India’s share of the Thar Desert comes to a full swing in Jaisalmer – the land of the golden sand dunes and havelis all shrouded in a million mysteries. Visit this thriving city in Northwest India to be charmed in a surprisingly unique way. We have put together a list of the 9 best things for you to do in Jaisalmer. Not a single dull moment here.

You are in the desert. There must be interaction with camels. Watch the strange mammals squat, watch yourself climb up and then adjust to the wobbling as they walk nonchalantly across the desert with long steady strides and take you far into the horizon. All you have to do is enjoy the marvelous sights on the way.

For all the adventure buffs out there, Jaisalmer is quite the hot spot. Try Parasailing and motoring here to enjoy gliding over the vast and barren plains of the Thar Desert. Don’t worry about safety as professionals will train you, oversee the activity and even click memorable shots of you living the moment of your life high up in the air with the golden sand dunes of Jaisalmer beneath your feet.

Go vroom with a 570 CC quad bike on the dusty jungle trails of Jaisalmer. If your adventure desires are mellow then you could also choose the 200 CC bike. For those who have children and think adventure can no longer be a priority, at Jaisalmer there are special 50 CC bikes for kids which are safe and a fun way to explore the 2 kilometer stretch laid out for the activity.

Cut off from the mad world at Jaisalmer with a luxurious Desert stay. One of the better options is The Serai which is a 100 acre property in Thar Desert. Enjoy waking up to the sun rising out from behind the sand dunes in the distance, watch the vast skies and explore offbeat trails with experienced guides and bask in the luxury of the plush tents with sprawling verandas.

Experience the civilization of the past at Jaisalmer fort. Built in the mid 12^th century, this fort is a testimony of the vulnerability of having a kingdom at the edge of the vast Desert plain. Guarded by 99 turrets, the palace, built on Trikuta hills, houses the old city. A zigzag of chaotic alleys lines with souvenir shops selling quintessential Rajasthan artifacts. There is no point going to Jaisalmer but not touching base with this epic landmark fort (the second oldest in Rajasthan).

Watch the narrow first floor open out to a wider second one with its 38 intricately carved balconies roofed by domes with exquisite peacock carvings. Back in the 18^th century, when Jaisalmer was the capital of Rajasthan, Salim Singh was its prime minister. Rumours have it that Salim Singh had aspired to make his haveli as high as the Jaisalmer fort but the Maharaja ordered two floors to be torn down as he did not take the ambition kindly. Catch up on the stories at Salim Singh Ki Haveli.

What architectural miracle could a narrow lane have to offer? Find the answer in Patwon Ki Haveli. This is a cluster of five yellow sandstone havelis (the kinds Jaisalmer is famous for). Built in the 18-19^th century, this was among the many havelis that was constructed by the affluent merchants of the region. Patwon Ki Haveli belongs to five Jain brothers who traded in gold and silver brocade. Here you will find the best of Rajasthani architecture. 

Imagine if there were no borders, one could just take a leisurely stroll and reach Sindh. The land that was very much part of the cultural landscape of Rajasthan before 1947 witnessed the barbed wire being set up. However, I doubt if travellers to Jaisalmer would want to miss the opportunity to visit the Indo-Pak border. Not much of the organized show of the Wagah Border but here, you will have a no-man’s land kind of experience. Just make sure you take sufficient permissions before you head out.

Maharwal Gadsi Singh was a visionary maharaja. Back in the 12^th century he initiated a monumental project of rain water conversation that was to serve his land till as early as 1965. This was the Gadsisar Lake. Situated outside the city, visit the calm spot for bird watching and boating.