Jaisalmer is the land of regal forts, opulent palaces, and magnificent havelis. Spread out on a small patch of land surrounded by the Thar Desert is the city of Jaisalmer. Also known as the Golden City, the name comes from the predominant color of its buildings made using yellow sandstone. As a city, Jaisalmer is a pretty, picturesque, and pristine destination that merges well with the shades of the Thar, reflecting the color of the sands.
Much like the rest of the royal state of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer boasts of a rich heritage and a fascinating culture. Jaisalmer borders Pakistan, with the sands of the desert stretching out into the neighboring land. With its magnificent structures and characteristically Rajasthani demeanor, Jaisalmer holds a mirror to the true ethos and legacy of the state. It has one of the most imposing edifices to its credit, the Jaisalmer Fort, a magnificent yellow sandstone structure perched on a hillock that glitters like gold with every sun ray that touches its ramparts.
Apart from the fort, Jaisalmer also showcases majestic palaces, lavishly ornamented havelis, and a captivating panorama of the desert. If also looking to do a camel safari, it is advisable to book or contact a local tour operator in advance.
Tourist Attractions In Jaisalmer : 11
Air - Jaisalmer Airport is a military airport and supports only chartered flights, hence is sparingly used by travellers. Although air travel is generally not considered an ideal mode of transport for travelling to Jaisalmer, some people do travel by air to save on time. Jodhpur Airport is the closest domestic airport that is functional throughout the year.
Rail - Jaisalmer is well connected with a wide network of trains covering most of the Indian cities like Delhi, Jodhpur, Jaipur and others. Some of the popular trains are Delhi Jaisalmer Express Jodhpur Jaisalmer Express, Howrah Jaisalmer Express and Lalgarh Jaisalmer Special.
Buses - There are no direct buses from Delhi to Jaisalmer as the 17-18 hour drive is too time-consuming and quite exhausting. Tourist can however switch buses in Jaipur from where a state-run sleeper coach operates regularly. Be sure to book tickets in advance as there are limited seats. Some sleeper buses are also available from Jodhpur and Udaipur.
Local Transport - Auto rickshaws are the most readily available mode of transport in Jaislamer. Bicycles are also available for hiring on an hourly/daily basis, which is a good way to tour the Golden City. Taxis/Cabs are readily available in Jaisalmer for commuting within the city. These can be hired directly at tourist attractions or through travel agents and tour operators.
Here are some famous traditional dishes and places to eat in Jaisalmer:
1. Dal Baati Churma:
- Specialty: A traditional Rajasthani meal consisting of baked dough balls (baati), lentil curry (dal), and coarsely ground wheat sweet (churma).
- Where to Try: Many local restaurants and street vendors in Jaisalmer serve this iconic Rajasthani dish.
2. Laal Maas:
- Specialty: A fiery and flavorful mutton curry made with red chili peppers and spices.
- Where to Try: Gaji's Restaurant and Trio Restaurant in Jaisalmer offer excellent Laal Maas.
3. Ker Sangri:
- Specialty: A traditional Rajasthani vegetable dish made from dried desert beans (ker) and dried wild capers (sangri).
- Where to Try: Killa Bhawan and the Desert Boy's Dhani are popular places to enjoy Ker Sangri in Jaisalmer.
4. Gatte ki Sabzi:
- Specialty: A Rajasthani curry made from gram flour (besan) dumplings served in a yogurt-based gravy.
- Where to Try: Jaisal Italy is known for its delicious Gatte ki Sabzi.
5. Mirchi Vada:
- Specialty: Spicy green chilies stuffed with a spiced potato mixture, coated in gram flour batter and deep-fried.
- Where to Try: Jaisalmer's street food vendors and local snack shops offer tasty Mirchi Vadas.
6. Kachori:
- Specialty: Deep-fried, crispy pastries filled with spiced moong dal or urad dal.
- Where to Try: Natraj Restaurant is famous for its mouthwatering Kachoris.
7. Rajasthani Thali:
- Specialty: A platter that includes a variety of Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and more.
- Where to Try: Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani Thali at restaurants like Jaisalmer Desert Boy's Dhani or Desert Tulip.
8. Rajasthani Sweets:
- Specialty: Jaisalmer is known for its assortment of traditional Rajasthani sweets like Ghewar, Malpua, and Mawa Kachori.
- Where to Try: Surya Namkeen Bhandar and Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia Sweets are renowned sweet shops in Jaisalmer.
9. The Trio:
- Specialty: A popular rooftop restaurant offering a variety of Rajasthani and North Indian dishes with stunning views of Jaisalmer Fort.
- Where to Try: Located near the fort, The Trio is a great place to enjoy traditional flavors with a view.
10. Jaisalmer Desert Camps:
- Specialty: Experience traditional Rajasthani cuisine in the desert. Many desert camps offer cultural performances and authentic local meals.
- Where to Try: Various desert camps in the Sam Sand Dunes area offer these experiences.
Jaisalmer's cuisine reflects the flavors of the desert and Rajasthan's royal heritage. Exploring these traditional dishes and dining at these establishments will give you a true taste of the region's culinary delights.
Jaisalmer is a famous tourist destination & showcases majestic palaces & a captivating panorama of the desert. It's the perfect holiday destination for heritage & adventure lovers.
The best Months To Visit Jaisalmer are from October to March.
The ideal time required to explore Jaisalmer is 2-3 days.
Jaisalmer has many nearby attractions, from heritage to adventure spots.
Updated Dec 18
achalwanshi Colony Near Geeta Ashram Circle ,behind Mali Samaj Bhawan, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India
Star Rating:Updated Dec 17
580 Achalvanshi Colony, Near Geeta Ashram Jaisalmer 345001, Rajasthan, India
Updated 28 Jun 2018
Updated 13 Jul 2018
