Jaisalmer Attractions

Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort, also called Sonar Quila or Golden Fort, is one of the very few living forts in the world, where thousands of people still reside.

Key Highlights

  • Built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal
  • Made of goldenyellow sandstone that shines like gold in sunlight
  • Houses temples, homes, shops, restaurants inside
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site (part of Hill Forts of Rajasthan)

Experience

Walking through its narrow lanes feels like stepping back in time—full of handicraft shops, cafés, and historic havelis.

Patwon Ki Haveli

A cluster of five grand havelis, Patwon Ki Haveli is the largest haveli complex in Jaisalmer.

Key Highlights

  • Built in early 19th century by wealthy trader Guman Chand Patwa
  • Famous for intricate stone carvings and jharokhas
  • Contains museums and antique collections
  • Best example of merchant wealth and craftsmanship

Experience

Perfect for photography lovers and architecture enthusiasts

Salim Singh Ki Haveli

Known for its unique architecture resembling a peacock, this haveli stands out among Jaisalmer’s heritage structures.

Key Highlights

  • Built in the 18th century
  • 38 balconies with distinct designs
  • Narrow base and wider upper structure
  • Once home to powerful prime minister Salim Singh

Experience

Its bold architecture and legends make it one of the most photographed havelis.

Nathmal Ki Haveli

A beautifully designed haveli built by two architect brothers, leading to slight asymmetry in design.

Key Highlights

  • Built in the 19th century
  • Intricate carvings of flowers, animals, and elephants
  • Blend of Rajput and Islamic architectural styles
  • Still partially inhabited

Experience

Known for its artistic details and historical uniqueness.

Jaisalmer War Museum

A tribute to Indian soldiers showcasing the 1971 IndoPak war and Battle of Longewala.

Key Highlights

  • Exhibits of tanks, weapons, and war relics
  • Light & sound storytelling sessions
  • Located on Jaisalmer–Jodhpur highway
  • Honors bravery of Indian Army

Experience

A mustvisit for history and defense enthusiasts.

Bada Bagh

A royal cenotaph complex dedicated to Jaisalmer rulers.

Key Highlights

  • Beautiful sandstone chhatris (memorials)
  • Best sunset point in Jaisalmer
  • Quiet and scenic desert location

Experience

Ideal for photography, especially during golden hour.

Vyas Chhatri

A stunning Brahmin memorial site dedicated to Sage Vyas, located near the city.

Key Highlights

Beautiful sandstone cenotaphs
Traditional Rajasthani architecture
Popular sunset viewpoint

Experience

Peaceful atmosphere with panoramic desert city views.

Gadisar Lake

A historic artificial lake once serving as the main water source of Jaisalmer.

Key Highlights

Surrounded by temples and ghats
Boating available
Rich birdlife during winter
Built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh

Experience

Perfect for sunrise walks and peaceful evenings.

Jain Temples (Inside Fort)

A group of beautifully carved temples dedicated to Jain Tirthankaras.

Key Highlights

Built between 12th–16th century
Intricate sandstone carvings
Connected by shared corridors inside fort
Spiritual and architectural masterpiece

Experience

A peaceful spiritual escape within the busy fort.

Kuldhara Village

An abandoned village known as the “ghost village of Rajasthan.”

Key Highlights

Abandoned in the 19th century
Associated with mystery and legends
Wellplanned old settlement layout
Archaeological site

Experience

Eerie yet fascinating—perfect for storytelling tourism.

Khaba Fort

A small ruined fort overlooking Kuldhara and desert landscapes.

Key Highlights

Linked with Kuldhara villagers
Small museum inside
Panoramic desert views
Abandoned heritage site

Experience

Quiet, less crowded, and perfect for exploration.

Sam Sand Dunes

The most famous desert experience near Jaisalmer in the Thar Desert.

Key Highlights

Camel safari & jeep safari
Cultural folk dance & music shows
Luxury desert camps
Stunning sunset views

Experience

Best place to experience real desert lifestyle.

Tanot & Longewala

A combined spiritual and historical border circuit near the India–Pakistan border.

Key Highlights

Tanot Mata Temple: known for miracles during the 1965 war
Longewala: famous 1971 IndoPak war battlefield
Maintained by BSF (Border Security Force)
Real tanks and war remains displayed

Experience

A powerful mix of patriotism, history, and spirituality.