Rajasthan is one of the most beautiful states in India, also called the “Land of Maharajas.” This state is known for its traditional culture, gigantic forts & palaces, spicy food, vibrant folk dance & music, and magnificent gold sand desert. There are 33 cities within this state, and all are pretty beautiful, but two must-visit places in Rajasthan are Jodhpur and Jaisalmer.
Jodhpur is quite similar to Jaipur, whereas Jaisalmer is very different. By visiting these places, you will be able to experience two different sides of Rajasthan. But the similarity between them is that both have must-see forts and palaces. However, the major reason why many people travel with their families to Jaisalmer is the famous desert safari.
So, which is better- Jodhpur or Jaisalmer? We will know more about these beautiful cities, the best time to visit, places to see, and different ways to reach them and decide accordingly.
About Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, also known as the “Golden city”, is located in the northwestern state of Rajasthan. This popular tourist destination is known for its golden sandstone buildings and beautiful desert landscape. Rawal Jaisal founded the city in 1156.
Jaisalmer is home to several historical monuments and structures, including the majestic and glorious Jaisalmer Fort, one of India’s largest forts. Situated on the top of a hill, this gigantic yellow sandstone monument is home to several vendors and sellers. In addition, it comprises several palaces & temples, restaurants, hotels, and a museum for tourists.
If you plan your vacation to Jaisalmer, winter, i.e., from November to February, will be the best time to explore this royal city. The city witnesses lakhs of visitors year-round and foreigners from all over the world. You can book flight tickets to Jaisalmer in advance to get better deals.
The city is rich in culture and traditions and pays a warm welcome to every tourist. If you are fond of cuisines, then the traditional ‘Dal Bati Churma”, a Rajasthani cuisine at Jaisalmer, is a must-try.
For the ones who love adventurous sports, there are many on the list. You can go on a desert safari or take a hot air balloon ride. There are also plenty of hiking and biking trails through the desert. No matter how you explore Jaisalmer, you will indeed have a memorable experience!
Places to visit in Jaisalmer
Listed below are the top tourist’s attraction in Jaisalmer:
1. Jaisalmer Fort
It is also known as “Sonar Quila,” and is a must place to visit when in Jaisalmer. It’s an ancient hill fort and home to over three thousand people! The views from the top of the site are stunning. This is the only living fort in India open 24 hours. The fort comprises palaces, temples, shops, restaurants, and hotels.
2. Patwon Ki Haveli
This haveli is a fascinating and enchanting structure that grabs the attention of every visitor from all over the world. It was built by a wealthy trader who constructed five storeys for each of his sons. The astounding haveli is worth visiting.
3. Gadisar Lake
The majestic Gadisar Lake is a must-see for anyone who visits Jaisalmer. The temples and shrines around the lake make it an amazing spot for visitors. You can also witness many migratory birds at the lake.
4. Jain Temple
The Jain temple within the walls of Jaisalmer Fort is a must-see for any traveler who enjoys history and architecture. The carved stone structures portray pictures from sages to animals. In addition, the carvings on the temple walls offer visitors insight into how people lived in ancient India while preserving their culture through time.
5. Sam Sand Dunes
These unique white sand fields are among India’s best and most authentic sites for nature lovers. Located amidst the Thar desert, you can take a desert safari ride across the Sam dunes between 4 pm to 7 pm and enjoy the mesmerizing sunset.
6. Kuldhara Village
The ruins of Kuldhara are an abandoned village that once thrived with people, but they left overnight to save their honor and lives from the hands of a minister who would indulge in tyranny. It is a top-tourist attraction if you love history and want to know how people lived during old times.
7. Nathmal Ki Haveli
Built of yellow sandstone, this marvelous structure represents the craftsmanship of the highest order. The picturesque crafted carvings on the wall speak about the grandeur of the bygone days.
8. Jaisalmer War Museum
Jaisalmer War Museum is a site dedicated to honoring India’s brave and selfless soldiers. The museum houses two information display halls, an audio-visual room, and a souvenir shop.
9. Vyas Chhatri
The Vyas Chhatri is an assembly of golden sandstone, a structure from the era’s Rajasthani architecture. Being a famous Hindu pilgrimage spot for tourists, its design is dedicated to Sage Vyas, the author of Mahabharata.
10. Desert National Park
The Desert National Park, situated in the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer, is a unique ecosystem in India that houses some of the most exotic wildlife you can find anywhere. There are several species to witness here, including camels, desert foxes, cats, leopards, antelopes, and birds such as sand grouse.
About Jaisalmer Airport
Jaisalmer Airport (IATA: JSA) is a domestic airport serving the city of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India. It is located 4 km from the Jaisalmer Railway Station and 12 km from the city center. With a single runway, the airport can handle small turboprop aircraft.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) owns the airport and is operated by the Rajasthan Civil Aviation Corporation Ltd. (ACL).
According to recent reports, there are no regular scheduled commercial flights to or from Jaisalmer Airport. However, the airport is served by several charter companies which offer domestic flights.
There are very limited direct flights available to Jaisalmer. Thus, if you are planning to travel to Jaisalmer via flight, you need to check the city from which you are traveling and make a reservation in advance. If the city you are traveling from has no direct flights to Jaisalmer, you would probably get one to Jodhpur.
The nearest airport is the Jodhpur International Airport, located almost 275 km from Jaisalmer. One can take a flight to Jodhpur from any major city of India and then take a ride via road through the National Highway or take a train from Jodhpur railway station to reach Jaisalmer.
About Jodhpur
Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan, India, is a popular tourist destination. People worldwide visit this place to witness its royal architecture, heritage, forts, and palaces.
The city was initially called Marwar, after the region it was located in, and later came to be known as Jodhpur. The town is famous for its typical blue-colored houses and is also popularly known as the “blue city.”
Situated on the edge of the Thar Desert, Jodhpur is also home to several historical forts and monuments. The Mehrangarh Fort, one of the largest forts in India, is located in Jodhpur and is the main center of attraction.
The fort has a beautiful temple, and the view from the top of the fort is awe-inspiring. The museum inside the fort houses an extensive collection of weapons, armor, paintings, and other artifacts belonging to the Rathore clan.
Jodhpur can be best place if you plan to travel from December to February. For the rest of the year, the place witnesses the extreme scorching heat of the sun.
Jodhpur is a city with a long history and rich culture and is also known for its traditional royal food. Some of the must-try dishes are maas ke Dooley (lamb cooked in yogurt), laal maas (a spicy lamb curry), and bajre ki roti (millet bread).
Jodhpur is also famous for its textile industries, especially its tie-dye fabrics, known as bandhani, which are vibrant in shades. Tourism is one of the primary sources of income for the people of Jodhpur, and the city has a wide range of hotels and guest houses to accommodate its visitors.
Places to Visit in Jodhpur
Let’s dive in to know the top places to visit in Jodhpur:
1. Mehrangarh Fort
The Fort at Mehrangarh is one of our country’s largest and most impressive forts. It’s on top of an elevated hill, surrounded by huge walls that make up 360-degree protection around this historic site!
Uniquely designed with intricate art, each fort section has a significance and story embedded. You can also take the assistance of a readily available guide at the fort to know the history well. The views from the top of the fort are breathtaking, and you can even watch a mesmerizing sunset if you visit it in the evening.
2. Umaid Bhawan Palace
Umaid Bhawan is a heritage hotel cum museum, a magnificent royal palace, known as one of the major tourist attractions in Jodhpur. It’s the residence of the Royal Family, who owns it now. It’s not just an ordinary place to stay. It also houses interesting history and museums to explore, with a beautiful garden at the entrance!
3. Toorji Ka Jhalra
The Toorji Ka Jhalra, or stepwell of Jodhpur, is not only an exquisite place to visit but also contains historical information about water management systems in ancient India. Built-in the 18th century, its intricate design with drawings shows how water management was done in the former period. This spot is an excellent place for tourists to take lovely captures!
4. Jaswant Thada
This Cenotaph is a beautiful architecture with an elegant white marble design, built in honor of the Royal Marwar family. There are lush green trees surrounding it, making for picturesque scenery. The small pond inside the premises makes this place perfect for enjoying your day at one of India’s most magnificent landmarks.
5. Khejarla Fort
The fort is an ancient structure that has been marvelously converted into a hotel. It stands on top of granite boulders and uses red sandstone, a signature element found in many buildings in Jodhpur. The best part is that many hotels also organize a tour of the nearby village where you can see and experience the Rajasthani culture closely.
6. Balsamand Lake
Balsamand Lake is a stunning, serene spot perfect for enjoying the outdoors and taking in some views. In addition to being surrounded by lush gardens, visitors can also find large numbers of migratory birds flocking around!
7. Sheesh Mahal
The Glass Palace, also known as the “Sheesh Mahal” of Jodhpur, is a marvelous structure that has been around for centuries. It’s said to be the bedroom of Maharaja Ajit Singh. It’s a wonderful place to visit allowing you to explore its fanciful mirrorwork decked from the ceiling to the floor.
8. Sardar Market
The marketplace is a mecca for shoppers from all over the world. The wide array of items such as spices, pottery, marble, silver jewelry, and local fabrics are available here, making it an ideal destination to spend your time in Jodhpur and buy local stuff.
9. Bishnoi Village Tour
The Bishnoi village tour offers a glimpse into the authentic traditions and lifestyles of rural Rajasthan, where one can absorb an ancient way of life that is still present in the Marwar. The villages are home not only to people but also to animals and birds who share their space. The Bishnoi village offers an incredible experience to explore rural life and discover the melody of folk songs.
10. Ghanta Ghar
The clock tower in Jodhpur, popularly known as the “Ghanta Ghar,” is a must-see for visitors. It offers an amazing view of this bustling metropolis, with lights sparkling everywhere and vendors selling their goods on every corner!
About Jodhpur Airport
Jodhpur International Airport (IATA: JDH) serves Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India. The Airports Authority of India operates it, serving as a domestic and international airport.
Jodhpur’s airport is well connected with the major metropolitan cities of India like Kolkata, Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai. The premises consists of a domestic terminal for domestic flights and an international terminal for international flights.
There are 4 X-ray baggage scanning facilities and 7 check-in counters at the location, ensuring the convinnience for passengers and they don’t miss their flight. The airport also has a cargo terminal. Apart from that, it has restaurants and cafes for some good snacks.
Jodhpur International Airport is served by various airlines, including Air India, Jet Airways, SpiceJet, IndiGo, GoAir, and Vistara. In addition, the airport offers regular and charter services to several destinations within India and abroad.
Which is Better- Jodhpur or Jaisalmer?
Jodhpur and Jaisalmer are great cities to visit in Rajasthan, India, each with a unique charm. Jodhpur, known as the “Blue City,” is famous for its forts, vibrant markets, and spectacular blue-colored buildings. On the other hand, Jaisalmer is known as the “Golden City” and is famous for its magnificent sandstone architecture, particularly the Jaisalmer Fort. It also offers immaculate desert experiences, such as camel safaris and camping in the Thar Desert.
So, which is better- Jodhpur or Jaisalmer depends on your purpose to visit and preferences.
FAQs
- Can you take a direct flight to Jaisalmer?
Jodhpur International Airport is the nearest airport to Jaisalmer. Therefore, you will have to travel to Jodhpur airport first and then take a ride via road or train to reach Jaisalmer.
2. What is the distance from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer via road?
Jodhpur to Jaisalmer carries a distance of around 275 km via the National highway, which is around a five hours journey.
3. Why are the houses colored blue in Jodhpur?
Copper sulphate has been used for centuries for coloring houses as a natural remedy to keep insects at bay. The copper sulphate gives blue hues to the houses in Jodhpur.
4. How many days are sufficient to plan a trip to Jaisalmer?
You can cover most places in Jaisalmer within a trip of two to three days.
5. How many trains operate between Jodhpur to Jaisalmer?
Overall from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, there are four weekly trains on alternate days and 3 daily trains that operate.
6. Which city is named the “sun city” and why?
Jodhpur is also known as the “Sun City” because the ancient royal families were worshippers of the “Sun.”
7. Which is the best time to visit Jodhpur?
Winters are the best time to visit Jodhpur.
8. Which city is named the “Moon city” in Rajasthan?
Udaipur is called the “Moon city.”
9. Is Jaisalmer safe to travel?
Jaisalmer is a very safe city to travel to, even if you are traveling solo. The city worships its tourists and is pretty safe for women or solo travelers.
10. What is Jaisalmer famous for?
Jaisalmer is famous for its beautiful handmade products, arts and crafts, paintings, carpets, bedsheets, and leather items.
