Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City of India, famous for its grand forts, havelis, and desert experiences. But beyond the popular attractions, Jaisalmer hides many lesser-known places that are equally magical. These hidden gems offer peace, history, and unforgettable experiences away from the usual tourist crowd. If you’re planning a trip, make sure to explore these offbeat places that show a different side of Jaisalmer.
Kuldhara is an abandoned village around 18 km from Jaisalmer. This place has an eerie silence and a mysterious history. It is said that the villagers left the place overnight due to some unknown curse. Today, you can still see the remains of mud houses and temples, giving you a glimpse into how people lived in the past. Walking around Kuldhara feels like stepping into an old story. It’s calm, quiet, and gives you a unique desert experience far from the crowd.
Located near Kuldhara, Khaba Fort is another quiet place worth visiting. This fort was once a bustling village but is now in ruins. The view from the fort is stunning, especially during sunrise and sunset. There is also a small museum inside that showcases ancient tools, weapons, and coins. Khaba Fort is rarely crowded, making it a perfect stop for history lovers and peace seekers. The surrounding empty village adds to the mysterious charm of the place.
Lodurva is about 15 km from Jaisalmer and is known for its beautiful Jain temples. These temples are built using yellow sandstone and have fine carvings on their walls and pillars. Lodurva was once the capital of the Bhati rulers before Jaisalmer was founded. Apart from temples, there are sand dunes and greenery around which make it a pleasant spot for nature walks and quiet exploration. Lodurva is a peaceful place where you can sit and soak in the spiritual atmosphere.
Amar Sagar is a peaceful lake near the Amar Singh Palace. It is a quiet and scenic place, perfect for those looking to relax by the water. The lake is surrounded by beautiful sandstone pavilions and temples, giving it a royal look. Birds often come here, making it a good place for photography and birdwatching. While many tourists head to Gadisar Lake, Amar Sagar remains untouched and is a perfect escape for those who love quiet moments in nature.
If you want to see the wild beauty of the Thar Desert, head to Desert National Park. It is home to many desert animals and birds like the Great Indian Bustard, desert fox, and chinkara. The park is huge and gives you the real feeling of the desert’s natural life. You can go for a jeep safari or guided nature walks. It’s a great spot for those interested in wildlife, photography, and spending time in open nature.
Located near the India-Pakistan border, Tanot Mata Temple is not only a religious site but also has a patriotic feel. During the Indo-Pak war of 1965, it is said that several bombs fell near the temple but did not explode. The temple is peaceful and surrounded by desert landscape. It is managed by the Border Security Force (BSF), and visiting it gives you a different kind of travel experience filled with calmness and respect.
Bada Bagh is a set of royal cenotaphs or chhatris dedicated to Jaisalmer’s rulers. It is located on a small hill and gives a great view of the desert and nearby windmills. The place is peaceful, especially during sunset. The golden light falling on the cenotaphs makes it perfect for photography. Unlike other crowded monuments, Bada Bagh is quieter and lets you enjoy the beauty of Rajasthani architecture at your own pace.
If you’re looking for a less touristy desert experience, Kanoi Sand Dunes are a good option. These dunes are not far from the popular Sam dunes but are quieter and more peaceful. You can enjoy camel rides, jeep safaris, and beautiful sunsets here without too much noise or crowd. Staying in a Camp in Jaisalmer near Kanoi lets you enjoy the desert night under the stars, around a bonfire, and with local Rajasthani music.
Fossil Park is a hidden treasure that shows how the Thar desert was once under the sea. It’s located near the Desert National Park and has rock and fossil displays that are millions of years old. This place is great for students, researchers, and anyone curious about Earth’s history. The peaceful surroundings make it a good stop on your way to or from the park.
Khuri is a small desert village that gives a raw and authentic desert stay. It is less commercial than Sam, and you can experience the traditional desert lifestyle here. Many camps in this area are eco-friendly and offer a calm environment. Royal Pavilion Camps also offers a unique experience of living in a Luxury Camp in Jaisalmer, where you can enjoy cultural shows, local food, and a peaceful desert night under the stars.
This small but charming art gallery in Jaisalmer town showcases the work of local artists. You can see and buy paintings, traditional crafts, and handmade goods here. It’s not very crowded, and the artists are friendly and love to talk about their work. It’s a good place to understand the creative side of Jaisalmer beyond just its forts and dunes.
Sometimes, the best way to enjoy a place is by staying somewhere quiet and close to nature. Instead of staying in the main town, many travelers now prefer camps near dunes for a relaxing time. Places like Royal Pavilion Camps offer peaceful stays in the desert with all basic comforts. Watching stars in the sky while lying outside your tent is something you’ll never forget.