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Desert Camping in Jaisalmer with Camel Safari Flat 44% off
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Jaisalmer is a beautiful border city lying on the western end of the country offering plenty of things to do and places to visit for tourists across the world. When looking for activities to do in Jaisalmer, you will find something to do for every one. If you like the wilderness, then a camel safari in the Thar desert is for you. If you are more interested in the history of the region, a trip to the ruins of Kuldhara is a must.
Deal of the Day: Overnight Jeep Safari with Camping (68% Off).
To experience the vibrant culture of Jaisalmer, head straight towards the Jaisalmer Fort and its several colourful bazaars. Jaisalmer combines the best of nature with a distinct cultural experience that makes it a unique travel destination, not just in the country but also in the world.
Limited Period Offer: Upto 68% Off on Luxury Camping in Jaisalmer.
What to do in Jaisalmer can have different answers for different kinds of travellers. If you are a nature lover, you can enjoy camping under the stars at Khuri Sand Dunes or go for a camel safari in the desert. For all the history buffs, the city has many museums on offer, from the Jaisalmer War Museum to the Baa Ri Haveli cultural museum. However, the crowning glory of Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Fort which forms a magical backdrop to all the bazaars, rooftop restaurants and cenotaphs spread throughout the city.
Sam Sand Dunes offer an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Thar Desert where you can camp in luxurious accommodations, surrounded by the dramatic beauty of the desert. Located at about 40 kilometers from the Jaisalmer city center, the camping site gives the feeling of an oasis or an old village Qasba with several tents placed one next to the other.
Here, you can enjoy stargazing at night, go on desert safaris, light a bonfire and enjoy a camel ride. Not just camels, the desert is home to a variety of wildlife, some of which are exclusive to the region, and can be spotted on a desert safari.
Jaisalmer has a plethora of Camel Safari options to choose from, no matter what time of the day you have free. There are many well-known sand dune sites where you can enjoy a thrilling camel ride into the desert. If you want someplace more secluded, then you can arrange for a safari in the lesser-known parts of the Thar desert.
You can witness the changing shapes of the sand dunes, wild insects and animals of the desert and also the different hues of the sky as the day goes on. You can choose to camp overnight, enjoy stargazing and then wake up early for a breathtaking sunrise before you head back to the city.
Boating at the picturesque Gadisar Lake is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer if you love being on the water! This is an artificial lake which is situated in the heart of the city, making it an ideal place to escape the bustle of the city. Surrounding the lake are several Hindu temples and ghats where you can enjoy the enchanting music of the evening Aarti as you ride your boat. In winters, the boat rides become even more beautiful as you can spot several species of migratory birds at the lake that come from the nearby Bharatpur Bird Sanctuary.
About 15 kilometres away from Jaisalmer is an abandoned Indian village, which narrates inspiring and fascinating tales. This destination is known as Kuldhara. The village, which looks more like a town, was once known for its large population. Travellers who wish to imagine a world through its ruins are recommended to visit the abandoned village of Kuldhara.
The streets here were wide and designed beautifully, the settlement here was planned. Aesthetics were kept in mind when it came to construction of this village. Though abandoned now, earages, temples, step wells and other structures were constructed here in large numbers.
While travelling through this abandoned village, tourists will hear the legend that describes why villagers left this settlement. According to this legend, the minister of the ruling kingdom was evil and wished to marry the younger daughter of a village chief. He forced him to give her in marriage and gave him a deadline. Scared, the chief called upon a meeting of chiefs from 84 villages located nearby and it was decided that the entire population of Kuldhara would leave, so that the honour of the chief’s daughter could be protected.
Today, this story is reflective of the fact that chiefs and Rajput warriors during those times kept their honour at the highest level. Their respect and self esteem was so important that an entire village decided to leave their homes and settle elsewhere so that the young daughter of the chief could be protected from the evil clutches of the minister from the ruling kingdom. This indicates how valiant Rajasthani people are.
Today the ruins of this village are a tourist site, giving travellers the opportunity to think and understand what happened centuries ago.
Situated at a distance of 122 kilometers from Jaisalmer fort, this temple is considered as a reincarnation of Goddess Hinglaj. There are many stories shrouded around this temple during the Indo-Pakistan war in 1965, stories reciting that the temple stood unharmed even after being under attack with heavy bombs and shelling.
This war memorial throws light on Indo-pak and sino-India conflicts. Apart from the historical details and significance of these wars, it also covers the military equipments used in these wars. It is situated 130 km from the city of Jaisalmer and is good place to build up your knowledge on the critical issues dealt by India through war and peace-making strategies.
Price: No entry fee.
Location: Longewala, Rajasthan 335803
Visit duration: 1 hour to 1.5 hours.
Timing: Open on all the seven days of the week, the preferred time to visit is 9AM to 3PM.
Khuri Sand Dunes are the lesser populated, just as beautiful cousin of the Sam Sand Dunes. The ever-changing shape of the dunes, the soft white sand and the strikingly barren landscape, make this just the escape you would want in a desert. Here, you can go on the long camel safaris, witness breathtaking sunsets and even more beautiful sunrises.
Camping at the site, under a sky full of stars, is simply an unforgettable experience. Out of all the things to do in Jaisalmer, camping at the Khuri Sand Dunes is one of the most rewarding, especially for nature enthusiasts, photographers and adventure seekers.
There is no better place to experience the true Jaisalmeri culture in its unadulterated form than at the cultural show at Sam Sand Dunes. After the sun sets, this remote desert destination turns into a full-blast festival with lights, dance performances, delightful acts and colourful costumes.
You can light a bonfire and warm yourself as the temperatures drop after sunset and enjoy delicious Rajasthani food. If you like exploring the local culture and interacting with other travellers, then this will be one of the most fun activities in Jaisalmer for you.
Jaisalmer implies to a striking tourist spot in Rajasthan, is composed of elegant forts and sand that one gets to behold along when in Jaisalmer. The location fills does not just impart a great spot for exploring and sightseeing, but the location is also ideal for a number of fun-filled and adventurous activities that can be carried out with your dear ones, when in Jaisalmer.
About the Activity:
The Parasailing package in Jaisalmer provides you with the opportunity of undergoing an adventurous activity session in Jaisalmer that would fill your heart with unending memories. For those of you who are looking for some thrilling Parasailing in Jaisalmer, then this tour is just perfect for you. The package lets you get over the fear of height with trying Parasailing that takes you high up in the desert of Jaisalmer.
Rajasthan is known to be one of the suitable sites for Parasailing in India and consists of proper runways and strips in Jaisalmer that lets adventure lovers undergo a thrilling Parasailing activity. With this package, you get to experience one of the most adventurous and safest aero sports which is very influential in Rajasthan. This parasailing activity is conducted on the ground under the instruction of qualified instructors who would guide you throughout the activity. The package also provides safety equipment along with in order to ensure maximum safety of the participants.
Duration of the Activity: The duration of the activity is 30 minutes where the parasailing would take 3-5 minutes of immense adventure.
Timings- You can pick any slot from 10 AM till 5:30 PM any time in the day.
If you are still thinking, dune bashing is a popular adventure sports of the Gulfs and the Arabs, you should think again! Thar Desert areas near Jaisalmer are also considered as ideal locations for dune bashing and off-roading as well. The Sam Sand Dunes are thronged by thousands of adventure junkies who has a yearning for these two sports and make it part of their Jaisalmer trip.
The name Jaisalmer itself brings out the vibrancy and charm. It floods the heart with the true feeling of culture at one end and the feeling of royal exuberance on the other. The daylight hues, the yellow sands, the pink and red forts, the royal palaces, and the Arabian night dances are set to capture your hearts.
Jaisalmer, a prominent visitor spot in Rajasthan, is composed of elegant forts and sand that one gets to behold along with the perfect blend of lakes and Jain temples, Havelis and castles adorned in golden coloured sandstone. The location does not just impart a great spot for exploring and sightseeing, but the location is also ideal for a number of fun-filled and adventurous activities that can be carried out with your dear ones, when in Jaisalmer.
About the Activity:
The ATV Ride package in Jaisalmer provides you with the opportunity of experiencing an adventurous activity session in Jaisalmer that would fill your heart with everlasting memories. Grab the chance to gain back the sportsman spirit in you. Let yourself undergo a fun-filled ATV Ride session in Jaisalmer and enjoy the pleasure of riding a quad bike in the golden dunes of Thar Desert.
The package lets you explore the desert on a four-tire motorbike and quench your thirst for adventure in the desert. With the package, you will be guided by trained experts as you ride an hour in the golden dunes that will make you feel like a conquerer on a rescue mission.
Duration of the Activity: You can avail the fun-filled activity for 20-25 minutes.
Timings: You can pick any time from 10:00 AM till 6:00 PM
How To Reach?
The activity place in Jaisalmer which can be easily accessed by public or private transport.
Note:
Minimum 2 people are required to book this tour.
About the Activity:
-Make your vacation a special one while you head out on an amazing Jeep safari in Jaisalmer and drive through the deserts.
-During this village jeep safari, you will get a chance to explore the villages and basti, where you get a chance to see the cultural life and daily life of these places.
-Get a chance to witness the daily life of the famous Basti, as you take this amazing jeep ride.
-As you move on from the bustling activity of the village to the serenity of desert, one is at times able to spot a trek of the famous Black Buck Antelope.
-The drive continues across the desert to the Lakhmanna, Sam village, Bhillo ki Basti and more places where a number of migratory birds come in the season of winter, and provide a splendid view
-Indulge in the Jeep safari activity and travel amidst Lakhamana Dunes for 2 KM in the desert for about 35 minutes.
-Take the photographs with your family to make the trip memorable.
-End your tour by heading back to the desert camp after indulging in the enthralling fun of 45 minutes.
Timings: You can pick any spot from 8:00 AM till 6:30 PM in a day.
Minimum number of people required- 2.
Overnight desert safaris are the most thrilling way to explore Jaisalmer’s wild landscape. You can choose to ride a camel into the desert, enjoy the breathtaking sunsets and camp under the stars as the sun goes down. You can choose to camp in the desert and spend your time gazing at the stars and also notice the planet’s rotation through the movement of the galaxies. It is a truly thrilling experience. Apart from the stars, the sunsets and sunrises are also spectacular offering many photography opportunities.
Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a historic part of Jaisalmer and is deeply intertwined in legend and myth. It has been celebrated in the desert for centuries and today, it is bigger than ever. If you are in Jaisalmer in February, you can be a part of the festivities as the desert lights up for three days for uninterrupted fun.
You can witness camel races, camel polo, Air Force displays fun acrobatic performances and other activities. You can also participate in camel tattoo competitions, tug-of-war, turban-tying competitions, cricket matches and more. It is an extravaganza that kicks off by a parade from the Jaisalmer Fort with the residents flaunting traditional dresses and putting up fun acts and skits.
If you want to participate in some out of the ordinary activities in Jaisalmer, then, a visit to the Indo-Pak border must be on your list. You will get an opportunity to visit some of the major posts of the Indian army, including Longewala and Tanot. Apart from some amazing tank displays and army men going about their day, you can also enjoy the beautiful views of this mostly unoccupied area.
You can head over to the Indira Gandhi canal to enjoy the views and sample some delicious local food. The border also has some ancient temples which makes for an interesting stopover on the way to or back from the border.
Puppeteering has been a part of Jaisalmer and its history for centuries. From buying handmade puppets to watching interesting puppet shows which tell age-old tales, there are a lot of fun things to do in Jaisalmer for the puppet-enthusiasts. You can hop over to the Thar Heritage Museum to witness this ancient folk art form.
The puppet shows last for around 40 minutes and include puppet dancing, singing and story-telling, making it a fun activity for the entire family. The museum also has a souvenir shop where you can stop to buy puppets to take home with you after the holiday.
Located in the Western Indian state of Rajasthan, Desert National Park is one of the largest national parks in the country and should be included in you list of things to do in Jaisalmer. This national park must be included in all travel and to-do lists for Jaisalmer as the park is a fine example of the ecosystem of Thar Desert and Sand Dunes.
The craggy rocks here along with company salt lake bottoms are the best places for having a rendezvous with the wild. The place has an abundance of birdlife and animals, which makes it even more alluring. Every year, thousands of travellers visit this place to see migratory and resident birds in action.
Desert National Park is home to a number of birds, including eagles, vultures, buzzards, falcons, harriers and kestrels. Bird species such as short toed eagle, spotted and tawny eagles are widely sighted here. But mostly, the park is famous for the Great Indian Bustard, an endangered species of bird, which is found in relatively fair number during the season from November to January.
Apart from elusive avian species, the park also features a collection of animals and fossils that dates back to at least 180 million years ago. Dinosaur fossils have been found in this region. Sam Sand Dunes and Gadsisar Sagar Tank are also located here.
The place is widely famous for its fauna, including chinkara, blackbuck, wolf, desert cat and Bengal fox. Reptiles such as spiny tailed lizard and Russell’s viper can be easily captured on the camera. Cranes arrive here during winter season, making this place a hub for bird watchers from all over the world. Opt for jeep safari to cover the place in a relatively small period of time.
Jaisalmer is home to quite a few rooftop restaurants that flaunt the beauty of the Golden City and its surroundings through their well-positioned locations and enchanting ambience. You can enjoy authentic European cuisine in the heart of Jaisalmer when you choose to dine at Jaisal Italy.
Located at one of Jaisalmer’s Fort’s boundary walls, you can take in the beautiful views of the surroundings and the fort as you enjoy tasty food. Another excellent roof-top option is The Trio. Here, you can sample some of the best traditional Rajasthani food while you sip on some cold beer, as you sit underneath its large canopy.
For some finger-licking Tibetan cuisine and spectacular views, you can head over to the Free Tibet rooftop restaurant or dine in luxury at Zoya by Zayka which is a boutique restaurant with delicious food.
This Haveli is slightly different from the other Havelis in terms of art and sculpture. The roof of this Haveli has been built in the form of a peacock. At the entrance of the Haveli, there are tuskers made of sand stones guarding the haveli.
This haveli has 38 balconies and each balcony has its own artistry. The name given to this Haveli is Jahaz mahal because of the front of the haveli resembling ship stern. Thrillophilia recommends a visit to this Haveli to see how beautiful art can be.
The Patwon ki Haveli is considered to be one of the most important Havelis of Jaisalmer because of two important things: it was the first Haveli to be ever built in Jaisalmer and it is a cluster of 5 different havelis making it one of the biggest Havelis. The other name given to this Haveli is the “mansion of brocade merchants” because the Patwa family used to deal in gold and silver.
Currently, the Haveli is taken care of by the Rajasthan government. The gateways and arches of this Haveli are also masterpieces. The entire Haveli is made of yellow sandstone and the main gateway of this Haveli is brown.
Tazia Tower of Jaisalmer can certainly be considered to be one of the major tourist attractions on your Jaisalmer tour. If you are fond of the Rajputana architectures scattered in the city, Tazia tower will come as a welcome break to you. It is situated in the excellent 'Badal Palace' complex located near Amar Sagar Gate. These were once the homes of the former royal family.
The Tazia tower is a 5-storied structure where each story has significance in its own. On each floor there is a balcony that is famous for their individual designs. This tower was built by Muslim craftsmen and is based on the shape of Tazia; which is actually the replica of Mausoleum of various Imams. The construction is made of wood, thermocol and colored papers. The architects gifted it to the then royal patrons to honour them with love and respect.
Location: Badal Palace complex located near Amar Sagar GateA sunset visit at Vyas Chhatri is a must-do activity in Jaisalmer if you want to experience a truly spectacular sunset in the middle of nowhere. These chhatris or umbrella-like structures have been a part of Jaisalmer’s landscape for centuries.
These cenotaphs depict the best of Rajasthani architecture and have been built upon a raised platform with intricately carved domes and pillars. From the Vyas Chhatris, you can see the beautiful Jaisalmer Fort in the distance and sand dunes on the other side. The changing colours of the sky and the sandstone of these chhatris make for a magnificent sight every evening, making it a photographer’s heaven.
This haveli that once used to be the prime minister’s house is today, still partly inhabited. It has derived its origin from the late 19th century and has extraordinary exterior, dripping with carvings. The 1st floor of the haveli has some beautiful paintings that are made using 1.5kg of gold leaf. Apparently, the left and right wings were the work of two brothers-Hathi and Lulu. The competitive spirit in them apparently produced this virtuoso work. If you closely observe, the two sides are similar, however not identical.
There are pictures engraved on pillars and walls that consist of horses, cattle, and depiction of flora among many other things. The most interesting aspect of this haveli that draws instant attention are the modern amenities such as cars, fans etc. It is said and believed that the architect brothers never saw these things in reality and engraved it with mere help of their descriptions. These interesting facts surely make visiting Nathmal ki haveli on your list of things to do in Jaisalmer.
Location: In the heart of Jaisalmer
Lodrawa, also known as Lodurva or Lodarva is a village in Jaisalmer district of state Rajasthan in India. It is 15 kilometres to the north-west of the popular city Jaisalmer. Lodrawa was the ancient capital of the Bhatti dynasty till 1156 AD, when Rawal Jaisal founded the Jaisalmer state and shifted the capital to Jaisalmer. This village is a popular tourist destination that is known for its architectural ruins and surrounding sand dunes.
It is also famous for the Jain temple which is dedicated to 23rd Tirthankara, Parshvanath destroyed in 1152 AD when Muhammad Ghori sacked the city but was reconstructed in 1615 by Seth Tharu Shah and further additions were commissioned in 1675 and 1687.The temples were rebuilt in the late 1970s, as reminders of the city's former glory. Some of the other places for you to add on your list of things to do in Jaisalmer are Rishabh Nath Temple and Sambhavnath Temple, Hinglaj mata temple, Chamunda mata temple, and old temple of Shiva.
Location: 15 kilometres to the north-west of the popular city Jaisalmer
The Akal Wood Fossil Park is a kind of a destination that is loved by all. People of all ages usually love to go and explore the prehistoric era here. Once you reach the park, you will notice the area is covered with large fossilised tree trunks of various sizes and seashells. The largest of which is about 13 meters long and 1.5 meters wide. There are around 25 numb trees and some of the oldest fossils are about 200 years old. Since the climate here is hot and humid, it helps in preserving these fossils.
Entry Fee:
Location: The Akal Wood Fossil Park is located 17 km away from the main city of Jaisalmer on Barmer Road
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Attractions
Nestled in the quaint village of Tanot in Jaisalmer, Tanot Mata temple is a blend of legends, miracles, and religion. This temple is bound with the faith and utmost devotion of local people.
According to the oldest Charan literature, this revered temple is an incarnation of Goddess Hinglaj Mata. This heritage site is a major attraction for tourists who visit the Thar Desert in Rajasthan.
This miraculous temple is located close to Longewala, the battle site of the intense Indo-Pak War of 1965 and 1971. The Jawans present near the temple have a lot of incredible stories to share with the visitors. This is perhaps the best way to learn about one of the many legends of the temple.
The BSF has also established a museum near the temple that tells the glory of this temple associated with the Indian Army.
Another reason to visit this old temple is the incredulous road which connects it with Jaisalmer. According to the visitors, the route is brimming with the vistas brimming with beautiful landscapes.
You will witness beautiful landscapes that are dotted with yellow sand dunes, camels, goats, camps, and local people in colorful Rajasthani clothes, dhabas serving delectable food, and spectacular wind mills.
Once you reach the temple, you will be mesmerized with the divinity and purity of the temple. There is a unique aura surrounding its premises, which often turns the non-believer of the divine power into a devotee.
There have been a lot of anecdotes where people visited this place as tourists but the uniqueness of this temple left them mesmerized. There have been many instances of divine intervention in and around this temple as well. No wonder many people re-visit this temple quite often.
This highly revered temple was established in 847 AD. The idol of the deity was installed in the same time period as well. The construction of this temple started after Bhati Rajput King Tanu Rao made Tanot as the capital of his kingdom.
Later, it was maintained by RAC before BSF took over the temple’s responsibility, in 1965. There are a lot of unique stories related to this temple. However, the most talked-about legend of the temple is the occurring of a miraculous event during the Indo-Pak Wars of 1965.
According to this anecdote, Pakistan dropped more than 3,000 bombs on the temple to destroy it, along with the Indian Army. While the Pakistani Army was at it, none of the 3,000 bombs could touch the temple or the Indian soldiers!
The same happened in the War of 1971 when only one coy of BSF repulsed the sudden attack from Pakistan Army.
One of the grandest of all memorials, the Vyas Chhatri presents exquisitely crafted cenotaphs presenting it as a wonderful tourist attraction.
This commemorative plaque is built in the memory of Sage Vyas who had written the epic Mahabharata and is a formal cremation ground for the Brahmins located in Jaisalmer.
The cenotaph dedicated to the Sage is situated north of the entire structure. These cenotaphs were made as a symbol of respect to the clans of the royal family after their death.
The cenotaphs are built of yellow sandstone with intricately designed chhatris placed on top of these pillars.
The grandeur and opulence of the chhatris and the pillars testify the evergreen Rajasthani architecture. The best architectural minds will be forced to think about how these structures were built?
The fine detailing, statistics and the material used must have been top-notch. The Chhatri is also popularly known as the sun-set point giving a one-shot view of the beautiful city of Jaisalmer. Vyas Chhatri is one of the most popular tourist attractions and landmarks in the city and is placed in another structure called Bada Bagh.
Talking about the structure, the intricate carvings of dome-shaped pavilions are mesmerizing in their appearance. A visit here will give you an enduring peace and calmness especially during sunsets.
Vyas Chhatri is a photographer’s delight and the perfect place to pose for your best shots especially in the evening.
If you are visiting Jaisalmer, then you should surely visit the Vyas Chhatri which is a place enveloped in calm and tranquillity.
The Vyas Chhatri is a strong reminder of the bravest souls who walked on this soil and is a proud reminder of India's culture and rich craftsmanship.
The yellow sandstone Cenotaphs or chhatris are dome-shaped and will sway you the first time you see it.
The memorial structure was built for the fond remembrance of Rajput rulers and their families from the local garden sandstone. The place's traditional Bhatti Rajput rulers built these cenotaphs to honour the contributions of their ancestors.
The delicate carvings on these cenotaphs are the best example of the true potential of Rajasthan architecture.
The umbrella-shaped dome is an excellent example of giving a rightful memorial to the Rajput war heroes, and esteemed members of the rich and wealthy Hindu Brahmin families.
Known as the golden city of India, Jaisalmer is a beautiful city in Rajasthan. Among all the things that make this city popular, “Patwon Ki Haveli,” also known as the Mansion of Brocade Merchants tops the list.Patwon Ki Haveli is a cluster of five large havelis in Jaisalmer. Built in 1805 by Guman Chand Patwa, it took the workers almost 55 years to complete the first haveli. With an interesting history, Patwon Ki Haveli is actually the first and the largest haveli to be constructed in Jaisalmer. History says that Patwa was an extremely wealthy man and a well-known trader of his time.
Due to his riches, he could afford to build a luxurious palace and thus ordered the construction of separate stories – one for each of his five sons. The entire family dealt in gold and silver threads that were used in embroidering clothes and so, there was no dearth of money in the family.
Once home to the Patwa family, today the cluster of havelis is occupied by the Rajasthan government’s art and craft department. Its beautiful architecture, creative mirror work, intricate carvings, lovely paintings, and its rich goldish yellow color is what makes this cluster of havelis a favorite among tourists and locals alike.
Ghost stories have a very different kind of charm to lure readers with old forts, ruins of castles, deserted alleys, sinister houses and abandoned spirits.
Lying 21 Km from Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, Kuldhara village has a similar story to tell.
At present Kuldhara Village is a heritage site and is maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
As you enter the premises of this ancient village you can feel as if time has stood still in Kuldhara since the last 200 years.
Straight dusty roads with intermittent rows of mud houses, cul-de-sac lanes and sandstone walls and a temple once visited by the Paliwals stand as a living testimony of some sad past.
To the east of the village lies the parched river bed of Kakni which is a warning to the impossibility of sustenance of life in this place.
An erstwhile flourishing village of North-Western India whose history dates back to the 13th century was abandoned overnight in 1825 for some reason unknown. As you walk along the ruins of Kuldhara village you can witness the ravages of time on its soil.
However, the place does not have any supernatural fact behind its myth but a veil of sadness rends the air narrating the unfortunate past of its natives who were forced to leave their ancestral place under the cover of darkness.
Kuldhara village was founded in 1156 by Jaisel Bhati atop the Trikuta Hill in Jaisalmer in Rajasthan.
The purpose of building a settlement in such a place was due to the reason that the original capital Lodarva was under the threat of attacks by the enemies.
The place around the Trikuta Hill had a smooth trade route with Persia and Arabia in the Middle East by land and also through the ports of Gujarat.
As a result, they used to earn handsome revenues due to levied taxes from the caravans who used to travel from these places to Rajasthan.
Subsequently, the invaders travelled from Afghanistan and used this route to plunder the wealth from Gujarat and the Somnath Temple in particular, that was known for its assets.
For protecting themselves from the attacks of the invaders, the villagers abandoned Kuldhara and its adjacent villages as men, women and children were being held captive by the intruders and enslaved thereafter.
Located in the Thar Desert and almost 30 km away from Pakistan border, The Golden City of India, Jaisalmer houses plenty of historical monuments at present.
Among the most striking man-made features of Jaisalmer is the Gadisar Lake. Built amidst the arid region of Rajasthan, this lake impersonates the beauty of an oasis.
Located on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, visiting Gadisar Lake would be rated as one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer for watching the sunrise.
This manmade lake built around the 12th-13th century is now a popular spot with visitors. It is an ideal getaway for architecture lovers, culture enthusiasts, and peace seekers. For a relaxing experience in Jaisalmer, visit this place while you are entitled to soak in the mesmerizing view of the sun setting down in the evening.
Whether you like to spend some quiet time by yourself or have fun with your family and friends, Gadisar Lake has a handful of experiences to offer. You might want to begin with taking a tour around Gadisar Lake.
Explore the beauty of the lake while you take a walk and watch some migratory birds flying around it. Moreover, you can visit the Desert Culture Centre and Museum for indulging into the historical aspects of Jaisalmer.
With intricately carved temples and Tilon ki Pol, the city welcomes you into the beautiful Gadisar Lake. It is situated close to Jaisalmer fort and temples.
Mention below is a rundown of the perfect options for a blissful experience of Gadisar Lake.
Imagine yourself amidst the desert, the yellow sandstone buildings surrounded by the glorious dunes, and further enhanced by the golden rays of the sun.
This is what a trip to Sam Sand Dunes feels like. This marvellous beauty of Rajasthan is an amazing cultural hub. Stretched across the Thar desert, Sam Sand Dunes is a prominent part of Jaisalmer.
One of the most idyllic places to wind down and get in touch with nature, you can explore here the plant and animal life too. Take a camel ride and go on a remarkable trip to tour the dunes. Or, rent a quad bike for a thrilling experience across the local villages.
Many desert campsites organise cultural programs for visitors to witness the Rajasthani culture. There, you can witness musical nights, folk dance, puppet shows, and a chance to taste the aromatic Rajasthani cuisine.
Indulge in stargazing, stay at the beautiful desert camps, and explore the vivid desert life. With all this and more, the Sam Sand Dunes are one of the most popular sites for offering a worthwhile experience to its visitors.
The Indian state of Rajasthan is widely known for its rich forts and palaces. Among its uncountable number of forts, one Khaba Fort is very popular for being one of a kind. Located near the town of Jaisalmer, Khaba Fort is situated in the Khaba village amid the giant Thar Desert.
This ruined fort once housed a kingdom in it and was the epicenter of the Kuldhara village. Many tourists visit the place to unearth its history and several mysteries that haunt the village to date. The abandoned houses near the fort are a popular spot for adventure seekers and myth-busters.
The broken entrance for the Khaba fort starts near the spooky Kuldhara village. One can see the entire village and the nearby areas from the top of the fort.
You’ll always see some peacocks mingling around the fort with their wings wide open. Though the Khaba Fort is majorly ruined, one can still find some beautiful walls and a few windows. Among the other remaining structures, one would also find a small temple dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Khaba fort has a museum in it that is loaded with ancient vestiges and a few age-old rocks.
Inside the fort, there is a staircase that leads to an underground hallway that has around 70 to 80 stranded houses.
Before any visitor leaves the fort, the locals and a few former residents cast an incantation to restrict any visitor to settle in the village. Call it blind faith, superstition or something else, the locals have been practicing this to prevent any other epidemic.
The village of Khaba was home to the Paliwal Brahmins from the late 13th century. Around 80-90 families were residing in various huts and small houses scattered around the village. The mysterious story of Khaba starts in 1825 when in one night, all the villagers deserted the village and went to some other place.
To date, nobody knows where the villagers went and this remains an unsolved story. Some possible tales that explain the sudden disappearance are
- An earthquake shook the village
- Dwindling water supply in the village
- Forceful marriage of the King (Kshatriya) with a Brahmin girl
Situated amidst the Thar Desert, the Khaba fort’s museum consists of many sand formations that have flourished in the area for years. The visitors can witness some of the geological artifacts that are native to the Thar desert.
One can also see some different fossils which were found in the region.
Other than this, the visitors can also see varied rock formations with each of the formation having in-detailed information about it inscribed on a board. The spooky village is quite famous and attracts a lot of visitors from many states.
Situated at a distance of around 40 km from Jaisalmer (Rajasthan), Desert National Park is counted amongst the largest parks of India. Geographically, this park covers an area of 3162 sq. km extending from the borders of Jaisalmer, the park boundary reaches close to the Indo-Pak border.
You can expect everything here that a Desert ecosystem has to offer you. There are craggy rocks, intermedial areas, compact salt lake bottoms, and fixed dunes. In fact, the dunes makeup to almost 20% of the area under this park.
Amongst the wild flora of the Desert region, you get to see Desert plants, cacti, and other thorny bushes. An adventure-filled safari will be the best way to take a 360-degree tour of the Desert ecosystem here.
Besides jeep drive, if you are really adventurous, you can indulge in camping and bonfire activities here.
Being located within the close proximity of the Thar Desert, the park re-defines all parameters of stereotypical transitions exhibited by flora and fauna there. Even though the Desert ecosystem at the Desert National Park is harsh and fragile, it shelters a plethora of wildlife.
In fact, bird researchers tag this place as a haven for migratory birds. If you are an avid lover of the rare bird species, get your binoculars and DSLRs on as you have The Great Indian Bustard to spot here.
Excited to know more about the Desert National Park? Let’s peep into its flora and fauna first –
1. Animals –
Desert monitors, deadly vipers, spiny-tailed lizards, Krait, and sandfish are the prominent members of the wildlife family.
If you are fortunate enough to be there on time, you can even spot on Desert and Bengal foxes munching on some fresh berries. Apart from these key animals, the Desert National Park also shelters Vulpes, Blackbuck Antelope, Gazelle gazelle, Desert Cat Felis Libyes, and Cervicapra Rajputana Chinkara.
2. Birds –
As stated early, this park is never-ending heaven for all bird lovers. Desert National Park of Jaisalmer is known to house 150 different varieties of residential and migratory birds. It is a common phenomenon to locate endangered species of The Great Indian Bustard.
Amongst the other common species you have – Demoiselle, Eagles, Falcons, Partridges, Bee-Eaters, Vultures, Larks, Shrikes, Macqueen’s Bustard. As you move on to the next section of the park, you will come across some ponds and waterholes. Larks and wheatears are common species to be located here.
3. Reptiles –
Not all, but Desert National Park has surely got several reptile species to exhibit before you. Monitor lizard, Spiny-tailed lizard, Russell’s viper, Saw-scaled viper, common krait are few of the reptile species to be traced here.
4. Vegetation –
Although a sparse one, you still can find a variety in the vegetative species at the Desert National Park. Prominent amongst the vegetative species are aak shrub, sewan grass, and cacti.
It has got a well-diversified desert type of landscape where you have small salt lake bottom, fixed and shifting dunes, and craggy rocks.
While strolling through the park, do not forget to raise your head high above the sky. You will be surprised by the number of vultures soaring high to present a delightful sight.
The Khuri Sand Dunes are situated at a distance of 40 Km to the southwest of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. It is one of the most acknowledged and pristine beauty in the middle of the vast Thar Desert, which offers many ideal locations for tourists to get an experience of dunes in India.
The Thar desert is home to numerous sand dunes which offer tourists with options for camping and desert safari. The Khuri Sand Dunes welcomes all the visitors to the ocean of sand. It entices solo travellers to spend some time in solitude.
The best way to travel through the dunes would be to sit atop a colorfully dressed camel and start your journey in a convoy over the shifting dunes. The dunes will let you set off in the early morning to watch the amazing sun, when it casts a truly magical spell over the desert lands.
Khuri Sand Dunes lets you camp in the middle of the desert, ride on the back of the camel, relish the local way of living and shop souvenirs in the emerging local bazaars.
However, if you want to make the most out of the Sand Dunes, you can absolutely sit beside a campfire, listen to the traditional songs of Kalbeliyas, and relish some of the authentic Rajasthani delicacies.
Last but not the least; you should on no occasion miss the amazing sunsets behind the sandhills. A trip to this place will surely be a break from the busy and chaotic daily life.
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The places to visit in Jaisalmer encapsulate the idea of incredible Indian heritage with valor and passion. Have a quick look at these places to visit in Jaisalmer:
1. Jaisalmer Fort (Due to its location at the golden stretches of the Thar Desert, this fort is also known as the ‘Sonar Quila’ or the ‘Golden Fort’)
2. Sam Sand Dunes (These are one of the most authentic desert dune sites in whole India)
3. Gadsisar Lake (It is an idyllic getaway to seek peace and tranquillity of mind, away from the bustling and chaotic city life)
4. Salim Singh-ki Haveli (It has a unique architectural identity and lies within the vicinity of the Jaisalmer fort)
6. Desert National Park (This will give a better understanding of how the plants and animals have survived the aridness of the Thar Desert)
Looking for the best resorts in Jaisalmer? Enjoy extraordinary facilities, hospitality, private pools & more. check out the list of best resorts in Jaisalmer:
1. Suryagarh - starting @ Just INR 8990
2. Jaisalmer Marriott Resort & Spa - starting from INR 8250
3. Gorbandh Palace - starting from INR 3540
4. Desert Tulip Hotel and Resort - starting from INR 4475
5. Welcome Heritage Mandir Palace - starting from INR 4990
6. The Gulaal - starting from INR 4450
Planning on venturing out into the Thar desert and staying in a Jaisalmer desert camp? Here are some of the best Jaisalmer desert camps for glamping!!
1. Sam Sand Dunes Camping in Jaisalmer Flat 68% Off
2. Camping in Jaisalmer With Desert Safari Flat 68% Off
3. Luxury Desert Camping in Jaisalmer Flat 18% Off
4. Adventure Safari Camping in Jaisalmer Flat 68% Off
Also, Check: 45 Best Jaisalmer Tour Packages
Following is a list of what to do in Jaisalmer when you want to go on a shopping spree: Visit the Pansari Bazaar Spend a day at Manak Chowk Explore the different things on display at the Sadar Bazaar Give Sonaron ka Bas a drop-in Spend some time at the Bhatia Bazaar
The best time to visit Jaisalmer is during the winter months of November to March. The weather is pleasant with temperature ranging from 5 to 24 degrees Celsius. In February, you can also take part in the Jaisalmer Festival, adding charm to your travel experience.
The easiest way to reach Jaisalmer from Jaipur is by taking an overnight bus. There are several private and RSRTC buses which take around 12 hours on average. You can also book a seat on a train or drive from Jaipur to Jaisalmer. Some of the direct train routes are Leelan Express, Corbett Park Link Express, Runicha Express, etc. which take around 12-13 hours.
You can spend as little as two days in Jaisalmer if you want to cover the major attractions or as much as a week to explore the Golden City at your own pace.