The Indian city of Jaisalmer is not called the ‘Golden City of India’ for nothing. The sight of its yellow stone forts and structures amidst the golden Thar Desert simply win you over. The fantastic golden sunset, which turns the entire city into beautiful hues of gold, proves that it very much deserves the title. Sounds tempting? Well, get all the more tempted by reading about the top 10 best tourist attractions in Jaisalmer.
Jaisalmer Fort
The Jaisalmer Fort is a must-visit attraction on the Trikuta Hill overlooking Jaisalmer city. Made up of yellow sandstones, it is one of the world’s largest forts in the world and reflects traditional Rajasthani architecture. The fort houses the Raj Mahal, many havelis, temples, and gateways.
Jain Temple
The famous Jain temple of Jaisalmer is a popular attraction for travellers visiting Jaisalmer. Located within the fort, the temple has intricate carvings and architecture and is home to the black-stoned idol of Lord Parshvanath.
Patwon-Ki-Haveli
Admire the intricate decorations of the 19th century Patwon-Ki-Haveli in the main city. The haveli or bunglow has five-stories of huge suites, large corridors, decorated walls, beautiful jharokhas (balconies), and archways made of yellow sandstone. The grand haveli now houses a museum and ancient artefacts made by local craftsmen.
Sam Sand Dunes
A visit to Jaisalmer will be incomplete without experiencing the Thar Desert. The Sam Sand Dunes is a perfect place to have this experience – go for a desert safari on camel-back or by a jeep and end the day by watching a spectacular sunset.
Vyas Chhatri
The marvellous Vyas chhatri is another must-visit attraction. Its traditional Rajasthani architecture and the romance of the sunset point offering stunning views cast a spell upon visitors. Vyas Chhatri is a collection of golden sandstone chhatris dedicated to sage Vyas, the author of the Hindu epic, Mahabharata.
Thar Heritage Museum
The Thar Heritage Museum, located near Gandhi Chowk, will give you an insight into the history of the Thar Desert. The museum contains ancient and unique ornaments, documents, coins, weapons, turbans, and musical instruments.
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
An important heritage attraction, Salim Singh Ki Haveli is a 17th century haveli with an extended arched roof built in the shape of a peacock. Apart from this distinct feature, the haveli boasts of 38 balconies, each of which has its own distinct design.
Desert Nation Park
Go for a thrilling jeep safari in the Desert Nation Park to spot Chinkara, Indian Fox, the Great Indian Bustard, and Peacocks. A great place to spot migratory birds, the place also boasts of fantastic landscapes, extinct lakes, and fixed sand dunes.
Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh, or Huge Garden, is a memorial garden containing many cenotaphs of the royal families, along with other attractions including a tank, dam, and the Govardhan Stambh (pillar). This is the place where members of noble families were cremated during the 16th to the 20th century.
Gadisar Lake
The 14th century Gadisar Lake is a serene lake, which used to act as a water conservation tank for the people of Jaisalmer in the bygone era. A popular tourist attraction, the lake has many notable temples, including the Krishna Temple of the Tilon Gate, holy shrines, and chhatris along its banks.
