View of Jaisalmer city and Fort in sunset light. Rajasthan. India

Desert oasis: uncovering the magic of Jaisalmer

4 Days | Jaisalmer

View of Jaisalmer city and Fort in sunset light. Rajasthan. India
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Route distance :

262.6 km

Route distance :

262.6 km

Unearthing the golden tales of Jaisalmer

Nestled amid the vast Thar Desert, Jaisalmer stands as a radiant testament to Rajasthan's majestic past, with its ethereal golden-hued edifices narrating tales of yesteryears. Beginning with the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, which dominates the skyline, to the intricate carvings at Patwon ki Haveli, you're ushered into a world where architecture meets artistry. Your footprints will trace paths through historic landmarks such as the Nathmal ki Haveli and Salim Singh ki Haveli, and venture into the realms of spirituality at the Jain Temples. The haunting beauty of Kuldhara and the awe-inspiring relics at the Jaisalmer Government Museum will captivate your senses. Furthermore, nature beckons with the Desert National Park's raw landscapes and the enigmatic Akal Wood Fossil Park. No journey to Jaisalmer is complete without experiencing the serene vibes of Bada Bagh or paying homage at the Tanot Mata Temple. As the sun sets, reflecting off the sandstone structures, you'll not only admire the sites but also the soul of Jaisalmer, where history, nature, and culture seamlessly intertwine.

Embarking on Jaisalmer's architectural odyssey

Day 1
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  • Embrace the Jaisalmer’s age-old traditions

  • Highlights

    Vyas Chhatri, Patwon ki Haveli, Jaisalmer Fort, Jain Temples of Jaisalmer

Kick off your expedition with a traditional breakfast of Pyaz ki Kachori and Kesariya Thandai at a local eatery. Now energised, head to the iconic Vyas Chhatri - a set of cenotaphs paying homage to sage Vyas, architect of the Indian epic, Mahabharata. Marvel at its delicate chattri (canopy) structures that speak of Rajasthani artistry. Just a stone's throw away is Patwon ki Haveli, a collection of five havelis, where intricate architecture tells tales of Jaisalmer's opulent merchants. Next, you can't miss Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the second oldest in Rajasthan. As your day proceeds, visit the serene Jain Temples of Jaisalmer, where exquisite carvings and sculptures narrate Jain legends. Between your explorations, indulge in some shopping at the local bazaars, picking up camel leather juttis or colourful handicrafts.

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A tapestry of museums, palaces, and nature’s mysteries

Day 2
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  • Delve into the city's tales of history and royalty

  • Highlights

    Jaisalmer Government Museum, Mandir Palace, Nathmal ki Haveli, Akal Wood Fossil Park

Starting your day with a generous serving of Gatte Ki Sabzi and steaming hot Bajre ki Roti, make your way to the Jaisalmer Government Museum. Here, you'll uncover the region's historical evolution and rich cultural heritage. Just around the corner is Mandir Palace, boasting two centuries of architectural styles, a visual treat for history buffs. As you meander through the city, Nathmal ki Haveli beckons with its breathtaking facades, an epitome of Jaisalmer's architectural brilliance. Lastly, get ready for an intriguing detour to Akal Wood Fossil Park, where 180-million-year-old fossilised tree trunks hint at a time when the Thar Desert was a lush forest.

Of gardens, wars, ghost towns and regal residences

Day 3
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  • Experience an enchanting blend of history, heroism, and mysteries

  • Highlights

    Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer War Museum, Salim Singh ki Haveli, Kuldhara

After savouring a plate of Dal Baati Churma, a Rajasthani classic, commence your journey at Bada Bagh. This garden complex, with its series of royal cenotaphs, offers insights into the city's regal lineage. Next, the Jaisalmer War Museum pays tribute to India's brave soldiers and showcases war artefacts. Immerse yourself in the story of valour and sacrifice. Moving on, Salim Singh ki Haveli, with its unique peacock-shaped roof, showcases the grandeur of Jaisalmer's bygone era. Culminating your day's tour is Kuldhara, an abandoned village, enveloped in mystery and local legends. Tales of its eerie silence entice many.

Spirituality, ancient civilisations, and nature’s bounty

Day 4
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  • Witness the mesmerising beauty of the Thar Desert

  • Highlights

    Tanot Mata Temple, Lodhruva, Desert National Park, Barmer

Kickstart your final day with the tantalising Rajasthani Laal Maas. Reinvigorated, journey to Tanot Mata Temple, close to the India-Pakistan border. It stands as a symbol of hope amidst the barren desert. A short drive away, Lodhruva, once Jaisalmer's ancient capital, will fascinate you with its Jain temples and hints of a glorious past. The Desert National Park, a sanctuary for the region’s unique flora and fauna, offers a glimpse into the desert's biodiversity. As you wrap up your journey, make a pit stop at Barmer. Engage in shopping at a nearby market and perhaps grab one last Mirchi Bhajiya as a spicy memento of your trip.