The first time I saw Jaisalmer’s honey-gold silhouette rising from the sands of the Thar, I felt like I had stumbled into a scene from an ancient desert fairytale. Camels trotted by lazily, the scent of spicy street snacks hung in the air, and that first glimpse of the Jaisalmer Fort—India’s only living fort—left me awe-struck. It wasn’t just the golden glow of the city that captured me, but the rhythm of its life: timeless, textured, and vibrant.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a soulful solo trip, or a chaotic but laughter-filled reunion with friends, this 3-day Jaisalmer itinerary is crafted from personal experience to help you uncover not just places, but moments you’ll carry long after the trip ends.
Best Time to Visit
I visited in early January when the desert air was crisp and the sunlight spilled like liquid gold across sandstone walls. The days were warm and perfect for sightseeing, while the nights were chilly—ideal for sipping chai by a campfire under a sky ablaze with stars. For more detailed guide follow best time to visit Jaisalmer.
How to Reach
Reaching Jaisalmer is part of the journey’s charm. We took the train from Jodhpur—a route that slowly unveils the desert’s grandeur through your window. But whether by air, rail, or road, getting there is easier than you might think –
- By Air: The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport (JSA), which is well-connected to major Indian cities. Take a direct flight to Jodhpur then continue your journey by train, bus, or cab to Jaisalmer.
- By Train: Jaisalmer has its own railway station, Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM). It’s connected to various cities in Rajasthan and major Indian cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Ajmer, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Udaipur and Kolkata.
- By Road: You can also reach Jaisalmer by road. The city is well-connected by a network of national and state highways. You can drive to Jaisalmer from nearby cities, or take a bus from places like Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Bikaner.
How to Get Around Jaisalmer
Wandering through the narrow lanes of the fort, I found myself marveling at intricately carved balconies and encountering shopkeepers who insisted I stay for chai and stories. Much of the city’s charm lies in these slow, serendipitous strolls.
Local Travel: Walkable fort area, with tuk-tuks and scooters ideal for exploring nearby attractions like Kuldhara and Lodurva.
Guided Tours: For deeper excursions into the desert, I booked through Viator—the guide even let me drive the jeep for a stretch (a dusty, exhilarating ride I won’t forget!).
Where to Stay
Being a top tourist attraction in Rajasthan Jaisalmer has no dearth of hotels, hostels and campsites. From luxurious resorts to budget-friendly hotels or vibrant hostels to peaceful campsite Jaisalmer has various kinds of accommodation for all kinds of budgets. And here are some of the most trusted and reviewed hotels in Jaisalmer –
| Hotel Name | Best For | Price/Booking Info |
| Zostel – Inside Jaisalmer Fort | Groups, friends, backpackers, budget & solo travelers | 599 INR / Book Now |
| The Hosteller – Chandra Niwas Opp Nagar Palika Road | Backpackers, groups, friends, budget & solo travelers | 659 INR / Book Now |
| Hotel Jaisalmer Inn – Near Honda Showroom, Gadisar Circle | Budget travelers, couples, family and friends | 972 INR / Book Now |
| Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa – Jaisalmer Sam Dhanana Road | Honeymoon couples, families and luxury | 8000 INR / Book Now |
| Chokhi Dhani The Palace Hotel – Barmer Road | Mid Budget, family, honeymoon couples | 4500 INR / Book Now |
| Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli – On Fort Kotari Para | Mid-range, family, friends, solo and couples | 4600 INR / Book Now |
| Hotel Shahi Garh – Inside fort near Laxmi Nath Temple | Budget-friendly, solo, backpackers, friends & family | 978 INR / Book Now |
How many days are enough for the Jaisalmer trip?
Three days felt just right. The first day was about soaking in the old city’s soul, the second was for historical detours and ghost villages, and the third? That was reserved for the desert—sunset camel rides, folk dances by firelight, and lying on the cold sand with the stars so close, you could almost pluck them.
Budget Travelers: Two days are doable—combine city sights with one unforgettable night in the desert.
My Suggestion: Don’t rush. Let Jaisalmer slow you down. It’s not a place to tick boxes—it’s one to feel.
Jaisalmer 3 Days Itinerary
| Days | Things to do |
| Day 1 in Jaisalmer | Explore Jaisalmer fort, visit Jain temples, Tazia Tower, Patwon Ki Haveli, Nathmal Ki Haveli, Jaisalmer war museum and sunset at Gadisar Lake |
| Day 2 In Jaisalmer | Sunrise at Bada Bagh, Visit Lodurva village, Kuldhara village, and sunset at Vyas Chhatri |
| Day 3 In Jaisalmer | Visit Desert National Park, admire the biodiversity of the desert, Camel Safari, Dune Bashing, Desert Safari, Night stay in Camp, and Stargazing |
Day 1 in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort – Living Heritage – My trip began with a sunrise walk through Sonar Quila—the only living fort in India. Golden ramparts bathed in the morning light, narrow streets bursting with life, and temples chiming with bells—it felt like I had walked into another century.
I spent hours just wandering. A young boy led me to his rooftop home café with the best view of the cityscape. Over ginger tea, he spoke of growing up within these ancient walls—his playground was a fort built in 1156!
Tip: Book a stay within the fort for at least one night. Early mornings and twilight hours here are pure magic.
Must-See Inside the Fort:
- Tazia Tower: Overlooking the city, this elegant structure built by Muslim artisans adds a graceful silhouette to the skyline.
- Jain Temples: The carvings are so intricate that I found myself tracing them with my fingers, trying to grasp the devotion etched into every inch.
- Raj Mahal Palace: A glimpse into the lavish lives of rulers past.
- Baa Ri Haveli: A hidden gem—a 450-year-old haveli filled with personal stories of the desert.
Jain Temples – Wandering through the golden corridors of Jaisalmer Fort, I stumbled upon a hidden gem that took my breath away—the cluster of seven Jain temples nestled within its heart. Connected through a maze of narrow passages and arched gateways, these temples felt like a world frozen in time. As I stepped inside, the intricate carvings on the pillars, the mirror work, and the ornate frescoes left me in quiet awe.
I was lucky to visit just as the first light of day poured in. The rising sun bathed the sandstone walls in a golden glow, casting soft shadows and giving the temples a surreal, almost celestial beauty. The silence was profound, interrupted only by the soft echo of my footsteps.
Sitting there for a moment, I felt a deep sense of peace and reverence. It wasn’t just a visit—it was a spiritual pause, a moment I’ll always carry with me.
Tazia Tower – Tazia Tower, situated inside the Badal Palace, is another prominent attraction within the fort. This five-story building boasts detailed intricate carvings, graceful balconies, and stunning craftsmanship as its main highlights. From its balconies, you can also enjoy a beautiful bird’s-eye view of the city.
Beyond its architectural beauty, Tazia Tower holds significant cultural and religious importance, particularly among Muslims. Visiting this place offers a fantastic opportunity to delve into the history and local culture of the region.
Patwon Ki Haveli – Stepping into Patwon Ki Haveli felt like entering a sand-colored labyrinth of elegance. Each jharokha opened to a new perspective, each mirror in the Kothari museum told a story of wealth, trade, and architectural finesse. I could almost hear the rustle of silk sarees and the clink of jewelry from the past.
The sunlight filtered through intricately carved windows, painting golden patterns on the floors. I spent nearly two hours here, lost in the art and whispers of a bygone era.
Presently, of the five Havelis, two are under the jurisdiction of the Archaeological Survey of India, two are owned by the Guman Chand Patwa family, and one has been transformed into a private museum by the Kotharis.
Visiting Kothari’s Patwa Haveli Museum felt like stepping back in time into Rajasthan’s royal heritage. The mirrored walls glittered with intricate carvings and stunning paintings, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship at every turn. Wandering through the opulent rooms, I was truly immersed in the grandeur of a bygone era. This museum is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the rich history and artistic beauty of Rajasthan’s past.
- Location – Opposite Choora Paada, Jaisalmer
- Timing – 8:30 AM to 6 PM for Havelis operated by the Archaeological Survey of India and 9 AM to 6 PM for Kothari’s Private Museum.
- Entry fee – 100 INR for the museum and 10 INR for Havelis
Nathmal Ki Haveli – This haveli’s story is my favorite. Built by two brothers, both jewelers and self-taught architects, each side is slightly different, yet together, it’s breathtaking. The delicate carvings of flowers, elephants, and even a bicycle—yes, a bicycle—on the walls, left me smiling in awe.
Standing before its sandstone elephants at the entrance, I felt the unique blend of personal creativity and royal opulence that defines Jaisalmer.
- Location – Sadar Bazar, Jaisalmer
- Timing – 10 AM to 9 PM
- Entry Fee – Free
Jaisalmer War Museum – As the afternoon sun mellowed, I headed to the Jaisalmer War Museum. Walking through the displays of tanks, uniforms, and letters from soldiers brought a lump to my throat. The pride, the loss, the bravery—it was palpable.
This museum is not just a collection of war relics. It’s a deeply moving reminder of sacrifice and valor. The stories from the 1971 Indo-Pak war felt especially poignant in a border city like this.
- Timing – 9 AM to 5 PM, closed on Tuesday
Sunset at Gadisar Lake – My first day ended at Gadisar Lake, where I sat on the ghats as the sky turned molten gold. Musicians played Rajasthani tunes in the distance, and the lake shimmered like a mirror.
I rented a paddle boat just before sunset. Floating in the middle of that tranquil lake, surrounded by ancient chhatris and birds returning to their nests, I felt utterly at peace.
Day 2 in Jaisalmer
Sunrise at Bada Bagh – I arrived just before sunrise, and there it was—Bada Bagh, a cluster of royal cenotaphs perched atop a lonely hill, silhouetted against the soft light of dawn. The silence was profound. As the sun peeked over the horizon, shadows danced over the sand-carved domes.
There was a sacred stillness here that I can’t quite describe. Each cenotaph seemed to tell a story of devotion, loss, and the inevitable passage of time.
- Timing – All Hours
- Entry Fee – 100 INR
Visit Lodurva Village – About 15 km from Jaisalmer lies the ruins of Lodurva, once the capital of the Bhati dynasty. It’s a place where time stands still. I walked among ancient Jain temples that rose like sculptures from the earth, their marble interiors cool and tranquil.
Inside the Parshvanatha temple, I found a Tree of Life carved from stone. Local legend says you can whisper your wishes here. So, I did.
Kuldhara Village, The Ghost Town – Kuldhara isn’t just eerie—it’s heartbreaking. The sun-bleached ruins stretch into the desert, and as I walked between crumbling walls, I couldn’t shake the feeling of abandonment. Legend says the entire population disappeared overnight, leaving a curse behind.
Despite its ghostly fame, I found a haunting beauty in its silence. Visit during golden hour, when the light is soft and the wind whispers secrets through the ruins.
- Timing – 8 AM to 6 PM
Sunset at Vyas Chhatri – Vyas Chhatri was the most romantic sunset spot of my trip. From the rooftop pavilions, I watched the sun dip behind the golden city. The whole place was glowing, and the distant sounds of temple bells mingled with the wind.
Built in honor of sage Vyas, the author of the Mahabharata, these cenotaphs are an ode to storytelling—fitting for a writer’s soul like mine.
- Location – Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer
- Entry Fee – 100 INR per person and 100 INR for camera
Day 3 In Jaisalmer
Thar Desert National Park – My last day was the most exhilarating. The Thar isn’t just sand—it’s life in motion. I joined a desert safari that took me dune bashing in a 4×4, followed by a camel ride at sunset. The camels moved slowly, their shadows stretching long over the rippling dunes.
Later, I arrived at my desert camp—simple, yet magical. Folk musicians performed under a canopy of stars, while dinner was served around a bonfire. As the night deepened, I lay back on the sand, staring at the Milky Way stretching overhead. There are moments in life that root you to the earth and sky—this was one of them.
Best things to do here – Camel Safari, Dune Bashing, Night Desert Safari, Sunset watching, Stargazing, and Camping.
Best tents in Desert National Park
Pal Rajah Desert Camp
- Location – Village Barna, Khuri
- Price – 5500 INR (Dinner & Breakfast Included)
- Book Now
Sana Desert Safari Camp
- Location – Dhiba Para, Jaisalmer
- Price – 5400 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
- Book Now
Sunny Desert Camp
- Location – Barna Village, Khuri
- Price – 3825 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
- Book Now
Jaisalmer Desert Camp
- Location – Sam Sand Dunes
- Price – 3600 INR (Breakfast & Dinner Included)
- Book Now
Jaisalmer Travel Tips
- Stay Inside the Fort: The best way to explore the Jaisalmer fort is by spending at least one night within its walls. Take early morning and late evening strolls through the golden streets to uncover the stories hidden in every corner.
- Savor the Views: Discover numerous viewpoints in the fort offering breathtaking panoramic vistas of the city. These vantage points provide an unparalleled glimpse of the city’s charm.
- Desert Camping: Regardless of the duration of your trip, ensure that you spend a night at one of the desert camps. This experience is essential to truly embrace the essence of Jaisalmer.
- Ideal Seasons: Plan your visit during the Monsoon and Winter seasons for the most enjoyable experience in Jaisalmer.
- City Exploration: Jaisalmer’s small size makes it perfect for exploring on foot. Stroll through its streets to capture the essence of the city’s culture and heritage.
- Shopping Delights: Engage in a unique shopping experience by visiting specific markets – purchase paintings and carpets at Sadar Bazaar, exquisite jewelry at Sonraon Ka Bass, elegant home decor items at Pansari Bazaar, and premium leather goods at Manak Chowk.
Here is my perfect Jaisalmer Itinerary, which will assist you in crafting your own. If you have any other itinerary or anything you would like to include, please let us know in the comment section below. If you find this helpful, do share it with someone who should visit Jaisalmer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth staying inside Jaisalmer Fort?
Absolutely. Staying inside the living Jaisalmer Fort is a unique experience. You get to wake up surrounded by centuries-old sandstone architecture, narrow alleys, and bustling bazaars without needing to travel far for sightseeing. Early mornings and evenings inside the fort are magical and worth the splurge.
What kind of desert safari options are available?
There are several desert experiences:
- Camel Safari: Slow-paced, great for sunset views.
- Jeep/Dune Bashing: Thrilling rides over sand dunes.
- Overnight Camping: Stay in desert camps under stars with traditional food and folk music.
Make sure to book through reputable operators for safety and authenticity.
What local dishes should I try in Jaisalmer?
Don’t miss:
- Dal Baati Churma: The quintessential Rajasthani meal with lentils, baked dough balls, and sweet crushed wheat.
- Ker Sangri: A unique desert vegetable preparation.
- Mirchi Bajiya: Spicy fried chili fritters.
- Ghewar: A sweet, syrup-soaked dessert, especially during festivals.
Is Jaisalmer safe for solo travelers and women?
Jaisalmer is generally safe and welcoming for solo travelers, including women. However, it’s best to take standard precautions:
- Dress modestly to respect local customs.
- Avoid walking alone late at night in deserted areas.
- Use trusted transport and guides.
How should I prepare for the desert climate?
Desert temperatures vary widely:
- Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for daytime sun.
- Bring layers, as nights can be chilly, especially in winter.
- Stay hydrated and carry bottled water on excursions.
Can I access Wi-Fi and mobile connectivity in Jaisalmer?
Wi-Fi is available in many hotels, especially inside the fort. Mobile connectivity is decent in the city but can be patchy in remote desert areas and campsites. Embrace the digital detox—it’s part of the desert charm!
