The epitome of royalty and everything Rajasthani is what defines Jaisalmer. This city possesses strikingly beautiful sandstones, desserts, magnificent palaces, and dunes. The vintage and charming desert town have a mysterious yet calm vibe to it. Jaisalmer is also known as the golden city and the USP of the city is that the fort of Jaisalmer is India's only "Living" Fort. Meaning it is a fort where tourist can book their stay. One of the many benefits of living within the fort premises is that you get to communicate with the locals who have been residing within the fort walls for centuries. It is an experience that travelers crave.  

This city is filled with surprises up its sleeves. Jaisalmer is filled to the brim with activities and destinations one must consider while planning a trip to Jaislamer. There are various things to do in Jaisalmer like visiting the well-known Patwon ki Haveli, or Salim Sing ki Haveli, sitting by the lake and enjoying the serene views, followed by a stroll down the old lanes of Jaisalmer fort. There are a lot of funfilled activities in Jaisalmer that you must try during your stay here like the desert safari, camel ride, spending a night camping in the dunes, try parasailing, paramotoring, quad biking, and many more adventures. 

This city offers traditional cuisine that will awaken your taste buds, one must try the local cuisines offered here. Remember to plan your trip well in advance if you have less time to explore. The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from September to April, you can enjoy the most famous activities to do in Jaisalmer as the weather remains pleasant during these months.

Adventure Fun Activities in Jaisalmer:

This city of Rajasthan offers a plethora of options when it comes to adventure sports and activities. It is a haven for fun seekers, the city may be traditional and old but a part of it is still young at heart. Some of the must-do things in Jaisalmer are desert jeep safari which in itself will leave you craving for more. During this safari, you will ride through the Thar desert and even get to witness the village living. Think of it as a lucky day if you come across Black Buck Antelope. 

There are many Jaisalmer adventure places to keep you engaged throughout your trip.  You can even try your hands on parasailing in Kanoi. This is a soul calming experience it will give you the serotonin boost that you are looking for and will also leave an imprint on you. Flying high above the vast desert and enjoying the view is an experience of a lifetime.

If not parasailing then you can even opt for paramotoring. This is an adventure that is guided by an expert who accompanies you and has full control over the vehicle making this adventure safe. Experience quad biking in Sam Sand Dunes, one of the most thrilling activities offered in the city. If you are still wondering what to do in Jaisalmer? Then a  few more activities that you can try out while in Jaisalmer are dune bashing in the Thar Desert, camel safari, night walk tour of Jaisalmer, and Camping on Sand Dunes. 

Things you can experience only in Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer has its ways of leaving you dumbstruck. The magical city has a lot to offer when it comes to historical monuments. One of the unique things to do in Jaisalmer is to visit the Patwon ki Haveli, or Salim Singh ki Haveli early in the morning. Both the Havelis are an architectural marvel and if you reach here early then you will get ample time to take some amazing pictures. 

Visit the Jaisalmer fort during the day and see it turn golden when the sunlight hits it. Taking a city sightseeing tour is one of the most cherished things to do in Jaisalmer. Get destressed while you enjoy the view around Gadisar Lake. It is a man-made reservoir that was built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the year 1367. You can even enjoy boating here because it truly is a refreshing activity in Jaisalmer and also one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer.

You can even quench the thirst of the shopper in you by visiting the local markets such as Bhatia Bazaar, Sadar Bazaar, Pansari Bazaar, Manak Chowk (oldest market of Jaisalmer), and Sonoran ka Baas. The offbeat things to do in Jaisalmer is paying a visit to the Indo-Pak border. You can even go to the Osian Mata Temple and Tanot Mata Temple because the temples are unique and old. If you are one of those few people who like museums then do visit the desert culture center and museum. 

Things to do in Jaisalmer at Night:

When the sun goes down in the golden city, it lights up with cultural activities. Traditional dance performances take place, puppet shows are performed and luxurious dinners are served. You must be wondering as to where is the excitement in it? Well, don’t worry because hidden behind the traditional performances is the exciting nightlife filled with disco lights, refreshing drinks, and amazing cuisines.  

Want to experience the Arabian Nights vibe? If yes, then do try going on a camel ride during the night time. A camel safari under the starlight dark sky, away from the hustle and bustle of the city. You can even camp in the desert, it is an experience that you must experience once. If you are traveling in a group then it is a bonus because then the people taking you there may end up organizing traditional performances for the group. Enjoy bar hopping as the city has various bars and pubs, here you get a taste of the vibrant nightlife this traditional city offers. Some of the bars you can visit are Satans Den, Shatranj The Bar, and Incredible Discotheque. If you are with a loved one or on a family trip then you can get yourself a luxurious dinner at one of the many exotic restaurants.  

Dining in Jaisalmer:

Another best thing to do in Jaisalmer eats and repeat. During your trip remember to try the local cuisines or street food because that is something which will make you feel more connected to the city and its people. Anyhow you should not miss out on the opportunity to eat Mirchi Bada, Lauki Ke Kofte, Pyaaj Kachori, Dal Bati Churma, and Ghotua Ladoo. If you like it then get yourself a local brew at one of the government-approved ‘bhaang’ shops outside the fort gates. 

Some of the restaurants where you can crash during the day and enjoy your meal wholeheartedly are mentioned below. Jaisalmer Kitchen, Jaisal Italy, The Turban restaurant and cafe, Suryagarh Restaurant, Desert Boy's Dhani, Angaara Restaurant And Barbeque, Royal Rajwaadi Resort, The Trio, Cafe the Kaku, Zoya Ka Zayeka, Cafe Fakiri, and HALO Jaisalmer. 

Shopping Places in Jaisalmer: 

Jaisalmer is a paradise for shoppers and shopping is the best thing to do here if you are a shopaholic. Things that you should take along from the markets of Jaisalmer are clothes that have mirror work embroidery, products made from camel leather-like bags, wallets, belts, bands, shoes, etc. One can even purchase jewelry, fossil stones, and souvenirs for their loved ones. 
The local markets that are worth your time are: 

• Seema Gram: A place where you can shop for colorful dupattas and scarves. This place is filled with local stores and the quality of the material sold is good. 
• Manak Chowk: from traditional clothes to color-filled handicrafts you can get it all here. A variety of products are sold here but you should check out the leather goods sold here. Remember to hone your bargaining skills here. 
• Bhatia Bazaar: The oldest market is popular amongst tourists for silk clothing and sarees. You can get a variety of souvenirs to select from. 
• Sadar Bazaar: This market is famous for carpets, paintings, showpieces, handicrafts, shoes, jewelry, and handicrafts. 
• Sonar ka Bas: A paradise for accessory lovers. You can find a variety of gems and jewels here. 

Sightseeing in Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer Sightseeing is a completely different experience in itself. A few places that you will enjoy visiting for sure are Kuldhara Village, Nathmal ki Haveli, Amar Sagar Lake, Vyas Chhatri, Sunset palace, and Pokhran Fort. 

• Nathmal ki Haveli: The unique architecture is worth viewing. The detailed beautiful carvings of elephants on the yellow stone and other designs add to the beauty of the haveli. It is open on all 7 days. 
• Kuldhara: ‘The ruined mysterious village’ is 15km away from Jaisalmer and is known as the abandoned village. The basic plan of the village was beautiful and worth seeing but now all that stands here are ruins of homes that were left behind by people. This village has an interesting story attached to its past. The tale of an evil minister, a village chief, and his beautiful daughter. It is said that the people residing in the village left it overnight and moved elsewhere since then the village has been empty inside out. 
• Vyas Chatri: This place gives the best view of the sunset. This place has umbrella-like structures spread across the entire area. These cenotaphs reflect the best of Rajasthan’s incredible architecture.
• Sunset Palace: This palace offers a unique rooftop dining experience. From here the view is breathtaking and worth cherishing. This restaurant is famous because it offers a variety of cuisines. 

Where to stay in Jaisalmer?

The first question that creeps into your mind when you think of planning a trip is the place to stay and the amount you are ready to spend on it. A well-planned and budget trip have the best results. Being a tourist destination, Jaisalmer has a plethora of stay options to offer. From hotels that will give a royal treatment to budget hotels, this city has it all, you just have to name it. 

Some of the 5 star hotels, 4 star hotels, 3 star hotels, resorts, and budget hotels in Jaisalmer are mentioned below:

Jaisalmer Marriott Resort and Spa, Suryagarh, WelcomHeritage Mohangarh Fort, Sairafort Sarovar Portico, Le Royal Camps, Desert Springs Resort, The Desert Palace, Oasis Camp Sam, Bhati Desert Camp Sam, WelcomHeritage Mandir Palace, Moonlight Nature Resort with Swimming Pool (Pure Veg), Hotel Royal Haveli, Gaji Hotel, Classic Hotel, Hotel Oasis Jaisalmer, Sairafort Sarovar Portico, and Le Royal Camps. These are just some of the many options available, you can visit the booking portal of HotelDekho.com and get the best deals on your next booking.