are one of the main attractions of the area during the night.

20. Sadar Bazaar

Sadar Bazar is another favorite shopping destination among both local and foreign shoppers and also the best places to visit in Jaisalmer. The market is made up of small shops adjacent to each other, in which a variety of goods are sold. The narrow lanes run long distances, allowing you to feast your eyes on a plethora of items, including hand-embroidered leather shoes (jutti and mojri), carpets made of camel hair, tie-and-dye clothes, etc. Are included.

You can also find cloth puppets, carved wooden ornaments, furniture, blankets, shawls, etc. While going to the market, just remember to take cash with you as cards are not accepted at Sadar Bazar, like any other shopping places in Jaisalmer.

21. Shantinath Temple

Shantinath Temple is situated inside the Jaisalmer Fort. This temple is visited for its splendid architectural style and remarkable sandstone carvings. The temple is dedicated to Sri Shantinatha, affectionately called Jain Tirthankara, and is one of the seven major Jain temples within the Golden Fort. As you know Jaisalmer Fort is one of the famous places in Jaisalmer.

It stands as a magnificently carved, beautiful statue that attracts many pilgrims from all over India. The temple dates back to the 16th century and has religious significance among its believers. There are a total of 24 Tirthankara statues that are placed inside this temple and is a remarkably serene place to spend some time in solitude. The serenity and architectural significance of this temple make it one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.

22. Chandraprabhu Temple

Geometric patterns and curved façades adorn the charm of red stone carvings which are influenced by the Rajput style in this temple. Located inside the Jaisalmer Fort, this Jain temple dates back to the year 1509. Chandraprabhu Temple in Jaisalmer is dedicated to the 8th Jain Tirthankara which is a famous place in Jaisalmer, Chandraprabhuji (a Jain prophet) and is considered one of the major seven Jain temples in the Fort. Those who have visited this Jain temple already boast of intricate designs and carvings, beautiful buildings and corners. Everywhere you look there is something to catch your eye and that brings many visitors to this holy temple every day.

23. Lodhurva

Lodrava, also known as Lodurva or Lodarwa, is a village in Jaisalmer district in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is located 15 kilometers to the northwest of the popular city of Jaisalmer. Lodrava was the ancient capital of the Bhatti dynasty until 1156 AD when Rawal Jaisal founded the state of Jaisalmer and shifted the capital to Jaisalmer. The village is a popular tourist place in Jaisalmer known for its architectural ruins and the surrounding sand dunes.

It is also famous for the Jain temple dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvanatha, destroyed in 1152 AD when Muhammad Ghori sacked the city, but was rebuilt by Seth Tharu Shah in 1615 and rebuilt in 1675. and additions were made in 1687. The temples were rebuilt. In the late 1970s, as a reminder of the city’s former glory. Some other places for you to do things in Jaisalmer are Rishabh Nath Temple and Sambhavnath Temple, Hinglaj Mata Temple, Chamunda Mata Temple, and an old temple of Shiva.

Some activities to do in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer has all kinds of activities for every type of traveler. If you are an adventure lover, you can go parasailing in Kanoi and experience a serious adrenaline rush as the wind passes in front of you. Parasailing is one of the best and offbeat things to do in Jaisalmer. All you have to do is book well in advance to enjoy this activity. If parasailing doesn’t satiate your adventurous taste buds, you can go for paramotoring, Simply put, motor-powered parasailing is, and when you’re in the air circling the skies, you can go from above One can get a breathtaking view of the golden sand dunes. There. You can even click stunning pictures of the scene or just a great selfie! So what are you waiting for, explore popular places in Jaisalmer and enjoy your favorite activities.

For lovers of speed, there is quad biking that you can do to explore the topography of the sand dunes. The dust splashing from a bike roaring in the desert is quite thrilling! You can also explore the desert in a cool SUV. If you are confident about your driving skills, you can drive it yourself or let a professional do it for you. But if you love speed and adventure and don’t have a weak heart or any underlying health issues, this is something you shouldn’t miss.

Shopping in the walled city of Jaisalmer is a pleasant experience at beautiful places in Jaisalmer. With so many options and varieties of handmade products including clothes, jewelry, accessories, bags, shoes, etc., shopping is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer. You can get some amazing puppetry, Rajasthani wear, juttis, camel leather goods, and yellow sandstone showpieces here. Last but not least, a trip to Jaisalmer remains incomplete if you don’t try the authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Don’t miss out on the Mirchi Vada, Pyaaz Kachori, Lauki Ke Kofta, Laal Maas, Kicha Ki Sabzi, and the always-famous Dal Bati Churma! And for the lovers of all things Jaisalmer, there are delicious Ghotua Laddu in Jaisalmer to enchant your taste buds and make you crave more!