complete 2 days Jaisalmer itinerary
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Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days: Complete Travel Guide

Read the perfect Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days along with Jaisalmer travel tips. Surely, desert camping is the top thing to do in Jaisalmer. But there are so many other places to explore, read my guide on the best places to visit in Jaisalmer, where to eat and where to stay, and all the travel tips for visiting Jaisalmer in 2 days.

Known as the ‘Golden City of Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan, India for a number of reasons. This city would take you back to the stories about the Arabian Nights and will instantly transport you into a magical land. So, explore the magic of the Thar desert in your 2 days Jaisalmer itinerary.

And if that wasn’t enough, this city is also at the heart of the Thar Desert and is a great way to explore the beautiful, majestic sand dunes of the Thar Desert.

Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days and Jaisalmer Travel Guide

This Jaisalmer blog focuses on a Jaisalmer Travel guide with Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days of manly enriching experiences of the Thar desert. There is so much to explore in Jaisalmer from historical places, and landmarks to exploring many temples, and that is why it is one of the top places to visit in Rajasthan, India.

Jaisalmer History

Named after Rawal Jaiswal, Jaisalmer was founded by this Bhati ruler in 1156AD. It was called the ‘Golden City of India’ because of the use of yellow sandstone in the architecture of the entire fort and the town below it. This is why the entire town gives off a little golden-yellow light throughout the day.

Earlier, Jaisalmer was a part of the silk trading route which is why there are a lot of Havelis and palaces built around the town. The entire city is rich with culture and vibrance and makes for a perfect weekend getaway to soak in the warm sun and exuberant culture during the winter season.

Jaisalmer best views
View of Jaisalmer fort and the city, Rajasthan, India

In this Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days travel guide, I will share with you everything you need to know about the best places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days, travel tips, and how to plan an amazing trip over here. The guide will include things like, where to stay, shopping places, and a lot more so that you can make the most of your Jaisalmer trip.

While putting together, I have tried to cover as much as possible in this 2 day Jaisalmer itinerary and Travel guide. Compared to other places in Rajasthan, there aren’t many things to do in Jaisalmer, so 2 days in Jaisalmer is the ideal time to spend.

How to Reach Jaisalmer– The Golden City of Rajasthan

By Air – Jaisalmer Airport is located at a distance of 17 km from Jaisalmer city and is well-connected to major cities such as Jodhpur, Delhi, Mumbai, Surat, etc. So, you can easily take a flight to Jaisalmer from one of these cities and reach the city in less than 3 hours.

From the airport, you will get taxis to the city that will charge you around 1000 – 2000 INR and will take around 40 minutes to complete the journey.

Alternatively, you can also reach Jaisalmer from Jodhpur which has an airport. You can take a cab to Jaisalmer from Jodhpur.

By Rail – Jaisalmer is well-connected to all major cities in India via rail. A train from Jaipur to Jaisalmer will take around 11 hours while a train from Delhi to Jaisalmer will take around 18 hours.

You will find several train options for booking on the official IRCTC website. The code for the Train station is Jaisalmer Railway Station(JSM). Make sure that you book your train tickets at least 120 days in advance as the seats get filled quickly during the winter months.

By Road – Jaisalmer is also well-connected with many major cities through national highways and roads that are in good condition. You can reach Jaisalmer via road from nearby cities such as Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaipur, etc.

There are both Volvo and Government Buses running to Jaisalmer from different cities in Rajasthan and a few other cities such as Ahmedabad, Delhi, etc. as well.

If you wish to book a government-operated bus, then use the RSRTC website. And if you wish to book a private Volvo bus, then use online booking portals such as Goibibo, Makemytrip, Redbus, and so on.

top things to do in Jaisalmer in 2 days
desert safari in Jaisalmer

Getting Around Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is a small town so it is easy to explore the city on foot. Moreover, it is safe for solo female travelers as well so there is nothing to worry about. If you opt for a stay near the Jaisalmer fort area, then you can pretty much cover most town sites such as Jaisalmer Fort, Nathmal ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake, and so on.

Apart from that, you have the option to hire auto-rickshaws but make sure you bargain well as they tend to charge the tourists hefty fees for short distances as well.

If you know how to ride a two-wheeler, then the best way to get around Jaisalmer is by renting a scooter or a bike that would cost around 500/1200 INR respectively. This is the best way to explore the outskirts of Jaisalmer town and head to faraway places such as Kuldhara village, Bada Bagh, Sam Sand Dunes, and so on.

How to Reach Sam Sand Dunes – Although it is possible to reach most sites in Jaisalmer town on foot or on a scooter, Sam Sand Dunes is one of the places that you would need a proper vehicle to reach. If you don’t know how to drive a two-wheeler, you can take a taxi to Sam Sand Dunes which would cost you around 2500 INR for a one-side journey. If you share it with a group of travelers, it will come to around 500 – 700 INR per person.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer

Rajasthan experiences a hot climate throughout the year with an average temperature of 25 degrees Celsius during the daytime and more in the summer. This is why it is not advisable to visit Jaisalmer in the summer as it can be too hot and there are chances of you experiencing heat stroke.

If you wish to enjoy your trip to Jaisalmer fully, then plan a trip in the winter months i.e. from October to March. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant in Jaisalmer and the nights can be a little cold with temperatures going as low as 5 degrees Celsius.

Jaisalmer Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days

This itinerary is based on the fact, that you stayed in Jaisalmer for a night, and are ready to explore the next day for your perfect 2 days in Jaisalmer.

Day 1 of Your Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days

On Day 1 of your Jaisalmer itinerary, you can head to the desert area so that you can spend adequate time there and in the surrounding areas before heading back to the main city. You can follow this route to make the most of your first day in Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days:

Gadisar Lake – Bada Bagh – Kuldhara Village – Sam Sand Dunes

Start your day early and watch the sunrise at Gadisar Lake. You can choose to reach Gadisar Lake for the sunrise and then have breakfast later by going back to your hotel or some other restaurant nearby. If you love taking photographs, then Gadisar Lake at sunrise is absolutely beautiful, and make sure that you wear a light jacket as it can be slightly cold in Jaisalmer in the mornings.

Gadisar Lake

One of the best lakes in Jaisalmer, Gadisar Lake was built under the rule of Raja Rawal Jaiswal. This lake was used to store the rainwater for the city which was then used by the entire town for drinking, bathing, and other daily activities.

Sunrise at Gadisar lake

Built in 1156AD, this artificial lake is now surrounded by small temples and shrines and is more famous for boating among the locals. It also gives you an amazing view of the Teelon ki Pol archway which used to be one of the main entrance gates to Jaisalmer City and the Gadisar Lake.

If you are looking for a peaceful location to enjoy the vibe of Jaisalmer, then Gadisar Lake in the evening or at sunrise is the perfect place to explore during your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days. Even you can take boat rides in the evening to explore the places by water.

When to Go: Throughout the Day

Entry Fee: Free

Bada Bagh– Best Places to visit in Jaisalmer

After spending some time at the beautiful Gadisar Lake, you can enjoy your breakfast and then head to Bada Bagh which is around 10 km from the main city. This place features a huge collection of cenotaphs of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer and was built in the 16th century. The first cenotaph in Bada Bagh was built by Lunkaran and his father, Jai Singh II, who was responsible for making Jaisalmer green.

jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days

When to Go: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: 100 INR per person

Kuldhara – The Abandon Village

Your next stop on day 1 of the Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days should be the Kuldhara Village which has a unique history associated with it. Located around 20 km from the main town of Jaisalmer, Kuldhara Village is the haunted village of this region which was abandoned by the villagers in the 19th century.

Built in the 13th century, this village was once home to the Paliwal Brahmins and was one of the most prosperous villages in the region before it was abandoned.

places to visit near Jaisalmer
Kuldhara Village ruins

There are several reasons for the abandonment of this village including potential earthquakes, exhaustion of water sources, and execution of Salim Singh (Jaisalmer’s Prime Minister). Whatever the reason, the village is completely deserted now and offers an eerie feel to anyone who visits here.

If you love such unique and mysterious places then you should definitely pay a visit to the Kuldhara Village on your way to the Sam Sand Dunes- one of the must-see places near Jaisalmer.

When to Go: any time of the day but beware during the evening!

Entry Fee: Free

Sam Sand Dunes – Time for Desert Safari

Finally, head to the beautiful Sam Sand Dunes where you can spend the night and explore a lot of activities to enjoy your stay. The dunes are 3 km long and 1 km wide and are the perfect place to experience the golden sands of Rajasthan.

Here, you will be able to take a camel or jeep safari to explore the half Km high dunes that make a perfect backdrop for photography enthusiasts. A desert safari is one of the top things to do in Jaisalmer and you can not miss this experience in your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days.

Best places to visit in Jaisalmer
top places to visit in Jaisalmer- Sam Sand Dunes

Watching a sunset here is absolutely blissful and if you wish, you can even spend the night on the dunes under the canopy of stars. There are several camps and resorts that you can find here that offer good stay packages inclusive of meals, folk dances, safari, and other activities.

Spending some relaxing time at the not-so-overcrowded Sam dunes is one of the must things to do in Jaisalmer.

When to Go: Throughout the Day but best at sunset or sunrise

Entry Fee: Free

Cost for Desert Safari: INR 2000 onwards.

The safari includes a jeep ride to Kuldhara village and sam sand dunes in the Thar desert. A camel ride, evening snacks with tea, a vegetarian dinner, an overnight stay in the tent, and a next-day breakfast are included in the package. I highly recommend staying overnight in the tent in the middle of the desert- one of the best experiences and bucket list things to do in Jaisalmer.

This is all you can do on day 1 of your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days. Enjoy your stay at the Sam Sand Dunes and watch the clear sky at night with no one to disturb you.

Make sure you pack warm clothes for the desert as it becomes freezing cold here during the nighttime.

Day 2 of Jaisalmer Itinerary for 2 days

On the second day of your Jaisalmer trip, you can explore the local sightseeing places in Jaisalmer such as the Havelis, Forts, shops, etc.

Get up in the morning in the sand dunes and watch the sunrise over Sam Sand dunes. After that, enjoy some light breakfast before heading back to the city to explore and shop around a bit.

You can follow this Jaisalmer sightseeing route to make efficient use of your second day in Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer Fort – Patwon ki Haveli – Nathmal ki Haveli – Moti Mahal – Vyas ChhatriShopping

Jaisalmer Fort – Top Tourist Places to Visit in Jaisalmer

Once you return back to the city, make your way to one of the largest forts in Rajasthan – Jaisalmer Fort. It is also one of the few “living forts” in the world where lots of people living inside the forts currently as well. You heard it right!!

There is a whole bustling community along with sightseeing places as well as temples, shops, and lots of restaurants. You can also stay inside the fort in one of the hotels or hostels that have been constructed here.

Jaisalmer itinerary guide
Jaisalmer Fort in the blue sky, Rajasthan, India, Asia

Jaisalmer Fort is also known as Sonar Quila and has a fortification wall of 5 km in circumference. The fort was built under the rule of Raja Rawat Jaiswal. One of the most interesting things to know about this fort is that it has survived so many attacks over the years from rulers such as Ala-Uddin-Khilji, Humayun, etc.

There are several temples, museums, and small royal palaces inside the forts that you can explore. And if you love shopping, then there are several street vendors to buy clothes, accessories, etc. in this fort as well. You can easily spend 2 – 3 hours exploring this fort on foot.so, don’t miss visiting one of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer!

When to Go: Throughout the Day

Entry Fee: Free

Jain Temple: Architecture Marvel of Jaisalmer

A set of Jain Temples in one of the must-visit places inside the Jaisalmer fort. All these Jain temples were built by wealthy traders who prospered along the medieval trade routes that run through Jaisalmer.

Hindu Temple inside Golden fort of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India.

It has the most elaborate carvings and the interesting thing is that it is a cluster of 7 temples containing a total of 6000 statues of the 24 Prophets of Jainism. The architecture looks similar to the Sun temple of Modhera in Gujarat which is rich with carvings and frescos on the walls.

Canon Point: One of the top sightseeing attractions of Jaisalmer

Cannon point is the place from where you can see the beauty of the Jaisalmer, giving you the views of an impressive maze-like city with yellow-golden houses and fascinating artwork. You would enjoy seeing Jaisalmer city from the balcony of this cannon point. 

It is the open area inside the Jaisalmer fort best known for giving panoramic views of the city. The Jaisalmer fort itself is in height, further you go up, from cannon point, you can view the Jaisalmer.

must visit places of Jaisalmer
Views of Jaisalmer from Jaisalmer Fort

While Cannon Point is best to visit at Sunset to see the Golden city painted with Golden sky but the point gets crowded. Avoid the sunset from here instead go to any other rooftop cafes or restaurants for sunset views. Watching the sunset from the Jaisalmer fort is one of the top things to do in Jaisalmer in your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days.

Patwon Ki Haveli

Once you have explored Jaisalmer Fort, you can enjoy some lunch in the nearby restaurants or cafes such as Jaisal Italy Restaurant before exiting the fort. Food may be on the pricey side but the views of the fort will be worth the try!

From the fort, you can make your way to the Patwon ki Haveli which is just a 5-minute walk from the fort. Patwon ki Haveli is actually a cluster of 5 small Havelis and was the first Haveli ever to be constructed in the city of Jaisalmer. It is one of the most amazing places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days.

itinerary for Jaisalmer
The beautiful Patwon ki Haveli palace made of golden limestone in Jaisalmer

The first Haveli was built in 1805 for Guman Chand Patwa who got the 5 Havelis built for his 5 sons. It is also one of the largest Havelis in Jaisalmer and was built in a narrow lane.

Now, the Haveli is surrounded by many jewelry and craft vendors that sell beautiful Rajasthani accessories, crafts, and so on. It is a masterpiece of architecture and one can not miss it from their Jaisalmer itinerary!

What is interesting to note about this Haveli is that it has arches and gateways designed in mirror-style work and paintings and is quite unique. You can stroll inside this haveli to explore the beautiful craftsmanship and can even shop to your heart’s content outside the Haveli.

When to Go: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Entry Fee: 100 INR per person

Nathmal ki Haveli

The next haveli to visit in Jaisalmer is Nathmal ki Haveli which was built 500 years ago in the city. The most interesting thing about this Haveli is that it has a beautifully carved exterior while the interiors of the haveli are covered with miniature paintings.

There are two elephants placed as guards of the Haveli that are made out of yellow sandstone and offer a grand look to this place. You will also find carved paintings of horses, cattle, flora, etc. on the wall and can easily spend an hour admiring the unique architecture of this Haveli.

When to Go: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

Entry Fee: Free

Salim Singh ki Haveli (Moti Mahal)

After exploring the Nathmal and Patwon ki Haveli, you can head to the Salim Singh ki Haveli which was constructed in 1815. Built by Salim Singh, this haveli is popular for its peacock-shaped roof and an amazingly designed pavilion that will leave you in awe when you first take a look.

Located just 500 meters from the Jaisalmer Fort, Salim Singh ki Haveli is a great example of Mughal-style architecture in India. There are lots of jharokhas here to admire along with the beautiful Mughal paintings that can be found on the wall of this haveli.

Most of the top storey of this Haveli has been destroyed now but you can still admire the grandeur and architecture of this haveli during your visit to Jaisalmer.

When to Go: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Entry Fee: 50 INR per person

Vyas Chhatri

Finally, if you wish to end your day in Jaisalmer on a happy note, then head to Vyas Chhatri to enjoy a beautiful sunset in the city. A beautiful example of Rajasthani architecture, Vyas Chhatri is another popular ground filled with cenotaphs that were built in the honor of the sage Ved Vyas, the author of Mahabharata.

This is a cremation ground for Brahmins and the cenotaphs have been designed out of yellow sandstone that gives it a beautiful golden hue in the evening.

The place is just 4 km from Jaisalmer city and has been built on a hill so it offers beautiful views of the Jaisalmer Fort and is undoubtedly one of the best sunset points in Jaisalmer which you should not miss in your 2 days Jaisalmer itinerary.

When to Go: 8:00 AM to 7:30 PM

Entry Fee: 100 INR per person

Once you are done sightseeing, you can spend some time exploring the shopping streets of Jaisalmer so that you can buy souvenirs for your friends and family at home. Do remember to try the local street food and sweet dishes as well during this time and get some sweets packed for your home too.

More Things to do in Jaisalmer in your Jaisalmer itinerary:

Try Bhang Lassi

While I only knew that only in Varanasi in India is legal to consume Bhang! but after visiting Jaisalmer came to know that Jaisalmer is one of the few cities in India where it is acceptable to consume Bhang. However, only if it is purchased from a government-approved bhang shop. 

For those of you unfamiliar with Bhang, it is an edible form of cannabis.  It is most commonly found in Bhang Lassis, a tasty beverage mixed with milk, sugar, and fruits. Or alternatively in cakes or cookies.

Bhang forms a big part of ancient Hindu tradition and is believed to cure many ailments.  It produces a similar effect as smoking cannabis; however, can last longer and also take a lot longer to kick in.   

must visit attractions of jaisalmer
puppets in Rajasthan, India

Watch Puppet Show

Puppeteering plays a big part in traditional Rajasthani culture and Jaisalmer seems to be the heart of it it.  

Alongside artisans selling puppets throughout the golden city, a puppet show is just one of those things you should experience while you are here. You can watch the 40-minute puppet show at the Desert Culture Centre every evening at 6:30 PM.

Know the legend behind the Tazia Tower

An enigmatic architectural design including a series of grand balconies towering up to 5 stories of seamless contour, the Tazi Tower in Jaisalmer is one of the greatest tourist attractions in Jaisalmer.

The tower comprises 5 floors, each holding a significant insight into the royal families it has been home to. Additionally, each of the floors also holds a uniquely crafted balcony, magnificent designs, and carvings on the walls and ceilings reflecting the creative advancement of crafters during the era. More than a tower, Tazia is respected as a depiction of Islamic culture and tradition and so the place will make you awestruck.

Worship at the Jain Temple in Lodurva

Lodurva is a village in Jaisalmer. The quaint town is famous for a Jain Temple which is the holy abode of the 23rd Tirthankara Parshvanath. The sacred shrine has faced many tests of time and still managed to stand as a reminder of the city’s glorious past. Owning a unique ornate ceiling, the temple gathers all the praises for its splendid architecture and intricate carvings.

Strolling in the temple is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer as it takes you on a spiritual sojourn. The eight-cornered shrine has slanting walls which give the temple an impression of pagoda style architecture.

From a distance, it looks like just another temple, but as you enter the sanctum sanctorum, you will be fascinated by its beauty.

Shopping in Jaisalmer

Rajasthan is famous for its clothes, footwear, and accessories so if you would like to buy a souvenir from here, you will find several amazing street shops in Jaisalmer too.

When you go to the popular touristy spots in Jaisalmer such as Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake, etc., you will come across a lot of street vendors selling everything from skirts to Mojaris. So finish your Jaisalmer itinerary by shopping.

Jaisalmer 2 days itinerary

There are so many places to shop around here but a few of the best shopping places to check out in Jaisalmer are inside the Jaisalmer Fort and near the Havelis. Here, you can buy souvenirs for your family members including camel leather products, and accessories such as Jhumkas, necklaces, chunaris, blouses, and a lot more.

Places to Eat in Jaisalmer

Of course, when you are visiting Jaisalmer, you have to try the amazing Rajasthani dishes and the street food around here. I highly recommend trying at least one traditional meal during your Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days.

You will find lots of amazing places to gorge on delicious food around here but a few things that you should absolutely try are Gatte ki Sabji, Ker Sangri, Daal Bhaati Choorma, etc.

If you have a sweet tooth, then don’t forget to try the Malai Ghevar and Ghotua Laddoo here which are local delicacies and can be found in almost all the sweet shops around here.

Best cafes in Jaisalmer
cafe sitting with the view of Jaisalmer fort

A few restaurants and cafes that are worth checking out in Jaisalmer are Thar Café Restaurant for amazing local food and fort views, Jaisal Italy Restaurant for some Italian dishes, and Jambheshwar Bhojnalaya for authentic Rajasthani thali at an affordable price.

If you are a person who loves dinner or lunch with the views, must check out the restaurants inside the Jaisalmer fort, prices may be high but you will love the experience of dining inside the fort. Within the fort you can try Gaji’s Restaurant and Kuku Cafe, both have great views and good coffee.

Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

There are a lot of stay options available in Jaisalmer for different budgets and requirements. If you are traveling solo or on a budget, then you can always stay in hostels such as Zostel which is located inside the Jaisalmer Fort and offers an amazing view of the entire Jaisalmer city. It is a backpacker hostel where you can get a bed in a dorm room or in a deluxe bedroom. Plus, you will meet a lot of other travelers here and can explore the city with them too.

If you wish to stay in traditional Havelis or resorts, there are lots of options available for that too. Personally, I would recommend Mystic Jaisalmer where they have decorated the rooms in a tasteful ethnic manner. There is also a rooftop restaurant here from where you can see the Jaisalmer Fort quite clearly.

Apart from that, there are several high-end resorts for staying here such as Suryagarh Resort, Killa Bhawan, Choki Dhani The Palace Hotel, Sairafort Sarovar Portico, and so on.

Where to Stay in Sam Sand Dunes

If you are planning to spend a night in the Sam Sand Dunes, then you would need to find someplace there as well. Thankfully, there are a lot of campsites in the dunes for you to choose from. You will find both resort campsites with Swiss Luxury Tents and normal campsites so you can opt for the one that suits your budget.

Resort camps will be a tad bit expensive but they will give you the complete experience inclusive of folk dance, comfort, safari, etc. On the other hand, the normal campsites will provide you with an authentic, raw desert experience and you will be able to watch the stars clearly over your head.

Jaisalmer Travel Tips

If you wish to make the most of your trip to Jaisalmer, then here are a few travel tips to guide you on your trip here.

  • There is no ticket for most attractions in Jaisalmer except for Bada Bagh. So, you don’t need to spend much on sightseeing in Jaisalmer.
  • Most Havelis and forts are located nearby so, you won’t need to take an auto or rent a bike to cover these places.
  • Make sure you carry a high SPF sunscreen as it is extremely hot here and you get harsh sunlight in the Thar Desert.
  • The best time to visit Jaisalmer is from October to March as the weather is cool and pleasant at that time.
  • Carry comfortable shoes with you to walk in the desert or you will end up getting hurt by the desert thorns when trying to walk on the dunes.
  • Jaisalmer Fort lights up at night and the markets are all shut down at the time but you can still enjoy the view from the outside.

Although 2 days are not sufficient to cover everything that Jaisalmer has to offer and you can easily spend 3 – 4 days here. You can include places such as Tanot Mata Temple, Longewala, etc. in your itinerary too with the additional days and can explore Jaisalmer to the fullest.

However, if you have just 2 days with you, then this Jaisalmer Travel Guide with Jaisalmer itinerary for 2 days is perfect for you. It covers everything you need to know about the best places to visit in Jaisalmer.

best places to visit in Jaisalmer in 2 days

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