Things to do in Jaisalmer

No. 7 of Best Things to Do in Rajasthan

Jaisalmer Fort

This fort, built from yellow sandstone, is the symbol of Jaisalmer. Jaisalmer Fort has a long history and is one of the ancient forts in Rajasthan. It was built in 1156 by the Rajput ruler Jaisala, and subsequent rulers continued to add fortifications to it. It has also witnessed several wars between the Bhati clan, the Mughal Empire of Delhi, and the Rathore dynasty of Jodhpur. The base of the three-layered walls here is built of hard stone to consolidate the gravelly surface of Trikuta Hill. The second layer of walls winds around the fort, forming an interspace with the third inner wall. From here, Rajput warriors would pour boiling oil and water, as well as a barrage of projectiles, onto the unsuspecting enemies below. Although there are many residents in the fort today, the charm of the ancient frontier city is still faintly visible. The main attractions within Jaisalmer Fort include the Fort Palace Museum and theJain Temples. The Fort Palace Museum is located above the main courtyard of this ancient fort, where the seven-story palace of the former maharaja stands tall and has now become the Fort Palace Museum. The small rooms, layer upon layer, will make you increasingly amazed at how these buildings were designed and how they secretly monitored the outside world. Highlights here include the Rang Mahal, decorated with mirrors and paintings; a small art gallery displaying exquisite 15th-century sculptures; and a rooftop space where you can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view. The Jain Temples consist of seven interconnected yellow sandstone temples that resemble a labyrinth. The complex carving craftsmanship is brilliant, and the soft, warm stone has a unique texture.

Shree Baba Ramdev Temple

The Shree Baba Ramdev Temple is built over the samadhi of the saint Baba Ramdev Ji and is filled with a blend of culture and faith. Located in the village of Ramdevra, about 10 km from the city of Pokhran, the temple is surrounded by a mix of desert and groves, creating a tranquil atmosphere for pilgrimage. The ancient temple features pale yellow stone and traditional carved elements, creating a striking architectural style. Devotees believe that the water tank (Ram Sarovar) within the temple has the power to purify the body and mind, making the temple a cross-community and interfaith pilgrimage site. Overall, this temple is not just a religious site; it also carries traditional messages of equality and service to all, making it a great experience for visitors interested in Indian folk beliefs and cultural heritage.

Kothari's Patwon Ki Haveli / Patwa Haveli

From the narrow streets, you can see its tall tower and the exquisite honey-colored stone carvings on it. This luxurious mansion was the private residence of the Patwan family, who ran a gold and silver processing business in the 18th century. No expense was spared in its construction, and every detail is adorned with exquisite relief carvings, a truly breathtaking masterpiece. While it is quite impressive from the outside, part of the interior has been converted into a museum displaying turbans, household items, and postcards, along with traces of original paintings and exquisite mirrorwork.

Shri Tanot Mata Temple

Shri Tanot Mata Temple is a temple in Rajasthan, nestled in a tranquil location amidst a vast desert landscape. Its simple yet distinctive architecture, steeped in regional traditions, and its overall peaceful atmosphere draw many visitors for worship and sightseeing. The temple is noted for its rich history and unique location. The tranquil surroundings offer a tranquil retreat, perfect for strolling and contemplation, offering a moment of tranquility and detachment from the hustle and bustle. The surrounding natural scenery, particularly the desert landscape, offers a rich spectacle, showcasing the wild beauty of Rajasthan. Whether exploring the historical sites or simply enjoying the tranquility of the desert, Shri Tanot Mata Temple offers a diverse experience. It is not only a cultural attraction but also a place of deep contemplation. It is an ideal destination for those who enjoy both history and nature.

Jaisalmer War Museum

The Jaisalmer War Museum, established in 2015 by the Indian Army's Desert Corps, commemorates the heroic deeds of Indian soldiers in the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pakistani Wars. In 2015, Lieutenant General Ashok Singh, then Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army's Southern Command, inaugurated the museum. The museum is divided into several exhibition areas, including the "Indian Army Hall" and the "Langewala Hall." The "Langewala Hall" details the Battle of Longewala, which took place on December 4, 1971, and displays actual equipment, including 106mm anti-tank guns, as well as sand table models and photographs of the battle. The "Indian Army Hall" recounts the history of the 1947-48, 1965, and 1999 Kargil Wars, showcasing a variety of weaponry, military uniforms, and wartime documents. The museum also has a "Wall of Honor" engraved with the list of winners of Indian military honors such as "Param Vir Chakra" and "Maha Vir Chakra". In addition, the museum also displays a model of the Indian Air Force's "Hunter" fighter, which successfully destroyed the enemy tank column in the Battle of Longewala.

War memorial in Longewala

Sam Sand Dunes Camps Jaisalmer

Desert Bikes Bikes On Rent

BADA BAGH

The Badabagh Royal Cemetery is the cemetery of the Jaisalmer royal family of all dynasties. Located on a hill next to a desert oasis, the entire hill is densely covered with vault-shaped tombstone memorial pavilions. These pavilions are made of yellow sandstone, and there are said to be hundreds of them. This cemetery has been in use since more than 500 years ago, and the stele pavilions of the emperors and members of the royal family of various dynasties in Jaisalmer are here. Over the centuries, the monument pavilion has slowly filled an entire hill.

Gadiser Lake Jaisalmer