What is the story about?
If you imagine the desert as silent and still, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival will make you think again. For three days (this year it is from January 30
to February 1) the sands around Sam Sand Dunes burst into life with music, colour and rural charm.
Jaisalmer Desert Festival
This annual festival is Rajasthan at its most lively. Mornings kick off with fun, high-energy contests like turban tying, where speed and style both matter. The crowd favourite, however, is the famous moustache competition, where men proudly show off their long, curled and carefully groomed moustaches—some of them true works of art. You can also see puppeteers, fire dancers, acrobats, and traditional bands that add to the non-stop spectacle. There is also a Miss Pokharan competition that is held during the festival, and sees gorgeous local women dress up for the prize.Camels, the heart of desert life, are everywhere during the festival. Visitors can watch camel races and polo matches or simply admire the beautiful patterns painted on their bodies. When evening arrives, fireworks light up the sky, glowing against the golden backdrop of Jaisalmer and its sandstone forts. Over the last few editions, incredible performances by artists like Jyoti Nooran, Kutle Khan has lit up the festival days in this desert town.
Food stalls serve classic Rajasthani dishes packed with bold flavours, while shopping areas offer handicrafts, jewellery and embroidered fabrics that make perfect souvenirs. Simple, vibrant and full of life, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival shows just how magical the desert can be.
Places To Visit In Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, famously known as the "Golden City," has something for every traveller. At its heart stands the Jaisalmer Fort, one of the few “living forts” in the world, where locals still reside within its ancient sandstone walls. Then there’s Patwon Ki Haveli and Salim Singh Ki Haveli - elaborate houses that are open to travellers who want to get a glimpse of Jaisalmer’s history as a rich trading town.Beyond the fort are the Sam Sand Dunes, just 40 km away, which play host to the festival and are the perfect place to experience a true desert safari—think camel rides, cultural performances, and breathtaking sunsets over endless dunes. If you love offbeat spots, head to the eerie yet fascinating Kuldhara Village, an abandoned settlement that is said to be haunted. Call it a day at the Gadisar Lake, lined with beautifully carved chhatris and temples, that offers a serene sunset boat ride.
How To Reach Jaisalmer
The nearest airport is Jaisalmer, which is 13 kms away.The nearest convenient railway station is Jaisalmer, which is 1km away.
The nearest major city is Jaisalmer, which is 1km away.
