Places to visit near Jaisalmer – A visit to the city of Jaisalmer is not just about exploring the historical monuments that are pretty much scattered over the city. The visit is about witnessing the beauty of the city and to explore the flora and fauna at the desert here and to stay in a luxurious resort that is located near to the Thar Desert. There are a number of stories you get to hear from the locals, especially when you visit the temple complexes and the warmth and the love of the people here is what makes you feel like coming back for more.
There are a number of places to visit near Jaisalmer, and the best time to visit the city is during the winter months. Let us know have a look at the places that you can visit in and around Jaisalmer.
Places to Visit Near Jaisalmer
Khuri
Khuri is a village that is located 48km away from Jaisalmer and is the perfect destination if you wish to explore some sand dunes. The natural hamlet is located in the Thar Desert and is pretty famous for the vast stretch of sand dunes. This is what attracts a number of visitors who often take a camel ride during the time of sunset. Tourists can prefer to reside in resorts in Jaisalmer like Jaisalkot and travel to Khuri as you might not find luxurious resorts at Khuri for an overnight stay. Those interested can also take a camel ride to visit the surrounding areas, most of which are remote and a few empty.
Lodurva
Lodurva is also called as Luderwa was popular as the capital of the Western Rajasthan when it was ruled by the Rajputs during the ancient times. It is said that the Bhatti Rajput clan used to reside here before they shifted to the new Jaisalmer fort. Lodurva was attacked by the famous conquerors like Mahmud Ghazni and Muhammad Ghori and the history buffs can find interesting facts from the ruins found here.
Tourists can visit the Jain temple complex, which is famous for the nag devta. Locals believe that a live snake till date appears on auspicious days and nights, and people worship the same as they believe that it is been protecting the temple from years. The temples here are also famous for their architecture and the intricate carvings. It is also said that these temples were ransacked during the time of Ghori but were again restored during the 1970s.
Khaba Fort
One of the best places to visit near Jaisalmer is Khaba Fort. The place is famous with the locals as well as the tourists and many believe that there is a mystery connected about the fort. The fort looks more like an abandoned village and you get to have a look at ruined homes and even explore some ancient artifacts.
Though deserted, the fort is architecturally impressive, that can be dated back to the 13th century. The fort was a part of the Kuldhara village and was inhabited by Brahmins. It was during the 1800s that the villagers fled the town and it is now a deserted ruin.
The fort is located at close proximity from Jaisalmer and all it takes to reach here is a 30-minute drive.
Kuldhara
Kuldhara is one of the most visited places near Jaisalmer and is also known as the ghost village. It is also famous as one of the most haunted places in the country. A visit to the village will make you wonder about why the people had to flee the village leaving behind their homes. Ask a local and they would tell you various tales about how the people of this village along with people from other villages fled their homes.
If the story has to be believed, it is said that the then Diwan of this region, Salum Singh had levied heavy taxes on the people. He later eyed one of the girls from the village to marry her but received disapproval from the community. Due to this, he showed his anger on the villagers and this is what made them flee overnight. The people who left their homes cursed the village and till date all the villages are deserted.
Desert National Park
Most of us aware that it is hard to witness wild animals when we are on a tour in the desert but the Desert National Park proves it otherwise. Located in the Thar Desert, the national park perfectly represents a desert ecosystem and is loved by everyone for its natural beauty. You not only find rock formations here but can witness an arrangement of rare fauna and flora. This is what makes it a must visit place if you are in Jaisalmer. The national park spans over 3162 sq km and is also known to be one among the largest national parks in India. The Indian Bustard, which is an endangered species is the main attraction here and can be easily spotted near the “Sudashri waterhole”. Though the national park is fragile, one can still find a number of a resident as well as migratory birds like eagles, falcons, and vultures here. The best time to visit this place is during November and January.
Wood Fossil Park
Another attraction located at a distance of 17km from Jaisalmer is the Wood Fossil Park which has fossils that can be dated back to 180 million years. You can find fossils of plants as well as animals like dinosaurs here.
Sunset Point
One of the best places near Jaisalmer is the sunset point, which provides an amazing view of the whole city. A number of tourists wall up the small hill which is popular by the name of Sunset Point and witness the magic of sunset. When the sun starts to set, it transforms from its red harsh color to a soothing golden color, the hues of which paint the whole city in gold. Even the famous Jaisalmer Fort looks like a golden palace during this time. Visitors need to make sure to reach the place at least an hour before sunset to enjoy the magnificent views.
Now that you are aware of the best places near Jaisalmer, plan your trip accordingly. You can stay in Jaisalkot, a luxury resort in Jaisalmer that also assists its guests with the tour of the nearby attractions.
Jaisalkot is a luxury hotel in Jaisalmer and has a royal and serene ambiance. Guests can witness the majestic views of the fort’s maidan or the desert from the rooms. Though known for its old charm, Jaisalkot is equipped with modern amenities. Whatever room you choose, you are assured of a comfortable stay. Stay at Jaisalkot and make memories for a lifetime!