Jaisalmer, nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India, is a mesmerizing city renowned for its golden sandstone architecture and rich cultural heritage. Dominated by the imposing Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or Golden Fort, the city’s skyline is a testament to its royal past and architectural splendor.
Beyond the fort, Jaisalmer enchants visitors with its intricately carved havelis (traditional mansions) like Patwon ki Haveli and Salim Singh ki Haveli, showcasing exquisite Rajasthani craftsmanship. The city’s vibrant markets, narrow alleyways, and bustling bazaars offer a glimpse into daily life, where one can shop for handicrafts, textiles, and traditional Rajasthani artifacts.
Gadisar Lake, an artificial reservoir surrounded by temples and ghats, provides a serene retreat and reflects Jaisalmer’s history of water conservation. Beyond the city, the Sam Sand Dunes beckon with their vast expanses of desert landscape, offering camel rides, cultural performances, and stunning sunset views—a quintessential desert experience.
Here’s a brief overview of some must-visit places in Jaipur, along with timings and fees:
Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)
Dominating the skyline of Jaisalmer, the Sonar Quila or Golden Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate architecture and golden sandstone walls. It serves as a living fort with a vibrant community of residents, making it a unique blend of historical monument and inhabited city. During season time you require 3-4 hours.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Daily)
Fees: The fair is subject to change during season time
- Indian Nationals: ₹50
- Foreign Nationals: ₹250
- Camera and video photography is separate
Tips: Here are some tips and useful information about Jaisalmer Fort
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking and climbing involved.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
- Carry light coloured cotton clothes, as it gets very hot during the day in Jaisalmer
- The nights are colder here, so adequate clothing must be taken care of
- One must be well hydrated in order to avoid dehydration, especially during the summers
- Best time to visit Jaisalmer is from November to March.
Patwon ki Haveli:
A cluster of five elaborately carved havelis, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and intricate facades that reflect the opulence of Jaisalmer’s wealthy merchants. About 1-2 hour is sufficient to visit.
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Daily)
Fees: The fair is subject to change during season time
- Indian Nationals: ₹50
- Foreign Nationals: ₹100
- Camera and video photography is separate
Tips: Here are some tips and useful information about Patwon ki Haveli
- Engage a local guide for insights into the history and architecture. Photography enthusiasts will find plenty of opportunities here.
- There are a lot of bats inside the haveli. So, avoid flash photography as the flash might excite them and they might attack you.
- Beware of touts and pickpockets outside the haveli.
- Hats and sunglasses are advisable to carry.
- Wear comfortable shoes as exploring this vast haveli involves a lot of walking
- Carry cash for the entry fee as cards are not accepted.
Salim Singh ki Haveli:
Known for its distinctive peacock-shaped architecture and ornate balconies, this haveli is a fine example of Rajasthani craftsmanship and offers panoramic views of the city. Allow around 30 min-1 hours to explore thoroughly.
Timings: 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM
Fees: The fair is subject to change during season time
- Indian Nationals: ₹20
- Foreign Nationals: ₹100
Tips: Here are some tips and useful information about
- Combine your visit with a stroll through the narrow lanes of the surrounding old town to experience local life and shop for souvenirs.
- Carry cash for the entry fee as cards are not accepted.
Gadisar Lake
A picturesque artificial lake surrounded by temples, shrines, and ghats, offering a tranquil escape from the desert heat and a glimpse into Jaisalmer’s water conservation history.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Daily)
Fees:
- Entry is free; boating fees apply (optional)
Tips: Here are some tips and useful information about Jantar Mantar
- Visit early in the morning or around sunset for stunning views and cooler temperatures. Boat rides are available for a unique perspective of the lake.
- Avoid visiting the Gadisar Lake in Jaisalmer on hot or humid days in summer
- Carry a pair of good binoculars and a camera
- The parking at the Gadisar Lake is very small. So, prefer commuting till the lake by a bus or taxi
Sam Sand Dunes
Located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, the Sam Sand Dunes offer a quintessential desert experience with camel rides, cultural performances, and breathtaking sunset views.
Timings: Best visited in the evening for sunset views and cultural performances.
Fees:
- Camel rides, Jeep rides, Parachute activity, Paraglider, Quad Biking etc will have separate charges applicable
Tips: Here are some tips and useful information about Sam Sand Dunes
- Try not to reveal the hotel in which you are staying to the sightseeing person, because in that case , he will try to charge you as per the hotel in which you are staying.
- Carrying a sunscreen is a must.
- Carry binocular, sunglasses, hats etc
- The nights are colder in the desert, so carry the clothes appropriately. In December, the temperatures will go upto 4 degree celsius so pack your jackets accordingly.