Explore the Best of Jaisalmer: A 4-Day Family Friendly Itinerary on a Low Budget
Thursday, September 28: Day 1 - Arriving in Jaisalmer
Start your Jaisalmer adventure by arriving in the city and checking into your hotel. Take some time to relax and settle in. In the morning, head to Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rising majestically in the Thar Desert. Explore the narrow lanes, visit the Jain Temples, and admire the intricate architecture. For lunch, savor local Rajasthani cuisine at a traditional restaurant near the fort. In the afternoon, visit the Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five grand mansions showcasing intricate artwork. Witness the stunning sunset at Sam Sand Dunes in the evening and enjoy a camel ride amidst the golden sands.
Jaisalmer Fort: Free entry, 2-3 hours
Patwon Ki Haveli: INR 100 (approximately), 1-2 hours
Sam Sand Dunes: Camel ride - INR 300-500 per person, Sunset view - Free
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Trio Café, located near Jaisalmer Fort. Enjoy a variety of options including dosas, sandwiches, and freshly brewed coffee. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 200 per person.
For a flavorful lunch, head to Café Royale, a charming restaurant known for its Rajasthani thali. Indulge in a traditional thali spread featuring dishes like dal bati churma and gatte ki sabzi. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 400 per person.
In the evening, treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Desert Boy's Dhani, a rustic restaurant offering authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Try their signature dishes like laal maas and ker sangri. The average cost for a meal is about Rs. 800 per person.
Friday, September 29: Day 2 - Desert Safari and Cultural Exploration
Embark on a desert safari adventure today. Start with a visit to the Bada Bagh, a beautiful garden complex featuring cenotaphs dedicated to the rulers of Jaisalmer. Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings and capture some memorable photographs. Later, head to Kuldhara, an abandoned village known for its mysterious history. In the afternoon, venture into the Thar Desert for an exhilarating camel safari. Experience the thrill of riding a camel through the vast sand dunes. In the evening, attend a cultural program at a local campsite and indulge in traditional Rajasthani folk dances and music.
Bada Bagh: INR 50 (approximately), 1-2 hours
Kuldhara: INR 10 (approximately), 1-2 hours
Camel Safari: INR 500-800 per person, 2-3 hours
Cultural Program: INR 200-300 per person, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Surya Restaurant: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Surya Restaurant. They offer a wide variety of Indian and continental dishes, including pancakes, omelettes, and parathas. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
Desert Boy's Dhani: For a satisfying lunch, head to Desert Boy's Dhani. This restaurant serves authentic Rajasthani cuisine, including dal bati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Enjoy the traditional atmosphere and the average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
The Trio: End your day with a memorable dinner at The Trio. This restaurant offers a diverse menu with options ranging from Indian to Chinese and continental. Try their butter chicken or paneer tikka. The average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Saturday, September 30: Day 3 - Forts, Palaces, and Local Souvenirs
Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful Gadisar Lake. Take a relaxing boat ride and admire the stunning architecture of the surrounding temples and ghats. Explore the nearby Desert Culture Centre and Museum to learn about the heritage and culture of Rajasthan. For lunch, try some delicious local street food from the bustling Sadar Bazaar. In the afternoon, visit the enchanting Mandir Palace, a stunning sandstone mansion featuring exquisite artwork. End the day by shopping for souvenirs and handicrafts at the local markets, where you can find intricately designed textiles, jewelry, and more.
Gadisar Lake: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Desert Culture Centre and Museum: INR 20 (approximately), 1-2 hours
Mandir Palace: INR 100 (approximately), 1-2 hours
Sadar Bazaar: As per your budget and preference, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Trio Restaurant. This cozy café offers a variety of options, from traditional Indian dishes to continental fare. The average cost for a meal is about 200 rupees per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Rajwada Restaurant. Specializing in Rajasthani cuisine, this restaurant offers a range of authentic dishes to delight your taste buds. The average cost for a meal is about 300 rupees per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a memorable dining experience at The Trio – The Roof Top Restaurant. Enjoy stunning views of the city while indulging in a sumptuous spread of Indian and international delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 500 rupees per person.
Sunday, October 1: Day 4 - Heritage Walk and Sunset at Amar Sagar
Embark on a heritage walk through the charming streets of Jaisalmer, accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. Discover hidden architectural gems, beautiful havelis, and temples. For lunch, try the local specialty, "Jaisalmer Ke Paranthe," at a popular restaurant. In the afternoon, head to Amar Sagar, a serene lake surrounded by a series of stunning Jain temples and cenotaphs. Witness the breathtaking sunset over the lake and relax amidst nature. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Rajasthani meal at a rooftop restaurant while soaking up the panoramic views of the city.
Heritage Walk: INR 400-500 per person, 2-3 hours
Amar Sagar: Free entry, 1-2 hours
Rooftop Restaurant Dinner: As per your budget and preference, 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Trio Cafe, known for its delicious omelettes and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about 150 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Natraj Restaurant and indulge in their authentic Rajasthani Thali, offering a variety of vegetarian dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Saffron Restaurant, offering a mix of Indian and international cuisine. Don't miss their signature butter chicken and biryani. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off the beaten path experiences in Jaisalmer, visit the abandoned Kuldhara village, located around 20 km from the main city. This ghost town holds a mysterious atmosphere and a hauntingly beautiful charm. You can also explore the nearby Khuri village, known for its traditional mud houses and tranquil surroundings. Take a camel safari in Khuri to witness the untouched beauty of the desert while supporting the local community. Another local favorite is visiting Patwon Ki Haveli in the early morning for a unique perspective and to avoid the crowds. Don't forget to try the famous local delicacy, "Sonmukhi Makhania Lassi," a refreshing yogurt-based drink available at various street stalls.