Jaisalmer Fort: Sonar Quila
It is protected from enemy invasion by having three layers of walls around its perimeter. To fully understand Jaisalmer Fort, it is recommended that you should look for guided tours in your Jaisalmer Tour Package. Guides are able to point out many small and large details that are often overlooked. The fort, although hundreds of years old, is still solid and strong. The fort has a wide selection of shops where you can buy souvenirs and gifts.
Gadisar Lake
Raja Rawal Jaisal, the first ruler of Jaisalmer, built this beautiful lake. There is no entry fee for the lake. It is surrounded by intricate chhatris and contains many important shrines. Gadisar Lake is home to migrator birds from Bharatpur bird sanctuary, which adds beauty and charm to the lake. It is one of the most beautiful palaces in Jaisalmer. Tourists and devotees all visit it. The lake is crowded on weekends so you should avoid visiting it during the weekdays.
Boating is best done in the mornings or at sunsets. The lake opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 7 pm. This lake is a great place to go boating with your loved ones. A simple two-seater paddleboat costs INR 100. A four-seater paddleboat costs 200. A six-seater rowboat costs INR 300.
Jain Temples
Jaisalmer is known for its many Jain Temples, which are located within its boundaries. These temples are dedicated to Jain Tirthankars. They are also known for their exquisite Dilwara style paintings. These temples are stunning in their architecture. They are closed from dawn to noon, so make sure you start your day with them. These temples are made from yellow sandstone, which is very distinct in Jaisalmer architecture. These temples, many of which were built in the 11th or 12th centuries, continue to bring joy and newness hundreds of years later.
Lodurva Jain Temple, one of the most well-known Jain Temples, is also one of its most iconic. It is both historical and religiously significant. Its mirror work is stunning and still looks new after so many years. Jain Temples are often offered as guided tours.
Tourists may not be allowed to enter the temples during religious activities. It is best to confirm whether the temples can be viewed by the public. These temples can be explored for as little as 30 minutes or as long as an hour, depending on the person’s interest. You can check out our Rajasthan travel guide for more information and travel guides. This guide can assist you in Jaisalmer, helping to discover the best palaces and top things to do in Jaisalmer.
Desert National Park
The Desert National Park covers 3162 km and is home to a variety of wildlife. This park is home to the endangered great Indian bustard, making it one of Jaisalmer’s most popular tourist attractions. It is famous for its host of migratory birds such as the Short-toed Eagles, Sand Grouse, and Tawny Eagles. The fascinating fauna and flora of the desert are remarkable, even though it is extremely dry. Many tourists love the unique collection of dinosaur fossils found in Desert National Park. The best time to visit the park is between November and January. You may also be able to spot migratory birds if you’re lucky.
Although the desert national park’s landscape looks simple, it is very complex. It is made up of salt beds, jagged rock, and sand dunes. Although the desert’s topography appears dead beneath its surface, it is alive with life. The park is home to a diverse array of fauna and flora. Established in Jaisalmer, the Desert National Park is located in Barmer. You should not venture into the park alone. A tour guide is recommended for safety and educational purposes.
Vyas Chhatri
Vyas Chhatri, a magnificent cenotaph dedicated to the Hindu sage Vyas, is located in Vyas Chhatri. This cenotaph, made from sandstone, is a popular spot for sunset and picnicking. Vyas Chhatri requires an entry fee of INR 100. The camera is an additional INR 100. The venue is open every day from 8 a.m. until 7 p.m. Vyas Chhatri glows at sunset, which is the best time to visit it.
Khaba Fort
Thirty-three kilometres from Jaisalmer Fort is Khaba Fort. It contains many ancient artefacts and well-preserved ruins, including old houses. The must-see monuments of Rajasthan include the magnificent Khaba Fort. This is an excellent tourist spot for those who are interested both in archaeology and history. The Khaba Fortress also has a small museum that displays the finest artefacts from the Khaba Fortress. Entry to the venue costs INR 50. The hours are from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Legend has it that Khaba Fort was once home to Paliwal Brahmins. It is not known why they fled the area. The Khaba Fort ruins are a testament to balanced urban planning. There are many temples within the premises, but oddly none of these houses has roofs. Experts and laymen alike find this surprising—the complex of the Khaba Fort houses close to 80 homes. The abandoned ghost town should be visited by everyone who passes near Jaisalmer. To fully explore the area and return from Jaisalmer to Khaba Fort takes about half a day.
Jaisalmer Government Museum
Everyone who visits Jaisalmer should visit the Jaisalmer Government Museum. This museum offers a quick overview of the city’s history and culture. The Department of Archaeology and Museums manages it, and it is open every day from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. It houses the finest collections of jewellery, arms, ammunition, and artefacts that best reflect a Rajasthani heritage that spans several centuries. There are additional charges for the camera and entry fee, ranging from INR 50 to INR 100.
Tanot Mata Temple
Tanot Mata Temple, a place of worship dedicated to Tanot Mata, is said to be the incarnation goddess Hinglaj Mata. It is located near the Pakistan border, and it survived the Indo-Pak War of 1971. A modern legend says that the temple’s divine spirit was responsible for India winning the war. The temple also survived the destruction of the battle. It is located 122 km from Jaisalmer and takes approximately 2 hours to travel there. Tanot Mata Temple, despite its distance, is always crowded with devotees and tourists.
Patwaon Ki Haveli
The Patwaon ki Haveli was built by Gulam Singh Patwa around 1805 CE. The place is located just 500m from Jaisalmer Fort and 1.5 km from Jaisalmer Railway Station. Beautiful architecture and exquisite carvings characterize the haveli. The haveli is made up of five parts and has close to 60 balconies. It took 55 years to complete the entire structure.
The museum displays rare and valuable artefacts as well as precious objects. Patwaon ki Haveli’s doors are open daily from 8 am to 6 pm. Tickets cost INR 20 for Indians, INR 100 for foreigners. The camera is available for purchase at an additional cost of INR 50. Rajasthan State Government currently maintains this building. It houses the offices of the Archeological Survey India, the Craft Department and the Art Department. It can take up to two hours to fully explore the haveli.
Nathmal Ji Ki Haveli
This haveli was once the residence of Jaisalmer’s Prime Minister, Diwan Mohata Nakhmal. Today, it is a tourist attraction. It is an excellent example of Rajput architecture and Islamic architecture. Brothers Hathi and Lulu built the beautiful haveli. It has an uneven finish because it was constructed simultaneously by the brothers and independently by them. Its strength is evident in its ability to withstand the test of time without falling. The haveli can be found in the middle of the city, and it is open until 5 p.m.
Bara Bagh
Bara Bagh, a complex of garden plants made up of cenotaphs and chhatris, is located at 7 km. In remembrance of the old Rajasthan kings, cenotaphs and chhatris were created. Maharawal Jait S is the oldest chatri. After the 20th century, it was no longer a tradition to make chhatris at Bara Bagh. Because Maharaja Jawahar Singh’s son died too soon, the chatri dedication was discontinued. The making of chhatris since then has been plagued by bad luck.
Bara Bagh is open from 8 am to 6 pm. For Indian citizens, the ticket price is INR 20. Foreign tourists pay INR 50. Bara Bagh’s golden hour is the best time to visit. The structures shine in the golden sunlight and are stunning. The intricate designs of the chhatris have been created in Paliwal, Rajput, or Mughal style. Some chhatris come with a statue of the King. A tank and dam are also part of the Bara Bagh. It is a massive structure measuring 1,200 feet high and 350 feet wide. Bara Bagh also contains a tower to mark the completion of the tank’s construction.
Things to Do in Jaisalmer
There are many options in this city of 78,000 residents. One can choose from a variety of adventure and relaxing activities. There are many interesting activities to be done in Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer offers a wide range of events and activities that will appeal to all ages, including those who are adventure-lovers, history buffs, and older people.
Camel ride
Jaisalmer, which is located in the Thar Desert, makes it the ideal place to go on camel rides. You can experience desert life at its fullest with these rides. Camels are gentle and enjoyable to ride. You can book your camel tour online, or you can arrange for a ride on-site. Make sure you are aware of the dunes that you will be visiting before you book your ride. Sunsets are the best time to go on camel rides. The views are more spectacular, and the sun is less intense than during the day.
Camping
The Thar Desert Camping is a wonderful experience with its starry night and golden sand. Camping in the desert is a great way to relax and enjoy these stunning surroundings. You can book luxury camping in Jaisalmer online. These plans last from two to five nights. Regular desert camping includes traditional food and nighttime cultural programs that include traditional dance, music, and fire-lighting.
Like all deserts and sandy areas around the globe, the Thar Desert experiences a sharp drop in night temperature. Stargazing in the desert sky is a wonderful experience without the distractions of the city skyline. It is also amazing to see the sunrise putting a golden glow on the dunes around you.
Parasailing
Parasailing: Parasailing, a safe and enjoyable adventure sport that can be enjoyed at Jaisalmer’s beautiful runways, is Parasailing. Parasailing is a sport where the parachutist rides a parachute attached to a jeep. This allows them to glide across the plains. You can book your parasailing lessons online from various Jaisalmer-based facilities. Before you take up this sport, make sure your instructor is certified.
Parasailing should be done at least two hours before eating or drinking. Children over five years old can take this sport. Parasailing in the desert is an amazing experience. You can choose to have the ride extreme or easy depending on your thirst for adventure.
Sand surfing
Sand surfing: Also known as Dune Bashing and a popular desert adventure sport, sand surfing can also be called Dune Bashing. Jaisalmer’s dunes and the advanced adventure sports sector make Jaisalmer a great place for sand surfing. Sand surfing is an ideal sport for people who enjoy speed and driving. Sand surfing is a great way to get some adrenaline in the arid Rajasthani landscape.
You can spend half your day doing this activity. However, those with limited time can book shorter sessions for one hour. Extreme levels of sand surfing can only be done by licensed drivers or adults. Make sure you do your research before signing up for these activities.
Jeep Safari
Jeep Safari: This is one of the most popular activities in Jaisalmer. This activity combines adventure sports with scenic rides. Families and solo travellers alike will enjoy this activity. Fossil Park is the best place to go on jeep safaris. Desert National Park is also a great choice that you can review. The desert’s beauty and mellow sun rays make it a perfect time for jeep safari rides. To protect your face from the sand during a jeep safari, you should bring a scarf. A hat and sunscreen are a must for those with sensitive skin.
Boating on Gadisar Lake
Boating on Gadisar Lake is best done in the morning or at sunset. The lake opens at 8 a.m., closes at 7:45 p.m. A simple two-seater paddleboat costs INR 100. A four-seater peddle boat costs 200. A six-seat rowboat costs INR 300. Gadisar boat was built in 1400 AD by Maharawal Gadsi Sing. It is a popular tourist attraction in Jaisalmer. It is a popular spot for bird watching as it is frequented by migratory birds. This lake is a wonderful place to boat with your partner. It can also be fun for you and your friends.
