The Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer for the Golden Skies and Desert Vibes

The Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer for the Golden Skies and Desert Vibes

When visiting Rajasthan, there are a few places that need to be visited. Jaisalmer, the Golden City, is one of them, and we will talk about the best time to visit Jaisalmer. Tucked away in the heart of the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer beckons travellers from far and wide to explore its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking desert landscapes.

Do you know how Jaisalmer gets its nickname, the Golden City? Thanks to the enthralling sandstone structures and desert landscapes that adorn the city. It is also a World Heritage site declared by UNESCO. 

From the awe-inspiring Jaisalmer Fort to the enchanting sand dunes of Khuri and Sam, every corner of this captivating tourist destination has a story to tell. So let us check out the best time to visit Jaisalmer to see these beauties.

What is the best time to visit Jaisalmer?

The best time to visit Jaisalmer in the desert state of Rajasthan is from October to March, as this culture-rich city offers a pleasant climate with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 27°C. Being a desert destination, winter emerges as the best season to explore Jaisalmer, as the sun provides the perfect setting for enjoying all the famous sightseeing spots. 

During this time, Jaisalmer comes alive with vibrant activities, showcasing its rich heritage and allowing you to immerse yourself in its glorious legacy shared generously with the world. The colourful festivals and unique celebrations are the biggest attractions for most tourists, offering experiences that cannot be found anywhere else in the world. 

Additionally, Jaisalmer offers numerous outdoor activities and adventurous pursuits to indulge in. A trip to Jaisalmer is indeed a journey of a lifetime, and regardless of the season you choose to visit, it is essential to come prepared to make the most of this extraordinary destination. 

Well, if you are traveling from Delhi to Jaisalmer, here are three routes you can choose from. 

The best places to visit in and around Jaisalmer:

When we are speaking of the best time to visit Jaisalmer, we must also talk about the beautiful places that dot this beautiful city and are a must-visit for any traveller.

1. Jaisalmer Fort

While we’re talking about the best time to visit Jaisalmer and the must-visit sites, how can we miss the world-renowned Jaisalmer Fort? 

The Jaisalmer Fort, known as Sonar Quila (the Golden Fort), emerges majestically from the desert, blending seamlessly with the golden tones of the surrounding sand. As the sun sets, the fort acquires an enchanting aura enveloped in a veil of mystique. Winter is the best time to visit Jaisalmer to see this site.

Constructed in the timeless royal style by skilled local craftsmen, this remarkable fort has earned its place as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This iconic fort was made particularly famous thanks to Satyajit Ray’s Sonar Kella (aka The Golden Fortress). 

In fact, acclaimed author and director Satyajit Ray, was so moved by the splendour of the fort that he created a narrative based on it. In 1971, he penned the renowned mystery novel Sonar Kella or Shonar Kella. Then, in 1974, Ray produced and directed a movie with the same name as the novel, Sonar Kella.

Also, do you know, the Jaisalmer Fort is the biggest desert-dwelling fort in the world? Now that you know the best time to visit Jaisalmer, you must visit this beautiful fort.

2. Gadsisar Lak

Constructed in 1400 AD by the then Maharaja of Jaisalmer, Maharwal Gadsi Singh, this reservoir, which was originally built for harvesting rainwater, is now one of the most popular tourist destinations while visiting Jaisalmer. Adorned with numerous temples and shrines, the lake serves as a haven for birdwatchers. 

During the winter season, it becomes a sanctuary for various exotic and migratory bird species, attracting avid birdwatchers and nature photographers alike. Therefore the season becomes the best time to visit Jaisalmer to check out the location. The lake’s charm is further enhanced by its shallow ghats, exquisitely carved cenotaphs, and delightful surrounding gardens, rendering it a truly splendid sight. This very allure has turned the lakeside into one of Jaisalmer’s favoured picnic destinations.

3. Bada Bagh

About six kilometres from Jaisalmer lies Bada Bagh, a sprawling garden complex with a rich historical significance. It reflects the efforts of Jaisalmer’s rulers to introduce greenery amidst the desert landscape. 

The garden thrives with the aid of an artificially constructed dam, a visionary project initiated by Maharawal Jaisal Singh. This dam not only beautifies the garden but also serves as a crucial water source for the city’s inhabitants. As you explore the garden, you will be greeted by the Govardhan Stambh, a majestic pillar erected to commemorate the dam’s construction. Within the garden’s serene premises lie the cenotaphs or tombstones of the royal families. These cenotaphs, designed in ancient Hindu architecture, pay tribute to each of the Bhatti rulers. Some of these historic tombstones date back to the very origins of Jaisalmer, making them a delightful sight for visitors and elevating Bada Bagh to one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer. 

4. Tanot Mata Temple

Established in AD 847, the revered Tanot Mata Temple is believed to embody Goddess Hinglaj Mata. This miraculous temple is situated near Longewala, a historic battle site during the 1965-1971 Indo-Pak war. The soldiers stationed close to the temple share enchanting tales related to its mystical aura.

One captivating story recounts how the temple remained unscathed, and the soldiers survived despite Pakistan dropping over 3000 bombs. This captivating narrative draws numerous visitors to this magnificent location, who are also enticed by the breathtaking landscapes, golden dunes, and the incredible road connecting Jaisalmer to the temple. Tourists flock to this temple in large numbers not only for its allure but also due to its proximity to other beautiful destinations such as the Thar desert, Jaisalmer Fort, Gadisar Lake, and Kuldhara.

5. Sam Sand Dunes

Prepare to be captivated by the remarkable Sam sand dunes, one of the most authentic experiences in all of India, making it an absolute must-visit in Jaisalmer. Here, you’ll encounter towering sand dunes ranging from 30 to 60 meters in height, setting the stage for unforgettable Desert Safaris on camelback or in jeeps.

Located 45 kilometres west of Jaisalmer city, Sam can be easily reached with the help of private taxis and cars, offering a thrilling journey through the desert landscape. For a truly immersive experience, consider staying in one of the many desert camps situated within a 2 to 3-kilometer radius of the sand dunes. Whether you book a camel or jeep ride in advance or on the spot, you’re guaranteed an exhilarating adventure, with these services readily available at the desert camps.

When you are looking for a place to stay in Jaisalmer, here is a list of the best Hotels in Jaisalmer for a comfortable and budget-friendly stay. 

6. Khuri Sand Dunes

Khuri sand dunes, nestled on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, rank high as a favoured tourist destination for those visiting Jaisalmer. Visiting Khuri village offers a remarkable opportunity to witness the desert way of life, with its mud and straw houses adorned with impressive exterior decorations. Camel riding stands out as the primary activity in this village, allowing visitors to embark on a camel-backed expedition through the vast expanses of the desert outskirts.

The undulating crests and troughs of the dunes will captivate you, with some reaching mesmerizing heights. Stretching endlessly into the horizon, the vast expanse of Khuri Sand Dunes offers an unparalleled sense of solitude as you navigate your camel through uninhabited areas. It’s a unique adventure that makes you feel like a nomad wandering the desert in search of an oasis. When night falls, the allure of campfires becomes a major attraction in this region, creating a magical atmosphere beneath the starry desert sky.

When you are in Jaisalmer, here’s a list of the street foods that are a must-try. 

7. Nathmal-ki-Haveli

This haveli traces its origins back to the late 19th century and boasts an extraordinary exterior adorned with intricate carvings. On the first floor, you will find stunning paintings created with 1.5kg of gold leaf, adding to its opulence. Interestingly, the left and right wings of the haveli were crafted by two brothers, Hathi and Lulu, in a spirit of friendly competition, resulting in a virtual display of their skills.

While the two sides bear similarities, they are not identical, showcasing their individual artistry. The haveli’s pillars and walls are adorned with engravings depicting horses, cattle, and various flora, among other captivating elements. What sets this haveli apart and immediately catches one’s eye are the depictions of modern amenities such as cars and fans, which were remarkably engraved solely based on descriptions, as the architect brothers had never seen these items in reality.

8. Mandir Palace

The Mandir Palace, which housed its monarchs for more than 200 years, is one of the most notable historical sites in the beautiful city of Jaisalmer. This stunning architectural masterpiece showcases the peak of local artisanship in its most polished and genuine form with ornately carved balconies, magnificent coverings, and painstakingly created screens.

The palace is among the best locations to see in Jaisalmer due to its luxurious interiors and aesthetic splendor. Mandir Palace’s tower, known as “Badal Vilas,” stands out as the highest building in the city below the hilltop fort, contributing to its charm and architectural grandeur.  

In Conclusion 

A trip to Jaisalmer, the Golden City is bound to leave you captivated by its rich history, colourful culture, and breathtaking vistas, whether you want to soak up the sun-kissed sands of the Thar desert or meander through the ageless alleyways of the charming Jaisalmer Fort.