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Sharing only vital information for trip to Jaisalmer (जैसलमेर):-
lets begin with planning part:-
Being a wiser cum miser, I will suggest my readers to reach Jaisalmer by train. Direct trains from Jodhpur, Jaipur, New Delhi and Mumbai are available on a weekly basis. Alternatively, one can plan a day for Jodhpur and then the next day to Jaisalmer as trains have daily connectivity between the two cities. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.whereismytrain.android
For your upcoming trip to Jaisalmer, I suggest planning a one-day stay in the desert. The following day, you can explore Jaisalmer and its nearby attractions. If you’re confused about whether to visit Khuri or Sam Sand Dunes, here’s what you need to know. The main difference between the two places is the level of commercialization. The Sam Sand Dunes are more popular among tourists, with more commercial activities. On the other hand, the Khuri Dunes are less commercialized, and hence, less crowded. If you’re looking for a peaceful and less crowded place, Khuri Dunes (खुरी) are a good option.
If you are confused about how to get to Khuri, I recommend either renting a two-wheeler (couple) or taking the public bus which costs 60 rupees per passenger if you want to save money. Please note that the frequency of buses on this route is less. For renting a two-wheeler, I suggest going to Jaisalmer Rent Wala, which is located very close to Jaisalmer fort. There, you will meet Kuldeep who will guide you through everything. I booked a scooty for two days over the phone, with an advance payment of 500 rupees for security. For more information, you can reach out to Kuldeep directly on his contact number. The total cost for two days was 1400 rupees. Overall fuel cost was 500 rupees for two days. The location of Jaisalmer Bike rent wala https://maps.app.goo.gl/D11krg9pxpgtgWoPA also you can call Mr. Kuldeep for booking on this number 9950913056.
I was confused between Khuri and Sam Sand Dunes, but I choose Khuri for its peaceful and affordable stay. Sharing directions from Jaisalmer to khuri https://maps.app.goo.gl/n4wjEXi9btyT14Xb7 . Badal House in Khuri gave me two options.
- First, you can stay in a mud house or a simple room in the village Khuri at Badal’s house. The charge is 400 rupees per person, including dinner and breakfast.
- One have to reach Badal house early by 15/00 hours. Upon reaching Badal house, one can freshen up and embark on a one-hour-long camel ride to Khuri sand dunes. While enjoying the beautiful sunset, the camel drivers will cook for you. You can choose to sleep under the open sky with enough blankets and mattresses provided. Alternatively, if you prefer a tent, there will be an additional charge (300/tent). The cost for one night stay in the desert is 800/person inclusive of the camel ride, dinner, next morning tea, and breakfast.
Opting for the second choice was an easy decision for me, as I had been yearning for a chance to enjoy a night under the starry sky. For more information, you can reach out to Mr. Narpat singh, son of owner of Badal house directly on his contact number 7742470506. The camel drivers will take you from Khuri sand dunes to Badal House the next morning, which marks the end of your stay there. After that, you can head to Jaisalmer and aim to arrive by noon. If you’re worried about finding a place to stay in the city, you can go to Geeta Ashram https://maps.app.goo.gl/GD6E65uDCLnDeUn67 or Bhatia Bagechi Dharmshala https://maps.app.goo.gl/vB7J6WDvFDAxVXQP9. Both are religious centres that also offers accommodations, and the temple, big lawn, and chanting of mantras and bhajans can help you relax after a long ride. The cost of room in the ashram is 500 rupees per day, and you can check out 24 hours from the time of booking. After freshening up and having lunch, you can go to the Office of Jaisalmer Bike Rent Wala, park your vehicle, and start exploring the city.
- Jaisalmer Fort is a unique fort in India as nearly 1/4th of its population still resides inside the fort. There is no entry fee for visiting the fort but private palaces and museums charge a fee. You can visit numerous shops that sell colored puppets, souvenirs, and handicrafts. Do not spend much time exploring the fort. Afterward, you can move to Patwaon ki Haweli, a place worth visiting after paying an entry fee of Rs. 150.
- The Patwaon ki Haweli https://maps.app.goo.gl/ngykDZiJs5bLSpWr9 allows cameras inside if you pay an extra 50 Rs. This haveli consists of five different palaces and is also known as the House of the Brocade Merchants, as it was built by a wealthy brocade merchant and jeweler. The five mansions were built for the five Patwa brothers. The mansion is made of yellow sandstone with a brown gateway and has about 60 balconies in total.
- After visiting the bungalows, you should head to Bada Bagh. This is a place famous for Chhatri, which are cenotaphs. These cenotaphs are cremation grounds for Brahmins. You can take your rented vehicle and follow the directions provided in the link https://maps.app.goo.gl/JDvpBczPJCuFHykv6 to reach Bada Bagh. One has to pay Rs 50 at entry gate (Entry is free for Army, Aavy and Air force personnel’s).
As the sun sets, make your way to Gadisar Lake. Take in to puppet show at the Folklore Museum, and bask in the glow of the light and sound show from the steps of the ghats. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a serene boat ride on the tranquil waters of the lake.
This ends your day trip to Jaisalmer.
I have listed all the must-visit spots in Jaisalmer. Additionally, Kuldhara Village and Tanot Mata Temple (near to INDO-PAK Border) are also worth visiting, but require an extra day.
