Located in the heart of the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer is fondly known as the “Golden City” due to its yellow sandstone architecture. A vibrant blend of history, culture, and desert charm, Jaisalmer promises an unforgettable experience. If you’re planning a short yet impactful trip, this detailed Jaisalmer itinerary for 3 days will ensure you don’t miss the best the city has to offer.

This Jaisalmer 3 days itinerary is designed to help travellers cover the most important places to visit in Jaisalmer in 3 days, including historical landmarks, desert adventures, shopping spots, and cultural shows. Whether you’re a solo traveller, a couple, or a family, this Jaisalmer itinerary will guide you through a memorable desert escape.

Day 1: Discovering the Golden Fort and City Highlights

1. Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Fort Road, Jaisalmer
• Entry Fee: ₹50 (Indians), ₹250 (Foreigners)

Start your Jaisalmer itinerary 3 days at the iconic Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, this living fort is home to thousands of people, temples, houses, shops, and guesthouses. Walk through the narrow lanes, explore the Raj Mahal (royal palace), and admire the intricate Jain temples inside the fort.

2. Patwon Ki Haveli

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
• Location: Patwa Haveli Lane, near Jaisalmer Fort
• Entry Fee: ₹20–₹100

Just a 10-minute walk from the fort, this is a cluster of five havelis built by a wealthy merchant family. It showcases stunning architecture, frescoes, and mirror work. It is one of the most photographed places to visit in Jaisalmer in 3 days.

3. Nathmal Ki Haveli

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Near Patwon Ki Haveli
• Entry Fee: Free (some parts are residential)

Admire this haveli’s blend of Islamic and Rajput architectural styles. The entrance is flanked by stone elephants and features ornate carvings created by two architect brothers.Jaisalmer 3-day itinerary

4. Gadisar Lake

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Location: Gadisar Lake Rd
• Entry Fee: Free (Boating: ₹100–₹200)

End your first day at Gadisar Lake, a peaceful retreat perfect for sunset views and paddle boating. The temples and ghats around the lake add a historical vibe.

Day 2: Desert Adventures & Cultural Immersion

1. Bada Bagh

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: 6 km from Jaisalmer
• Entry Fee: ₹100

Start your second day at Bada Bagh, a peaceful garden with cenotaphs (chhatris) of Jaisalmer rulers. The carved structures and golden hue at sunrise make it a dream for photographers.

2. Kuldhara Abandoned Village

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: 18 km west of Jaisalmer
• Entry Fee: ₹20

This eerie yet intriguing abandoned village is a must-add to your Jaisalmer 3 days itinerary. Legend says it was mysteriously abandoned overnight. Walk around the ruins and feel the aura of this hauntingly beautiful site.

3. Sam Sand Dunes (Evening Desert Safari)

• Timings: 4:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Location: 40 km from Jaisalmer
• Cost: ₹1000–₹2000 per person (Jeep safari + Cultural show + Dinner)

This is the highlight of your Jaisalmer itinerary. Head to the Sam Sand Dunes for a thrilling desert safari. Choose between a camel ride or jeep ride over the golden sands. By sunset, the sky turns brilliant orange – perfect for photography.

After the safari, enjoy a cultural evening at a desert camp with Rajasthani folk music, Kalbelia dance, and a traditional dinner under the stars.

Day 3: Temples, Museums, and Local Life

1. Jain Temples Inside Jaisalmer Fort

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
• Entry Fee: ₹10 (Photography charges extra)

Return to the fort early morning to visit the seven intricately carved Jain temples. Dedicated to various Tirthankaras, these 15th-century temples are adorned with delicate sandstone artwork and offer a serene spiritual experience.

2. Jaisalmer War Museum

• Timings: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Location: Jodhpur Highway, 10 km from city
• Entry Fee: ₹30

A hidden gem for history lovers, the Jaisalmer War Museum honours the bravery of the Indian Army. It showcases war artefacts, tanks, aircraft, and the Longewala War display.

3. Tanot Mata Temple

• Timings: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• Location: 120 km from Jaisalmer (Border area)
• Entry Fee: Free

If you have extra time or a full day, consider a half-day trip to Tanot Mata Temple, near the India–Pakistan border. Maintained by the Border Security Force (BSF), it is believed that during the 1971 war, several bombs dropped near the temple did not explode. It’s a spiritual and patriotic stop on your Jaisalmer itinerary for 3 days.

4. Local Shopping in Sadar Bazaar & Bhatia Bazaar

• Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
• What to Buy: Embroidered textiles, leather goods, silver jewelry, wooden crafts, and camel hide products

Wrap up your Jaisalmer itinerary by exploring local bazaars. These vibrant markets are great for souvenirs and traditional Rajasthani handicrafts.

Practical Travel Tips for Your Jaisalmer 3 Days Itinerary

• Best Time to Visit: October to March
• How to Reach:
  • By Air: Jaisalmer Airport (limited flights; Jodhpur is a better-connected option)
  • By Train: Jaisalmer Railway Station is well connected to major cities
  • By Road: Accessible by bus or car from Jodhpur (5–6 hours)
• Local Transport:
  • Auto-rickshaws for short trips
  • Rental scooters or cars
  • Private taxis for desert trips
• Stay Recommendations:
  • Luxury: Suryagarh, Marriott Resort
  • Mid-Range: Fifu Guest House, Hotel Lalgarh Fort
  • Budget: Mystic Jaisalmer, Shahi Palace

Summary: Your Ideal Jaisalmer Itinerary 3 Days Plan

Day	Activities
Day 1	Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, Nathmal Ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake
Day 2	Bada Bagh, Kuldhara Village, Sam Sand Dunes Desert Safari
Day 3	Jain Temples, War Museum, Tanot Mata Temple, Local Markets

This comprehensive Jaisalmer 3 days itinerary ensures that you cover the most significant places to visit in Jaisalmer in 3 days – from majestic forts and haunting ruins to desert thrills and spiritual spots. Each location in this Jaisalmer itinerary has been selected for its cultural, architectural, or adventure value, providing a balanced mix of exploration and relaxation.

Whether you’re on a romantic getaway or a cultural deep dive, this detailed Jaisalmer itinerary for 3 days is your perfect travel guide to experiencing Rajasthan’s golden city. To make your desert experience even more memorable, don’t forget to book a desert camp in Jaisalmer in advance, and enjoy an unforgettable night under the stars with local music, cuisine, and the tranquil beauty of the Thar Desert.