Located deep inside the majestic Thar Desert and dotted with stunning architectural marvels, the history and beauty of Jaisalmer never fails to fascinate tourists. There are many attractions in and around the city for you to explore, be it the grandeur of Jaisalmer Fort and Patwon ki Haveli, the serenity of the Jain Temples, or the vivacity of the shopping places and intriguing desert festivals. What’s more, jeep tours and camel safaris in the desert are sure to elevate your excitement!
Being a major tourist destination, the Golden City, as it is popularly referred to, is well-connected to the rest of the country. You can either fly to Jaisalmer Airport or reach Jodhpur Airport and take a taxi to Jaisalmer. The city also has a major railway station with good connectivity. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are common modes of transport within Jaisalmer, while private bus services are also available. You will also find many different types of hotels in Jaisalmer that cater to all kinds of tourists – backpackers, families, couples, international travellers, etc.
If you are planning a trip to the city, read on to know about the top places to visit in Jaisalmer.
1. Gadisar Lake, Jaisalmer
#1 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Located on the outskirts of the city, the beautiful Gadisar Lake is perfect for those seeking peace and tranquillity. Its history dates back to the 14th century, when it was a major source of water for the entire city. Now, Gadisar Lake is a popular tourist attraction where you can go boating and enjoy scenic views of the adjacent Jaisalmer Fort and the temples on its banks. If you are visiting during winters, keep an eye out for migratory birds.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2-3 hours
- How to reach – Gadisar Lake is about 2 km away from the city centre. You can take an auto-rickshaw or hire a cab.
2. Patwon ki Haveli, Jaisalmer
#2 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
A magnificent cluster of five small havelis in one premise, Patwon ki Haveli is top on the list of places to visit in Jaisalmer. Intricate carvings on the windows and balconies and exquisite wall paintings and mirror-work accentuate the grandeur of the havelis. This huge mansion has airy courtyards and 60 balconies, each boasting distinctive carvings that add to its charm. You will also find a rare collection of stonework and artefacts related to the Patwa Family in the haveli’s museum.
- Best time to visit – September to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – The haveli is about 1 km away from Jaisalmer Fort and 2 km from the railway station. Auto-rickshaws and taxis are easily available.
3. Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
#3 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Located on the golden sands of the Thar Desert and resembling a huge sandcastle, Jaisalmer Fort is the epitome of Rajasthani architecture. This largest living fort in India houses around 5000 people and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One can enter this yellow sandstone fort from different gates – Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol, the last of which leads to a big courtyard called Dussehra Chowk. Laxminath Temple, Jain Temples, Cannon Point, the five-level sculpted Maharwal Palace and Fort Museum are some prominent attractions inside the fort.
- Best time to visit – November to March
- Ideal duration – 3-4 hours
- How to reach – Hire a cab or take an auto-rickshaw to reach Jaisalmer Fort from the railway station (2 km away) or city centre (250 m away).
4. Jain Temples, Jaisalmer
#4 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
A series of seven interconnected temples in Jaisalmer Fort, Jain Temples are known for their great archaeological value. The focal point of these temples is the popular Dilwara style of architecture with intricate carvings of human and animal figures on the walls. Jain Temples are also a significant pilgrimage spot with strong spiritual vibes and a major attraction among history buffs. Those interested in the history of these temples must visit Gyan Bhandar Library here for old texts and rare manuscripts.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – These temples are only 250 m away from the city centre and 2 km away from Jaisalmer Railway Station. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available.
5. Kuldhara Abandoned Village, Jaisalmer
#5 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
This abandoned or ghost village is an intriguing attraction, especially for those who like to explore the ruins of old forts and villages. It is believed that Paliwal Brahmins, the natives of Kuldhara’s 85 villages, abandoned the place within a night and there have been no signs of human dwelling since then. You can take a walk through the ruins to see many temples, step-wells, and other structures that lie abandoned.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2 hours
- How to reach – The village is 27 km away from Jaisalmer Fort and 25 km away from the railway station. Hire a taxi or take a private bus.
6. Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer
#6 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
One of the most authentic desert sites in the country, Sam Sand Dunes offer mesmerising views of sunrise and sunset. You can also go on a desert safari or enjoy a camel ride here. The many campsites in the heart of the Thar Desert offer luxurious accommodation options for visitors. Folk dance, musical nights, authentic Rajasthani cuisine and other interesting activities showcasing the culture and heritage of Rajasthan are some things to look forward to at Sam Sand Dunes.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 3-4 hours or a couple of days in the desert camp
- How to reach – The sand dunes are 40 km away from Jaisalmer city. You can hire a jeep or local SUV to reach the desert area and explore the nearby attractions. Local buses are also available at the bus stand, which is 350 m away from Jaisalmer Fort.
Also read about the popular Jaisalmer Desert Festival
7. Salim Singh ki Haveli, Jaisalmer
#7 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Featuring 38 balconies with intricate carvings and a peacock-shaped arched roof, Salim Singh ki Haveli is nothing less than an example of architectural brilliance. The mansion also boasts outstanding art and sculpture with beautiful paintings on the interior walls. As you enter the Haveli, you can see a pair of lifelike sandstone tuskers guarding the gate, lending it a royal look. The haveli is popularly known as Jahaz Mahal as the front part of it looks like a ship stern.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – The Haveli is only 1 km away from the city centre and 1.5 km away from the railway station. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are the best modes of transport.
8. Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer
#8 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
A garden complex with a series of tombstones of the royal families, Bada Bagh is a significant place related to Rajasthan’s past. It is located on a small hillock with the entrance to the tombstones or cenotaphs at the bottom of the hill. The garden has a spectacular setting with multiple dull brown chhatris, the domes of which are square, circular or pyramid-shaped. You can take a stroll in the garden and enjoy birdwatching or simply admire the beautiful surroundings.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Bada Bagh is about 7 km away from the city centre and 9 km away from the railway station. You can take an auto-rickshaw or hire a taxi.
9. Jaisalmer War Museum, Jaisalmer
#9 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
A historical museum set up by the Indian Army, Jaisalmer War Museum or Longewala War Memorial displays the bravery and sacrifice of the armed forces. In the museum, you can see some unique artefacts related to the inspiring contribution of the Indian Army in the 1965 Indo-Pak War and 1971 Battle of Longewala. From war tanks, guns and military vehicles to a repertoire of trophies and the audio-visual theatre screening the Battle of Longewala, everything about the memorial is exceptional.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – The War Museum is 13 km away from Jaisalmer city centre and 11 km away from the railway station. You can take a private or government-operated cab or hire an auto-rickshaw.
10. Tanot Mata Temple, Jaisalmer
This miraculous temple located near the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak War site – Longewala is a must-visit place in Jaisalmer. As per the Jawans posted nearby, the temple remained unharmed even after heavy bombing and shelling by Pakistan. This helped protect many soldiers and locals. There are many more stories of divine intervention related to the temple. The drive to Tanot Mata Temple through beautiful landscapes is amazing, while the divinity and unique aura of this holy place is powerful enough to fill you with positive energy. Some of the unexploded bombs dropped by Pakistan are exhibited in the temple museum.
- Best time to visit – November to March
- Ideal duration – 30-45 minutes
- How to reach – Tanot Mata Temple is 121 km away from Jaisalmer. You can book a private cab to reach the temple.
11. Khuri Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer
#11 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Similar to Sam Sand Dunes, but less populated, tourists frequent Khuri Sand Dunes seeking an unforgettable experience in the desert. The soft white desert sand and constantly changing shape of the dunes is a sight to behold! In Khuri, you can go on long camel safaris, camp under the stars, and enjoy spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset. Those interested can also explore the village to get a glimpse of the local life and culture.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2-3 hours or a couple of days in the desert camp
- How to reach – Khuri is 50 km away from Jaisalmer, so you can hire a taxi or board a private bus to reach the dunes.
12. Vyas Chhatri, Jaisalmer
#12 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Located inside Bada Bagh, Vyas Chhatri is among the most popular Jaisalmer tourist places. Boasting an array of golden-hued sandstone chhatris with elegant Rajasthani architecture and intricate carvings, these structures are a sight to behold. Apart from admiring the architecture of the chhatris, you can enjoy beautiful views of Jaisalmer Fort on one side and sand dunes on the other.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 30-45 minutes
- How to reach – Vyas Chhatri is 2 km away from Jaisalmer Fort and about 4 km away from the railway station. You can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi.
Also Read About Popular Monuments in India
13. Desert National Park, Jaisalmer
#13 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Spread over 3162 sq. km, this paradise for wildlife lovers is one of the largest national parks in the country. Apart from cacti and other desert plants, the park houses many animals and birds that can survive in the hot and dry climate, including eagles, falcons, blackbuck, chinkara, Bengal fox and desert cat. If lucky enough, you can also spot an endangered species of bird called the Great Indian Bustard here. A collection of fossilised plants and animals dating back 180 million years and Jurassic Period is a major attraction here.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 3-4 hours
- How to reach – The park is 11 km away from Jaisalmer. You can hire a cab or auto to reach the park.
14. Nathmal ki Haveli, Jaisalmer
#14 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Built out of yellow sandstone and adorned with astounding carvings on the exterior, Nathmal ki Haveli is a beautiful Jaisalmer tourist attraction. The interior of the Haveli is accentuated with beautiful paintings made using 1.5 kg of gold leaf. It is said that two brothers Lulu and Hathi separately built the left and right wings of this architectural marvel. Hence, you will notice that the two sides of the haveli look alike, but are not identical.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – The Haveli is 300 m away from Jaisalmer city centre and 2 km away from the railway station. Auto-rickshaw and cabs are easily available.
15. Tazia Tower, Jaisalmer
#15 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Situated in Badal Palace Complex, the 5-storeyed Tazia Tower is a beautiful replica of the mausoleums of different Muslim Imams. It was built by Muslim artisans and is different from the typical Rajputana architecture of the region. While exploring the tower, you will notice that the balcony on each floor is designed differently from the rest. The entire structure was constructed using wood, thermocol and coloured papers.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Take an auto-rickshaw from Jaisalmer city centre (400 m) to reach Tazia Tower.
16. Khaba Fort, Jaisalmer
#16 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Khaba Fort, located near the abandoned Kuldhara Village, is yet another unusual and eerie structure in Jaisalmer. The fort and village were inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins who deserted it one night for a reason not known. Now a popular tourist attraction, Khaba Fort offers beautiful panoramic views of the village and is a photographer’s delight. The old-world charm of the fort and a museum with age-old artefacts attract many history buffs as well.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Khaba Fort is 32 km away from the city centre. You can board a private bus or take a taxi.
17. Manak Chowk, Jaisalmer
#17 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Portraying the mind-blowing craftsmanship of Rajasthani artists, Manak Chowk is a popular shopping place in Jaisalmer. It is right outside Jaisalmer Fort and a must-visit for those looking to buy ethnic silver jewellery, traditional bedding materials, Rajasthani-style ornaments and other products at affordable rates. Besides shopping, you can also marvel at the beauty of the many heritage buildings in and around Manak Chowk.
- Best time to visit – November to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Manak Chowk is hardly a few metres away from the city centre and about 2.5 km away from the railway station. Cabs or auto-rickshaw are easily available everywhere.
18. Pansari Bazaar, Jaisalmer
If you are looking to shop for authentic Rajasthani products, the collection at Pasari Bazaar will leave you spoilt for choice. From colourful puppets and wall hangings to jewellery and carpets, this oldest market in Jaisalmer has them all. You will also find some of the finest dress materials and bedding fabrics here in different colours, prints and patterns.
- Best time to visit – November to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Pansari Bazaar is only 500 m away from Jaisalmer Fort and about 2 km away from the railway station. You can take an auto-rickshaw for quick travel.
19. Sadar Bazaar, Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer’s main market, Sadar Bazaar is a must-visit for every shopping enthusiast. The narrow streets of the market house many small shops selling a variety of products, like carpets made of camel hair, hand-embroidered juttis and mojaris, cloth puppets, shawls, furniture, and paintings. Women can also find a wonderful selection of traditional costume jewellery and bags here.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Take an auto-rickshaw or taxi to reach Sadar Bazaar from Jaisalmer Fort (300 m away) or any other location.
20. The Thar Heritage Museum, Jaisalmer
Displaying the rich culture, heritage and architectural style of Rajasthan, The Thar Heritage Museum falls in every best places to visit in Jaisalmer list. This historical reservoir houses a wide assortment of objects from ancient times, like musical instruments, different types of kitchen equipment, artefacts, fossils, turbans, coins and ornaments. The snakes and ladder game and a puppet show narrated by the museum’s curator Shri L.N. Khatri are quite entertaining and engaging.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Take a cab or auto-rickshaw from Jaisalmer Fort (2 km away), railway station (4 km away) and other places in the city.
21. Akal Wood Fossil Park, Jaisalmer
This destination related to the pre-historic era has to be a sure-shot addition to your Jaisalmer sightseeing itinerary. Akal Wood Fossil Park is spread over 21 hectares of land and has a barren and rocky terrain. The area reportedly was a dense forest about 180 million years ago, but was later submerged under the sea. Now, it is covered with seashells and fossilised tree trunks of different shapes and sizes.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – The fossil park is about 19 km away from Jaisalmer city centre. You can board a private bus or book a cab.
22. Chandraprabhu Temple, Jaisalmer
Constructed in the 16th century, this popular Jain temple is one of the seven temples built for the 8th Tirthankara Jain Prophet Chandraprabhu Ji. The beauty of the temple is accentuated by the curved facades, well-designed walkways and corridors. It also features finely sculpted pillars and intricately carved geometric patterns on red sandstone, all highlighting the brilliant Rajput style of architecture.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2-3 hours
- How to reach – The temple is a few metres away from Jaisalmer Fort. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are easily available for longer distances.
23. Pokaran Fort, Jaisalmer
#23 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
Located in Thar Desert, Pokaran Fort or Balagarh Fort is an important attraction in the region. Malwar Thakur, Rao Maldeo, built this 14th century fort in yellow sandstone. Although small, the fort boasts exceptional construction and a blend of Rajput-Mughal architecture. It also has a temple dedicated to Goddess Durga. Huge doors, elegant palaces, and a museum displaying costumes, miniature paintings and other things used by the Maharajas are the main attractions here.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Pokaran Fort is 111 km away from Jaisalmer. You can book a taxi or board a train from Jaisalmer Railway Station.
Find out more about Rajasthan Tourism
24. Jaisalmer Wind Park, Jaisalmer
Many visit this offbeat yet interesting tourist destination in Jaisalmer. Popular as India’s biggest wind farm, Jaisalmer Wind Park offers remarkable views of massive windmills on all sides. The park houses all types of windmills employed in India, from the oldest to the newest ones. It undoubtedly is a great place for those wanting to learn about these huge mechanical devices.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 30-45 minutes
- How to reach – Take an auto-rickshaw or taxi from Jaisalmer Fort (1 km away), railway station (3 km away), or any other location.
25. Lodhurva, Jaisalmer
Lodhurva, also known as Lodrawa or Lodurva, was once a flourishing city and the ancient capital of the Bhatti Dynasty until the 12th century. The city was later ransacked by the Mughals and is mostly in ruins now. As a popular tourist destination, Lodhurva attracts many history buffs who come here to see the remains of the civilisation’s architecture. You can also find many temples here, such as a Jain Temple dedicated to Lord Parsvanath (23rd Jain Tirthankara), Rishabhnath Temple, and Chamunda Mata Temple.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2-3 hours
- How to reach – Hire a taxi to reach Lodhurva, which is about 7 km away from Jaisalmer city centre.
26. Barmer, Jaisalmer
An ancient city known for its rural beauty, Barmer is a must-visit. The flamboyant culture of the town is evident in its colourful houses, vibrantly dressed people and the many fairs and festivals celebrated here with great fervour. The city also houses many attractions for tourists, like Barmer Fort, Nakoda Jain Temple, Devka Sun Temple, and Mahabar Sand Dunes. What’s more, the sight of trudging camels and artisans showcasing their pottery, wood-carving and other crafts adds a distinctive charm to the city.
- Best time to visit – November to March
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach – Barmer is about 157 km away from Jaisalmer. Many private buses run between the two cities. You can also book a cab.
27. Mandir Palace, Jaisalmer
Built during the 9th and 10th century, Mandir Palace was the abode of the rulers of Jaisalmer for over 200 years. This prominent historic point in the city is known for its fine craftsmanship and is a major tourist-puller. The beautifully carved screens, canopies and decorative balconies speak volumes about the expert artisans of that period. Badal Vilas, a tall sandstone structure offering magnificent views of the city is a notable feature of the palace.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw from Jaisalmer city centre (300 m away), railway station (3 km away), or any other location in the city.
28. Amar Sagar Lake, Jaisalmer
#28 of 31 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer
A prominent attraction near Amar Singh Palace, this lake cum oasis is a popular spot for boat trips. It also offers beautiful views of sunrise, sunset, and the temples and sanctuaries that surround it. During your trip to Amar Singh Lake, you must also explore the palace, which looks like a pattern of apartments. It has five storeys and is famous for its murals, a Shiva temple, ponds and wells. The palace is also connected to the lake by a series of steps and pavilions.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – The lake is 7 km away from Jaisalmer
29. Bhatia Bazaar, Jaisalmer
This popular shopping destination in Jaisalmer is quite different from the rest. It has a lively atmosphere with colourful displays and shopkeepers dressed in ethnic attire. The small cobbled streets add a distinctive charm to the bazaar and attract many photography enthusiasts. Shopaholics can find a mind-blowing collection of products here, like oil lamps, carpets, furniture, table runners, and cotton and silk textiles.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – Bhatia Bazaar is 300 m away from Jaisalmer Fort and about 3 km away from the railway station, so you can take a taxi or auto-rickshaw.
30. Jaisalmer Government Museum, Jaisalmer
Established in 1984 by the Department of Archaeology, Jaisalmer Government Museum is a history lover’s delight. It displays the rich culture and heritage of Thar Desert with a mind-blowing selection of coins, paintings, inscriptions, jewellery, traditional household items and other artefacts. A collection of marine and wood fossils, sculptures from Kairadu and Lodhurva townships, and a glass case displaying The Great Indian Bustard are the major attractions here.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2-3 hours
- How to reach – The museum is about 1 km away from Jaisalmer city centre. Hire an auto-rickshaw for quick travel.
31. Silk Route Art Gallery, Jaisalmer
Your trip to Jaisalmer is incomplete without a visit to the Silk Route Art Gallery. The store has a wonderful selection of handmade products like patchwork quilts, cushion covers, bedspreads, bags, accessories and wall hangings, all made by the local artisans. Representing the culture and tradition of the city, these products make perfect souvenirs as well.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 hours
- How to reach – You can take an auto-rickshaw to reach the art gallery which is only 1 km away from the city centre.
Now that you know the places to visit in Jaisalmer, you can easily shortlist a few and chart out an itinerary. Even if you have been to Jaisalmer already, the charm of the Golden City and our list of top tourist places will surely inspire you to plan a trip again!
