Jaisalmer

In the heart of the Rajasthani desert, at the edge of the world on the border with neighboring Pakistan, rises a golden and stunning city that dazzles all who pass by. Its ancient forts, unique desert tours, winding alleys, vibrant markets, and rich array of flavors and colors make Jaisalmer one of Rajasthan’s rarest gems.

It’s a truly unique place that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time and entered a legend. 

Jaisalmer boasts a large, golden, and beautiful fort built on a hill in the middle of the city. It is full of life, and the city has expanded around it while retaining its unique charm..

When is it recommended to visit Jaisalmer?

Like most cities in Rajasthan, desert Jaisalmer is ideal for visiting during the winter months—from October to March (especially at the edges of the season). Summer temperatures can be extremely high, ranging between 35–40°C during the day or even higher. In the peak of winter, there may be overcast days with reduced visibility.

How to get to Jaisalmer?

Jaisalmer is located in a remote and isolated area near the Pakistan border, yet it remains highly accessible.

Arrival by flight – Even in remote Jaisalmer, there is an airport. It is a very small facility located on a military base just outside the city, with only a few civilian flights per day. These flights operate from nearby major airports, such as Delhi or Jaipur.

Arriving by train Jaisalmer has a railway station with direct trains from various destinations in Rajasthan and Delhi, including an express train from Delhi. From other locations, a transfer at a major station may be necessary.

Buses – Sleeper trains and buses connect Jaisalmer with various destinations across Rajasthan and Delhi.
It’s worth noting that there is a direct sleeper train from Pushkar to Jaisalmer (which also passes through Jodhpur) that takes approximately 12 hours.

The distance between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer is about 4.5 hours.

Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort, the city’s most popular attraction, is impossible to miss. Also known as “Sonar Quila,” it rises atop a hill in the middle of the city. The fort is entirely constructed from yellow sandstone, gleaming in golden hues against the backdrop of the desert and the desert sun.

This is a large and very ancient fort. Rajasthan has witnessed numerous wars and battles, and the fort was built over 800 years ago to protect the city. At the time of its construction, the entire population of Jaisalmer lived within its walls. Over the years, the population grew, and by the 17th century, the city began expanding beyond the fort’s walls. Yet the fort remains active today—people still live there, and it houses shops and colorful markets, picturesque alleyways, temples, restaurants, and guesthouses. It is one of the few “living forts” in the world.

Jaisalmer Fort is the heart of the city and undoubtedly its main attraction. Within the fort’s ancient alleyways, you can wander for hours—or even days—exploring, walk along the walls, or sit on restaurant terraces that offer panoramic views of the city. It’s an incredible place with a truly unique atmosphere.

 Many travelers even choose to stay inside the fort, but it’s important to keep in mind that, very slowly, the fort is sinking into the desert sands, and staying inside contributes to this gradual subsidence.

There are countless charming guesthouses offering views of the fort and the sunsets.

What else is there to do in Jaisalmer?

Don’t worry — there’s plenty more to see in the amazing city of Jaisalmer beyond the fort.

Gadisar Lake – An artificial, modest-sized lake built many centuries ago, in the 12th century CE. Around the lake, you’ll find temples, restaurants, and local food stalls, as well as beautiful Rajasthani memorials on the water itself. Stone steps lead down to the lake, offering a peaceful spot to sit and watch the surroundings. Visiting at sunset is highly recommended!

Jain Temple – The Jain religion is an ancient and rare branch of Hinduism with its own distinct culture and temples—one of which is located inside the Jaisalmer Fort. It is a complex of seven interconnected temples linked by pathways and corridors. The structure is beautiful and unique, adorned with intricate Jain carvings on its walls and pillars. It’s worth noting that the temple is open to visitors only in the morning and closes sometime around midday.

The Old City – Jaisalmer has a beautiful old city located outside the fort. Some of the buildings, which once served as royal residences, have been exceptionally well preserved and now function as museums showcasing ancient Rajasthani desert architecture.

BADA BAGH – About a 20-minute drive from the city lies a park featuring rows of magnificent structures that serve as memorials to the Maharaja royal dynasty from the 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries. The buildings are stunning and golden, adorned with arches and domes characteristic of the region. The park is situated on a hill, surrounded by green cultivated fields in the middle of the desert.

Desert Safari – Jaisalmer is a city located in the heart of the vast desert, surrounded by villages and nomadic settlements, as well as parks, sand dunes, and oases. A very popular activity is taking a jeep safari through these areas — watching the sunset over the glowing dunes, and enjoying an outdoor meal. You can choose a one-day trip and return to sleep in the city, or embark on a multi-day journey to experience authentic local hospitality in the desert. Overnight stays in tents out in the open are also possible.

The attraction can easily be booked through any guesthouse in the city.

Camel ride – The desert tour can be done on camelback.