For a splendid experience in shopping, food, and an incredible chance to walk the halls of ancient royalty, you must visit the Golden City of Jaisalmer. Located in the Thar desert, India, Jaisalmer is a one-of-a-kind experience waiting for you.
You can find rich history, food, adventure, stories and all sorts of shopping opportunities in the city, so make sure you have plenty of time during your trip. India is already globally known as a hub of culture, historic adventures, and scrumptious food, and Jaisalmer is proof of it.
The Jaisalmer Fort
As the second oldest fort in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer Fort is also the second largest. The Jaisalmer Fort is constructed from yellow sandstone and rises almost three hundred feet high. It stands behind massive hills and is the only fort in the country which is still occupied by people, and is therefore still a ‘living’ fort. One thousand families, whose ancestors lived within the walls of the fort ages ago, reside in the fortress even today.
Though this fort is also used as a hotel during the tourist season, the residents are the only ones permitted to live in it. It also houses a museum where visitors can get a look at the different artifacts, furniture, currency, and other historic attractions preserved there. The Jaisalmer Fort timings are limited from 6 am to 5 pm window, so you can plan your visit accordingly and spend hours exploring this national heritage site. It is the best place in Jaisalmer to have an incredible view of the city and snap Instagram-worthy pictures.
Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh, translating to ‘Large Garden’, is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. The entire garden is constructed as a way to honor the Maharajas of Jaisalmer. The temples house statues of famous rulers and carved shrines offer a stunning vista at sunset. It is not too far from the Jaisalmer Fort, so you can get to both tourist hubs in one day.
Patwon ki Haveli
Haveli, meaning mansion, is an integral part of Jaisalmer architecture. There are many within the city but Patwon ki Haveli is a highlight among them. This is mostly because it is not just one but five interconnected mansions that have stood in Jaisalmer over hundreds of years.
The story connected to it narrates that it was named so as a reference to silver and gold threads that the owner traded in. Other stories claim that it was called so because of the fortune the owners made by smuggling opium.
Prince Desert Camp Jaisalmer
Nestled in the dunes of the Thar desert, the Prince Desert Camp in Jaisalmer is known for providing an amazing stay for anyone who decides to spend a few nights camping in the desert. These camps blend luxury and the authenticity of living in the desert together for a memorable experience.
Enjoy free WiFi, breakfast, room services, spacious parking, and housekeeping in a clean and safe environment. Additionally, the camp offers guided tours to the neighboring ghost town, for added excitement.
The Ghost Town of Kuldhara
To add to the mystique and supernatural aura your trip needs, head on over to Kuldhara, an abandoned village not far from Prince Desert Camp. It is said that after levying heavy taxes and tormenting the village, a greedy ruler set his sights on the village chief’s daughter.
Already tired of the corrupt ruler, the citizens of Kuldhara village and the surrounding eighty villages vanished overnight. It is commonly believed that they packed and left during the night but locals believe that they cast a spell on the villages in the wake of their departure, destined to bring death to anyone who tried to settle on the lands.
Jaisalmer Shopping
India has a mystical charm that attracts people from different parts of the world regularly. Jaisalmer brings the rustic and unique touch to your vacation shopping binge, captured in beautiful handicrafts, mirrorwork fabrics, various textiles, tapestries, jewelry, and countless decoration items.
With narrow streets and merchant stalls lined on either side, you can get a full experience of shopping in the ancient, Golden City.
Things to Carry for Rajasthan Tour
Sunglasses, Sunhat or Umberella
Sunscreen for Face / Aloevera Gel for Skin
Moisturizer for dry skin and Lip balm for Chapped lips
Long Pants for Men / Long Skirt or Palazzo Pants with Long Tops
Most Comfortable Shoes to explore places by walking.
First Aid Kit, Medication for cold, fever and Aasthma should be a must.
Bandana for Men and Women / Buff Scarf
Ziploc Bags for Storage and Biodegradable Toilet Paper
EcoFriendly Water bottle and Biodegradable Garbage Bag
If you are going for more than a week stay, have Bamboo Cotton Buds and Travel Nail Clipper Set
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