Jaisalmer, the dazzling Golden City of India, is famous for its honey-coloured sandstone architecture, magnificent forts, desert landscapes and centuries-old culture. But the true beauty of Jaisalmer extends far beyond its city walls. Travel a few kilometres in any direction and you will encounter some of Rajasthan’s most stunning natural wonders, historic landmarks, ancient villages, sacred lakes, mysterious ruins and breathtaking sand dunes.
Whether you are a history lover, a nature enthusiast, a photographer, an adventure seeker or simply someone searching for soulful experiences, the region around Jaisalmer offers journeys that feel timeless. Each location has a story — of kings, warriors, traders, nomads, temples, lakes, and forgotten settlements. Together, they form a travel tapestry that is both culturally rich and visually unforgettable.
This blog explores the most famous places to visit around Jaisalmer, giving you deeper insights, local knowledge and the essence of each destination, so you can plan your trip with meaning, not just photographs.
Sam Sand Dunes – The Majestic Golden Desert
When people think of Jaisalmer, the first image that comes to mind is the vast, golden desert stretching endlessly under the sky. Sam Sand Dunes, located around 40 km from the city, are the crown jewel of the Thar Desert and the most iconic attraction around Jaisalmer.
Visiting Sam isn’t just sightseeing — it’s an experience. As you approach the dunes, the landscape slowly transforms from rocky terrain into rolling waves of fine desert sand. The sunsets here look surreal, with fiery colours reflecting across the dunes. A camel safari or a jeep ride through these majestic dunes makes you feel like a character in an ancient desert tale.
In the evenings, desert camps come alive with bonfires, folk dance performances, Rajasthani music, local cuisine and night stargazing. If you stay overnight, the silence of the desert surrounded by a sky full of stars is an enchanting memory you carry forever.
Sam Sand Dunes isn’t just a place — it’s the soul of Jaisalmer.
Khuri Sand Dunes – A Peaceful, Less-Crowded Desert Escape
If Sam is vibrant and touristy, Khuri Sand Dunes, around 45 km from Jaisalmer, offer a quieter, more intimate desert experience. Khuri is a traditional desert settlement where the lifestyle, architecture and environment remain preserved and untouched by large-scale tourism.
The dunes in Khuri are softer, wider and more serene. You can explore endless stretches of sand without crowds, enjoy camel safaris through narrow desert pathways, watch local villagers perform cultural dances and experience authentic Rajasthani hospitality in mud houses or eco-friendly camps.
For travellers seeking peace, slow travel and natural beauty, Khuri is the perfect alternative to Sam. The sunsets here are gentle yet magical, and the night skies are even clearer due to minimal artificial light.
Khuri is ideal for photographers, couples, solo travellers and those who prefer cultural immersion over noisy parties.
Kuldhara Village – The Mysterious Ghost Village of Rajasthan
Around 20 km from Jaisalmer lies one of India’s most intriguing locations — Kuldhara, the abandoned village with a haunting past. Once a prosperous settlement of Paliwal Brahmins, Kuldhara was mysteriously deserted overnight more than 300 years ago. The village still stands with its empty houses, silent streets, broken temples and untouched ruins, giving visitors a glimpse into the lives of people who vanished without a trace.
Legends suggest that curses, oppression and cruelty forced the villagers to flee. Others believe natural calamity or economic collapse caused the abandonment. No matter which story you believe, Kuldhara holds a strange, magnetic aura that fascinates historians, travellers and paranormal researchers alike.
Walking through the ruins gives you goosebumps — not out of fear, but curiosity. It feels like time stopped here long ago.
A visit to Kuldhara is an unforgettable experience if you want to explore Rajasthan’s lesser-known mysteries.
Bada Bagh – Royal Cenotaphs Against the Golden Sky
Located 6 km from Jaisalmer, Bada Bagh is one of the most photogenic places around the city. It is a peaceful complex of royal cenotaphs (chhatris) dedicated to past kings and rulers of the region. Nestled on a small hill, the sandstone structures glow beautifully at sunrise and sunset, creating a picture-perfect backdrop.
Each cenotaph is intricately carved, representing the architectural brilliance of Rajasthan. The silence here feels sacred. You can sit for hours watching the sky change colours, listening to the breeze and admiring the craftsmanship of the past.
Bada Bagh is a favourite among photographers, couples and nature lovers, especially during golden hour. It is not a loud tourist spot, but a serene place where history and beauty blend effortlessly.
Gadisar Lake – A Peaceful Historic Lake With Scenic Views
Just a few minutes from Jaisalmer city lies the enchanting Gadisar Lake, built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh centuries ago. This man-made lake served as a vital water source for the desert city. Today, it stands as a peaceful escape where visitors can enjoy boat rides, admire the temples surrounding the lake, and soak in the calm atmosphere.
The lake becomes especially beautiful during sunrise when the water reflects shades of pink and orange. Sitting on the steps, feeding fish, or simply watching the birds fly over the water is a therapeutic experience.
During festivals, Gadisar Lake transforms into a cultural hotspot with lights, decorations and performances. It is ideal for families, couples, spiritual seekers and photography enthusiasts.
Longewala – The Historic Battlefield of 1971
For those who appreciate history, bravery and patriotism, a visit to Longewala, around 120 km from Jaisalmer, is a must. This is the site of the famous Battle of Longewala during the Indo-Pak War of 1971, where a small number of Indian soldiers heroically defended the post against a massive enemy attack.
Today, Longewala hosts a well-maintained museum, war memorial, captured tanks, bunkers and narration displays that detail the events of the battle. Watching the audio-visual presentation gives chills — it is a powerful reminder of courage and sacrifice.
This place is not just a tourist spot; it is an educational journey into one of India’s proudest military victories.
Tanot Mata Temple – The Sacred Shrine Near the Border
Around 120 km from Jaisalmer lies the famous Tanot Mata Temple, a spiritual landmark known for its miraculous stories. During the 1965 Indo-Pak war, bombs were dropped near the temple — but none exploded. The temple remained untouched, and since then, Tanot Mata is revered as a protector of the land.
The Border Security Force (BSF) now manages the temple, adding to its historic and patriotic aura. Visitors come not only for religious reasons but also to witness the connection between faith and the nation’s history.
The drive from Jaisalmer to Tanot is beautiful — endless desert plains, quiet landscapes and golden emptiness that feels calming and surreal. Many travellers combine a visit to Tanot with Longewala.
Desert National Park – A Haven for Wildlife & Fossils
One of the largest national parks in India, Desert National Park is spread across vast stretches of sand dunes, rocky hills and salt lake bottoms. Located around 40 km from Jaisalmer, this park is a paradise for birdwatchers, nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
The region is home to rare animals like the Great Indian Bustard, desert foxes, chinkaras and numerous reptile species. Fossils dating millions of years have been discovered here, making it a geological treasure.
Exploring Desert National Park gives you a deeper understanding of the desert ecosystem — its silence, its resilience and its hidden beauty.
Amar Sagar Jain Temple – Architecture, Devotion & Craftsmanship
Around 7 km from Jaisalmer lies Amar Sagar, a beautiful lake-reservoir with an intricately carved Jain temple dedicated to Lord Parshvanath. The temple features white marble carvings, symmetrical pillars, engraved domes and peaceful surroundings.
Amar Sagar is not crowded, which makes it perfect for meditation, quiet photography or architecture appreciation. The combination of a serene lake and a holy temple makes this spot a delightful escape from the bustling city streets.
Khabha Fort – A Forgotten Desert Fort Surrounded by Silence
If you love discovering hidden gems, Khabha Fort, located 35 km from Jaisalmer, is a must-visit. This partially ruined fort sits quietly in the desert and overlooks abandoned Paliwal settlements similar to Kuldhara.
The fort carries an eerie, mysterious charm — broken walls, old steps, crumbling towers and a vast silent desert around it. Peacocks often roam the area, adding to the fort’s surreal atmosphere.
Khabha is perfect for offbeat travellers, photographers and history lovers seeking untouched beauty.
Final Words – Jaisalmer’s Surroundings Offer Endless Wonders
Jaisalmer is more than its fort, havelis and city markets. Its surroundings are filled with astonishing landscapes, historical mysteries, cultural gems and natural wonders. Whether you choose the magical Sam dunes, the peaceful Khuri sands, the haunting Kuldhara ruins, the patriotic Longewala battlefield, the sacred Tanot temple, or the wildlife-rich Desert National Park — every place deepens your understanding of the desert and its stories.
Traveling around Jaisalmer isn’t just sightseeing —
it’s discovering Rajasthan’s heart, heritage and soul.
Each destination has its charm, its silence, its magic.
Together, they make Jaisalmer one of the most fascinating travel experiences in India.