Choosing accommodation in Jaisalmer may seem like an easy task as it is a very small city but even so your choice can completely change the experience in the Golden City.
Here is one detailed guide to help you select your perfect accommodation in Jaisalmer.
Tips for deciding where to stay in Jaisalmer
- It is very important to to know the areas of the city with its pros and cons (even though it is a very small city).
- Keep in mind your itinerary, places to see in Jaisalmer as well as activities that interest you before choosing the hotel location
- Be clear about your budget for accommodation in Jaisalmer and adapt your expectations to it: luxury hotels, cheap hotels, hostels etc.
- Check out the reviews of Tripadvisor , Booking.com (can only be done by travelers who have been staying at the properties).
- Be clear about the type of traveler you are and your priorities: price, location, local experience, cleanliness, noise, quietness, restaurant etc.
- For this destination the season is very important. From May to August many of the hotels are closed because it is low season and it is very hot (the camps in the desert are only open in high season).
Best places to stay in Jaisalmer
For me the best area is Quila Sonar for its location and for the wide variety of accommodation options it offers for all tastes and budgets. You have everything within walking distance and with all the amenities as well as many stores and restaurants to enjoy your stay as a true local of the area.
Places to stay in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer has several areas to stay and each offers very different experiences. Come with me to discover them:
The Citadel (Jaisalmer Fortress)
This is the most emblematic area of the city and offers a unique accommodation experience inside the fortress. You can enjoy the authenticity and charm of the bazaars and Havelis as well as the local life at one of the few Forts that remain alive. Staying in this area will be a trip back in time. Something to consider is that accessibility can be a challenge due to the narrow streets.
If you want to stay inside the Fort, I recommend the Hotel Lotus Haveli and Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli. They both have brutal views of the city and although they are modest hotels you have a fantastic service and the staff is very attentive.
Sonar Quila and surroundings (my favorite accommodation area in Jaisalmer)
Just at the foot of the fortress, this area offers a mix of traditional and modern accommodations. A fantastic area to explore the city as it is within walking distance of everything. In this area you will find many stores and you can immerse yourself in local life.
From the area closest to the Fort, just a 5-minute walk away, I recommend
Within a radius of 1-2 km there are charming hotels (5 min by Tuk Tuk from the Fort). My favorites are the Heritage House Hotel and The Gulaal, both have an exquisite decoration and a very good ambience The Gulaal has a brutal view of the Fort, and a new discovery for me is The Secret House, a small hotel with minimalist decoration that makes you fall in love with it.
Gadisar Lake area
If you prefer a calmer environment, this area is ideal. It offers a panoramic view of the lake, opportunities for boat rides and several restaurants with spectacular views. It is a 15 min walk from Jaisalmer Fort. There are not many hotels in this area but the Sairafort Sarovar Portico , It is a good 8 min walk from the Gadisar Lake. There are several guesthouse at a very good price but I have not been to one so I can't give you a recommendation.
Lodging in the desert
The experience of staying in a camp in the desert is amazing and something I always recommend if Jaisalmer is in your travel plans. In the desert you can experience gastronomic feasts, traditional dance performances, desert drives in a variety of vehicles, safaris and stargazing nights.
Another option is to stay in the city of Jaisalmer and take a day trip to the desert to do the activities I mentioned before... or even to sleep in the desert watching the stars.
I hope this guide will help you to find your perfect accommodation in Jaisalmer and may you enjoy the Golden city of Rajasthan very much.
If you have any questions leave me your comment! And I'd love to hear about your experience in Jaisalmer, I read you!
