Jaisalmer: Top Activities on the Ground for a Memorable Experience

As a travel enthusiast, I have always been fascinated by India’s rich cultural heritage and diversity. One of the most captivating destinations in India is Jaisalmer, also known as the ‘Golden City.’ Located in the westernmost part of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is renowned for its beautiful sandstone architecture, vibrant culture, and desert adventures. In this blog post, I will take you on a journey to discover the best of Jaisalmer and share some of the top activities on the ground that will make your visit truly unforgettable.

Introduction to Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a beautiful city that stands in the midst of the Thar Desert in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is known for its magnificent fort, havelis, and palaces, all made of golden sandstone. The city derived its name from the Rajput ruler Maharawal Jaisal Singh, who founded the city in 1156 AD. Jaisalmer is also famous for its rich culture, music, and dance forms that reflect the region’s history and traditions.

Why Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City?

Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City because of its golden sandstone architecture that glows beautifully in the sun. The city’s magnificent fort, havelis, and temples are made of the same golden sandstone, giving the city a unique charm and beauty. The sandstone used in Jaisalmer is known as the Jaisalmer stone, which is renowned for its durability and the ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

Top tourist attractions in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer has many tourist attractions that reflect the city’s rich history and culture. The top tourist attractions in Jaisalmer include:

Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most impressive forts in Rajasthan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort was built in 1156 AD by Maharawal Jaisal Singh and is one of the few surviving forts in India that are still inhabited. The fort’s massive walls and bastions are made of golden sandstone and have a height of 250 feet. The fort also houses many beautiful havelis, temples, and palaces that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Patwon Ki Haveli

Patwon Ki Haveli is a beautiful haveli that was built in 1805 AD by Guman Chand Patwa, a wealthy Jain merchant. The haveli is a fine example of Rajasthani architecture and has five interconnected mansions. The haveli is adorned with beautiful murals, jharokhas, and balconies, and is a must-visit attraction in Jaisalmer.

Gadisar Lake

Gadisar Lake is a beautiful man-made lake that was built in the 14th century. The lake is surrounded by temples, ghats, and chhatris, and is a popular spot for boating and bird watching. The lake is also a great place to witness the sunrise and sunset and get a glimpse of the local life.

Best things to do in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer offers a plethora of activities for travelers to explore its rich culture and heritage. The best things to do in Jaisalmer include:

Camel Safari in the desert

A camel safari in the Thar Desert is one of the best ways to explore the region’s natural beauty and experience the local life. The safari takes you through the sand dunes and remote villages, where you can witness the locals’ daily life and culture. The safari also includes camping in the desert, where you can witness the starry night sky and enjoy traditional Rajasthani cuisine.

Camping in the desert

Camping in the desert is an experience that should not be missed when in Jaisalmer. The camps are set up in the sand dunes and offer a comfortable stay amidst the natural beauty of the desert. The camps offer various activities like folk music and dance performances, camel rides, and bonfire nights.

Exploring Jaisalmer Fort

Exploring Jaisalmer Fort is a must-do activity when in Jaisalmer. The fort offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and culture and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort’s massive walls and bastions are made of golden sandstone, and the fort houses many beautiful havelis, temples, and palaces.

Visiting Gadisar Lake

Visiting Gadisar Lake is a great way to experience the local life and witness the natural beauty of the region. The lake is surrounded by temples, ghats, and chhatris, and is a popular spot for boating and bird watching. The lake is also a great place to witness the sunrise and sunset and get a glimpse of the local life.

Shopping in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is known for its vibrant markets and shopping destinations that offer a wide range of traditional Rajasthani crafts, textiles, and jewelry. The markets are a great place to experience the local life and pick up some unique souvenirs to take back home.

Best restaurants in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer offers a wide range of dining options that cater to all tastes and budgets. The city’s restaurants offer traditional Rajasthani cuisine, as well as Indian, Chinese, and Continental cuisines. Some of the best restaurants in Jaisalmer include Saffron, Trio, and Jaisal Italy.

How to get to Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is well-connected to major cities in India by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport, which is located 7 km from the city center. The nearest railway station is Jaisalmer Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Jaisalmer is also well-connected to major cities in Rajasthan by road.

Jaisalmer tourism information

Jaisalmer is a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan and attracts tourists from all over the world. The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Jaisalmer has many accommodation options that cater to all budgets, ranging from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses.

Conclusion: Why Jaisalmer is a must-visit destination in India

Jaisalmer is a beautiful city that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The city’s golden sandstone architecture, vibrant culture, and desert adventures make it a must-visit destination in India. Whether you’re exploring the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, experiencing the local life, or enjoying a camel safari in the desert, Jaisalmer will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags and head to Jaisalmer for a truly memorable experience.

Plan your trip to Jaisalmer today and experience the best of the golden city.