Earlier known as the “Golden City of Rajasthan,” Jaisalmer is an interesting town in the heart of the Thar Desert. The name of the city originates from the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, built with yellow sandstone that sparkles like gold. Jaisalmer was founded in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, a living testament to Rajasthan’s architectural brilliance and rich history. The city is a unique blend of the harsh beauty of the desert, intricate craftsmanship and rich traditions. A trip to Jaisalmer is like entering into a realm of camel caravans, desert myths and towering structures that have stood the test of time. Here are 10 must-visit places that encapsulate the spirit of this golden heaven to assist you in navigating it.

Top 10 Places to Visit in Jaisalmer

1. Sonar Qila or Jaisalmer Fort

The Jaisalmer Fort is a living town within a fort complex, rather than simply a monument. Most of the city’s residents still reside within the fort, unlike other historic forts. This fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting a maze of narrow streets, charming havelis and Jain Temples. Visit the Maharaja’s Palace, now converted into a museum, and marvel at the stunning Rajasthani architecture.

2. Patwon ki Haveli

Patwon ki Haveli is one of Jaisalmer’s several havelis, standing out for its extravaganza and exquisite craftsmanship. In the 19th century, a successful merchant called Guman Chand Patwa built a series of five small havelis for his five sons. It's attractive murals, lacy filigree on the balconies and tasteful carvings decorating the havelis with Rajputana architecture.

3. Sam Sand Dunes

Sam Sand Dunes are the perfect place for a real desert experience, one must enjoy when visiting Jaisalmer. The dunes are located around 45 kms away from the city and offer a quintessential Thar Desert experience. A thrilling jeep safari or a thrilling camel safari are the best ways to enjoy the dunes. Learn about the rich culture of the desert, and desert camps host cultural events at night.

4. Gadisar Lake

Once the main source of water for the entire city of Jaisalmer, Gadisar Lake is a stunning artificial reservoir. The lake is surrounded by small temples and shrines, and the most striking carved arch is known as Tilon ki Pol. A peaceful and serene atmosphere is formed by the gentle waterways that reflect the golden structures.

5. Jain Temples

A group of seven connected Jain temples within the fort complex is like a reminder of the city’s rich religious and architectural heritage. The temples are dedicated to several Jain Tirthankaras, dated from the 12th to 16th centuries. With its delicate carvings on walls, pillars or ceilings recalling the famous Dilwara temples, marvel at its meticulous work.

6. Bada Bagh

Bada Bagh or Big Garden is a picture-perfect location around 6 kms from Jaisalmer. It serves as the royal cenotaph for the Maharajas of Jaisalmer. Perched on a small hillock overlooking the endless desert, the site has several exquisitely sculpted cenotaphs in sandstone. With domes and pillars, the cenotaphs are an imposing sight to behold.

7. Tanot Mata Temple

The Tanot Mata Temple lies close to the Indo-Pak Border, a symbol of religious and nationalism. The temple is famous for its incredible survival through the Indo-Pak wars of 1965 and 1971. It is dedicated to the goddess Tanot Mata, an avatar of Goddess Durga. It is believed to be the goddess's divine protection is the reason over 3000 bombs were dropped by the Pakistani army.

8. Jaisalmer War Museum

The Jaisalmer War Museum is a must-visit for anyone who is interested in the military past of India. The museum was established by the Indian Army in 2015, pays tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Indian army troops, particularly during the Battle of Longewala and the Indo–Pak War of 1971.

9. Kuldhara Village

A trip to Kuldhara is a must-visit if you wish to get an insight into the essence of mystery and a glimpse into the past. Kuldhara is a deserted village that has been a ghost town since the early 19th century and lies around 18 kms away from Jaisalmer. They allegedly cursed the village, rendering it uninhabitable for anyone to live there ever again.

10. Desert National Park

While Jaisalmer is often equated with sand, the Desert National Park offers a unique perspective on the ecology of the Thar Desert. It covers a vast area, inhabited by a surprising diversity of flora and fauna adapted to the unique desert environment.

Conclusion –

Jaisalmer welcomes the wise conservation of its past. From the splendor of its live forts and havelis to the peaceful charm of its lakes, these 10 places offer a complete insight into the intricate identity of the city.