In the middle of Rajasthan’s Thar Desert, typically in February, comes the vibrant Jaisalmer desert festival, a yearly cultural festival. The celebration pays tribute to the region’s rich history by turning the once-golden beaches into a dazzling spectacle over the course of three days. Folk dances and music from Rajasthan, such as the hypnotic Ghoomar and Kalbeliya, are on display for guests to enjoy.
The camel parade, in which camels decked out in their finest attire are led in a raucous procession, is one of the most spectacular events. Comel races, a contest to tie a turban, and a moustache contest are just a few of the unique events that draw big crowds to the festival. As the event winds down, the desert will be illuminated by a spectacular fireworks show.
The city of Jaisalmer in the Indian state of Rajasthan hosts the Jaisalmer Desert Festival every year. A Rajput ruler of the Bhati dynasty, Raja Jaisal has been responsible for coordinating this event since 1156 AD. The Rajasthan Tourism Department is responsible for organising the Jaisalmer Mahotsav annually. The Hindu month of Magh (February–March) is when this typically occurs, usually in the month of February, around the full moon.
An international audience of thousands descends upon Rajasthan annually for the world-famous Thar Desert Festival. Because it is the only time outsiders get to witness the vibrant traditions of the Rajasthani people, the festival ranks high on the state’s most important events list.
February is commonly considered the best month to visit Jaisalmer, and it also happens to be the traditional month for the Jaisalmer festival. Mild temperatures are typical for this time of year. February is a great month for outdoor activities like fairs and desert tours because the weather is usually mild but comfortable.
The horse race, local folk performances, camel shows, moustache and turban contests, and more will keep you captivated for three days.
At the Jaisalmer Desert Festival, you will find a wide variety of colourful merchandise. You will find a vast array of beautifully made items, such as pichwai paintings, bandhani sarees, camel leather jootis, and lac jewellery. There is no better chance than this to fully immerse oneself in the artistic heritage of Rajasthan. Some people get relief from their compulsive shopping habits by buying locally made goods, such as purses, jewellery, puppets, and more.
Perhaps you might have a delicious taste of Rajasthani cuisine at this Jaisalmer dessert market. The event is a culinary paradise, with stalls serving authentic Rajasthani cuisine. Ghewar, gatte ki sabzi, and daal baati churma are some of the traditional dishes you should try. Learn about the rich culinary history of Rajasthan, get to know the locals, and absorb the state’s rich cultural heritage.
Among the numerous popular things to do in Jaisalmer, a desert safari ranks high. Although it is possible, when they say a “desert safari,” it doesn’t necessarily mean road trips. Experience the thrill of camel riding amidst the stunning Thar Desert landscape at the Jaisalmer camel festival.
Visit the Jaisalmer Border on your journey through the desert for an unforgettable experience. Ads for the world-famous Longewala Post will be plastered all over the Jaisalmer Rajasthan Desert Festival. This is artillery and tanks that Pakistan captured during the 1971 Indo-Pakistani War. This remote border area is popular with thrill seekers due to the abundance of exciting activities available, such as off-roading and border jeep excursions.
It is highly recommended that you visit the Sam Sand Dunes if you are organising a desert trip close to Jaisalmer. Exciting activities such as dune bashing and quad biking are available in the expansive desert terrain. Your vacation to Jaisalmer would be truly unforgettable if you are seeking adventure, therefore it is a must-visit destination.
You will never forget the unforgettable feeling of gliding over the desert while taking in the breathtaking dry landscape and golden dunes below. Parasailing is an exciting activity that visitors of all ages look forward to doing while in Jaisalmer. Throughout the whole fifteen minutes, the experienced educators keep a close eye on every student to prevent any falls. Those initial three or five minutes of parasailing are the most important if you want your experience to be unforgettable.
Jaisalmer is home to a domestic airport. Although there aren’t many flights, you may reach Jaisalmer from a few major cities including Bengaluru, Delhi, and Mumbai. Although, the Jaisalmer Railway Station is well-connected to other major Indian cities via the Jaipur Railway Station. One option is to travel straight to Jaisalmer by train, while another is to make a stop in Jaipur and change trains. Jaisalmer and Jaipur are connected by regular rail routes.
Finally, the many festivals held throughout Rajasthan serve to showcase the state’s extensive cultural history. Travellers can immerse themselves in the local culture and way of life at events like the Nagaur Cattle Fair, the Bikaner Camel Festival, and the beautiful Jaisalmer Fort. Each traveler interested in India’s complex and distinctive history and culture must make a point of visiting this state.
Q1. Is the Jaisalmer Desert Festival something that has piqued your interest?
A. The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is held annually in February, at the time of the full moon in the Hindu month of Magh (January–February).
Q2. What should one wear to the festival?
A. Men are expected to wear dhotis, angarkhas, pyjamas, and kurtas according to traditional Rajasthani attire code, while ladies are expected to wear sarees and ghagra cholis. For an event like that, this is the appropriate attire. More importantly, dress casually and comfortably because the festival will be held in the desert, where the afternoon temperatures can become very high.
Q3. Can tourists participate at these events?
A. Indeed, the event offers a plethora of opportunities for participation. Camel rides, traditional dance and music lessons, and turban-tying contests are just a few of the many things to do in Rajasthan.