Jaisalmer Desert Festival February 2023 – A Complete Guide

Jaisalmer, also known as the ‘Golden City’ is one of the most beautiful desert cities in India. Located closed to Thar desert, the city is known for its stunning monuments, colourful culture, and festive celebrations. One such festival that deserves a special mention is the Jaisalmer Desert Festival. 

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is an annual winter event organised in Jaisalmer. Rajasthan Government’s tourism department organises this three-day desert fair festival in the Hindu month of Magh, usually in February. The dates for the desert fair festival in 2023 would be 3rd - 5th February. 

If you are planning to visit Jaisalmer to witness the Desert Festival, here is a complete guide for you. It gives you vital information about – 

• Reason to attend Jaisalmer Desert Festival

• How to Reach Jaisalmer?

• Where to stay in Jaisalmer?

Reasons to Attend Jaisalmer Desert Festival

Weather

The festival is typically organised during February, which can be the best time to visit Jaisalmer. The weather is usually pleasant during this time. The average temperature in February is usually cool but cosy, an ideal time to indulge in various activities like sightseeing or attending the desert fair.

Cultural Events

Rajasthan Desert Festival in Jaisalmer showcases the best of the rich culture and heritage of Rajasthan. Camel shows, performances by local folk artists, moustache competitions, turban tying competitions, the horse race, and many other events organised over three days will keep you mesmerised until the show's end. 

Shopping and Cuisines

Numerous food stalls serving authentic Rajasthani cuisines make the festival a paradise for food lovers. You can explore different local delicacies while hopping in various handicraft stalls. Shopaholics can find peace while buying locally made bags, puppets, jewellery, etc.

Desert Safari

One of the popular things to do in Jaisalmer is to go on a desert safari, and we’re not talking about vehicle rides, although that’s an option as well. A thrilling camel ride while admiring the arid Thar landscape is a unique experience you’ll remember for the rest of your life. 

City Tour

The Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a must-visit place on any Jaisalmer itinerary. The fort is also sometimes called the “Golden fortress” because of its massive yellow sandstone walls. Besides, there are numerous other places to visit in Jaisalmer, such as Gadisar lake, Jaisalmer Government Museum, Nathmal Ji ki Haveli, Salim Singh ki Haveli, Tanot Mata Temple, etc. 

If you like suspense and enigmatic places, add Kuldhara, the deserted village 18 km away from Jaisalmer to your list. 

How to Reach Jaisalmer?

Jaisalmer has a domestic airport. Flights to Jaisalmer from some major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru are available, although in limited numbers. However, Jaisalmer railway station is well connected to major Indian cities via Jaipur. So, you can either get a train to Jaisalmer or change trains at Jaipur. Regular trains are available between Jaipur and Jaisalmer.

Besides, Jaisalmer is well connected with all the major cities of Rajasthan. 

Where to Stay?

Club Mahindra Jaisalmer is one of the most exquisite resorts in Jaisalmer to stay with friends and family. The resort offers authentic Rajasthani hospitality with traditional Ghoomer performances and poolside dining. Additionally, you can also try something new by attending pot painting or emboss painting workshops. 

The dunes of the spectacular Thar desert come alive with thrill, excitement, and vibrant colours during the desert festival. Whether you're a beginner or an avid traveller, the festival can provide an excellent opportunity to acquaint yourself with the many colours of Rajasthan.