About Jaisalmer

Rajasthan

Overview

Jaisalmer's golden fort rises dramatically from the Thar Desert, home to Jain temples and centuries-old havelis within its walls. Desert camps at Sam and Khuri offer sunset views over the dunes, making them a highlight for most visitors. Summer heat from April to June can be extreme, so carrying water and sun protection is essential, while winter nights in the desert camps turn quite cold.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer

Plan your trip around the right season

Oct-MarBest Window

Why visit

The only comfortable window for desert camping, Sam Sand Dunes, and Jaisalmer Fort walks. The Desert Festival in January or February (dates follow the lunar calendar) draws performers and travelers from across the country.

Keep in mind

December and January are peak months. Dune camps sell out weeks ahead and prices rise sharply.

Apr-Jun

Why visit

Sharp desert light for fort photography in early morning. Very few tourists.

Keep in mind

Among the hottest places in India in summer. Temperatures cross 45°C and sand dune visits become impossible.

Jul-Sep

Why visit

Rare monsoon rains give the desert a surreal green look for a few weeks.

Keep in mind

Humidity spikes and dust storms hit suddenly. Not a practical time for most travelers.

How to Reach Jaisalmer

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Jaisalmer Airport, a short drive from town, has flights only in the winter season, usually October to March, from cities such as Delhi and Mumbai. Check schedules before booking. Jaisalmer railway station has direct trains from Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur, including overnight services. By road, Jodhpur is about 285 km (5 to 6 hours) via Pokaran, and buses run from Jodhpur, Jaipur and Bikaner.

Getting Around Jaisalmer

Local transport and practical tips

Local transport

The fort and old town lanes are best explored on foot. Autos cover the station, bus stand and Gadisar Lake. Hire a jeep or taxi for Sam dunes (about 40 km), Khuri (about 45 km), Kuldhara and Longewala.

Best Areas to Stay in Jaisalmer

Pick the right neighbourhood for your trip

Inside Jaisalmer Fort

Heritage rooftops

Small guesthouses and haveli hotels inside the living fort, with rooftop views over the city. Cars cannot reach most of them, so pack light for the stepped lanes.

Old town below the fort (Gandhi Chowk and Patwon ki Haveli area)

Mid-range convenience

Mid-range hotels and havelis a short walk from the fort gate, Patwon ki Haveli and Gadisar Lake, with easier taxi access than the fort itself.

Sam and Khuri dunes

Desert nights

Tented desert camps about 40 to 45 km from town, with camel rides, folk music dinners and clear night skies. Most run from October to March.