A Memorable Family-Friendly Adventure in Jaisalmer
Friday November 17: Arrival in Jaisalmer
Welcome to Jaisalmer, the Golden City of India! Start your trip by arriving at the Jaisalmer Airport and checking into one of the city's family-friendly hotels. Check out kayak.com for the best hotel deals. In the morning, visit the stunning Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila, and explore its intricate architecture. Afterward, head to the Patwon Ki Haveli, a collection of five beautifully crafted mansions. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling camel safari in the Sam Sand Dunes and experience the magic of the Thar Desert. Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani dinner in the evening while being entertained by folk music and dance.
Jaisalmer Fort: Entrance fee: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Patwon Ki Haveli: Entrance fee: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Camel Safari: Cost: INR 1,500 - 2,500 per person, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Restaurants
Indulge in a delicious breakfast at Trio Restaurant, offering a variety of Indian and Continental dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
Savor a satisfying lunch at Desert Boy's Dhani Restaurant, serving authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Enjoy an exquisite dinner at The Trio Roof Top Restaurant, providing a panoramic view of Jaisalmer and serving a range of delectable dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Saturday November 18: Exploring Jaisalmer
Start your day with a visit to the Bada Bagh, a serene and picturesque garden complex with cenotaphs of the royal family. Then, head to the Gadisar Lake, a man-made reservoir surrounded by stunning temples and shrines. Take a serene boat ride on the lake and soak in the tranquility. In the afternoon, visit the Desert Cultural Centre to learn about the vibrant culture and history of Rajasthan. In the evening, witness a mesmerizing puppet show that showcases the local art of storytelling through puppets.
Bada Bagh: Entrance fee: INR 50 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Gadisar Lake: Entrance fee: INR 20 per person, Boat ride: INR 200 per person, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Desert Cultural Centre: Entrance fee: INR 30 per person, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Puppet Show: Cost: INR 100 per person, Time spent: 1 hour
Restaurants
Head to the iconic The Trio Cafe for breakfast, where you can enjoy a delicious spread of pancakes, omelettes, and fresh juices. Average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, stop by the renowned Desert Boys Dhani Restaurant that serves authentic Rajasthani cuisine, including dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. Average cost for a meal is about 300 INR per person.
In the evening, savor the flavors of Rajasthan at the rooftop Saffron Restaurant, which offers a range of traditional dishes like Laal Maas and Ghevar. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
Sunday November 19: Day Trip to Sam Sand Dunes
Embark on an exciting day trip to the Sam Sand Dunes, located approximately 42 km from Jaisalmer. Enjoy thrilling dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle and experience the adrenaline rush as you glide over the sand dunes. Engage in sandboarding, taking on the challenge of surfing down the dunes. In the afternoon, savor a traditional Rajasthani lunch at a desert camp and immerse yourself in the local culture by participating in traditional dances and music performances. Return to Jaisalmer in the evening and relax at your hotel.
Day Trip to Sam Sand Dunes: Cost: INR 3,000 - 4,000 per person, Time spent: Full day
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Traveler's Cafe, located in the heart of Jaisalmer. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as omelettes, pancakes, and traditional Indian dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 INR per person.
For lunch, head to Trio Restaurant, a popular eatery known for its flavorful Rajasthani cuisine. Indulge in dishes like dal bati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker sangri, accompanied by freshly made bread and rice. The average cost for a meal is about 400 INR per person.
For dinner, treat yourself to a special dining experience at Saffron Restaurant. Located in a beautiful heritage haveli, this restaurant offers a range of Indian and international dishes cooked to perfection. The average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Monday November 20: Farewell to Jaisalmer
On your last day in Jaisalmer, explore the local markets and indulge in some souvenir shopping. Visit the Sadar Bazaar, known for its embroidered textiles, handicrafts, and jewelry. Enjoy a delicious Rajasthani lunch at a local restaurant before bidding farewell to this enchanting city. Don't forget to take some memorable photographs to preserve the memories of your family-friendly adventure in Jaisalmer.
Sadar Bazaar: Cost varies based on purchases, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to The Trio Cafe, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and a variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 250 INR per person.
Indulge in a satisfying Rajasthani lunch at Desert Boy's Dhani, known for its traditional thali meals and warm hospitality. Average cost for a meal is about 500 INR per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Saffron Restaurant, offering a blend of Indian and international cuisines in a cozy atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 800 INR per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While Jaisalmer offers many popular attractions, there are a few hidden gems and local favorites worth exploring. Take a detour to see the Kuldhara Ghost Village, an abandoned village with an intriguing history. Discover the Khaba Fort, located amidst the ruins of the Kuldhara village, and learn about the folklore associated with it. These off the beaten path attractions are perfect for families who enjoy exploring history and legends while enjoying the rustic charm of Rajasthan.