Things to Do in Jaisalmer: Fort, Havelis, and Gadisar Lake in One Day

Jaisalmer Fort’s Jain temples make a strong first stop for a day focused on the city’s history and architecture. The complex contains seven temples dating from the 12th and 15th centuries, according to Rajasthan Tourism.

Chandraprabhu, the first temple in the complex, was constructed in 1509. Inside the temples, frescoes, mirrors and carved human and animal figures add detail to the stonework. Rajasthan Tourism says you can reach the temples by hired or shared auto-rickshaw from anywhere in the city.

Take time to look closely at the temple decoration before moving on to the havelis. For more background on the fort and its temples, how to visit Jaisalmer Fort and its Jain temples covers the complex in greater detail.

Jaisalmer’s havelis bring carved sandstone facades into the route after the fort. Salim Singh Ki Haveli is built from golden-yellow sandstone and has 38 balconies, each with a distinct design, according to Incredible India.

Nathmal Ki Haveli dates to the 19th century. Part of the building is inhabited by the family of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, while part is used as a shop selling souvenirs and local crafts. Nathmal Ki Haveli is open from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Salim Singh Ki Haveli from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

As you walk between the buildings, pay attention to the changing details in the facades and the narrow lanes around them. A walking route to Jaisalmer’s famous havelis can help you plan this part of the day.

Use the middle of the day for a pause in the old city before continuing to Gadisar Lake. Market streets sit among the sandstone buildings, keeping this break close to the historic surroundings rather than taking the itinerary away from the city’s main sights.

If you are staying at Mahadev Palace, the hotel offers three-star hotel rooms in Jaisalmer. Keep the route flexible around the haveli visits, since their opening times differ.

Gadisar Lake offers a waterside finish to a day among Jaisalmer’s historic buildings. The reservoir dates to 1400 AD, during Maharawal Gadsi Singh’s rule, and was made to conserve rainwater; it was once the city’s main water source.

You can paddleboat or rowboat on the lake, and migratory birds can be spotted there. The Rajasthan government gives approximate visitor hours as 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and an approximate boating cost of INR 100. The Desert Festival takes place once a year during winter.

For more practical detail on the lake, including its visitor activities, read this Gadisar Lake visit guide.

Confirm current opening times and boating arrangements before you build the day around them. Hours and approximate costs can change, so check the official site before you go, including the relevant Rajasthan Tourism or Incredible India pages.

Keep the order straightforward: visit the fort temples first, fit the havelis around their opening times, then head to the lake. If you are travelling by auto-rickshaw to the fort temples, Rajasthan Tourism says both hired and shared rides are available from anywhere in the city.

How many Jain temples are inside Jaisalmer Fort?

The fort complex contains seven Jain temples. They date from the 12th and 15th centuries.

What are the opening hours for Salim Singh Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli?

Salim Singh Ki Haveli is open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Nathmal Ki Haveli from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Check the official site before you go, as hours can change.

What can you do at Gadisar Lake?

You can paddleboat or rowboat on the lake, and migratory birds may be spotted there.

When does the Jaisalmer Desert Festival take place?

The festival takes place once a year during winter.