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Nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is a mesmerizing destination that captures the essence of Rajasthan’s rich heritage and culture. With its golden sandstone architecture, vibrant markets, and wonderful desert landscape, Jaisalmer offers a plethora of experiences for families seeking an unforgettable vacation. In this guide, we’ll explore the top places to visit in Jaisalmer, ensuring a memorable and enriching journey for you and your loved ones.
Jaisalmer Fort
As you explore the top places to visit in Jaisalmer, be sure to include the majestic Jaisalmer Fort in your itinerary. With its timeless charm and rich heritage, this iconic landmark promises an unforgettable journey through the annals of history. Dominating the skyline of Jaisalmer, the majestic Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction for families. Dating back to the 12th century, this impressive fort offers a glimpse into the city’s royal past. Explore its complicated lanes, visit complexly carved Jain temples, and marvel at panoramic views of the city from its ramparts. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness the vibrant culture come alive with folk performances and cultural events held within the fort premises.
Entry Fee: 50 per person for Indians & 250 per person for Foreigners
Timings: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM open on all days
Patwon ki Haveli
Patwa Ki Haveli is one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer. Step back in time as you visit the ornately decorated Patwon ki Haveli, a cluster of five grand mansions built by wealthy merchants in the 19th century. Admire the exquisite architecture adorned with intricate carvings, frescoes, and mirror work. Explore the various sections of the haveli, each offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a bygone era. Guided tours are available, providing insightful narratives about the history and significance of these architectural marvels.
Entry Fee: 20 per person for Indians & 100 per person for Foreigners
Timings: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM open on all days
Gadisar Lake
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend a tranquil evening at Gadisar Lake. Built as a water conservation reservoir in the 14th century, this picturesque lake is surrounded by temples, shrines, and ghats, which further add to its serene ambiance. Go on a boat ride across the shimmering waters and admire the stunning views of the surrounding architecture against the backdrop of the setting sun. Gadisar Lake is one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer. It is an ideal place for a family picnic or to relax amidst the beauty of nature.
Timings: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM open on all days
boat on the lake for a fee: 100 for a 2-seater pedal boat, INR 200 for a 4-seater pedal boat
Desert Safari
No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without experiencing the thrill of a desert safari. Venture into the vast expanses of the Thar Desert aboard a camel or a jeep and immerse yourself in the enchanting desert landscape. Marvel at the mesmerizing sunset as the golden sands glow in the fading light. Engage in cultural activities at the desert camps, including folk dances, camel rides, and traditional Rajasthani cuisine, offering a glimpse into the nomadic way of life.
Sam Sand Dunes
For an invigorating desert adventure, head to the famous Sam Sand Dunes, located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer. Explore the towering sand dunes that stretch as far as the eye can see and indulge in adrenaline-pumping activities like dune bashing and quad biking. As night falls, witness the ethereal beauty of the desert under the starlit sky and camp amidst the dunes for a truly unforgettable experience. Enjoy a bonfire dinner accompanied by live music and dance performances, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Safari Fee: 20 – 200 for Camel Safaris & 500 – 1500 for Jeep Safaris
Timings: 24 hours open
Bada Bagh
Discover the architectural splendor of Bada Bagh, a historical site located just outside Jaisalmer. This royal burial complex has intricately designed chhatris built in honor of the former rulers of Jaisalmer. Bada Bagh is the best place to visit in Jaisalmer. Marvel at the grandeur of these sandstone structures, adorned with intricate carvings and ornamentation. Take a leisurely stroll amidst the tranquil surroundings and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for family outings and photography enthusiasts.
Entry Fee: 100 per person
Timings: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM open on all days
Jain Temples
Pay homage to the rich religious heritage of Jaisalmer by visiting its famous Jain temples, renowned for their exquisite architecture and religious significance. The most prominent among them is the Jain Temple within the Jaisalmer Fort, dedicated to Lord Parshvanath and adorned with intricate sculptures and stunning carvings. Other notable temples include the Lodurva Jain Temple, adorned with intricate marble carvings, and the Amar Sagar Jain Temple, known for its unique architectural style and serene ambiance.
Entry Fee: Free for Indians & 10 per person for Foreigner
Timings: 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM open on all days
Kuldhara Ghost Village
Embark on a mysterious journey to the abandoned village of Kuldhara, shrouded in myths and legends. According to folklore, this village was inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins, who mysteriously disappeared overnight and left behind a ghostly aura. Explore the eerie ruins of a deserted village and uncover the secrets of its tragic past. Kuldhara Ghost Village is one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer. Guided tours are available, which provide fascinating insights into the history and folklore associated with this mysterious site, making it an exciting excursion for families.
Desert Cultural Center and Museum
Delve deeper into the rich cultural heritage of Jaisalmer at the Desert Cultural Center and Museum. Located within the premises of the Jaisalmer Fort, this museum showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts, handicrafts, costumes, and musical instruments, providing insight into the traditions and customs of the region. Engage in interactive exhibits, audio-visual presentations, and cultural performances that highlight the vibrant folk art and craftsmanship of Rajasthan. It’s an educational and enriching experience for both children and adults, offering a deeper understanding of the local culture and heritage.
Shopping in Jaisalmer
Indulge in a shopping spree at the vibrant markets of Jaisalmer, where you’ll find an array of handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs to take back home. Explore the bustling lanes of the Sadar Bazaar, known for its exquisite Rajasthani textiles, embroidered fabrics, and leather goods. Don’t miss the opportunity to shop for traditional handicrafts like puppets, camel leather products, and mirror-worked textiles at the local shops and street markets. Bargain to your heart’s content and immerse yourself in the colorful ambiance of the markets, making it a fun-filled activity for the whole family.
Thar Heritage Museum
Unravel the history and culture of the Thar Desert at the Thar Heritage Museum, a treasure trove of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the lifestyle, traditions, and folklore of the desert dwellers. Housed within a restored haveli, the museum features a diverse collection of items, including fossils, weaponry, musical instruments, costumes, and photographs, providing a comprehensive insight into the region’s heritage. Engage in guided tours and interactive sessions to learn about the indigenous tribes, wildlife, and ecological significance of the desert ecosystem, making it an educational experience for families.
Rang Mahal
Experience the grandeur of Rajasthani architecture at Rang Mahal, a magnificent palace adorned with vibrant frescoes, mirror work, and intricate carvings. Built by Maharawal Jawahir Singh in the 18th century, this magnificent palace served as the royal residence of the queens of Jaisalmer. Rang Mahal is one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer. Marvel at the exquisite craftsmanship displayed in the ornate terraces, balconies, and courtyards adorned with colorful motifs and geometric patterns. Guided tours are available, which provide an insight into the royal lifestyle and cultural heritage of the previous rulers, making them a popular attraction for families.
Cultural Performances
Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Rajasthan by attending mesmerizing cultural performances held across Jaisalmer. From traditional folk dances like Kalbelia, Ghoomar, and Gair to soul-stirring music performances featuring local instruments like the dholak, sarangi, and morchang, there’s no shortage of entertainment options for families. Experience the magic of Rajasthani hospitality at cultural venues, desert camps, and heritage hotels, where talented artists showcase their skills against the backdrop of the desert landscape, creating an unforgettable ambiance for visitors of all ages.
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Conclusion
Jaisalmer, with its timeless charm and vibrant culture, offers a myriad of experiences for families seeking a memorable vacation. From exploring ancient forts and majestic havelis to embarking on desert safaris and experiencing traditional Rajasthani hospitality, the city captivates visitors with its unparalleled beauty and allure. Plan your next family getaway to Jaisalmer and create lasting memories amidst the golden sands and rich heritage of this enchanting destination.
