Planning a trip to the Golden City? From exploring its old streets to spending an evening in the desert, there are plenty of things to do in Jaisalmer that make the journey worth taking. But the city’s charm goes beyond its famous sights.
For those who have visited and for those who haven’t visited, Jaisalmer is not just another destination in Rajasthan that you visit; rather, it is a place you experience. Being present in the heart of Rajasthan’s Thar Desert, Jaisalmer is well regarded for its golden sandstone architecture, historic forts, colourful markets and endless desert landscapes. You can take a walk through narrow lanes around the famous Jaisalmer Fort and watch the sunset over the sand dunes to soak in the lifetime memory of your journey.
Having knowledge about the things to do in Jaisalmer can prove to be very useful to plan your trip in advance. Your perfect itinerary can help you explore centuries-old havelis, enjoy local food, take a camel safari, spend a night in a desert camp or try exciting desert adventures. Our Jaisalmer tour packages can help you plan city sightseeing and a desert stay together.
Before you get to know in detail the best things and activities to do in the Golden City. Here is a simple checklist for you to keep with you while you travel in Jaisalmer.
Our travel experts created this list to make it easy for you, so you don’t regret missing any must-do activities in Jaisalmer.
Must do (the big ones)
Good to add if you have time
Food to try
Shopping
Given below is the detailed guide to some of the best Jaisalmer local sightseeing and activities to include in your trip.
You know your Jaisalmer trip is incomplete without visiting the famous Jaisalmer Fort. Built by Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD, the fort gives the impression of a gigantic golden monument rising from the desert like a giant golden structure. Did you know that this fort is still a living fort, with people residing and running shops and businesses inside its historic walls?
In things to see in Jaisalmer, you can choose to take a walk through the fort’s narrow streets, visit its temples, explore small shops selling handicrafts, textiles and souvenirs, and click amazing pictures soaking in the history and culture of Rajasthan.
Patwon Ki Haveli is another must-visit attraction in the city. This impressive collection of five havelis showcases the detailed craftsmanship that makes Jaisalmer architecture so special.
Look closely at the balconies, windows, arches and stone carvings. The fine detailing becomes even more interesting when you learn that much of the decoration was carved from golden sandstone.
A visit here is perfect for travellers who enjoy architecture, history and photography.
If you want to experience a quieter place in Jaisalmer, you should definitely visit the Gadisar Lake. This lake was once considered an important water source for Jaisalmer. It is surrounded by small temples, shrines and beautifully carved structures.
Early morning and evening are particularly pleasant times to visit. You can enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake or simply sit by the water and gaze at the beautiful waters.
For a relaxed Jaisalmer local sightseeing, Gadisar Lake should be a must include point in your itinerary.
One of the most memorable activities in Jaisalmer is a camel ride across the Thar Desert.
A camel safari is a surreal way to experience the desert at a slow speed while taking in the vast surrounding landscape. The best time to go for a camel safari is during the evening so that you can reach the dunes around sunset to watch the sun slowly disappear behind the sand dunes while sitting on a camel.
No need to hunt for hotels, compare camps or fix a cab yourself. Tell us your dates and get customised packages from verified tour operators.
You know the heart of Jaisalmer is the desert and Sam Sand Dunes is one of the most popular places to experience it.
The most surreal experience is when the sun starts to set and the colour of the desert changes from bright gold to orange and then darker shades. It is the most photogenic time of the day when you can capture amazing lifetime memories in the form of pictures. You can also choose to sit ideally and enjoy the horizon view as the sun sets for some peaceful time.
You can also combine your desert stay/visit with a camel ride, jeep safari or desert camp experience.
Jaisalmer is not only about forts, havelis, and historical monuments. The desert also offers several adventure activities in Jaisalmer for travellers seeking some thrilling experiences.
Dune bashing can be an exciting way to experience a little adventure in the Thar Desert. A skilled driver takes you across the sandy terrain, creating a fun and bumpy desert adventure. This is very exciting
A 4×4 jeep safari across the desert is yet another fast way to explore the dunes. The ride typically includes driving over sandy slopes and uneven desert terrain. This activity is particularly popular amongst travellers looking for an exciting experience.
Quad biking is another activity for travellers who want to explore the dunes with a little more speed. It is allowed only across designated desert areas, around desert camps. It is recommended to check availability and safety arrangements before booking.
Love the desert view from the sky? Well, parasailing is for you. Some desert camps and activity operators offer parasailing experiences, allowing you to see the desert landscape from above. You, however, are advised to check availability as it is subject to change by season and operator.
Why leave the desert after sunset when you can actually stay there? Away from the bright and noisy city environment, one can enjoy the open sky in the quiet peace and experience a completely different side of Rajasthan. A Jaisalmer desert camp package lets you include an overnight desert stay in your trip. Depending on the camp, your evening may include traditional Rajasthani music, folk dance, a local dinner and time around a bonfire. For many travellers, a night in the Thar becomes one of the highlights of their Jaisalmer trip.
Exploring Rajasthan is not just about places; it is also a food experience. Food is an easy way to understand any region’s culture, and trying local dishes adds the cherry on top to your Jaisalmer sightseeing experience. You are highly recommended to try some lip-smacking traditional dishes such as dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, ker sangri, and local Rajasthani thali. If you are a fan of snacks, you can also try pyaz ki kachori and other local favourites.
Jaisalmer’s markets are worth exploring even if shopping is not your main plan. The colourful and lively markets in the old city will certainly leave you in awe. You can take a stroll or look for embroidered products, colourful textiles, traditional footwear, leather goods, handicrafts, Rajasthani puppets, and small souvenirs to remember your trip.
Pro tip: We would recommend that you not rush through the market; rather, take your time to explore the narrow lanes and local shops. You may end up finding something very unique that you may not get to see in a regular souvenir store.
If you like haunted experiences or bone-chilling folklore, you can take a trip to Kuldhara, an abandoned village located around 20 km from Jaisalmer. The village is famous for its stories and urban legends, making it the most talked-about places around the city. Walking through its remains gives you a glimpse into an older way of life in the desert. If you are interested in history, architecture, or local stories, Kuldhara can prove to be an interesting short excursion from Jaisalmer.
The cooler months from October to March are generally considered the most comfortable time to explore Jaisalmer. The weather is more suitable for sightseeing and desert activities, while evenings can be pleasantly cool. Summer temperatures can become very high, so outdoor activities during the hotter months require more planning.
The real charm of Jaisalmer lies in combining different experiences. It is highly advised to explore the history inside the fort, admire the craftsmanship of the havelis, taste Rajasthani food, stroll through local markets, and then leave the city behind for a peaceful and quiet evening in the Thar Desert. Whether you are interested in culture, photography, history or adventure activities in Jaisalmer, the Golden City offers plenty of ways to to provide you with a lifetime experience.
October 9, 2026
