Jaisalmer, famously known as the Golden City of India, stands proudly in the heart of the Thar Desert, offering travellers a glimpse into Rajasthan’s royal heritage, architectural brilliance, and desert charm. If you’re planning a Rajasthan trip, these are the top tourist places to visit in Jaisalmer and here is why each of them deserves a place on your itinerary.
1. Jaisalmer Fort: The Golden Fortress
No Rajasthan trip is complete without visiting Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Quila. Built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, this fort is unique as it is one of the world’s largest living forts, with thousands residing within its golden sandstone walls. The fort houses palaces, temples, shops, and homes, creating a living heritage site that feels like stepping back in time. Its architecture, intricate carvings, and panoramic views of the city from its ramparts make it an unmissable experience.
2. Patwon Ki Haveli: The Merchant’s Marvel
Among the many havelis in Jaisalmer, Patwon Ki Haveli stands out for its grandeur. Built in the early 19th century by Guman Chand Patwa for his sons, it is a cluster of five havelis known for their intricate stone carvings, ornate balconies, and mirror work. Visiting this haveli offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Jaisalmer’s wealthy traders and the artistic brilliance of local craftsmen.
3. Sam Sand Dunes: The Desert Adventure
If you wish to experience the true essence of Jaisalmer, head to the Sam Sand Dunes, located about 40 km from the city. Here, you can enjoy camel safaris, jeep rides, quad biking, and parasailing. Evenings come alive with cultural performances of Rajasthani folk music and Kalbeliya dance under the star-lit desert sky. Watching the sunset over the golden dunes is a sight that stays with you forever, making it one of the top tourist places to visit in Jaisalmer.
4. Gadisar Lake: A Serene Escape
Built in the 14th century by Maharawal Gadsi Singh, Gadisar Lake is an artificial reservoir that once served as Jaisalmer’s water source. Today, it offers boat rides amidst scenic surroundings dotted with temples, ghats, and chhatris. During winter, migratory birds flock here, making it a paradise for bird watchers and photography enthusiasts. Its peaceful vibe offers a refreshing break from the fort and market visits.
5. Salim Singh Ki Haveli: The Ship Palace
Salim Singh Ki Haveli, built in the early 18th century, is famous for its unique architecture with arched balconies that resemble a peacock and a roof shaped like a ship’s stern, earning it the name Jahaz Mahal. This haveli is a testament to the creativity of Jaisalmer’s architects and a must-visit for those fascinated by heritage structures.
6. Nathmal Ki Haveli: A Tale of Two Brothers
This haveli was built by two architect brothers, who worked on different sides of the building simultaneously, resulting in slightly different yet equally beautiful designs. Nathmal Ki Haveli showcases intricate carvings of elephants, soldiers, flowers, and horses on its façade, along with grand interiors featuring gold leaf paintings. It remains an architectural marvel among Jaisalmer’s heritage attractions.
7. Desert National Park: The Wild Thar
For nature and wildlife lovers, Desert National Park, spread over 3162 sq km, is a fascinating place to explore. It showcases the ecosystem of the Thar Desert with sand dunes, craggy rocks, and salt lake bottoms. The park is home to the endangered Great Indian Bustard, desert fox, chinkara, and monitor lizard. Fossils dating back millions of years can also be found here, making it a unique destination near Jaisalmer.
8. Bada Bagh: Royal Cenotaphs
Located about 6 km from Jaisalmer, Bada Bagh is a garden complex housing the royal cenotaphs (chhatris) of the Bhatti dynasty rulers. These beautifully carved sandstone structures stand against the barren desert and windmills, creating a dramatic landscape, especially during sunrise and sunset. It’s an ideal spot for photography and quiet reflection.
9. Kuldhara Village: The Abandoned Settlement
Kuldhara Village, 18 km from Jaisalmer, is known for its mysterious abandonment in the early 19th century. Legend says the Paliwal Brahmins vanished overnight to escape the tyranny of Salim Singh, leaving behind a ghost village with crumbling houses and silent streets. Managed by the Archaeological Survey of India, it attracts travellers intrigued by history, legends, and heritage ruins.
10. Tanot Mata Temple: The Temple of Miracles
Situated near the Indo-Pak border, Tanot Mata Temple is associated with legends from the 1965 and 1971 wars, where unexploded bombs landed near the temple but did not harm it, believed to be due to the goddess’s blessings. Managed by the Border Security Force (BSF), it remains a symbol of faith and protection. Travellers can also visit the nearby Longewala War Memorial to witness stories of India’s military bravery.
Why These Places Should Be on Your Jaisalmer Itinerary
- Historical Significance: Each site narrates tales of Rajput kings, merchants, warriors, and folk legends.
- Architectural Grandeur: The forts and havelis showcase intricate carvings and royal craftsmanship.
- Desert Experiences: Camel safaris, cultural performances, and golden dunes offer a quintessential Rajasthan adventure.
- Spiritual and Cultural Insight: Temples like Tanot Mata and heritage sites like Kuldhara enrich your understanding of local beliefs and history.
- Photographic Beauty: From golden sandstone forts to sunset over dunes, Jaisalmer is a photographer’s paradise.
Conclusion
These are the top tourist places to visit in Jaisalmer that define the city’s royal desert experience. Whether you wish to immerse yourself in history, admire architectural brilliance, or seek adventure amidst the dunes, Jaisalmer offers it all. Make sure to include these destinations in your Rajasthan trip to witness the timeless charm of India’s Golden City.
