Things to Do in Jaisalmer: The Ultimate Travel Guide for First-Time Visitors
Discover the best things to do in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Explore Jaisalmer Fort, authentic desert safaris, hidden gems, rooftop cafés, historic havelis, Gadisar Lake, local markets, and expert travel tips from locals.
6/25/202611 min read
Things to Do in Jaisalmer: The Ultimate Travel Guide
Most people come to Jaisalmer expecting two things—a magnificent golden fort and a camel ride across the desert.
They leave with something much bigger.
Jaisalmer has a way of slowing you down. It’s a city where mornings begin with sunlight reflecting off honey-colored sandstone walls, afternoons disappear while wandering centuries-old streets, and evenings end beneath one of the clearest night skies you’ll ever see.
When we first arrived in Jaisalmer from Kerala in 2023, it was supposed to be another stop on our journey across India while filming documentaries. We planned to stay for three months.
Instead, we never left.
The more we explored the city, the more we realised that the real beauty of Jaisalmer wasn’t only its famous landmarks. It was the quiet moments between them.
The conversation with a local shopkeeper.
The hidden staircase leading to an incredible viewpoint.
The silence of the Thar Desert after sunset.
The rooftop cafés where strangers become friends over a cup of chai.
Today, after welcoming thousands of travellers through Open Road Adventures, we often hear the same thing from our guests:
“Jaisalmer feels completely different from anywhere else in Rajasthan.”
They’re right.
This guide isn’t simply a list of attractions.
It’s everything we’d recommend to a friend visiting Jaisalmer for the first time.
Whether you’re travelling for two days or a week, these are the experiences that truly define the Golden City.
Explore the Living Jaisalmer Fort
No trip to Jaisalmer is complete without exploring its magnificent fort.
Built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest living forts in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Unlike many historic forts that function as museums, this one is still home to hundreds of local families, temples, cafés, boutique hotels, restaurants, and artisan workshops.
That’s what makes it so special.
You’re not walking through history.
You’re walking through a living neighbourhood that has existed for more than 850 years.
Take time to wander without a destination.
Some of the fort’s greatest treasures aren’t marked on maps.
You’ll discover beautifully carved sandstone balconies, colourful wooden doors, hidden courtyards, peaceful temples, rooftop viewpoints, and narrow lanes that seem untouched by time.
Our favourite time to explore?
Early morning.
Before the tour groups arrive, the fort feels peaceful, birds fill the streets with sound, and the golden sandstone glows beautifully in the soft morning light.
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→ Staying Inside Jaisalmer Fort – Everything You Need to Know
Stay Inside the Fort
Most visitors spend just a few hours inside the fort before returning to hotels elsewhere in the city.
We think that’s one of the biggest mistakes you can make.
Once the day visitors leave, Jaisalmer Fort transforms completely.
The narrow streets become quieter.
Temple bells echo through the ancient walls.
Local families return home.
Restaurants begin serving dinner beneath warm lights.
The entire atmosphere becomes calm and incredibly beautiful.
Staying inside the fort allows you to experience this side of Jaisalmer that many visitors never see.
At Open Road Boutique Hotel, we’ve restored a traditional fort home into a peaceful boutique stay that blends minimalist modern comfort with authentic fort architecture.
Our three spacious rooms overlook the fort and the city, allowing guests to wake up surrounded by centuries of history while enjoying all the comforts of a modern stay.
If you’re looking for a unique place to stay in Jaisalmer, few experiences compare to spending the night inside the living fort.
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Visit the Beautiful Jain Temples
Hidden within the walls of Jaisalmer Fort are seven stunning Jain Temples dating back to the 12th and 15th centuries.
Even if you’re not religious, these temples are among the finest examples of sandstone craftsmanship in India.
Every ceiling, pillar, and doorway is covered with intricate carvings that have survived for centuries.
Unlike larger monuments, the Jain Temples invite you to slow down.
Notice the tiny details.
The patterns.
The craftsmanship.
The quiet atmosphere.
It’s one of the most rewarding experiences inside the fort.
Wander Through the Historic Havelis
Jaisalmer’s wealthy merchants once built extraordinary mansions known as havelis.
Today, these buildings remain some of Rajasthan’s finest examples of traditional architecture.
Don’t miss:
• Patwon Ki Haveli
• Nathmal Ki Haveli
• Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Each tells a different story about Jaisalmer’s prosperous trading past while showcasing breathtaking stone carvings that continue to amaze visitors today.
Photography lovers should allow plenty of time here.
Every angle offers another beautiful composition.
Experience an Authentic Desert Safari
You can’t truly understand Jaisalmer without spending time in the Thar Desert.
For many travellers, this becomes the highlight of their trip.
However, not all desert safaris are the same.
Many visitors automatically book commercial camps expecting an authentic desert experience, only to discover large crowds, loud music, rows of tents, and busy tourist programmes.
Our own journey began the same way.
When we first started, we also offered commercial desert safaris.
But after listening to guests and experiencing the desert ourselves, we realised something was missing.
The silence.
The openness.
The feeling of being truly connected with the desert.
Working with local families who had spent generations exploring remote parts of the Thar, we eventually created our own non-touristic safari experience, taking travellers far beyond the commercial camps to private dunes where the desert feels untouched.
Instead of entertainment, the experience focuses on simple moments.
Camel rides across peaceful dunes.
Tea while watching the sunset.
Dinner cooked over an open fire.
Meaningful conversations.
Sleeping beneath thousands of stars.
It’s the experience we fell in love with ourselves—and the one we’re proud to share with our guests.
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Sleep Under the Stars in the Thar Desert
If there’s one experience that guests continue talking about long after leaving Jaisalmer, it’s spending a night beneath the stars in the Thar Desert.
There are no city lights.
No traffic.
No hotel walls.
Just endless sand dunes stretching into the horizon, the warmth of a campfire, and one of the clearest night skies you’ll ever witness.
As darkness falls, the desert transforms completely. Thousands of stars slowly appear overhead, creating a peaceful atmosphere that’s difficult to describe until you’ve experienced it yourself.
For many travelers, this becomes the most memorable night of their Rajasthan journey.
During our non-touristic desert safari, guests enjoy a traditional dinner cooked over an open fire before settling into comfortable bedding beneath the open sky. If you prefer extra shelter, tents are also available, but most guests choose to sleep under the stars after experiencing the incredible silence of the desert.
Waking up to sunrise over the dunes is equally unforgettable. The first rays of sunlight slowly illuminate the golden sand while the desert remains wonderfully quiet.
It’s a simple experience—but often the one people remember forever.
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Visit Gadisar Lake
Long before modern pipelines reached Jaisalmer, Gadisar Lake served as the city’s primary water source.
Today, it’s one of the most peaceful places to spend a few hours.
Surrounded by beautifully carved sandstone temples, shrines, and historic gateways, the lake offers a completely different atmosphere from the busy streets of the fort.
Early mornings are especially beautiful.
Local birds gather around the water.
Reflections shimmer across the lake.
The surrounding sandstone architecture glows softly in the morning light.
You can also enjoy a short boat ride while taking in views of the historic ghats and temples.
Whether you’re interested in photography, history, or simply slowing down for a while, Gadisar Lake deserves a place on every Jaisalmer itinerary.
Our Tip
Visit shortly after sunrise or during the final hour before sunset for the best light and fewer visitors.
Discover Jaisalmer’s Rooftop Cafés
Some of our favourite memories in Jaisalmer haven’t come from famous monuments.
They’ve come from sitting on rooftops.
Watching the fort slowly change colour as the sun sets.
Sharing stories with travelers from around the world.
Enjoying fresh chai while the city quietly carries on below.
Jaisalmer’s rooftop cafés are more than places to eat—they’re places to pause.
Many offer spectacular views of the fort, delicious local and international food, and a relaxed atmosphere where hours seem to disappear.
If you’re visiting for the first time, don’t try to rush from one attraction to another.
Spend an evening on a rooftop.
Watch the city slow down.
It’s one of the simplest yet most rewarding experiences Jaisalmer has to offer.
Explore the Local Markets
Jaisalmer has been a trading city for centuries, and its colourful markets continue that tradition today.
Walking through the streets surrounding the fort, you’ll discover family-run shops selling handmade crafts, embroidered textiles, camel leather products, silver jewellery, traditional puppets, wooden artwork, and beautiful souvenirs.
Unlike large commercial shopping centres, many of these businesses have been run by local families for generations.
Take your time.
Talk to shop owners.
Learn about their craftsmanship.
You’ll often discover stories that become just as memorable as the items you buy.
Shopping here isn’t simply about souvenirs.
It’s about supporting local artisans who continue centuries-old traditions.
Discover Hidden Gems Beyond the Tourist Trail
While the fort, havelis, and Gadisar Lake are famous for good reason, some of the best experiences in Jaisalmer happen away from the busiest tourist routes.
Quiet sandstone lanes.
Hidden courtyards.
Ancient staircases.
Small neighbourhood temples.
Peaceful viewpoints overlooking the city.
Tiny cafés known mostly to locals.
These places rarely appear on popular travel itineraries, yet they often become travellers’ favourite memories.
One of the greatest joys of Jaisalmer is allowing yourself time to wander.
Leave the map behind.
Take a different street.
Follow your curiosity.
You’ll quickly realise that the city rewards slow travel.
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→ Hidden Gems in Jaisalmer
Capture the Best Photography Spots
Jaisalmer is a dream destination for photographers.
The warm golden sandstone reflects light beautifully throughout the day, creating constantly changing colours and moods.
Some of our favourite photography locations include:
• Sunrise inside Jaisalmer Fort
• Rooftop views across the Golden City
• Gadisar Lake reflections
• Patwon Ki Haveli
• Narrow sandstone lanes
• Camel silhouettes at sunset
• Star-filled skies in the Thar Desert
• Ancient carved balconies and doors
The best photographs are usually captured early in the morning or during golden hour before sunset.
These quieter times also allow you to experience Jaisalmer without the larger crowds.
Where Should You Stay in Jaisalmer?
Choosing the right accommodation can completely shape your experience of Jaisalmer.
If you want to immerse yourself in history, architecture, and the atmosphere of the old city, staying inside Jaisalmer Fort is an unforgettable experience. Waking up surrounded by over 850 years of living history, stepping into narrow sandstone lanes, and watching sunrise over the Golden City is something few destinations in the world can offer.
At Open Road Boutique Hotel, we’ve restored a traditional fort home into a peaceful boutique stay with three spacious rooms, minimalist interiors, and beautiful views overlooking the fort and the city.
If you’re a backpacker, solo traveler, digital nomad, or simply enjoy meeting fellow travelers, Open Road Hostel & Cafe offers a welcoming community, rooftop café, comfortable dormitories, private rooms, and easy access to Jaisalmer’s main attractions.
Whether you choose the boutique hotel or the hostel, you’ll experience the same warm hospitality and local knowledge that have become part of the Open Road story.
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Suggested 2-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
If you’re visiting Jaisalmer for the first time, here’s how we’d recommend spending your time.
Day One
Explore Jaisalmer Fort
Visit the Jain Temples
Wander through the historic lanes
Visit Patwon Ki Haveli
Relax at a rooftop café during sunset
Stay overnight inside Jaisalmer Fort
Day Two
Visit Gadisar Lake early in the morning
Explore the local markets
Enjoy lunch in the city
Join an Authentic Non-Touristic Desert Safari
Ride a camel through peaceful dunes
Watch sunset in the Thar Desert
Enjoy a traditional dinner
Sleep beneath the stars
This itinerary combines history, local culture, and adventure while giving you enough time to experience Jaisalmer at a relaxed pace.
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→ Read our complete 2-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is a year-round destination, but every season offers a different experience.
October to March
The most popular time to visit. Pleasant temperatures, cool evenings, and perfect weather for sightseeing and overnight desert safaris.
April to June
Summer is hot, but the city is quieter, accommodation is often more affordable, and photographers love the dramatic desert landscapes.
July to September
The short monsoon season brings occasional rain, cooler evenings, and fewer crowds. The desert takes on a surprisingly different character during this period.
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→ Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Jaisalmer famous for?
Jaisalmer is famous for its living fort, authentic Thar Desert experiences, camel safaris, sandstone architecture, historic havelis, and rich Rajasthani culture.
Is Jaisalmer worth visiting?
Absolutely. Jaisalmer offers a unique combination of history, culture, architecture, desert landscapes, and authentic local experiences that are unlike anywhere else in India.
How many days are enough for Jaisalmer?
We recommend spending at least two to three days. This gives you enough time to explore the fort, visit the havelis, enjoy Gadisar Lake, and experience an overnight desert safari.
Is staying inside Jaisalmer Fort worth it?
Yes. Staying inside the fort allows you to experience peaceful mornings, quiet evenings, rooftop views, and the unique atmosphere of one of the world’s largest living forts.
Internal Link
→ Staying Inside Jaisalmer Fort – Everything You Need to Know
Which desert safari is best in Jaisalmer?
If you’re looking for traditional cultural performances, a cultural desert safari is a great choice. If you prefer peaceful landscapes, private dunes, and sleeping under the stars, an authentic non-touristic desert safari offers a completely different experience.
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→ Best Desert Safari in Jaisalmer
Is Jaisalmer suitable for solo travelers?
Yes. Jaisalmer is one of Rajasthan’s most welcoming destinations for solo travelers. Backpackers, photographers, couples, and families all find it easy to explore the city and connect with fellow travelers.
Final Thoughts
Jaisalmer is much more than a destination on a Rajasthan itinerary.
It’s a city that rewards curiosity.
Slow mornings inside the fort.
Long conversations over chai.
Quiet walks through ancient sandstone streets.
Sunsets over endless dunes.
Star-filled nights in the Thar Desert.
These are the experiences that stay with you long after your journey ends.
Whether you’re visiting for history, photography, adventure, or simply to slow down for a few days, Jaisalmer has a way of making people feel at home.
It certainly did for us.
What began as a three-month stop while travelling across India eventually became the place where we built Open Road Adventures—and we hope you’ll experience the same warmth, wonder, and sense of connection that inspired us to stay.
Continue Exploring Jaisalmer
If you’re planning your trip, these guides will help you make the most of your visit:
Hidden Gems in Jaisalmer
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer