Jaisalmer is truly a 'land of wonders', its exuberant past, culture, nature and its heritage gives us a lot to explore. Fondly known as 'The Golden City of India', Jaisalmer is a dynamic city in the heart of the Thar Desert. Every nook and corner of this city has something to boast and amaze us. Jaisalmer has seen it all, from being a thriving trade centre to a popular tourist place in Rajasthan! So, here are some kick-ass reasons for you to visit Jaisalmer. Have a look!

Jaisalmer City View

Photo Courtesy: michimaya

Trade Centre Like Mumbai?

Did you know that Jaisalmer served as the gateway to Arabian countries? Yes, once upon a time it was a thriving trade centre which had a business relationship with Persian countries. It is the reason for the existence of havelis and bungalows apart from structures built by local kings.

Sadly, during the British time the business hub was shifted to Mumbai and Jaisalmer lost its significance. You can check out the luxurious Havelis and Mansions of those times!

Jaisalmer Fort

Photo Courtesy: Adrian Sulc

How About Staying Inside a World Heritage Site?

The Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort (Jaisalmer Fort) is one of the living forts in India. Meaning, half of the city lies inside the fort. Interestingly, it is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites where you can stay! Tourists can get several accommodations inside the fort. While you are at Jaisalmer, don't miss out on experiencing the life at a fortress. It is one of the interesting facts about Jaisalmer that makes us eager to explore.

Thar Desert

Photo Courtesy: Sanjoy Ghosh

The Thar Desert, A Beauty!

Jaisalmer is known as the 'Golden City' because of its sand. The Thar Desert in Jaisalmer plays a significant role in tourism. Travellers not only get to the Great Indian Desert but also experience desert camping, camel safari, dune-bashing and desert life! Isn't it exciting to see the large golden sand dunes?

Kuldhara Village

Photo Courtesy: timeflicks

Get-Set For a Haunted Trail

Have you heard of the deserted Kuldhara Village? Well, the stories of this place are spooky and creepy for sure. You not only get to explore the haunted Kuldhara Village but also many similar villages which have been deserted overnight. If you are bold enough, do check out the haunted regions of Jaisalmer.

Merasi Music Community

Jaisalmer lies near to Indo-Pak border, and there are several cultural exchanges between the borders. The tales of Merasi community is a great example of such a cultural and religious exchange. Merasi is a Muslim community of musicians who sing songs on Hindu Gods! Yeah, they are said to be Muslim converts who were Hindus. Merasi musicians are very much part of Jaisalmer culture, and their music has a great significance in the region.

Film Shooting in Jaisalmer

Lights Camera Action

Jaisalmer is one of the favourite film shooting locations in Rajasthan. If you are lucky, you might find some film stars or TV actors in action here!

Wind Turbines

Photo Courtesy: Ashwin Kumar

Windy Jaisalmer

Don't be surprised by the windmills at Jaisalmer. It is one of the largest wind farms in India.

Some Old Haveli

Photo Courtesy: Tomas Belcik

Havelis and Heritage Hotels

Rajput Kings ruled the region, so it is no surprise to find several heritage hotels and Havelis. Do try to explore some of the exquisite Havelis in Jaisalmer.

Longewala

Photo Courtesy: Akkida

Longewala - Battlefield

Longewala was the battle ground for Indo-Pakistan War that happened in 1971. You can see a Pakistani War Tank at this site. Interestingly, the Battle of Longewala was the major base for the famous Hindi movie 'Border'!

Folk Dancer

Photo Courtesy: Ana Raquel S. Hernandes

Dance to the Folk

Rajasthani folk songs and dances are vibrant and soothing. A folk dance and music show is a must on your travel to Rajasthan. Even Jaisalmer is known for the folk music and dance!

Palace on Wheels

Photo Courtesy: Rainer Haeßner

Palace On Wheels

Palace On Wheels is one of the luxury trains in India. It takes around the tour of Rajasthan and Jaisalmer is one of the major cities that is covered by Palace On Wheels!

Click - Luxury Trains in India

Pokhran

Photo Courtesy: Archan dave

Pokhran

Pokhran is a famous place in Jaisalmer; it was first test site of India's nuclear weapon explosion. Pokhran is located between Jaisalmer and Jodhpur.

Sunset at Jaisalmer

Photo Courtesy: Tarun R

Best Time To Visit Jaisalmer

October to January is the best time to visit Jaisalmer as the climate will be pleasant.

Bada Bagh

Photo Courtesy: Daniel Villafruela.

Tourist Attractions in Jaisalmer

Tanot Mata Temple, Jaisalmer Fort, Patwaon-Ki-Haweli, Jaisalmer War Museum, Gadsisar Sagar Lake, Bada Bagh, Pokhran Fort, are the some of the famous tourist places in Jaisalmer.

Accommodations

Jaisalmer is a well-developed city and several kinds (luxury, moderate and cheap) of accommodations are available.