Take an early flight from Mumbai to Jodhpur (best connection for Jaisalmer). Flights take ~1h30m; arrive early to start the road transfer to Jaisalmer. Book a morning flight to maximise time in Jaisalmer.
Pre-book a private transfer or taxi from Jodhpur airport to Jaisalmer (approx 5–6 hours, 280–300 km) — the drive is scenic across the Thar and drops you into the desert landscape.
Check in and have a relaxed lunch at your hotel or Suryagarh's restaurant (if staying there) for Rajasthani specialities and a welcome rest after travel. Most hotel restaurants open continuously from midday.
Explore the living fort’s narrow lanes, shops and temples — the fort is an excellent first-stop to get oriented and watch late afternoon light on the sandstone walls. Note: many shops close by 6:00pm; fort visiting generally best between 9:00am–6:00pm.
Enjoy a rooftop dinner with views of the illuminated fort; choose a popular rooftop restaurant close to the fort for local dhaba-style or Rajasthani thali dishes. Rooftop places typically open until 10:30pm.
Start with a hearty breakfast — order a Rajasthani-style breakfast (poha/kachori and chai) at your hotel or a nearby café; breakfasts usually served from 7:00–11:00am.
Visit the elaborate Patwon Ki Haveli — the largest haveli complex in Jaisalmer showcasing intricate jali work, mirrors and carved balconies; it's a great place to learn the merchant history of the city. Typical opening hours 9:00am–5:00pm.
Walk (short distance) to see Nathmal Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli — notable for their unique facades and rooftop architecture; quick stops to photograph detailed stonework.
Have lunch at a popular rooftop restaurant close to the fort serving thalis and grilled local dishes; rooftop seating offers views and cooling breezes. Most serve lunch until 3:00pm.
Visit Gadisar Lake — a historic artificial lake with temples, shrines and migrating birds (best late afternoon) for a calm walk and photos. The lakeside area is accessible from early morning until sunset.
Explore the small but informative museum on Thar culture with traditional artefacts and folk costumes; good to do before sunset as many museums close around 5:00–6:00pm.
Treat yourself to a fine-dining Rajasthani meal at a renowned hotel restaurant like Suryagarh (advance reservation recommended) or pick a well-rated local eater for authentic thali and kebabs.
Have breakfast and pack an overnight bag for the dunes (light layers, hat, water). Many hotels serve breakfast from 7:00–10:00am before desert departures.
Transfer by jeep or private vehicle to the Sam Sand Dunes area (approx 45–60 minutes) — this brings you to the edge of the Thar Desert where dune experiences begin.
Take an optional morning jeep safari across desert tracks for adrenaline and scenery; morning safaris are cooler and less crowded than late-afternoon runs. Jeep safaris typically run 1–2 hours and should be pre-booked or booked locally.
Ride a camel from the jeep drop-off to your desert camp to watch the spectacular sunset over the dunes — the classic desert experience includes traditional music, folk dance and storytelling. Camel rides and sunset experiences usually run late afternoon through dusk.
Enjoy a camp dinner (Rajasthani thali) with live folk music and dance — many camps provide vegetarian and non-vegetarian options and keep guests up late with cultural performances.
Spend the night in a comfortable desert camp/heritage tent under the stars; camps vary from budget to luxury — book one with good reviews for hygiene and blankets (desert nights can be cool).
Wake for sunrise over the dunes and enjoy a simple breakfast at the camp (most camps serve tea/coffee and a light breakfast from sunrise). This is a great photo opportunity and a peaceful start.
Visit Kuldhara (approx 18 km from Jaisalmer), the famous abandoned village with eerie ruins and a local guide will explain its mysterious history; open roughly 9:00am–6:00pm, so morning is ideal to avoid heat.
Return to town for lunch at a recommended local family-style restaurant to try dal baati churma or other Rajasthani specialities; many restaurants open midday until late afternoon.
Visit Bada Bagh — a landscaped complex of royal cenotaphs (chhatris) set on terraces overlooking the desert, excellent for late-afternoon photography; generally open until sunset.
Stroll Sadar Bazaar for textiles, puppets, carpets and brassware — bargaining is expected and shops often open until 8:30–9:00pm. Great place to pick up souvenirs.
For a cultural dinner experience, choose a dhani-style restaurant or a well-reviewed local eatery; Desert Boy's Dhani is a popular option for an authentic meal with folk performances.
Have an early hotel breakfast and check out; leave luggage with reception if you plan a short stop en route to Jodhpur. Breakfast service generally starts 7:00am in most hotels.
Drive back to Jodhpur (5–6 hours) allowing time for a short stop in the countryside or at roadside dhabas; arrive in the afternoon for an optional quick sightseeing stop if flight timing allows.
If time permits before your flight, visit Mehrangarh Fort — one of Rajasthan’s grandest forts with panoramic city views and a good museum; typical visiting hours 9:00am–5:00pm (some evenings extended).