Jaisalmer's living forts and silent dunes shape the next desert chapter
Jaisalmer marks the second chapter of the Deserts of India series and brings a completely different mood to the journey…
If Bikaner opened the road into Rajasthan’s desert life, Jaisalmer expands it with its golden walls, living fort culture, ancient stories and long stretches of glowing sand. The episode begins with a surprise entry into the city. As the travellers reach the outskirts, the massive Jaisalmer Fort rises in front of them like a golden crown. The warm sunlight on the sandstone gives the whole place a soft glow, setting the tone for the experience ahead.
Inside the fort, Jaisalmer immediately feels alive. This is one of the few living forts in the world where people still run shops, cook in their courtyards and move through narrow lanes lined with old havelis. The carved walls, colourful stalls and aroma of kulhad chai create an atmosphere that is both historic and everyday at the same time. Walking through these lanes feels like stepping into a medieval city that never stopped breathing.
As the travellers explore these golden corridors, they often pause to capture the shifting colours and intricate details around them on their Oppo F31 Pro+ 5G, which holds up smoothly even in the city’s dry afternoon heat. It becomes a natural tool for documenting their journey without slowing them down.
The episode also highlights Jaisalmer’s iconic havelis. Patwon Ki Haveli stands out with its lace-like stone carvings and layered balconies. These buildings reflect the wealth and artistry of the traders who once lived here and add another layer of depth to the city’s desert identity. Beyond the fort and havelis, Jaisalmer’s real magic appears in its open spaces. The desert roads around the city carry the soft rhythm of sand and wind. Gadisar Lake shows a quieter side of the city with still water, shrines and birds circling in the late sunlight.
As the episode moves towards the Sam Sand Dunes, the scenery shifts once again. The dunes come alive with folk music, camel silhouettes and the warm glow of the setting sun. One of the most memorable parts of the episode is the stop at Kuldhara, the abandoned village filled with silent walls and untold stories. The empty homes and long corridors capture the feeling of a community that left overnight. The mood becomes reflective as the travellers walk through the ruins and imagine the life that once filled the space.
The episode closes with a calm night under Jaisalmer’s clear sky. The dunes turn silver in the moonlight and the quiet of the desert becomes the final frame of the day. It is a peaceful reminder of why Rajasthan’s desert belt feels timeless. Jaisalmer brings history, beauty and mystery together in a way that deepens the Deserts of India journey.
With its living fort, golden streets, sweeping dunes and hidden stories, it stands as one of the most enchanting desert destinations in the country and a perfect next stop after Bikaner.