1.     Junagarh Fort

2. Lalgarh Palace

3. Gajner Palace

4. Bikaner Camel Safari Day Tours

5. Gajner Wildlife Sanctuary

6. Ganga Singh Museum

7. Sadul Singh Museum

8. Jain Temple

If you haven’t seen the exquisite sand dunes in Jaisalmer, you haven’t seen anything!! The “land of sand” is famous internationally for its majestic forts, interesting lifestyle, and friendly people. These are the greatest attractions in Jaisalmer that allures tourists from distant corners of the world. Rising from the heart of splendid Thar Desert like a magnificent jewel, Jaisalmer evokes a brilliant picture of sheer excellence and magic of desert. Visit this glorious town and experience the brilliance of the golden desert, renowned havelies and architectural splendors.

Sand Dunes:

When it comes to sand dunes, two prominent names strike the mind – Sam sand dunes and Khuri. Situated 42 km on the outskirts of Jaisalmer, Sam is famous for its ravishing yellow sand and mountain-high sand dunes. There is no point visiting the majestic Thar Desert, if you don’t experience an exotic desert safari. And this is why Sam sand dunes are becoming exceptionally popular these days. This is the best place where you can let go your mind and soul in the bountiful vivacious and appeal of the great Thar Desert.

Khuri sand dunes are also slowly picking up in the must visit list of the tourists, which is famous for utmost serenity and mesmerizing heights. If Sam seems to be little overcrowded, this is the best alternative to enjoy the splendors of true desert life.

Desert Attractions:

Sand dunes in Jaisalmer are becoming the major attractions for tourists, with a magnificent stretch of splendid dunes, with sparse vegetation. And the best way to explore this natural beauty is on a camel safari. Book a luxury camel safari on your Jaisalmer tour and ride along the exquisite crests and troughs. Enjoy the solitude and romance as the camel takes you to mesmerizing heights of the Thar Desert. Book a desert camp and experience the magnificence, as these dunes change their hue with passage of time in a day. Say goodbye as the sun sets behind the splendid crimson red sand dunes.

Jaisalmer Fort – A Brief Guide

Built in the 12th century, the Jaisalmer Fort is regarded as one of the most splendid and invincible forts in India. This magnificent fort was built by Raja Rawal Jaisal during 1156 A.D, and derives its name from the king. Standing proudly amidst the spectacular golden stretches of Thar Desert, this is one of the most prominent tourist attractions in Jaisalmer. There is a distinctive gadget hoisted on the crest of the fort’s walls, and was used to predict the weather. The subtle blend of Islamic and Rajput architectural style will definitely catch your fancy, which looks stunning during the night.

The Jaisalmer fort is a mesmerizing 250 feet tall architectural efficacy that is imposed by crenellated sandstone walls and 99 bastions. Some of the greatest attractions of the fort are Hawa Pol, Suraj Pol, Akshya Pol and Ganesh Pol.

Sightseeing in Jaisalmer

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Jaisalmer Travel

The Indian subcontinent is full of amazing places. Millions of tourists visit this country to experience the rich cultural heritage of this place. There is much to explore in this vast country. From the mountain peaks of the Kashmir to the lovely beaches of Kanya kumari, one has the opportunity to experience various splendorous sites. Out of these, Jaisalmer is the most exotic destination in the northern side. It is located in the state of Rajasthan. This place is popularly known as the “Golden City in India” because of its beautiful yellowish sand.

The city harbors various magnificent masterpieces of the Rajput era. These architectures reflect the rich legacies of the ancient rulers. Apart from the historic structures, there is much to explore here. The thrills & chills of this place will surely give you the most astonishing experience of life.

The most promising feature of this city is its natural landscape. This desert is covered with yellowish sand. One will get a pictorial view when sun rays fall on the golden color sand. This will surely give you the most appealing experience.

There is much to explore in Jaisalmer. The most promising activity of this place is Desert Camps. These camps are located in the desert area at the Sand Dunes and are decorated in the traditional Rajasthani themes. If one wants to know about the legacies of the Rajasthani  traditional culture, then this is surely the best way to know this. The beautiful environment, melodic folk music & traditional dance will surely give most memorable time. The women dressed in traditional attires, with men having big mustaches, and the cozy environment will give a perfect glimpse of the traditional culture.

The most astonishing activity of Jaisalmer is its Safari. With this, you get a chance to visit amazing forts, splendor palaces & magnificent havelis. It is up to you to choose a “camel safari” or “jeep safari”. During the safari ride, you also visit the ruins of the ancient haunted villages like Kuldhara. Entry after sunset is barred here. Apart from this, the other attractions of this place are Jaisalmer Fort, Salim Singh ki Haveli, Bada Bagh. During the safari ride, tourists get a full view of the mesmerizing sites that contain fascination artistic sculptures.

The other interesting thing about this place is its cuisines. These are basically cooked with the special spices & ingredients that you never find anywhere but here. These will perfectly give the mouth-watering experience. For no-veg loving people, Jaisalmer harbors lots of delicious dishes. These spicy dishes will surely satisfy your appetite. The ones who just love veg, they also don’t have to get disappointed. There are various vegetarian dishes that will give you pleasing experience. Some of the well-known traditional dishes of Jaisalmer are listed below.

Daal Bhati Choorma: The main ingredient of this delicious dish is seasoned pulses. The other ingredients are the traditional spices of this place. These are best served with the curd &desi ghee. This is the best dish that veggies must try.

Ker-Sangri: This is another dish that vegetarians will love to eat. It is prepared with beans & capers. Apart from this, special ingredients of this city are also used to add some extra taste. These are best to eat with bajreki roti.

Murg-e-Subz: This dish is prepared with boneless chicken. Chicken lovers will get the finger licking experience. The seasoned ingredients are also used to enhance the taste of this dish.

Laal Maans & Safed Maans: This is a special mutton that is delicately prepared in Kadai. Spices are added in order to give a mouth-watering experience. You will surely love to eat this stuff.

Conclusion

Jaisalmer is the best tourist destination in the northern side of India. The various activities of this city like desert camping, safari ride, campfire, folk music, dance, etc., will surely give most amazing experience. The exotic nature of this place will fill your spirits with happiness & joy.

Jaisalmer Travel is the best desert safari camp in Jaisalmer offers jeep and camel safari. Plan your trip now with us and enjoy your vacations in the sand of dunes.

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Day 1: Arrival in Jaisalmer
Pickup from Jaisalmer Railway Station / Bus Stand by placard carrying driver and transfer to your respected Hotel. Rest of the day at leisure. Evening visit Jaisalmer Local Market. Overnight stay at hotel.


Day 2: Jaisalmer City Tour
Morning visit Jaisalmer. Visit the Fort, Bazars and the old mansions known as “Havelis”. People still live in these ancient buildings dating from 12th to 15th century. Every house has exquisite carvings and filigreed work. Evening visit Sum / K+huri for Camel ride and Rajasthani Traditional dinner at Dunes with dance and music. Overnight stay at hotel.


Day 3: Jaisalmer – Jodhpur
Morning drive to Jodhpur. Afternoon visit the Meharangarh Fort, situated on a low sandstone Hill, including Moti-Mahal and Phool Mahal. Also visit Jaswant Thada, an imposing Marble Memorium built in 1899 and the museum located in the Umaid Public Gardens. Overnight Jodhpur.



Day 6: Udaipur – Bundi
 
Morning drive to Bundi. Bundi rises from a narrow gorge in rows of terraced gardens & arched Rajput houses like a two dimensional miniature painting imposed on the landscape. Visit the palace with its intricate spy-holes, secret trap doors and underground passages. Also see the spectacularly ingenious water supply system. Overnight in Bundi.
Day 7: Bundi – Ranthambhore
 
Morning drive to Ranthambore. This is Rajasthan’s first Project Tiger reserve & named after a 1000 year old fort which stands in the park .It has a congenial habitat for the stately sambar, the largest of all Asiatic deer. Tigers, cital, wild boar and other animals are also found here. Woodland, ground and water-birds abound the park including the uncommon red jungle fowl & varieties of eagles. Water tank harbours marsh crocodile and python. Overnight Ranthambore.


Day 8: Ranthambhore – Jaipur
Morning drive to Jaipur. Arrive Jaipur & transfer to hotel. Day free. Overnight Jaipur.

Day 9: Jaipur
 
Morning visit Amber Fort with elephant ride – the ancient capital of the State. Visit the Sheesh Mahal or the Hall of Victory glittering with mirrors. Afternoon visit city. The capital of Rajasthan was given a colour coat of pink a century again honour of a visiting Prince and ever since, it has retained this colour.Built by Maharaja Jai Singh, the notable astronomer, this city is 260 yrs old. Visit Maharaja’s City Palace, the Observatory & Ram Niwas Gardens. Drive past Hawa Mahal & through the pink rose residential & business areas. Overnight Jaipur.


Day 10: Jaipur – Agra
Drive to Agra visiting Fatehpur Sikri enroute. Fatehpur Sikri is 40 kms from Agra and built by Emperor Akbar in 1569 and abandoned after 15 years due to scarcity of water. See the graceful buildings including the Jama Masjid, Tomb of Salim Chisti, Panch Mahal and other Palaces. Afternoon visit the world famous Taj Mahal built by the Moghul Emperor Shahjehan in 1630 for his Queen Mumtaz Mahal to enshrine her mortal remains. Later visit the Agra Fort containing the Halls of Public and Private Audience. Overnight Agra.

Proposed Accommodation
City	3 Star	4 Star / 5 Star
Jaisalmer	Nachana Haveli	Rangmahal Palace
Sam Sand Dunes	Prince Desrt Camp	K K Desrt Camp
Jodhpur	Kuchaman Haveli	Welcome Heritage Hotel
Udaipur	Mahima Palace / Kurabar Kothi	The Lalit
Bundi	Bundi Haveli	Haveli Brijbhusan
Ranthambhore	Tiger Machan	Khem Vilas
Jaipur	Nahar Garh Haveli	Redisson Blu
Agra	Rajmahal Hotel	Whyandham Grand

Price for double Occupancy per person net
VALID TILL March, 2017

With 3 Star Hotels	With 4-star / 5-Star Hotel
INR 30,000 Per Person	INR 64,500 Per Person

NET TOUR PRICES INCLUDE SERVICES
• Accommodation on double / twin sharing basis
• 10 Nights in the above mentioned / similar hotels.
• Breakfast in the respected Hotel during the tour.
• Boat Ride at Lake Pichola in Udaipur.
• Camel safari at thar desert jaisalmer.
• Rajasthani Dinner at Desert Camp jaisalmer.
• Elephant Safari at Amber fort Jaipur
• All Transfers and Sightseeing throughout the tour by an individual Air Conditioned vehicle with English Speaking Driver.
• Services of qualified English Speaking Guide for Local Sightseeing tour
• Driver Accommodation and Food
• Toll Tax and Parking
• all currently applicable taxes
SERVICES DO NOT INCLUDE IN THIS TOUR PRICES
• monument entry fee are not included.
• Jeep or Cantrer safari are not Included.
• International flights and airport taxes
• Transporte, trips and excursions not mentioned in the program Meals
• Passport and visa
• Any tip porters, drivers, guides, waiters in restaurants and airport representatives, etc.
• Breakage personal as drinks, laundry, telephone calls, fax, WI-FI, Massage / Spa, etc.

Sightseeing in Jaisalmer
popular holiday packages
Budget Hotel Package
cheap hotels in Jaisalmer
Tourist Destination In Rajasthan
Budget Hotel Package
Jaisalmer Travel

#Cultural #Rajasthan with #Jaisalmer #Jodhpur #Ranakpur #Udaipur #Bundi #Ranthambhore

http://www.jaisalmertourpackage.com/Tour_packages/Cultural_Rajasthan_Tour_with_Jaisalmer_11_days.htm

Duration: 09 Days / 08 Nights

Destination Covered: Jaipur – Bikaner – Jaisalmer – Jodhpur – Udaipur

Valid from 27th October till 11th November

City sightseeing tour of Jaipur, Jaipur offers a plethora of touristic attractions to the traveler. The City Palace in the heart of Jaipur is known for its blend of Rajasthani and Mughal architecture. Not far away is the Central Museum with its large collection of woodwork, jewellery, costumes, brassware, and pottery. The Hawa Mahal or the Palace of Winds was constructed for the royal ladies to watch the royal processions without being seen. Later Visit Birla Temple, Albert Hall etc, Overnight at Hotel

Early morning after breakfast drive to Amber Fort, Take the Elephant Safari at the Royal Amber Fort. Later proceed to visit the Jaigarh Fort which displays a beautiful mix of Mughal and Rajput styles of architecture. Another monument near the City Palace, Jantar Mantar, is the largest of the five observatories built by Sawai Jai Singh. Hawa Mahal the “place of wind” Later in the Evening visit Albert Hall, Birla Temple. You can also enjoy the walks in the Markets of the Pink City to enjoy the Heritage View of the City and to know the culture of us. Water Palace which was a resting place for the kings in past. Overnight in Hotel.

Morning drive to Bikaner, Bikaner, situated in the northern part of Rajasthan, The city is surrounded by high fortifications comprising a seven-kilometers long wall which encircles the old city and has five entrances-all constructed in the 18th century. After sightseeing tour of Bikaner, Bikaner offers several attractions to the tourists besides, of course, the exotic camel safaris. You can visit the majestic forts or go to the Mata Karni temple where rats are considered sacred and worshipped. The camel festival held in the month of January is also an event worth witnessing. Some of the major attractions around the city are Junagarh Fort, Camel Breeding Farm, Gajner Palace and Ganga Golden Jubilee Museum. Overnight in Hotel.

Morning After breakfast drive to Jaisalmer, Jaisalmer is an important destination of the western state of India, Rajasthan. A desert city, it was founded by the Bhatti Rajput chieftain Rawal Jaisal in the year 1156. Jaisalmer could be regarded as the western sentinel of entire India and a place worth visiting to get an idea of the native Rajasthan. Located at the heart of the great Thar Desert, it offers the visitor an enchanting world of fable, colour, and history. Moreover, the magnificent wood-and stone-carved mansions and buildings display the love and interest Rajputs had for the fine arts. Rest of the day free for leisure. Overnight in Hotel.

Morning sightseeing tour of Jaisalmer The golden rays of the setting sun, the colorfully adorned locals, the massive forts and mansions, the extremely fascinating craftsmanship, Rajput havelis, all these make Jaisalmer a place of must visit in Rajasthan. Moreover a visit to the Jaisalmer Fort (the second oldest fort in Rajasthan after Chittaur), Patwon ki Haveli, (the grandest haveli of Jaisalmer), Desert Culture centre and museums gives you some glimpse of this small town’s past. The Jain temples meet your religious taste; Salim Singh ki haveli and Nathmal-ki-haveli give you some more idea of the haveli architecture of the town. Besides these, Gadsisar Lake is also an interesting spot that you must visit in this desert city. Afternoon visit Sam Sand Dunes, Ideal for viewing sunsets, these sites will also give you a chance to capture the picturesque sand dunes in your camera. Overnight at Desert camp

After Breakfast Morning drive to Jodhpur, Famous for its magnificent forts and palaces, Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan and a major tourist attraction in the country. The city is situated at the edge of the Thar Desert with Jaisalmer on its west, Barmar, Jalor and Pali on its south, Bikaner on its north, and Nagaur on the eastern side.

Afternoon sightseeing tour of Jodhpur, The forts and palaces in the city are the major source of attraction in the city. Exploring the forts gives you a feel of the times when the Rajput might was at its peak. The gates and the walls of the forts speak of the battles they have witnessed. One needs to spend enough time with these historical monuments to fully grasp the grandeur of the Rajput era. Some of the major attractions around Jodhpur are Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Umaid Bhawan & the Government Museum and Zoo. Overnight in Hotel

After Breakfast drive to Udaipur, on the way visit Ranakpur and then drive for Udaipur arrive in Udaipur and check in to Hotel , Relax ,After Relaxing a relaxing afternoon in your hotel, later in the evening proceed for boat ride at Lake Pichola and return back to hotel.

After lovely breakfast, proceed for a city sightseeing tour of Udaipur. The city is built in 1559 A.D. by Maharaja Udai Singh and has been described as the most romantic city of Mewar Region on the banks of Lake Pichola and surrounded by the Hills of Aravali Mountains Range.The Aravalli Mountains is the oldest in the world after Himalayas.

During your tour to city you will visit the (City Palace the largest Palace complex of Rajasthan and famous Jagdish Temple, Vintage car Museum, Sahelion Ki Bari the fountain Garden & world famous Puppet Museum ( Lok Kala Mandal ) and Pratap Smarak. Overnight at Hotel

09 Day – Udaipur and departure
In the morning take breakfast then drop at Railway station or Airport

Include the below services:-

–              Pick up and drop by private air-condition Vehicle

–              Car will be with you from your arrival till your departure. Means I will give you Car for your pick up from Airport or Railway Station, transfer to hotel, for moving one city to another, for all cities inside sightseeing, many excursions which are on the way and dropping at Airport or Railway Station.

–              Double / twin sharing room in the mention hotels

–              Daily buffet breakfast and Dinner

–              Rajasthani Folk dance in the Desert camp

–              Welcome drink on arrival in Desert camp

–              Camel safari in thar desert of Jaisalmer

Services not included in my tour price:-

–              Entrance fee for the monuments visits are not included in the price

–              Guide services are also not included.

–              Lunch is not included in the price.

–              Boating and elephant Safari are not included in the price.

–              Any other personal expenses such as tips, laundry, liquor, Porterage and phone calls etc

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Jaisalmer Travel

Those who all are travelling to Rajasthan or wish to travel in Rajasthan. It’s good news for them now you can also make last minute reservation for budget flights and now long distance drive will not be problem anymore it’s a moment of relief now for desert lovers as there will be enhancement in air connectivity between major tourist destinations in Rajasthan. And specially jaisalmer would get the direct flight from Delhi and Bikaner. So plan your Rajasthan future trip and let us know your tour plans so we can book the flights along with all inclusive Tour Packages Of Rajasthan.

If you are looking for a cost-effective way of chartering a private aircraft for a short trip, then an air taxi is the ideal option for you as well. We would assist you for Rajasthan group tour package and can also provide the charter flight exclusive for you and your guests to make a memorable Rajasthan tour or desert tour.

Rajasthan is always known for its iconic history, rich culture, magnificent heritage, forests, desert, safaris, and wildlife, Rajasthan attracts a large number of travelers from all across the world.

So plan your Rajasthan vacation for Diwali Or New Year Tour Package. 

 

Air taxi flies 3 times faster than your car, and air distances are 70% less compared to road distance.
An airline is flying from Jaipur to Jodhpur, Jodhpur to Jaipur, Jaipur to Udaipur and Udaipur to Jaipur with multiple daily flights. Airlines shall connect Jaipur to Agra, Agra to Delhi, Delhi to Bikaner, Delhi to Jaisalmer, Bikaner to Jaisalmer, Jaisalmer to Bikaner, Jaisalmer to Delhi, Bikaner to Delhi, Delhi to Agra, Agra to Jaipur and many more.

Now flying with your family, business colleagues and friends has become affordable with Charters. If you are a group of 8/9 passengers planning for optimum utilization of your time and resources

Their size and capabilities also enable them to land and take-off from shorter runways and landing strips, often providing passengers with access to smaller, local airports that are closer to their final destinations than busier, more popular hubs.

Plan for Rajasthan tour soon with intra state flights booking. Let us know your Rajasthan travel plan so we can send you the budget or luxury Rajasthan tour packages. And can also book your flights or charters as per your tour requirements. Rajasthan tour planner is providing Car Rental Service in Jaipur, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, Kota, Mount Abu, Udaipur, Ranthambore, Agra and Delhi. More information clicks here http://www.rajasthantourplanner.com.

Jaisalmer, popularly known as the Golden City of Rajasthan, is the land of implausible scenic beauty, majestic palaces and forts, rustic desert lifestyle, and eminent architectural splendors. This small town of Rajasthan is beautifully nestled at the heart of Thar Desert as a dazzling jewel, standing proud of an intriguing past and rich cultural heritage that is entwined in the tale of Rajputana chivalry and honor. Sightseeing in Jaisalmer includes visit to the royal palaces and majestic forts, the great Thar Desert, Jain temple, and exotic sand dunes. Besides sightseeing, eating out, camel safari, camping, adventure tours, and shopping are the most enchanting tourist attractions in Jaisalmer.

Places to Visit:

Jaisalmer has been nurtured and shaped in the hands of a clan of rulers, making the town one of the most fascinating tourist destinations, today. Some of the most eminent tourist spots include Gadsisar Lake, Jaisalmer Fort, Tazia Tower, The Jain Temple, Salim Singh ki Haveli, Nathmalji ki Haveli, Patwon ki Haveli, Folklore Museum, Sam sand dune, and Khuri sand dune. Besides these, you simply cannot miss an exotic camel ride to the majestic Thar Desert or to the royal palaces and forts. Enjoy a delicious authentic Rajasthani dinner at one of the top hotels in Jaisalmer, or head off for a quick shopping spree at the local haat. The town is famous for its handcrafted items and artifacts.

Accommodations:

Being a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is the hub of plenty of luxury hotels and budget inns, ensuring the most enchanting accommodation experience ever. For the high-end travelers, looking for sheer comfort and luxury, the top deluxe resorts in the town offer multifarious facilities like well-appointed luxurious rooms, restaurant and bar, swimming pool, spa, health club, gymnasium, club room, indoor games, kids entertainment zone, laundry and dry cleaning, internet connectivity, conference halls, and banquets. Besides these, security, car parking, power backup, safety deposit box, and travel desk comes as complimentary services.

For the more budget travelers, there are plenty of cheap hotels in Jaisalmer offering best possible services and facilities at significantly lower prices. These are a great choice when you are short on budget, but want to enjoy quality services.

Hotel Packages and Deals:

To ensure the best accommodation experience to the travelers, Jaisalmer hotels and resorts offer a wide range of packages and promo deals that help you enjoy impeccable services and facilities at significantly lower prices. These packages are generally offered by the top-notch hospices to deliver world class services and customer excellence in an impressive manner. Since all the facilities and services are included within the package, you can enjoy a hassle free tour to Jaisalmer, without breaking your bank. Some of the most popular holiday packages offered include honeymoon packages, fun family packages, spa packages, luxury hotel package, budget hotel package, and sightseeing in Jaisalmer.

Besides these, there are a plenty of attractive promo offers like free nights, last minute discounts, early booking price offs, complimentary breakfast, and other special services that will pamper you to your heart’s desire.

Sightseeing in Jaisalmer

popular holiday packages

Budget Hotel Package

cheap hotels in Jaisalmer

Tourist Destination In Rajasthan

Budget Hotel Package

The magical golden sandstone city of Jaisalmer, situated in Rajasthan's Thar desert, conjures up images of an Arabian Nights fable. Be inspired by this list of must-see attractions and places to visit! For a hassle way of seeing the sights, take this Private Half Day Tour of Jaisalmer's Golden Monuments.

To experience the full splendor of the city, go during the annual Jaisalmer Desert Festival, usually held in February or late January.

Jaisalmer ethereal sandstone Fort, which resembles a massive sandcastle rising from the desert, is the city's focal point. The Fort was built in 1156 by Rajput ruler Jaisal, who also founded the city at the same time. It's one of the largest forts in the world. However, what's really remarkable about it is that it's the largest living fort in India.  Around 2,500 people reside inside its walls. It's also home to numerous hotels, guesthouses, temples, handicraft stores, restaurants, and the former rulers' palatial palace.  The palace is open to visitors, for a fee, and guided audio tours are available.  Jaisalmer Magic runs a daily, three hour heritage walking tour through the Fort.

One of the main attractions inside the Fort is a stunning series of seven interconnected Jain temples that date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. Carved out of sandstone, the detail on them rivals that of the marble Jain temple complex at Ranakpur. You'll need to remove your shoes and all leather items before entering, and there's an admission fee of 30 rupees plus camera charges. The temples are open daily from 7 a.m. until 1 p.m.

Jaisalmer is also known for the fairytale architecture of its magnificent historic havelis (mansions), located both inside and out of the Fort. Many can be found in the narrow lanes north of the Fort. In this area, the towering 18th century Patwa Haveli is the city's biggest and most important haveli. Built by five Jain brothers, it's most impressive from the outside, with its breathtaking intricate stonework. Two sections of it are open to the public -- one is an interesting privately operated museum that's worth a look. In the same area, the distinctively shaped Salim Singh Haveli and extraordinary Nathmal Haveli are worth visiting as well. Inside Nathmal Haveli, the beautiful gold paintings are a highlight.

Most tourists take a camel safari -- it's the quintessential Jaisalmer experience! A camel safari will also give you the opportunity to witness the rustic, rural desert life of India. It's possible to go on a quick one day safari or a hardcore safari as long as 30 days! However, it's important that you choose the provider carefully as the safari business is extremely competitive and you definitely get what you pay for.

Hordes of people head to the famous and picturesque Sam Sand Dunes, around 40 kilometers west of Jaisalmer, at sunset. Cultural performances and camel rides create a carnival atmosphere. It's possible to stay at a desert camp in the area. The majority are located close to the Sam Dunes. However, there are other options that provide unique, non-touristy experiences. Here are five of the best ones. On the way to the Sam Dunes, Kuldhara Abandoned Village is a worthwhile place to visit. If you'd prefer a more peaceful desert experience, the dunes around Khuri village in Desert National Park, 45 kilometers southwest of Jaisalmer, are an appealing alternative. Accommodations are available in traditional-style huts and small resorts. You can go on a camel safari there as well.

Vyas Chhatri, on the edge of Jaisalmer north of the Fort, is dedicated to the great Brahmin sage Vyasa who authored the Hindu epic the Mahabharata. This haunting place is used as a cremation ground for Pushkarana Brahmins and contains a number of cenotaphs (empty tombs) erected in honor of notable ones. The cenotaphs are referred to as chhatris because of their domes, which look like umbrellas (chhatris). Go there for spectacular sunsets over the city.

Jaisalmer has another group of similar looking cenotaphs, in a large unkempt garden around five kilometers further out, erected in honor of the city's royal rulers from the 16th to 20th centuries. The last cenotaph to be built is dedicated to Maharaja Jawaharlal Singh, who reigned after India’s Independence. However, it remains incomplete due to his death a year after Independence, which was viewed as a bad omen by the family. Most intriguing are the plaques on the cenotaphs. Plaques showing both maharaja and maharani together indicate that the queen committed sati (threw herself on her husband's funeral pyre). In contrast to the cenotaphs, modern wind turbines now populate the breezy hill as well, to generate electricity.

Gadsisar Lake, also called Gadisar Lake, is a huge artificial reservoir that was built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the 14th century. It provided the only water supply to the city until 1965. The many small temples and shrines that surround the lake make it particularly inviting. Migratory waterfowl are an added attraction in winter, along with numerous catfish in the water that love to be fed. Boats are available for hire too. The lake is located on the southeast edge of the city.

You may be surprised to discover that bhang (marijuana) is sold openly in Jaisalmer. The renowned Lassi Shop (previously called the Government Authorized Bhang Shop), outside the first fort gate at Gopa Chowk, has been in business since 1977. It attracts a steady flow of curious customers who are served by the aptly named Doctor Bhang.  There's a tempting array of bhang lassis (marijuana milkshakes) bhang cookies, cakes, chocolates and sweets, with potencies ranging from weak to strong.  The safari packs, promising a smooth camel ride, are popular with travelers.

If you're keen to lean about the history and folklore of Jaisalmer, Thar Heritage Museum is the place. This small privately operated museum was set up by the characterful L N Khatri, owner of the nearby Desert Handicraft Emporium, and he gives informative and entertaining guided tours.  The museum contains an eclectic assortment of artifacts, all collected by Mr Khatri over the course of his life. They include fossils, documents, portraits, photos, sculptures, coins, manuscripts, turbans, weapons, and kitchen equipment. There's a 40 rupees entrance fee. Puppet shows are often held there in the evenings, adding to the enchantment.