A Jaisalmer itinerary with room for the desert
01 Start with sandstone
Begin at Jaisalmer Fort and the old-city lanes, with Patwon Ki Haveli a short walk away. See things to do in Jaisalmer.
02 Leave room for the lake
Gadisar Lake offers a different view of the city, and a slower hour between the lanes and the desert.
03 Choose one longer outing
Kuldhara, Bada Bagh or Desert National Park each deserve unhurried time. Check current access and timings locally.
04 Give the Sam sand dunes an evening
The dunes are at their best as the light drops. Staying on Sam Road means the desert is on your side of the day rather than at the end of a long return drive.
Two days or three?
Two days covers the fort, Patwon Ki Haveli and Gadisar Lake plus one desert evening. A third day makes room for Kuldhara, Bada Bagh or Desert National Park, without hurrying any of them. Read a first-time guide to Jaisalmer.
Travel lightly, come prepared
Most travellers visit between October and March, when days are milder and desert evenings are cool. Pack light layers for the day and something warmer for the evening.
Where to stay near the Sam sand dunes
Evara Jaisalmer has 52 two-bedroom premium tents on Sam Road at Kanoi, on the way to the dunes. See the tents.