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Jaisalmer

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Jaisalmer is a fairy-tale destination located in the far west of India. Its most striking feature is the Jaisalmer Fort, a 'living' fortress where thousands of residents still reside within its walls. The city is famous for its havelis, ornate mansions carved from yellow sandstone, such as the Patwon Ki Haveli. Nearby, the Sam Sand Dunes offer camel safaris and overnight stays under the stars, providing an authentic desert experience. The harsh yet mesmerizing nature of the Thar Desert defines the spirit of this golden-hued region. Local cuisine is hearty and often features desert plants, with Ker Sangri being a prized traditional dish. Jaisalmer is accessible by train or via Jodhpur airport; the journey through the desert is an adventure in itself. The best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to February, as summer heat can be extreme. Visiting during the Jaisalmer Desert Festival allows guests to experience local folk music, traditional dances, and thrilling camel races.

Location: India
Top sights: Nathmal-ki-Haveli · Folklore museum · Salim Singh-ki-Haveli
Population: ~67.604 (2024)

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort complex and can be visited freely. Entry to some palaces and museums is ticketed.

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Typical hours

The fort is accessible 24/7, but inner palaces typically open 9:00-17:00. Best light for photos is late afternoon.

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Photography

Photography is allowed throughout the fort. Some palaces may charge a fee for cameras.

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Time needed

Allow at least half a day for the fort and old city. A full day also allows a desert trip.

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Combine with

Combine with a camel safari into the Thar Desert or a trip to the Sam Sand Dunes.

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Getting there

Jaisalmer is well connected by train (Jaisalmer station) and bus. The airport is small, mainly via Delhi or Jaipur.

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Insider tip

Stay in a traditional haveli to fully experience the Golden City's atmosphere. Book desert safaris through reputable providers.

Geography

Population

67,604 (2024)

Coordinates

26.91667, 70.91667

Facts

Known as the 'Golden City' due to its yellow sandstone.
The fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It is one of the world's few surviving 'living' forts.
Founded in 1156 by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal.
Famous for the exquisite stone carvings on its havelis.
Gadisar Lake was once the city's only water source.
Home to a cluster of beautifully carved Jain temples.
The Desert Festival takes place annually in February.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Honningsvåg35 km · WExplore →

Thar Desert49 km · SExplore →

North Cape Hall50 km · NWExplore →

Derawar Fort81 km · NEExplore →

Cholistan Desert86 km · NEExplore →

Chenab River94 km · EExplore →

Thar Coalfield94 km · SWExplore →

Sadiqabad101 km · SEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

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Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Jaisalmer (11)

Nathmal-ki-Haveli 📍 landmark

Famous for its two distinctive stone elephants at the entrance and intricate sandstone carvings.

Folklore museum 🏛 museum

This museum showcases traditional desert culture, including puppets, musical instruments, and costumes.

Salim Singh-ki-Haveli 📍 landmark

Known for its unique peacock-shaped roof and 38 artistically decorated balconies.

jaisalmer 🏛 museum

A cultural center in the heart of the city, documenting the rich history and heritage of Jaisalmer.

The Thar Heritage Museum 🏛 museum

This museum houses a collection of fossils, old coins, and traditional Rajasthani crafts.

Sunset point 🌿 nature

A viewpoint offering a spectacular panoramic view of the golden fort at sunset.

Vyas Chhatri 🏺 historical

A collection of grand sandstone cenotaphs dedicated to the sage Vyas.

Vista forte 🌿 nature

An elevated vantage point within the fort walls overlooking the winding narrow streets.

Ratneshwar Mahadev Temple ⛪ religious

A temple dedicated to Shiva, known for its fine stone carvings in the traditional style.

Parshwanath 📍 landmark

An ancient Jain sanctuary inside the fort dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankara.

B.M. Bombay 🎭 culture

A bustling marketplace known for Rajasthani embroideries, textiles, and traditional leather goods.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Jaisalmer: where is it located?

Jaisalmer is located in India.

Jaisalmer: what is there to see?

Highlights include Nathmal-ki-Haveli, Folklore museum, Salim Singh-ki-Haveli.

Jaisalmer: why is it worth visiting?

Jaisalmer is a fairy-tale destination located in the far west of India.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Jaisalmer