Nestled in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is often called the “Golden City” thanks to the honey-hued sandstone used to build most structures here.
Like something out of the Arabian Nights fables, the 12th century Jaisalmer Fort rises majestically over the city with intricately carved havelis, temples, and palaces enclosed within its walls.
Beyond the fort lies a vibrant desert city with colorful bazaars and camel safaris into the seemingly endless sand dunes. Give yourself at least 3 days to take in the magic of the Golden City of India.
Day 1
Morning – Explore Jaisalmer Fort
Built in 1156 AD, the Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world. As you enter its gates, it feels like stepping back in time.
Lose yourself in the labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with temples and palaces where thousands still reside. Don’t miss intricately carved havelis like Salim Singh Ki Haveli and Patwon Ki Haveli.
Shop for souvenirs at Manak Chowk, the square just outside the fort gates.
Afternoon – Visit Gadisar Lake
Just a 15 minute drive from Jaisalmer Fort lies Gadisar Lake, an artificial rainwater lake dating from the 14th century.
Ringed by many small temples and shrines, it is a popular spot for sunset photo opportunities. You can also take a peaceful boat ride on the lake to take in views of the Tilon ki Pol sandstone gateway.
Evening – Take in sunset views from Sam Sand Dunes
No Jaisalmer itinerary is complete without visiting the sweeping dunes of the Thar desert. Ride a camel into sunset amongst the sand dunes at Sam, which is just a 45 km drive west.
Most hotels organize evening desert camel safari experiences complete with music, dance, camel rides, and dinner as the sun sets over the dunes.
Overnight stay options in Jaisalmer include close to fort – Hotel Nachana Haveli, mid-range -Gorbandh Palace and budget – Shahi Palace.
Day 2
Full Day Desert Safari
After breakfast at your hotel, get ready for a full day exploration of the desert wilderness. Go beyond Sam into the core desert region of Khuri with its towering dunes and authentic desert villages.
Camel rides are a must to soak in the raw natural beauty all around. Many full day tours include a home cooked lunch at a villager’s hut.
In the evening, enjoy the intriguing desert traditions of music and dance under the stars at your campsite before catching some shuteye in comfortable Swiss tents.
Day 3
Morning – Explore Jaisalmer Bazaar
Spend your last morning in Jaisalmer exploring the bustling Sadar Bazaar near Amar Sagar Gate. Shop for vibrant patchwork textiles, mirrors with intricate wood or bone carving, antiques, silver jewelry, embroidered shoes and more.
You can also find endless variants of the iconic Jaisalmer pants with tie dye prints here along with long flowing shirts and traditional dresses.
Don’t forget to try the different types of mouthwatering desert sweets as you wander through the market buying souvenirs.
Afternoon – Visit Vyas Chhatri & Beyond
North-west of Jaisalmer lie ancient sandstone sunset points like Vyas Chhatri and Kuldhara Abandoned Village. Perched on the edge of a hill, Vyas Chhatri is an elegant chhatri or cenotaph with beautiful yellow sandstone carvings of Brahmanic gods and goddesses.
Nearby also lies the eerie abandoned village of Kuldhara, established in 1291 CE and mysteriously vacated overnight around 1800 CE.
Wander through its roofless homes and temples for a different perspective on Rajasthan’s rich history.
Evening – Fly out from Jaisalmer Airport
Conveniently located just 5 km from the city center, Jaisalmer airport has good connectivity with daily flights to Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore.
Most major airlines like SpiceJet, Air India, etc. operate regular flights, making travel easy. Fly out after your eventful 3 days soaked in the magic and grandeur of the Golden City of Jaisalmer.
Conclusion
With its fairytale fort, golden sand dunes, ancient trade routes, and dazzling desert culture, Jaisalmer offers a memorable detour into the historic romance of India’s frontier.
Follow this flexible 3 day Jaisalmer itinerary to discover the very best of the Golden City and its sandy surroundings.
Just beyond the dunes lies the vast expanse of the Thar Desert and the possibility of more exotic adventures.
