Jaisalmer and Longewala

Best Places to Visit Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort- Jaisalmer Fort is also called Sonar Qila, a citadel of imposing golden sandstone, dominating the rooftops of the city. A living fort, within its walls are shops, hotels, and residences that give the visitor a unique glimpse of medieval life and panoramic views of the surrounding desert.

Patwon Ki Haveli- Patwon Ki Haveli is a group of five beautifully carved havelis showing the finest examples of Rajasthani architecture. Some 19th-century masterpieces, these havelis have beautiful jharokhas or balconies, intricate murals, and mirror work, which showcase the lavishness of the wealthy merchants of that time.

Gadisar Lake- Another manmade lake, constructed in the 14th century, Gadisar Lake supplied Jaisalmer with the main source of water. Now it is a peaceful, serene spot surrounded by temples and ghats. One can take a boat ride, watch migratory birds, or simply sit by the peaceful waters.

Sam Sand Dunes- Sam Sand Dunes, located approximately 40 km from Jaisalmer, offers you an ultimate desert experience. Take camel safaris, witness breathtaking sunsets, camp under starry skies, and get soaked in the endless undulating golden landscape of Thar Desert.

Longewala War Memorial- Longewala War Memorial is dedicated to the brave, fearless soldiers of India who fight for the nation. It embarks on captured Pakistani tanks, a war museum, and information on display that depict the historic battle, its importance, and significance.

Bada Bagh- Bada Bagh, literally “Big Garden,” is a royal cenotaph complex situated about 6 km north of Jaisalmer. Actually, it’s an assemblage of wonderful chhatris—cenotaphs—of every ruler who has ever ruled Jaisalmer. Set up for calm surroundings, carrying solemn silence and beautiful views of surroundings, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Jain Temples- Jain Temples within Jaisalmer Fort are some other architectural marvels of the 12th century. Beautiful sculptures with intricate carving and facings, tinted with yellow sandstone, reflect a rich cultural heritage of Jainism in this region.

Desert National Park- This Desert National Park is a big chunk of the Thar ecosystem with its manifold wildlife, from picturesque sand dunes to rocky landscapes and salt lake bottoms, providing a view of the Great Indian Bustard and other important desert animals and birds.

Kuldhara Abandoned Village- Situated 18 km away from Jaisalmer, Kuldhara Abandoned Village is cloaked in mystery and wrapped in legend. This 13th century village was inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins and one fine day it was abandoned overnight. Today, it stands in ruins, haunting and interestingly beckoning curious tourists and history buffs alike.

Thar Heritage Museum- The fast-responding Thar Heritage Museum comes up with an alluring glance at the culture and history of the Thar Desert, displaying the samples selected from the fossils, ancient musical instruments, turbans, and several artifacts having a rich reflection of Rajasthan heritage.

Nathmal Ki Haveli- Nathmal Ki Haveli, built in the 19th century, is one of the most unique architectures. Two brothers, architectural designers, designed it in such a way that on one side of the central façade, they just created a mirror image of the other. This asymmetrical yet harmonious facade makes up for beautiful stone carvings.

Longewala Battle Site- Longewala Battle Site is the site that still retains the exact area where, in 1971, a small Indian army post withstanded a massive attack launched by Pakistan. Tourists can see original bunkers, trenches, and the land that played their crucial part in this historic battle.

Tanot Mata Temple- Tanot Mata Temple, located next to Longewala, is revered because it miraculously survived the 1965 Indo-Pak war. It is now maintained by the Border Security Force and contains unexploded Pakistani shells, drawing both pilgrims and history buffs.

Border Pillar 609- Infrastructure-wise, Border Pillar 609 marks its presence at the India-Pakistan border near Longewala. While visitors are not allowed to go very close, one can watch over this symbolic pillar from a distance to get an idea of the strategic importance of this desert frontier region.

Abandoned Pakistani tanks- Abandoned Pakistani tanks astride the Longewala settlement are a grim pointer to the battle there in 1971. These rusting war machines in the midst of the desert provide powerful photo opportunities and bring out a feel of the area’s military history.

Things to do in Jaisalmer

Desert safari in the Thar Desert Experience the magic of the desert with camel rides, jeep tours, and camping under the stars.

Sunset at Sam Sand Dunes Witness a spectacular desert sunset and enjoy traditional Rajasthani music and dance performances.

Architectural tours Explore the intricate havelis, like Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli, to admire Rajasthani architecture.

Boating on Gadisar Lake Enjoy a peaceful boat ride on this picturesque lake, especially beautiful during sunrise or sunset.

Shop for local handicrafts Purchase colorful textiles, embroidered items, and silver jewelry in Jaisalmer’s bustling markets.

Take a cooking class Learn to prepare traditional Rajasthani dishes and spice blends from local experts.

Attend the Desert Festival If visiting in February, experience this vibrant celebration of Rajasthani culture with music, dance, and camel races.

Photograph abandoned tanks at Longewala Capture striking images of war relics set against the desert landscape.

Local delicacies of Jaisalmer offer unique desert delights. Savor spicy Ker Sangri, crispy Gatte ki Sabzi, and rich Laal Maas. Don’t miss Daal Baati Churma, Bajre ki Khichdi, and sweet Ghotua for an authentic taste of Rajasthan.

How to Reach Jaisalmer

By Air: Jaisalmer Airport is about 5 km from the city center. It will have limited connectivity with flights mainly from Delhi and Jaipur. You can also fly to Jodhpur, 285 km away, and then take a taxi or bus to Jaisalmer.

By Train: The Jaisalmer Railway Station has good connectivity to all major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Jaipur. The luxury train Palace on Wheels also has a halt here. It offers a royal way to travel.

By Road: Highways are well-maintained, and regular buses run from Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner. You may drive down or hire a taxi for a desert journey of sheer scenery.

From Longewala: Longewala is 120 km away from Jaisalmer. One can hire a taxi or take a guided tour for a day’s excursion. Special permits may be required due to its border alignment.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer

October to March: This is the peak tourist season and considered to be the best time to visit Jaisalmer. The weather is pleasant with daytime temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C, which makes it perfect for sightseeing purposes and desert activities. However, the nights can get cool and drop to around 7°C to 12°C.

Other Related Rajasthan Packages: Udaipur Tour Packages, Udaipur Jodhpur Jaisalmer Backpacking, New Year Rajasthan Backpacking, Pushkar Udaipur Bikaner Backpacking, Udaipur Jodhpur Jaisalmer from Delhi