2 Day Itinerary for Jaisalmer Explore the Golden City

Jaisalmer, the Golden City of Rajasthan, is where history, art, and desert life blend beautifully. If you’re short on time, this 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer covers everything — from ancient forts and ornate havelis to desert adventures under the starlit sky. Whether you’re a history buff or a wanderer at heart, this plan helps you make the most of your visit.

Day 1: Heritage, Havelis, and the Golden Fort

Morning – Discover the Living Jaisalmer Fort

Begin your 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer at the magnificent Jaisalmer Fort, one of India’s few “living forts.” Built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, it stands proudly over the Thar Desert, glowing golden at sunrise. Inside its walls, explore Jain temples, bustling local markets, and traditional houses.

Make sure to stop at the Jaisalmer Fort View Restaurant, a perfect spot for breakfast while soaking in panoramic city views.

Afternoon – Step into the Grandeur of Jaisalmer’s Havelis

Continue your 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer with a visit to Patwon Ki Haveli, a cluster of five mansions carved from yellow sandstone. Its intricate design reflects the wealth and craftsmanship of Jaisalmer’s merchants. Next, head to Nathmal Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli — each showcasing distinct architecture and stories from the city’s golden past.

Enjoy a traditional Rajasthani lunch nearby and treat yourself to dal baati churma, ker sangri, and papad ki sabzi — the desert’s iconic flavors.

Evening – Peaceful Vibes at Gadisar Lake

End your first day of the Jaisalmer 2 day itinerary with a visit to Gadisar Lake, built by Maharawal Gadsi Singh in the 14th century. Take a peaceful boat ride as the sunset paints the sky in golden hues.

Afterward, catch a cultural show at the Desert Cultural Centre to experience Rajasthan’s folk music and Kalbelia dance — a fitting conclusion to your first day in the Golden City.

Day 2: Desert Adventures and Golden Sunsets

Morning – Explore Kuldhara and Bada Bagh

Start your second day early with a trip to Kuldhara Village, an abandoned settlement located about 20 km from the city. Legends say it was deserted overnight — its eerie silence and crumbling architecture make it both mysterious and captivating.

Next, head to Bada Bagh, where royal cenotaphs rise elegantly against the desert backdrop. The morning light enhances the sandstone carvings, making it a great spot for photography.

Afternoon – The Magic of Sam Sand Dunes

Your 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the Thar Desert. Drive towards Sam Sand Dunes — a sea of rolling golden sands about 40 km from the city.

Once there, you can take a camel ride or jeep safari to watch the vast expanse of dunes unfold before you. As the sun sets, the desert transforms into a golden paradise — an unforgettable moment during your Jaisalmer 2 day itinerary.

Evening – Stay Overnight in a Desert Camp

Spend the night under the stars at a desert camp, where Rajasthani culture comes alive through folk performances, puppet shows, and bonfire dinners.

Enjoy a buffet of local dishes while listening to traditional melodies — a perfect way to end your Jaisalmer itinerary 2 days experience. Some camps even offer luxury tents with private sit-outs, combining comfort with authenticity.

Optional Additions to Your Jaisalmer Itinerary 2 Days

If you have extra time or want to tweak your 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer, try adding a few more gems:

• Desert National Park: Explore the vast desert ecosystem and spot rare species like the Great Indian Bustard.
  
• Longewala War Memorial: A must-visit for history lovers, located near the Indo-Pak border, commemorating the 1971 war heroes.
  
• Shopping at Sadar Bazaar: Pick up Rajasthani handicrafts, mirror-work fabrics, camel leather goods, and colorful souvenirs.
  
• Local Cuisine Tour: Relish authentic dishes like mutton saag, ker sangri, bajra roti, and makhaniya lassi.
  

Tips for Planning Your 2 Day Itinerary for Jaisalmer

• Best Season: Visit between October and March for pleasant weather and clear skies.
  
• Dress Appropriately: Light cottons for day and warm layers for chilly desert nights.
  
• Cultural Courtesy: Respect local traditions and ask before photographing people.
  
• Stay Hydrated: The desert air can be dry — carry water and sunscreen.
  
• Advance Booking: Pre-book your desert camp and fort-area accommodations for convenience.
  

Suggested Timeline for Jaisalmer 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Fort and City Exploration

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast near Jaisalmer Fort
  
• 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Explore the Fort and Jain Temples
  
• 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Visit Havelis and enjoy a local lunch
  
• 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM: Gadisar Lake boat ride
  
• 7:00 PM onwards: Attend a folk dance show or dinner with a fort view
  

Day 2: Desert Experience

• 7:00 AM: Visit Bada Bagh
  
• 9:00 AM: Explore Kuldhara Village
  
• 12:00 PM: Lunch on the way to Sam Dunes
  
• 3:00 PM: Camel or Jeep ride over the dunes
  
• 6:00 PM: Sunset and bonfire at desert camp
  

This plan balances heritage, culture, and adventure — ensuring your 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer remains fulfilling and unhurried.

Accommodation Recommendations

For an ideal mix of comfort and culture during your Jaisalmer itinerary 2 days, consider staying in two different types of places:

• Day 1: A heritage hotel or guesthouse near the fort for easy access to major attractions.
  
• Day 2: A desert camp at Sam Sand Dunes to enjoy the starry night and traditional performances.
  

You’ll experience both sides of Jaisalmer — the historical city charm and the desert’s tranquil beauty.

Why Jaisalmer Deserves Two Days

A 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer is the perfect way to uncover the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. It offers a complete blend of royal heritage, local artistry, and desert adventure. Even in a short time, you can witness its living culture, architectural marvels, and heartwarming hospitality.

Whether it’s the golden glow of the fort or the vast silence of the dunes, Jaisalmer leaves an impression that lasts forever.

Final Thoughts

Your 2 day itinerary for Jaisalmer isn’t just a travel plan — it’s a journey through time. Each monument tells a story, each dune holds a mystery, and every sunset paints a new memory. Follow this itinerary, stay curious, and you’ll discover that two days are just enough to fall in love with Rajasthan’s Golden City.