3 Days in Jaisalmer for Desert Adventure

Kick off your Jaisalmer adventure with its iconic golden fort, a stunning haveli, and a sunset camel ride in the dunes.

Activities

Explore Jaisalmer Fort

Start your day at the living fort of Jaisalmer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its narrow lanes, visit the stunning Jain temples, and soak in panoramic views of the city. The fort's golden sandstone walls glow in the morning light, making it the perfect time for photos.

Jaisalmer Fort, Sonar Quila8:00 AM - 11:00 AM (best before it gets too hot)Free to enter, temples may charge around ₹100-200

Tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes for the uneven pathways
• Bargain politely if shopping inside the fort

Visit Patwon Ki Haveli

Head to Patwon Ki Haveli, the most elaborate and well-preserved haveli in Jaisalmer. Admire the intricate carvings, latticed balconies, and antique furnishings. Each of the five connected havelis has its own charm, with the first one open to the public as a museum.

Patwon Ki Haveli, near Jaisalmer Fort11:30 AM - 1:00 PM (before lunch break)₹100-150 per person

Tips:

• Hire a guide for ₹200-300 to understand the history
• Look for the hidden frescoes in the inner chambers

Sunset Camel Ride at Sam Sand Dunes

Cap off your day with a camel ride into the Thar Desert. The Sam Sand Dunes, about 45 minutes from the city, offer the best sunset views. Enjoy a short camel safari, then relax on the dunes with chai and folk music as the sky turns orange.

Sam Sand Dunes, 42 km from Jaisalmer4:00 PM - 8:00 PM (sunset around 6:30 PM)₹800-1500 per person (includes camel ride and refreshments)

Tips:

• Book through a reputable operator to avoid scams
• Carry a scarf to protect from dust

Must Try Foods

Dive deeper into Jaisalmer's rich culture with visits to stunning havelis, a serene lake, and a taste of local life through food and crafts.

Activities

Visit Salim Singh Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli

Start your day with the architectural wonders of Jaisalmer. Salim Singh Ki Haveli, with its peacock-shaped roof and intricate carvings, feels like stepping into a fairy tale. Nearby, Nathmal Ki Haveli is a masterpiece built by two brothers—notice the slight asymmetrical designs they added as a playful touch. Both havelis are quieter in the morning, perfect for soaking in the details.

Near Jaisalmer Fort, in the heart of the city9:00 AM - 11:00 AMINR 50-100 per haveli

Tips:

• Hire a local guide for stories behind the carvings—they’re worth it.
• Look for the hidden balconies in Salim Singh Ki Haveli.

Relax at Gadisar Lake

Head to Gadisar Lake, a peaceful escape from the desert heat. Built as a water conservation tank centuries ago, it’s now a serene spot with temples and chhatris (cenotaphs) lining its banks. Rent a paddleboat or just sit by the water, watching locals feed catfish. The light here is magical in the late afternoon.

Gadisar Lake, about 1 km from Jaisalmer Fort4:00 PM - 5:30 PMFree (boat rides around INR 100-150)

Tips:

• Visit the nearby Desert Cultural Centre for a quick peek at Rajasthani folk art.
• Try the crispy kachoris from stalls near the lake entrance.

Evening at Manak Chowk and Local Bazaars

As the sun sets, wander through Manak Chowk, the bustling market square near the fort. It’s the best place to shop for souvenirs like embroidered textiles, silver jewelry, and camel leather goods. Bargain hard but with a smile! Wrap up with dinner at a rooftop café overlooking the fort, lit up like gold at night.

Manak Chowk, adjacent to Jaisalmer Fort6:30 PM - 8:30 PMShopping varies; dinner INR 300-600 per person

Tips:

• Look for the tiny shops selling ‘moti choor’ laddoos—they’re a local sweet specialty.
• Ask for ‘Rajasthani thali’ at dinner—it’s a feast of flavors.

Must Try Foods

Dive deeper into Jaisalmer's hidden gems and cultural experiences, from ancient temples to local crafts and offbeat spots.

Activities

Visit Bada Bagh and the Windmills

Start your day with a peaceful visit to Bada Bagh, a serene garden complex with royal cenotaphs and a stunning view of the sunrise over the desert. Later, drive a bit further to see the unexpected sight of windmills dotting the desert landscape—a surreal contrast to Jaisalmer's ancient vibe.

Bada Bagh, about 6 km from Jaisalmer cityEarly morning, around 6:30 AM to avoid the heatEntry fee around ₹100 per person

Tips:

• Carry water and wear comfortable shoes for walking around the garden.
• The windmills are best visited right after Bada Bagh, as they’re on the same route.

Explore Kuldhara Village

Head to the abandoned village of Kuldhara, shrouded in mystery and local legends. Wander through the eerie ruins and hear stories about why the entire village was deserted overnight centuries ago. The quiet, haunting atmosphere makes it a unique spot for photography and history buffs.

Kuldhara, about 18 km from JaisalmerLate morning, around 10 AMEntry fee around ₹50 per person

Tips:

• Hire a local guide to get the full story—it’s worth it.
• Wear a hat and sunscreen; there’s little shade.

Handicraft Workshop and Local Lunch

Spend your afternoon getting hands-on with Jaisalmer’s famous crafts. Join a local workshop to try your hand at block printing, embroidery, or pottery. Afterward, enjoy a hearty Rajasthani thali at a family-run eatery, where you’ll get to taste dishes like ker sangri and gatte ki sabzi.

Local artisan workshops in Jaisalmer cityAfternoon, around 1 PMWorkshop around ₹500-1000 per person, lunch ₹200-400

Tips:

• Book the workshop in advance—many artisans welcome visitors but have limited slots.
• Ask for less spicy versions of dishes if you’re not used to heat.

Must Try Foods