Jaisalmer, the jewel of Rajasthan, is a perfect getaway for art lovers, culture enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers. This city serves as one of the best travel destinations, catering to the needs of every traveler in a unique manner. From camel safaris to parasailing, and camping to feasting on Rajasthani cuisine, Jaisalmer has something for everyone. In this article, we will explore the best things to do in Jaisalmer, highlighting their cultural and adventurous significance.
8 Best Things To Do In Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is a must-visit destination when exploring the best things to do in Jaisalmer. It is the biggest and most famous tourist destination in the city, constructed by Maharaja Jaisal in 1156 AD. Late Satyajit Ray, an Oscar-winning filmmaker of the country, quoted that Jaisalmer Fort is a Sonar Quila or The Golden Fortress, as the structure is made from yellow sandstone. The same sandstone turns honey-golden in the evening, thereby getting camouflaged in the sand and nearby areas of the city.
The marvelous fort is truly the highlight of Rajput’s legacy. Its architecture is an engineering marvel, which is still revered. The structure consists of three layers of walls, which were designed to protect it from attacks. The lower or the outer layer is constructed from solid blocks of stone, while the second layer goes around the fort. It is the third layer from which warriors used to throw oil and boiling water on the enemies, in an attempt to throw them out.
Camel Ride In Jaisalmer
A camel ride in Jaisalmer is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer, offering an unforgettable experience to explore the Thar Desert. Located in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is perhaps the best Indian destination to enjoy camel rides like a royal. The sound of mandolin and open spaces add to the magical charm of this enchanting city.
Camel safaris are adventurous and unique, as they can transport you to an era gone by. These safaris are mostly organized by veteran guides, who have first-hand knowledge and experience about the Thar Desert. Therefore, the traveler gets an opportunity to see beautiful, isolated sand dunes, while reveling in sand and grass roof homes, colorful costumes of villagers, and bright, cheery locations of the city.
During the camel ride, visitors can witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Thar Desert, explore the sand dunes of Thar, and discover different facets and artifacts relating to the heritage, culture, and history of Rajasthan. Camel rides are truly a unique way to experience the desert, as visitors can enjoy the peace and serenity of the desert, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the sunset.
Jeep Safari
Jeep Safari is one of the most desired things to do in Jaisalmer, providing an exhilarating experience to explore the Thar Desert. Riding in a 4×4 motor-beast will not only provide a bumpy ride across the desert, but it will also give you an adrenaline rush like no other.
These safaris are mostly organized in the Sam Sand Dunes, and the price for two may range from INR 750 to 2000. Some jeep safaris also include complimentary amenities such as barbeque dinners, cultural dance and music shows, and fire shows, making it a complete package for adventure and entertainment.
The best time to enjoy a jeep safari is during sunset, as visitors can witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Thar Desert during this time. The golden hues of the sunset and the cool breeze make the experience even more magical and unforgettable.
During the jeep safari, visitors can explore the sand dunes of Thar, witness the local wildlife, and discover different facets and artifacts relating to the heritage, culture, and history of Rajasthan.
Camping in Jaisalmer
Camping in Jaisalmer is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer, offering an unforgettable experience to acquaint yourself with the culture and lives of people in Rajasthan. Unlike camping in the woods or hills, camping in the desert is easy and doesn’t take a toll on your physical well-being.
Camping in Jaisalmer is a nostalgic activity that will transport you to medieval times. The luxury tents here will remind you of historical references of Mughal, Rajput, and other leaders who used to stay in luxurious tents while traveling from one part of Rajasthan to the other. Camping is one of those activities that transcends barriers of time and provides you with an unforgettable experience while reminding you about the bounties of nature.
These camps are normally organized a few kilometers away from the city and are well known for their private areas and secluded surroundings. Therefore, they are especially recommended for honeymooners and vacationers who seek to live away from the regular hustle bustle, and commotion of the city. These camps provide solace and rejuvenation of mind, body, and spirit and have tranquil surroundings where you can appreciate and acknowledge the natural beauty of the Thar Desert.
Parasailing in Jaisalmer
Parasailing in Jaisalmer is one of the thrilling things to do in Jaisalmer, offering a breathtaking view of the golden dunes from above the ground. The stripes and runaways in Jaisalmer are ideal and remarkable sites to take flight and witness a land of golden hues. The Thar Desert in Jaisalmer makes parasailing an aero sport that can’t be missed.
The price for parasailing may range from INR 900 to 1100 per head, and the activity is mainly organized in the Sam Sand Dunes. The duration of the activity is usually 1 hour, and visitors can enjoy parasailing any time of the day, although it is better to try in the morning or evening.
During parasailing, visitors can witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Thar Desert from a bird’s eye view, and enjoy the thrill and adrenaline rush of flying. The experienced guides will make sure that visitors are safe and comfortable throughout the activity, and provide insights and information about the local area.
Rajasthani Cuisine
Feasting on Rajasthani cuisine is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer. Rajasthan’s cooking style was influenced by the war-like lifestyle of the state and its hot desert location. Therefore, the food tends to be spicy and loaded with clarified butter, which gives it a unique and rich taste.
Rajasthani cuisine offers a range of dishes that will tickle your palate and satisfy the epicurean within you. Visitors can ditch fast food and other items during the trip and indulge in authentic and delicious Rajasthani cuisine. The food is prepared in such a way that it can last for days and can be eaten even without heating, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Some of the must-try dishes include Pyaaj Kachori, Mirchi Bada, Bikaneri Bhujia, and sweet delicacies such as Churma, Besan Chakki, and Gujia. Apart from these, dishes such as Gajar Ki Sabji, Kicha Ki Sabji, Kadhi, Lauki Ke Koftey, and Daal Baati Churma must not be missed during the feast.
Tanot Mata Temple
A visit to the Tanot Mata Temple is one of the must-do things when exploring the best things to do in Jaisalmer. This temple is situated at a distance of 122 kilometers from Jaisalmer Fort and is considered a reincarnation of Goddess Hinglaj. The temple is shrouded with many stories, especially during the Indo-Pakistan war in 1965, where the temple stood unharmed even after being under heavy bombs and shelling.
There is no entry fee to visit the temple, and it is open on all seven days of the week. The preferred time to visit is between 9 AM to 3 PM, and the duration of the visit usually takes around 10 to 20 minutes. The temple’s location is on Tanot Road, near the India-Pakistan border, making it a unique and unforgettable experience to visit.
Paramotoring at Jaisalmer
Paramotoring at Jaisalmer is one of the most thrilling and exciting things to do in Jaisalmer. The motor-powered parasailing sport is controlled by a pilot and lasts for an hour, during which the pilot controls your glide while you witness the silky sand dunes making little knolls. Jaisalmer, being the closest to Thar Desert, is one place in India where paramotoring becomes extra pulsating than in any other place.
The price for paramotoring may range from INR 1800 to 2000 per head, and the activity is mainly organized in the Sam Sand Dunes. The duration of the activity is usually 1 hour, and visitors can enjoy paramotoring between 8 AM to 2 PM.
During paramotoring, visitors can witness the mesmerizing beauty of the Thar Desert from a bird’s eye view, and enjoy the thrill and adrenaline rush of flying. The experienced pilots will make sure that visitors are safe and comfortable throughout the activity and provide insights and information about the local area.
Things to do in Jaisalmer – Final Throught
Jaisalmer offers a range of activities that cater to every traveler’s needs. From camping to parasailing, and camel safaris to feasting on Rajasthani cuisine, Jaisalmer has something to offer for every kind of traveler. So, pack your bags and head to Jaisalmer to experience the thrill and culture of Rajasthan.