In the far west of India, in the middle of the great Thar Desert, there is a city that shines like gold under the sun — Jaisalmer. Known as the Golden City, it is one of the most beautiful places in Rajasthan.
Jaisalmer is famous for its golden sandstone buildings, old forts, camel rides, and the wide desert that stretches for miles. Visiting Jaisalmer is like stepping back in time to the days of kings, queens, and desert caravans.

1. The First Impression – A City Made of Gold

When you arrive in Jaisalmer, the first thing you notice is its color. Almost every building is made of yellow sandstone, so when the sunlight falls on them, the city looks golden. That is why people call it the Golden City.

Jaisalmer was founded in 1156 AD by a Rajput ruler named Rawal Jaisal. Many years ago, it was an important stop for traders who traveled between India and the Middle East. They carried spices, silk, and precious stones across the desert on camels.
Today, Jaisalmer still has the charm of those ancient times. Narrow streets, colorful markets, and the smell of incense make the city feel like a living museum.

2. Jaisalmer Fort – The Golden Fortress

The most famous place in Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Qila, meaning “Golden Fort.”
This fort is different from many others in India because people still live inside it. There are houses, shops, temples, and small restaurants — all within the fort walls. It feels like a small town from another time.

Built in the 12th century, the fort stands on a hill and shines brightly when the sun hits it. Walking through its narrow lanes, you can see:

• Old Jain temples with beautiful carvings.

• Small stalls selling handmade jewelry, leather bags, and colorful scarves.

• Local families sitting outside their homes, welcoming visitors with smiles.

From the top of the fort, you can see the entire city and the desert beyond. The best time to visit is during sunset, when the whole fort glows in shades of gold and orange.

3. The Beautiful Havelis of Jaisalmer

Apart from the fort, Jaisalmer is also famous for its havelis — large, old mansions built by rich merchants. These havelis show the amazing art and skill of Rajasthani builders.

Patwon Ki Haveli

This is the biggest and most famous haveli in Jaisalmer. It was built by a wealthy trader and his sons over many years. The walls and balconies are covered with fine carvings that look like lace made of stone. Inside, there are rooms with colorful windows and mirrors.

Nathmal Ki Haveli

This haveli was built by two brothers who worked on different sides at the same time. The design is almost the same on both sides, but if you look closely, you can see small differences. It’s full of carved flowers, elephants, and even pictures of trains and fans.

Salim Singh Ki Haveli

This haveli is known for its strange shape — it has a roof shaped like a peacock and balconies that stick out far from the walls. People say the owner wanted to make it taller than the fort, which made the king angry. Still, it’s one of the most interesting buildings in the city.

jaisalmer tour package

4. The Desert Adventure – Sam and Khuri Dunes

A trip to Jaisalmer is not complete without visiting the Thar Desert. Around 40 kilometers from the city are the Sam and Khuri sand dunes, where you can see endless golden sands.

Camel Safari

The best way to explore the desert is by riding a camel. As the camel moves slowly across the dunes, you can watch the sun go down and see the sky turn red, orange, and purple. The peace of the desert and the soft sound of the wind make it an unforgettable experience.

At night, you can stay in desert camps. Here you can:

• Enjoy Rajasthani folk dance and music around a campfire.

• Eat a delicious traditional dinner under the stars.

• Sleep in tents or even outside, under the open sky filled with thousands of stars.

Some camps also offer jeep rides over the dunes for those who want more excitement.

5. Other Beautiful Places to Visit

Gadisar Lake

Built hundreds of years ago, Gadisar Lake was once the main source of water for the city. Today, it’s a peaceful place for a walk or a boat ride. Many small temples and shrines stand around the lake, and when the fort reflects in the water, it looks magical — especially at sunrise.

Bada Bagh

A few kilometers outside the city, Bada Bagh (meaning “Big Garden”) is a quiet area with cenotaphs — small dome-shaped monuments built in memory of the kings of Jaisalmer. At sunset, these golden domes glow beautifully against the desert sky.

Jain Temples

Inside the fort are several Jain temples made of marble and sandstone. The carvings on the walls and ceilings are incredibly detailed. The peaceful atmosphere inside makes them a wonderful place to rest and reflect.

6. Life, Culture, and Festivals

Jaisalmer may be in the desert, but it is full of life, color, and joy. The people wear bright clothes, play traditional instruments, and love to sing and dance.

Every February, the city celebrates the Jaisalmer Desert Festival. During these days, the desert becomes a stage for:

• Camel races and competitions.

• Folk dances, music, and puppet shows.

• Turban-tying and mustache contests, which are fun to watch.

It’s one of the best times to visit Jaisalmer because you can see the local culture come alive in full color.

7. Tastes of the Desert

Rajasthani food is delicious and full of flavor. Because water is scarce in the desert, many dishes are made with dry ingredients like grains, pulses, and spices.

Some popular dishes you should try in Jaisalmer are:

• Dal Baati Churma – baked wheat balls served with spicy lentils and sweet crumbled wheat.

• Ker Sangri – a local desert plant cooked with spices.

• Gatte Ki Sabzi – gram flour dumplings in a yogurt-based curry.

• Laal Maas – a spicy red mutton curry, famous in Rajasthan.

Don’t forget to drink lassi, a sweet and refreshing yogurt drink, especially on a hot day. For dessert, try Gulab Jamun or Mawa Kachori.

8. Shopping in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a great place to buy handmade crafts. The local markets are full of color and energy. You can find:

• Embroidery and mirror-work fabrics.

• Silver and stone jewelry.

• Leather bags and shoes made from camel leather.

• Wood carvings and miniature paintings.

Popular places for shopping are Manak Chowk, Bhatia Bazaar, and Pansari Bazaar. Remember to bargain politely — it’s part of the fun!

9. Where to Stay

Jaisalmer has many places to stay for every budget.

Inside the City

• Heritage hotels and havelis: Beautiful old mansions turned into hotels, offering a royal experience.

• Guesthouses and hostels: Simple, clean, and affordable options, often inside or near the fort.

In the Desert

• Luxury desert camps: Comfortable tents with private bathrooms, cultural shows, and dinner.

• Eco-camps: Simple but peaceful, perfect for those who love nature and quiet nights under the stars.

No matter where you stay, the hospitality in Jaisalmer is warm and welcoming.

10. Travel Tips

• Best time to visit: From October to March, when the weather is cool and pleasant.

• Getting there: Jaisalmer is connected by road and train to cities like Jodhpur and Jaipur. There is also a small airport with limited flights.

• Moving around: Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available. You can also rent a bike or take a walking tour.

• Dress comfortably: The sun can be strong, so wear light clothes, sunglasses, and a hat.

• Stay hydrated: Always carry a bottle of water, especially when going to the desert.

• Respect local culture: Take off your shoes in temples, ask before taking people’s photos, and dress modestly.

  Jaisalmer car rental
  

11. The Golden Feeling – Why Jaisalmer Stays in Your Heart

Jaisalmer is not just a city to see — it’s a city to feel. The golden walls, the quiet desert, the songs of the people, and the warm smiles stay with you long after you leave.

When you walk through the old streets, you can almost hear the echoes of traders, soldiers, and travelers from centuries ago. When you ride a camel at sunset, you feel the vastness of the desert and the peace that comes with it.

Jaisalmer teaches you the beauty of simplicity, the strength of tradition, and the magic of light and sand.