Top Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
With our affordable Best Camp Stay in Sam, The Ker Desert covers all the top places to visit in Jaisalmer and provides a memorable experience.
Jaisalmer Fort
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the "Golden Fort," is one of the largest living forts in the world. Built from golden sandstone, it stands as a magnificent symbol of Rajasthan’s rich heritage. Inside the fort, you'll find vibrant marketplaces, ancient Jain temples, palaces, and quaint cafes. Walking through its narrow lanes feels like stepping back in time, with stunning architecture and sweeping views of the surrounding desert landscape.
Patwon Ki Haveli
Patwon Ki Haveli is the largest and one of the oldest havelis in Jaisalmer, dating back to the 19th century. It’s a complex of five beautifully carved havelis, each showcasing the intricate craftsmanship and architectural elegance of the time. Today, it houses museums and galleries that display traditional artifacts, artwork, and intricate mirror work, making it a perfect spot for history and art enthusiasts. .
Sam Sand Dunes
Experience the enchanting Thar Desert at Sam Sand Dunes, a must-visit for those wanting a true desert experience. This popular spot offers camel rides, jeep safaris, and sunset views that paint the desert in beautiful hues. Evening cultural performances, including Rajasthani folk music and dance at the local desert camps, provide a unique opportunity to enjoy Rajasthan’s vibrant culture under the starry desert sky.
Desert National Park
Covering a vast area of the Thar Desert, Desert National Park is home to unique flora and fauna adapted to the harsh desert climate. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers, especially during winter when migratory birds visit. Spotting the rare Great Indian Bustard, an endangered species, is a highlight here. With sand dunes, craggy rocks, and fossil reserves, this park is a must for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Famous Places of Jaisalmer
Famous places of Jaisalmer are Kuldhara Village, Gadisar Lake, Bada Bagh, Tanot Mata Temple, and many other places.
Kuldhara Village
Kuldhara is an abandoned village with an air of mystery and intrigue. Legend has it that the village was deserted overnight, with locals leaving due to a curse. Now in ruins, it gives visitors a chance to explore ancient houses and imagine life as it was centuries ago. Kuldhara is fascinating for history buffs and those intrigued by tales of the supernatural.
Gadisar Lake
Originally built to serve as a water reservoir, Gadisar Lake is now a peaceful retreat, surrounded by temples, shrines, and ghats. Visitors can take a quiet boat ride while enjoying views of the lake’s historical structures and spotting migratory birds. It’s especially beautiful at sunset when the golden light reflects off the water, creating a serene ambiance.
Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh, or "Big Garden," is a royal cenotaph garden featuring beautifully carved chhatris (cenotaphs) of the Bhatti dynasty. Surrounded by a barren desert, the sandstone structures create a stark yet mesmerizing sight. The sunset here is breathtaking, casting a warm glow over the cenotaphs, making it a favorite spot for photographers and history lovers alike.
Tanot Mata Temple
Near the India-Pakistan border lies Tanot Mata Temple, famous for the legends surrounding it. The temple miraculously survived intense shelling during the Indo-Pak war, with not a single bomb exploding in its vicinity. Today, it stands as a symbol of faith and resilience, attracting visitors who wish to explore its history. The journey itself offers panoramic views of the Thar Desert, and the Border Security Force maintains the temple with a museum showcasing artifacts from the war.