If you Planning going to jaisalmer i give you complete jaisalmer travel guide, Jaisalmer is more than a golden fort and a night in the desert. A well-planned trip can include historic havelis, sunset viewpoints, desert villages, Tanot Mata Temple, Ghantiyali Mata Temple, and the Longewala War Memorial.
However, these attractions are spread across a large area. Desert camp packages can have confusing inclusions, and visiting the India–Pakistan border requires more planning than an ordinary sightseeing trip.
This guide covers how to reach Jaisalmer, where to stay and eat, what to visit, transport options, approximate expenses, and precautions.
Important pricing note: All prices below are indicative planning estimates in Indian rupees—not live quotations or official tariffs. Rates vary by season, vehicle, occupancy, availability, and package inclusions. Confirm transport schedules, temple accommodation, border access, and attraction timings before travelling.
Table of Contents
Best Time to Visit and How Many Days You Need
October to March is generally the most comfortable period for sightseeing and desert activities. December and January can bring cold nights, particularly at desert camps.
Christmas, New Year, long weekends, and major festival dates usually mean higher accommodation and transport prices.
April to June can be extremely hot. Avoid planning long outdoor sightseeing days or remote scooter journeys in these conditions.
Recommended trip duration
- Day 1 : Jaisalmer city and Market.
- Day 2: A better choice for including Tanot, Ghantiyali Mata, and Longewala without rushing and night Stay in Sam. Stay and adventure Activity in Sam Sand Dunes
- Day 3: Return to Jaisalmer
How to Reach Jaisalmer
By Train: Jaisalmer Railway Station (JSM)
Jaisalmer Railway Station, code JSM, is the nearest railway station for the city. It is approximately 1.5- 2 km from the central tourist area, depending on your hotel.
Train connections and operating days vary. Check IRCTC or Indian Railways for your travel dates rather than relying on an old timetable.
| Train No. & Name | Arrival | Running Days | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12467 LEELAN EXP | SRC | Daily | 00:30 |
| 14087 RUNICHA EXP | 01:30 | Daily | DSTN |
| 15013 RANIKHET EXP | SRC | Daily | 02:40 |
| 12468 LEELAN SF EXP | 05:05 | Daily | DSTN |
| 20485 JSM SBIB SF EXP | SRC | Daily | 06:30 |
| 74843 JSM-BGKT DMU | SRC | Daily | 06:55 |
| 12249 SWARN NAGARI EX | 09:00 | Daily | DSTN |
| 00290 PALACE ON WHEEL | 09:30 | Sunday | 23:30 |
| 22931 BDTS JSM SFAST | 09:40 | Saturday | DSTN |
| 14703 JSM LGH EXP | SRC | Daily | 10:40 |
| 20492 SBIB JSM SUP EXP | 11:50 | Daily | DSTN |
| 14704 LGH JSM EXP | 13:30 | Daily | DSTN |
| 20491 JSM SBIB SF EXP | SRC | Daily | 15:30 |
| 12250 SWARN NAGARI EX | SRC | Daily | 17:00 |
| 22932 JSM BDTS SF EXP | SRC | Saturday | 18:10 |
| 14088 RUNICHA EXP | SRC | Daily | 19:00 |
| 20486 SBIB JSM SF EXP | 20:30 | Daily | DSTN |
| 74844 BGKT-JSM DMU | 21:00 | Daily | DSTN |
| 15014 RANIKHET EXP | 23:30 | Daily | DSTN |
Station to Main City Center Taxi and Auto Prices
| Transport Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Shared Auto (Only for Day Not Available in Night) | ₹30 per person |
| Auto-Rickshaw to Jaisalmer Fort (City Centre) | ₹100–200 per vehicle |
| Local Taxi | ₹200–300 per vehicle |
Agree on the fare before boarding, especially at night.
By Flight: Jaisalmer Airport
Jaisalmer Airport is approximately 12–15 km from central Jaisalmer. Flight availability can be seasonal or limited, so check whether services operate on your dates before planning around them.
An airport taxi may cost approximately ₹700–1,200 per vehicle, depending on the destination and timing.
Jodhpur Airport is another practical option if suitable Jaisalmer flights are unavailable. Jodhpur is roughly 280–300 km away by road, usually requiring around 5–6 hours, sometimes longer.
From Jodhpur, you can continue by train, bus, or taxi. A private one-way taxi might cost approximately ₹4,500–7,500, but confirm whether tolls and driver charges are included.
Jaisalmer By Bus
RSRTC and private operators provide services on regional routes, including connections with cities such as Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Bikaner. Availability, direct services, and timings vary.
Indicative fares:
| Route | Approximate bus fare per person |
|---|---|
| Jodhpur–Jaisalmer | ₹300–800 |
| Bikaner–Jaisalmer | ₹350–900 |
| Jaipur–Jaisalmer | ₹700–1,600 |
Ordinary buses are generally cheaper than AC or sleeper services. Check the exact boarding and arrival points: private buses may not use the main government bus stand.
Where to Stay in Jaisalmer
Near the fort and old city
This is the most convenient area for first-time visitors. You can walk to many attractions, restaurants, and markets.
Typical room prices:
- Drom: ₹150–1000 per room/night
- Basic guesthouse: ₹800–1,600 per room/night
- Comfortable mid-range hotel: ₹1,800–4,000
- Heritage or premium property: ₹5,000 upward
These are usually room rates, not per-person prices. Check taxes, breakfast, air-conditioning, hot water, and parking.
Inside or outside Jaisalmer Fort?
Staying inside the living fort offers atmosphere, but vehicle access can be restricted and carrying luggage through narrow lanes may be inconvenient. The fort also faces conservation and drainage pressures.
A well-reviewed property just outside the fort is often a convenient alternative.
Where and What to Eat
Look for restaurants around the fort, old city, and main market. Rooftop restaurants provide excellent views, but check recent reviews for food quality and hygiene.
Popular Rajasthani dishes include:
- Dal baati churma
- Ker sangri
- Gatte ki sabzi
- Bajra roti
- Kadhi
- Local thalis
Approximate food costs
- Breakfast: ₹80–200
- Simple vegetarian meal or thali: ₹150–300
- Mid-range restaurant meal: ₹300–600 per person
- Tea and snacks: ₹30–150
Budget approximately ₹250–800 per person per day, depending on where you eat.
Must-Visit Places in Jaisalmer City
Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)
Also called Sonar Quila, this golden sandstone fort is a living neighbourhood with homes, temples, shops, and guesthouses.
Allow 2–3 hours to explore. General access to the fort neighbourhood is different from admission to individual palaces, museums, and temples, which may have separate fees.
Wear comfortable shoes and respect residents’ privacy.
What you Explore in Jaisalmer fort & Ticket Price
| Place to explore | What to see | Entry fee |
|---|---|---|
| Fort lanes and gateways | Sandstone architecture, winding streets, and daily life inside the fort | Free to explore |
| Fort Palace Museum (Raj Mahal) | Former royal rooms, historical displays, and views over the city | Below 5 Year Child – Free Below 10 Year Child – 100/- Above 10 Year – 200/- Professional Camera – 200/- Audio Guide Charge – 500/- |
| Jain temple complex | Intricate stone carvings and historic religious architecture | Foreign National with Camera – 500/- Indian Adult Camera – 100/- |
| Bari – Haveli | Traditional fort-life artifacts, clothing, utensils, and family heritage items. | Indian Adult – 70/- Indian Student – 50/- Foreign National Adult/Child – 100/- |
| Metal Cannon | a Histortical Brass Cannon | Free |
| Laxminath Temple | A Hindu temple dedicated to Vishnu and Lakshmi | Free |
| Shops and rooftop cafés | Local handicrafts and views of Jaisalmer’s golden rooftops | Purchases and food cost extra; ask before entering private terraces |
Kothari’s Patwon Ki Haveli
This group of elaborately carved havelis is one of Jaisalmer’s architectural highlights. Different sections may have different ticketing arrangements.
At Kothari’s Patwon Ki Haveli, admire intricate sandstone carvings, ornate balconies, mirror work, traditional interiors, and historical displays that offer a glimpse into the lives of Jaisalmer’s wealthy merchant families.
Ticket Price
| Category | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Indian Child (03 – 10 Years) | 80/- |
| Indian Adult | 150/- |
| Foreign National | 300/- |
How to Reach :- 400mtr Walking Distance from Jaisalmer fort (Sonar Quila)
Nathmal Ki Haveli
Nathmal Ki Haveli was built in the late nineteenth century as the residence of Jaisalmer’s prime minister, Diwan Mohata Nathmal. Its sandstone façade is celebrated for intricate carvings and craftsmanship.
Nathmal Ki Haveli attracts tourists with its intricate sandstone carvings, ornate balconies, and impressive elephant sculptures at the entrance. Its façade blends Rajput and Islamic architectural influences, making it a popular photography stop.
How to Reach :- 290m Walking Distance from Patwo ki Haveli
Badal Mahal (Mandir Palace)
Badal Mahal, also known as part of the Mandir Palace complex, was once associated with Jaisalmer’s royal family. Built in golden sandstone, it is known for its carved balconies, jharokhas, ornate façades, and the striking Badal Vilas tower. The palace reflects the royal lifestyle and craftsmanship of old Jaisalmer.
This dramatic, royal aesthetic has made the palace complex a highly favored Bollywood filming destination. It famously served as the grand, secretive mansion of the antagonist Gulfam Hasan in the film Sarfarosh (1999) during critical scenes with Aamir Khan. It also provided the striking architectural backdrop and terrace inspiration for the grand haveli sequences starring Salman Khan and Aishwarya Rai in Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam (1999), and its distinct exterior was prominently showcased alongside Bobby Deol in Nanhe Jaisalmer (2007).
What to see:
- Royal cenotaphs of different sizes
- Carved sandstone pillars and memorial inscriptions
- Views across the surrounding desert landscap
How to Reach :- 300 Mtr Walking Distance from Nathmal ki Haveli
Ticket Price
| Category | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Jawahir Vilas | 160/- |
| Zanana Mahal | 120/- |
| Both | 220/- |
| Mobile / Camera | 30/- |
Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Salim Singh Ki Haveli is a 200-year-old architectural marvel in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Built in 1815 by the powerful prime minister Salim Singh Mehta, this five-story mansion sits near the Jaisalmer Fort.
Architecturally unique, its upper floors resemble a dancing peacock, and its ship-like front profile earned it the name ‘Jahaz Mahal.’ The structure features 38 intricately carved balconies crafted without cement, using iron clamps to join the stones. History remembers Salim Singh as a ruthless ruler; his heavy taxes and tyranny famously forced the residents of Kuldhara and 83 other villages to abandon their homes overnight.
| Visitor information | Details |
|---|---|
| Indian Adult | 100/- |
| Camera Fee | 50/- |
Gadisar Lake
Gadisar Lake is a historic reservoir traditionally credited to Rawal Jaisal and later rebuilt by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the 14th century. It once served as an important water source for Jaisalmer.
What makes it special: The ornate Tilon Ki Pol gateway, lakeside temples, sandstone chhatris, and scenic reflections. Visit around sunrise or sunset for photography, or enjoy boating when available.
Jaisalmer War Museum
Located roughly 10–12 km along the Jodhpur road, this is a useful addition for travellers interested in military history.
It is separate from the Longewala War Memorial, which is much farther from Jaisalmer.
Local markets
Browse textiles, embroidery, leather goods, jewellery, and handicrafts around the old city. Compare prices and check product quality before buying.
Places to Visit Outside Jaisalmer
Bada Bagh
Bada Bagh, meaning “Big Garden,” is a historic royal cenotaph complex located about 6–8 km from Jaisalmer. It was developed by the rulers of Jaisalmer as a memorial site for the Bhati royal family.
The earliest cenotaphs are associated with Maharawal Jait Singh and his son Lunkaran in the 16th century. Over time, later rulers also built chhatris here, creating a group of golden sandstone memorials overlooking the desert landscape.
Ticket Price
| Category | Ticket Price |
|---|---|
| Indian Visitor | 150/- |
| Foreign Visitor | 300/- |
Ghantiyali Rai Mata Temple
According to local belief, Ghantiyali Rai Mata is revered as the elder sister of Tanot Mata. Her temple near Tanot is a place of worship associated with regional devotional traditions. This temple is also maintained by the Indian Army
Ranau
Ranau is a quiet desert village near the Tanot–Longewala route. It is not a major monument, but travellers may stop here for peaceful desert views, Jeep Safari, rural Thar village scenery, and photography. Include it only if your route and time allow
Tanot Mata Temple
Tanot Mata Temple is approximately 120 km from Jaisalmer. It is associated with local religious traditions and accounts of the 1965 India–Pakistan war.
The temple is known for its connection with the Border Security Force. Follow the instructions displayed at the site and any directions from personnel.
| Event | Time |
|---|---|
| Temple Timing | |
| Morning Aarti Timing | |
| Evening Aarti Timing |
Tanot Mata Temple Border Pass and Accomdation Booking
Basic accommodation or dharamshala-style facilities may be available locally, but availability, eligibility, booking arrangements, and access can change.
Do not assume:
- A room will be available on arrival.
- Accommodation is free and Paid Both Avilable.
| Event | Link |
|---|---|
| Border Pass (BP 609 visit) | Click Here |
| Tanot Mata Accomdation Booking | Click Here |
Confirm arrangements directly through a verified temple or authorised local contact. Ask about identification, room charges or donations, bedding, bathrooms, meals, and check-in rules.
For most tourists, staying in Jaisalmer and making a day trip is simpler.
Can tourists visit the actual border?
Visiting Tanot does not automatically grant access to the border.
Access towards the border area, sometimes marketed as a BP 609 visit, depends on current security rules, permissions, nationality, and operational conditions. Visits can be restricted or cancelled.
Before paying, confirm:
- Whether visits are currently permitted
- The authorised application or approval process
- Required original identification
- Nationality-related restrictions
- Photography rules and permitted visiting hours
Foreign nationals may face additional restrictions. Do not assume Indian visitor arrangements apply to everyone.
Never photograph military installations or checkpoints without permission, and do not fly drones near sensitive areas.
Kuldhara
Around 18–20 km from Jaisalmer, Kuldhara is an abandoned village frequently included in desert excursions.
Treat supernatural stories as local folklore rather than established historical fact. Daylight is best for exploring safely.
Longewala War Memorial
Longewala commemorates the 1971 Battle of Longewala. It is approximately 110–125 km from Jaisalmer, depending on the route, and around 35–45 km from Tanot.
Allow approximately one hour, or longer if displays and presentations are operating.
A common full-day circuit is:
Jaisalmer → Ghantiyali Mata → Tanot Mata → Longewala → Jaisalmer
The driver may reverse the order. Expect a long day, with total distance often around 270–300 km, depending on stops and routing.
Scooter, Cab, Shared Taxi and Bus Costs
Bike Rental
Indicative rental rates:
- Bike 200cc : ₹800–1000 per day
- Bullet/KTM: ₹1000–1500 per day
- Fuel Expense : ₹1200 – 1500/- (According to current Price in Jaisalmer Oct 2026)
Check the brakes, tyres, lights, insurance documents, helmet, mileage limits, deposit terms, and return time. Record a walk-around video before leaving.
A scooter is better suited to local sightseeing than the long Tanot–Longewala circuit. Remote roads, heat, sand, livestock, and limited assistance can make that journey demanding.
Private taxi estimates
| Journey or service | Indicative price per vehicle |
|---|---|
| Local city sightseeing, 1-day | ₹1,500–2,500 |
| Outside (Bada Bagh, Ghatiyali Mata Temple, Tanot Mata Temple, Border, Longewala, 1Night Stay Sam, Next Day Jaisalmer Drop) | ₹4000–5000 (In This Price Parking and Toll Included) |
| Same circuit, larger vehicle | ₹5,500–8,500 |
Confirm kilometres, waiting time, parking, driver allowance, taxes, and any border detour separately.
Shared taxis and buses
If you wish to visit Tanot Mata Temple by shared bus, head to Hanuman Circle, where a bus departs in the afternoon. The bus stops at Ghatiyali Rai Ji Temple before continuing to Tanot Mata Temple. After the evening aarti, it returns to Jaisalmer. The fare is ₹300 per person.
Alternatively, Rajasthan State Road Transport Corporation (RSRTC) buses depart at 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM and offer lower fares than private buses. To catch an RSRTC bus, visit the Jaisalmer Bus Stand, located approximately 500 metres from Jaisalmer Railway Station.
Jaisalmer Desert Safari Sam sand desert camps
Sam Sand Dunes, around 40–45 km from Jaisalmer, has the largest concentration of tourist camps and activities. Some areas are busy and noisy.
Khuri, approximately 45–50 km away, may suit travellers seeking a quieter village-and-desert experience, although this depends on the individual property.
For most visitors, two nights in the city and one night in a desert camp works well.
Sam Sand Dunes: Camps, Activities and Prices
Desert camp packages
Indicative overnight prices:
- Basic shared-occupancy package: ₹1,500–2,500
- More comfortable camp: ₹2,500–4,500 per person
- Premium camp: ₹5,000 upward per person
Some operators quote per tent, while others quote per person. Confirm the basis before comparing packages.
A package may include dinner, breakfast, cultural entertainment, and a short camel ride. City transfers, jeep safaris, drinks, and longer activities are often extra.
- ATV ride: ₹500–1,500, depending on duration
Ask for the actual duration and route. A very short ride should not be compared with an extended excursion.
Choose operators who provide safety instructions. Avoid overcrowded jeeps and reckless driving. Dune rides may be unsuitable during pregnancy or for people with back or neck conditions. For camel rides, look for signs of appropriate animal care.
Practical Three-Day Jaisalmer Itinerary
Day 1: Fort, havelis and Gadisar Lake
Arrive, check in, explore Jaisalmer Fort and Patwon Ki Haveli, and finish at Gadisar Lake.
Stay: Jaisalmer city.
Day 2: Ghantiyali Mata, Tanot and Longewala and reach sam
Leave early after breakfast. Carry water, snacks, identification, and enough fuel if self-driving.
Add a border visit only if permission is confirmed and the schedule allows it.
Stay: sam.
Day 3: Return to Jaisalmer Kuldhara
Return to Jaisalmer but continue to Kuldhara, and reach jaisalmer in time for afternoon.
Stay: jaisalmer / or return.
Total Estimated Trip Budget
For two adults sharing rooms and a private sedan, a four-day, three-night trip could cost approximately:
| Expense | Per-person estimate |
|---|---|
| Two city hotel nights, shared room | ₹1,200–3,000 |
| One camp night with dinner and breakfast | ₹1,500–3,500 |
| Other meals and snacks | ₹1,000–1,800 |
| outside jaisalmer places taxi fare | ₹4,000–5,000 |
| Attraction tickets | ₹400–900 |
| Optional activities | ₹500–1,500 |
| Approximate total | ₹8,600–15,700 |
This excludes travel to and from Jaisalmer, shopping, and any additional border-related transport.
A practical target is ₹10,000–15,000 for couple/solo, with a contingency fund. Groups sharing a taxi can reduce costs; solo travellers using private transport may spend considerably more.
Tourist Scams, Booking Pitfalls and Safety Warnings
Unclear desert packages
Get written confirmation of the camp name, tent category, bathroom type, meals, transfers, ride duration, taxes, and cancellation terms.
“Your hotel is closed” claims
If a driver says your booked hotel has closed or is inaccessible, contact the hotel directly before agreeing to another property.
Fake booking contacts
Phone numbers on unofficial listings or social media may not belong to the property. Verify independently before sending money, and obtain a receipt.
Guaranteed border access
Avoid anyone promising access regardless of security rules or offering to bypass permissions.
Surprise activity charges
Agree on the complete price before starting. Clarify whether the quote is per person, per jeep, or for a return journey.
Unsafe remote travel
Avoid remote night riding, carry offline maps, fill up before long excursions, and share your route with someone. Mobile coverage may be patchy.
Heat, cold and hydration
Carry drinking water, sunscreen, a hat, and a warm layer for winter desert nights. In an emergency, 112 is India’s integrated emergency number.
Important Advice for Foreign Tourists
Foreign tourists should be extra careful when planning Tanot Mata Temple, Longewala, or any border-area visit. Visiting Tanot Mata Temple is different from visiting the actual India–Pakistan border. Access beyond Tanot towards border points such as BP 609 may be restricted, denied, or cancelled depending on current security rules.
Before booking any taxi, camp, or local tour, foreign visitors should confirm:
- Whether foreign nationals are allowed on the selected route
- Whether any permission or approval is required
- Which original documents are needed, such as passport, visa, and hotel details
- Whether photography is allowed at that location
- Whether the operator is authorised to arrange the visit
Do not trust anyone who promises “guaranteed border access” or says permission is not required. Security rules can change without notice.
Foreign tourists should also avoid photographing military areas, checkpoints, vehicles, border fencing, army/BSF personnel, and sensitive roads unless clearly permitted. Drone flying is strongly discouraged and may be illegal near border and military zones.
Carry your passport, visa copy, hotel booking details, and local emergency contact information during long-distance trips. Stay only at registered hotels or guesthouses that can properly accept foreign guests and complete required formalities.
Final Advice
For a complete Jaisalmer travel guide experience, allow four days and treat the Tanot–Longewala excursion as a full-day journey—not a quick add-on.
Choose accommodation based on recent reviews, compare written package inclusions, and keep border access separate from ordinary sightseeing plans. A transparent booking and realistic itinerary are usually worth more than the cheapest advertised deal.
- Bada Bagh, Jaisalmer: Timings, Entry Tickets, History and How to Reach
Bada Bagh Jaisalmer is one of the most striking places to visit near Jaisalmer. Its sandstone chhatris—memorial pavilions built for members of Jaisalmer’s royal family—stand against an open desert landscape. The site is especially popular for its architecture, quiet atmosphere and golden-hour photography. If you are planning a visit, here is what to know about … Read more - Jaisalmer Travel Guide: Local Sightnseen Desert Safari, Camp Budget Tips
If you Planning going to jaisalmer i give you complete jaisalmer travel guide, Jaisalmer is more than a golden fort and a night in the desert. A well-planned trip can include historic havelis, sunset viewpoints, desert villages, Tanot Mata Temple, Ghantiyali Mata Temple, and the Longewala War Memorial. However, these attractions are spread across a … Read more - Goram Ghat Train Guide: Timings, Ticket Price, Route & Tourist Places
Hidden among the forested hills of Rajasthan, the Goram Ghat railway route is known for sharp curves, historic bridges, tunnels and panoramic views of the Aravalli Range. The journey is especially beautiful during the monsoon, when the surrounding hills become green and seasonal waterfalls appear beside the railway line. The route connects the Marwar region with Mewar … Read more