Jaisalmer in December: Best Places & Things to Do in Jaisalmer
Visiting Jaisalmer in December feels like stepping into a golden dream, where crisp winter air blends with the warm glow of the Thar Desert. With temperatures usually ranging between 15–25°C, the weather is ideal for exploring the “Golden City” without the harsh desert heat. The season brings out the best of Jaisalmer’s heritage, beginning with the towering Jaisalmer Fort, one of the world’s few living forts, where narrow lanes, ancient Jain temples and sandstone houses reflect centuries of history. Nearby, the ornate Patwon Ki Haveli showcases remarkable craftsmanship, while Gadisar Lake offers peaceful winter sunsets framed by historic ghats and shrines. A visit to Kuldhara Village adds a touch of mystery with its abandoned homes and legends of a vanished community.December also sets the stage for unforgettable desert experiences. The clear, pleasant evenings are perfect for sunset camel safaris across the Sam or Khuri dunes, where shifting sands turn deep shades of orange and gold. Many desert camps host Rajasthani cultural nights, featuring Kalbelia dances, folk music, fire performances, and traditional cuisine under starlit skies.
For convenience, curated Jaisalmer tour packages help travellers easily combine sightseeing, cultural activities, and desert stays. With its winter charm and golden landscapes, Jaisalmer in December promises a picture-perfect, soulful escape.
Quick Highlights for Jaisalmer in December
Weather & What to Expect:
- Daytime: Pleasant 15–25°C, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor walks.
- Nighttime: Cold, especially at Sam and Khuri dunes; perfect for bonfires and stargazing.
- Experiences: Comfortable weather for camel safaris, jeep rides, heritage walks and cultural events.
- Atmosphere: Clear skies, soft winter sunlight and golden sandstone views ideal for photography.
Key Attractions to Cover:
- Jaisalmer Fort – Explore the living fort, its Jain Temples, ancient lanes and viewpoints.
- Patwon Ki Haveli – Discover ornate façades, carved balconies and museum rooms.
- Gadisar Lake – Enjoy peaceful sunrises/sunsets, boat rides and winter bird sightings.
- Sam Sand Dunes – Visit the iconic desert landscape with golden dunes and sunset views.
- Khuri Desert – Experience quieter dunes, rustic surroundings and village charm.
- Kuldhara Village – Walk through the abandoned settlement and learn its historic legends.
- Longewala War Memorial – Explore tanks, bunkers and the 1971 war documentary.
- Tanot Mata Temple – Visit the spiritually significant shrine associated with wartime stories.
- Bada Bagh – Photograph royal cenotaphs glowing under the winter sun.
- Jain Temples (inside Jaisalmer Fort) – Admire detailed sandstone carvings and serene interiors.
- Jaisalmer Government Museum – Explore age-old fossils, stone sculptures and cultural artefacts from the region’s ancient settlements.
- Nathmal Ki Haveli – Admire the unique fusion of Islamic–Rajput architecture, detailed sandstone carvings and iconic entrance elephants.
- Akal Wood Fossil Park – Witness Jurassic-era fossils, prehistoric tree trunks and geological formations in a preserved desert landscape.
- Maharaja’s Palace (Jaisalmer Fort Palace) – Enjoy panoramic city views, ornate royal rooms and the intricately carved marble throne of the Maharaja.
Best Things to Do in December:
- Camel Safari at Sam Sand Dunes – Enjoy slow rides across golden dunes during sunset.
- Jeep Safari at Khuri Desert – Experience thrilling dune drives across remote sandy stretches.
- Sunset Photography at Gadisar Lake – Capture reflections and soft winter lighting.
- Heritage Walk inside Jaisalmer Fort – Explore historical lanes, temples and old bazaars.
- Cultural Evening at Desert Camps – Watch Kalbelia dance, folk music and fire performances under the stars.
- Cultural Evening at Desert Camps (Sam) – Enjoy traditional folk dance, music, and fire shows under the clear winter sky at Sam dunes.
- Camping at Khuri Dunes – Stay overnight in peaceful desert surroundings with stargazing and rustic Rajasthani hospitality.
- Boating at Gadisar Lake – Take a calm boat ride on the historic lake while enjoying the cool December breeze and scenic archways.
- Watch Puppet Show at Desert Culture Centre and Museum – Witness Rajasthan’s traditional puppetry showcasing local tales and art forms.
- Shopping at the Local Bazaars – Browse colourful stalls for handicrafts, mirror-work textiles, leather goods, and souvenirs.
What to Pack:
- Daywear: Light clothing like T-shirts, shirts, and comfortable trousers.
- Nightwear: Warm jackets, sweaters, thermals, scarves, and gloves for desert evenings.
- Accessories: Sunglasses, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a small backpack.
- Optional: Camera for golden-hour photography, binoculars for birdwatching, and moisturiser for dry desert air.