Things To Do In Jaisalmer: A Traveler’s Guide

Jaisalmer, popularly called the ‘Golden City’ of India, is a magical destination in the heart of the vast Thar Desert. Named after Maharaja Jaisal Singh, the founder and first ruler of the city, Jaisalmer is one of the must-visit cities in Rajasthan. With its majestic forts, fascinating havelis, sparkling vast stretches of sand dunes, and vibrant local markets, there are things to do in Jaisalmer that have something for everyone. 

Whether you’re exploring the Golden Fort, riding camels in the desert, or discovering local crafts, Jaisalmer promises an unforgettable experience. The perfect blend of history, culture, and adventure makes it an ideal destination for a quick getaway. If you are planning your visit to this beautiful city but not sure what to explore, don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!

Things To Do In Jaisalmer

The daylight hues, the yellow sands, the pink and red forts, the royal palaces, and the Arabian night dances are set to capture your hearts. Let’s explore the best activities in Jaisalmer.

Desert Camping In Jaisalmer

One of the must-have things to do in Jaisalmer is to experience a unique desert camping adventure with a stay in a comfortable tent, vibrant cultural performances by the bonfire, a tasty dinner, and a filling breakfast. You can enjoy delightful folk performances by a crackling bonfire at the campsite amidst a warm and inviting atmosphere. Indulge in a delicious vegetarian buffet dinner prepared using local flavors and spices for culinary delight, set under the starry desert sky. 

To complete your camping experience, stay comfortably under the desert sky in a cosy tent with modern amenities that provide a relaxing retreat amidst the serene desert landscape. Witness a stunning sunrise the following day as the golden light brightens the sands for a peaceful and unforgettable experience.

Explore Jaisalmer Fort

The iconic Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the few living forts around the world. The fort currently has numerous shops, temples, havelis, and palaces, as well as a lot for you to see. If you want to experience the beauty of this fort, visit it on foot through the narrow lanes. Visiting the fort is one of the most popular activities in Jaisalmer, and people spend an entire day in this ancient fort, which dates back to 1156 AD.

The shops selling handicrafts and colorful traditional outfits will surely make you stop and have a look. The beautiful temples are a fine example of marvelous architecture with intricate carvings. Not only this, but the panoramic city view from the top of the fort is breathtakingly beautiful. 

Camel Safari in the Desert

Jaisalmer has many Camel Safari options to choose from, no matter what time of the day you want to enjoy it. There are many well-known sand dune sites where you can enjoy a thrilling camel ride into the desert. If you wish to go someplace more secluded, then you can arrange for a safari in the lesser-known parts of the Thar desert.

Travelers can witness the changing shapes of the sand dunes, wild insects and animals of the desert, and the different hues of the sky as the day goes on. You can choose to camp overnight, enjoy stargazing, and then wake up early for a breathtaking sunrise before you head back to the city. It is among the most unique activities in Jaisalmer, and it is among the must-do things to do in Jaisalmer.

Visit Desert National Park

Desert National Park is one of the largest national parks in the country and should be included in your list of Jaisalmer things to do. This national park is a fine example of the ecosystem of Thar Desert and Sand Dunes. The place has an abundance of birdlife and animals, which makes it even more alluring. Every year, thousands of travelers visit this place to see migratory and resident birds in action. 

But mostly, the park is famous for the Great Indian Bustard, an endangered species of bird, which is found in relatively fair numbers during the season from November to January. Apart from elusive avian species, the park also features a collection of animals and fossils that date back to at least 180 million years ago. Opt for a jeep safari to cover the place in a relatively short period of time.

Cultural Show in Great Thar Desert

There is no better place to experience the true Jaisalmer culture in its unadulterated form than at the cultural show at Sam Sand Dunes. After the sun sets, this remote desert destination turns into a full-blast festival with lights, dance performances, delightful acts, and colorful costumes.

You can light a bonfire and warm yourself as the temperatures drop after sunset and enjoy delicious Rajasthani food. If you like exploring the local culture and interacting with other travelers, then this will be one of the most fun things to do in Jaisalmer.

Experience Dune Bashing

If you are still thinking that dune bashing is a popular adventure sport of the Gulf and the Arabs, you should think again! Thar Desert areas near Jaisalmer are also considered ideal locations for dune bashing and off-roading as well. The Sam Sand Dunes are thronged by thousands of adventure junkies who have a yearning for these two sports and make it part of their Jaisalmer trip.

The name Jaisalmer itself brings out the vibrancy and charm. Dune bashing floods the heart with the true feeling of adventure and adrenaline rush. 

Watch a Puppet Show

Puppeteering has been a part of Jaisalmer and its history for centuries. From buying handmade puppets to watching interesting puppet shows that tell age-old tales, there are a lot of fun things for puppet enthusiasts to do in Jaisalmer. You can hop over to the Thar Heritage Museum to witness this ancient folk art form.

The puppet shows last for around 40 minutes and includes puppet dancing, singing, and storytelling, making it a fun activity for the entire family. The museum also has a souvenir shop where you can stop to buy puppets to take home with you after the holiday.

Shopping at the Local Bazar of Jaisalmer

There are plenty of markets to visit in Jaisalmer if you love shopping. From buying handmade puppets at Pansari Bazar to shopping for antique furniture at Bhatia Bazaar, you can spend days in these markets. Some of the most famous bazaars in Jaisalmer are the Sadar Bazaar, which is to shop for carpets, leather goods, and paintings. Bhatia Bazaar is where you get the best silk fabric and sarees; Sonaron Ka Baas is for both precious and imitation jewelry, and Manak Chowk is for souvenirs, among others. Among things to do in Jaisalmer, you can spend days roaming these bazaars, haggling with the shop owners, or simply enjoying the colorful wares as you indulge in the delicious street food. 

Visiting Havelis of Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is renowned for its stunning havelis and majestic forts that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. The most notable among these is Patwaon Ki Haveli, a complex of five havelis built in the 19th century by a wealthy merchant, showcasing intricate carvings and beautiful balconies.

Another architectural marvel is Nathmal Ki Haveli, constructed for the prime minister in the late 19th century and characterized by its unique asymmetry and ornate frescoes. Salim Singh Ki Haveli, with its distinctive peacock-shaped roof, stands out due to its elaborate façade and historical significance as a former residence of Jaisalmer’s prime minister. Exploring these sites not only reveals exquisite craftsmanship but also immerses visitors in the vibrant history and culture of Jaisalmer. Among things to do in Jaisalmer visiting these havelis is a must.

Enjoy Culinary Influences 

Among the famous things in Jaisalmer, you definitely can’t miss out on some desert culinary delights. Rajasthani cuisine often comprises beans, dry lentils, and grains such as jowar and bajra. You will see that dairy products such as buttermilk, ghee, and curd are excessively used here. Different signature dishes are prepared here. 

From Dal Baati Churma, which includes baati, a baked wheat dough ball soaked in ghee served with dal and churma, to laal maas, which is a fiery meat curry prepared using mutton and served with steamed rice and bajra chapati. Gatte ki sabzi is yet another famous dish, including besan dumplings cooked in yogurt gravy and served with rice and chapati. Bajra ki roti and lehsun ki chutney are a great combo that forms an integral part of the diet here. If you are visiting Jaisalmer, then you must try the food here, which will fill your heart with a longing for more.

Travel Jaisalmer With TripzyGO

Jaisalmer offers an unforgettable experience, blending the city’s rich heritage with the thrill of adventure. This city is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, vibrant culture, and breathtaking desert landscapes. Among the things to do in Jaisalmer Rajasthan, visitors can explore the majestic Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city also offers exciting activities like camel safaris at Sand Dunes, boating at Gadisar Lake, and visits to the intricately designed Havelis.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure enthusiast, Jaisalmer has something for everyone. With TripzyGo, you can curate your  Rajasthan package, ensuring a memorable trip. So, plan your visit to Jaisalmer and immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of this desert gem!