Several years ago, I faced a dilemma—deciding which Indian city to pick for the best desserts during my marvellous trip: Jodhpur or Jaisalmer.
On the one hand, there’s the Blue City, with its royal forts and vibrant culture, and on the other, the Golden City, surrounded by mesmerising sand dunes.
To find the answer to my question—Jodhpur vs Jaisalmer—I contacted Indian Holiday.
Their guide told me, “Both destinations are incredible and offer a variety of experiences.” They insisted that if you have time, you should visit both destinations.
This got me thinking: I asked if it is possible to explore both destinations in a single trip. They said Yes. So, I decided to explore both Jodhpur and Jaisalmer to truly experience these desert cities.
Indian Holiday made everything so seamless for me. Their experts handled it all—hotels, meals, sightseeing, and even the little details. It felt like I was in safe hands throughout.
After exploring both cities, I feel confident in answering the big question: Which desert city is the best for you—Jodhpur or Jaisalmer? Or maybe both? Let me share my insights to help you decide!
Jodhpur Vs Jaisalmer – Overview
Jodhpur: The Blue City
Known as the Blue City, Jodhpur is a travellers’ delight with its rich royal associations, colourful buildings and architecture.
But what makes this city even more special? It’s an ancient city located right on the edge of the Thar Desert, offering a unique blend of history and desert charm.
There are many places and forts in the city. This majestic fort sits on a hilltop, offering a panoramic view of the city from above.
Due to its proximity to Osian, a deserted city, Jodhpur is also a great place for desert trekking. You can enjoy Jeep Safaris, Camel Rides, starlit cultural programs, and peace at Osian in the desert.
Jaisalmer: The Golden City
Jaisalmer is also known as the Golden City and is a traveller’s dream due to its rich history and dune fusion. It has beautiful sandstone buildings and impressive dunes that attract tourists. There is something magical about the city, with its stunning sandstone constructions and golden sun.
The city is also near the famous Indian Thar Desert, so you will surely find plenty of adventure here.
Want to explore the desert? You can take a camel ride, try a Jeep safari, or if you’re up for more excitement, why not go on a night safari?
Comparison Between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer
a) Tourist Attractions
Let’s Start With Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort
This fort in the centre of this city can easily make anyone enamoured with Marwari architecture. The museum within contains royal objects that you can see. Go on top for excellent photos; the view is breathtaking from there.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
This is perhaps one of the largest extended private residences anywhere and provides a splendid blend of historic elegance and contemporary comfort.
Jaswant Thada
The calm gardens and beautiful architecture make it a must-visit place for photographers.
Now talk about Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer Fort
When you visit the fort, you might feel like you’ve seen it somewhere before. But where?
Does the Arabian Nights cartoon come to mind? That’s right!?
Yes, it is the replica of the fort shown in the cartoon! It is the most popular landmark in Jaisalmer city and one of the largest forts in the world. Unlike other forts in Rajasthan, Jaisalmer Fort has a museum, shops, restaurants, residences, and hotels.
Havelis
The Patwon Ki Haveli and Nathmal Ki Haveli provide fascinating examples of carvings and architecture that speak volumes about the city’s prosperity. So if you are an architecture lover, you must visit the havelis in Jaisalmer.
Sandstone Structure
Most of the buildings in Jaisalmer are constructed with sandstone and reflect a warm golden touch.
b) Desert adventure
Jodhpur
In Jodhpur, Osian is known as the gateway to the Thar Desert and offers a great opportunity to experience this relatively uninhabited desert on a camel or Jeep.
Want to give your inner adventurous kid a challenge or treat? Enjoy the safari dunes in Jaisalmer and the enigmatic scenery of golden scenery after rolling over it.
You can easily conquer them with a four-by-four car, as they can cover the dunes effortlessly. It’s the kind of experience every adventurer should try.
After the desert safari, at night, you can enjoy the musical and folk dances of Rajasthan under the star-spangled desert sky.
Jaisalmer
The Sam Sand Dunes in Jaisalmer is a major attraction for adventure seekers from all over the country. Watching the sunset in the middle of the desert while camel riding, sand surfing, and sandboarding is an unforgettable experience.
However, if you’re on a romantic trip and seeking some peaceful moments, you can visit the Khuri Sand Dunes. Unlike Sam, these dunes are less crowded and offer a more serene atmosphere, providing a calm and peaceful backdrop.
Want to add a new layer to your experience? Stay in luxurious tents and wake up to the vast sands of the desert before you. This truly gives you the real desert experience.
c) Cultural Experiences
If you really want to experience the culture of any city, the best way is to explore its markets, streets, and local food. These are where the true essence of the city lies.
Markets, in particular, are full of shops that give you a glimpse of the city’s unique culture. You’ll find handicrafts that make for great souvenirs, things that you can take home to remind you of your travels.
Let’s dive into the markets of two famous cities: Jodhpur and Jaisalmer.
Starting with Jodhpur, the city is home to some of the most famous markets, like:
- Clock Tower Market
- Nai Sarak
- Sojati Gate Market
- Mochi Bazaar
But my favourite is the Clock Tower Market. I bought spices, textiles, and handicrafts here, and even today, when I look at the handicrafts, I’m reminded of my Jodhpur trip.
So, pick up something as a souvenir from Jodhpur to carry a piece of the city with you.
Now, let’s talk about Jaisalmer. What do you think Jaisalmer would be like? Trust me, it’s as charming as Jodhpur, if not more. The famous bazaars here that I explored are:
- Bhatia Bazaar
- Sadar Bazaar
- Pansari Bazaar
Bhatia Bazaar is famous for its woodwork and mirror embroidery. I picked up a few mirror embroidery pieces myself. If you’re into leather accessories, Sadar Bazaar is the place to go. Apart from that, you can find shawls, jewellery, paintings, and carpets too.
You are in the market, so you can’t leave without trying the local foods. Don’t miss out on dal baati churma and mirchi vada, which are served at their best in a true Rajasthani setting. You can also enjoy folk dances, cultural shows, puppet shows, and performances by local artists.
Both cities have their unique charm, and you’re sure to find something special to take home from their markets!
d) Stay and Access Point Facility
Jodhpur is very well connected by air, train, and road, so one can quickly get here from most cities in India.
Now, talking about stay options: Jodhpur offers a range of categories, from heritage and luxury to budget and backpacker accommodations, ready to cater to any tourist.
Jaisalmer, although it is accessible by rail and road, is somewhat farther away but worth a visit.
But the accommodation here is unique; you can plan your stay in lavish desert camps or choose the option to get closer to local culture by renting a haveli.
e) Budget
Jaisalmer and Jodhpur are both relatively affordable destinations. Jodhpur is slightly more expensive than Jaisalmer when it comes to accommodations.
If you’re on a tight budget, Jaisalmer would be a better choice, while Jodhpur might require a slightly higher budget, particularly if you opt for luxury experiences.
Which One Aligns More With Your Interests: Jodhpur or Jaisalmer?
Take Jodhpur if you are interested in structure, royal blueprints, culture, and liveliness, or if you’re seeking a more peaceful desert adventure.
Choose Jaisalmer if you are looking for famous dunes and royal desert accommodations.
Incorporate both cities to get the best of the Rajasthani experience.
Sum Up
Now that you’ve gotten comprehensive information about Jodhpur and Jaisalmer, I hope you’ve selected your favourite city. If you’re like me and want to explore both, that’s awesome too. Whether you visit one city or both, your Rajasthan trip is going to be unforgettable.
If you need help in planning your trip and want everything booked for you, contact Indian Holiday. They will handle all the arrangements, from flights and hotels to food and everything else.
So, sit back, pack your bags, and let Indian Holiday experts take care of the rest. All you need to do is enjoy your trip. Happy desert journey!
Arendra Rajput
Weaving tales and exploring the world through a keyboard. Passionate about travel, culture, and the art of storytelling. Find me chasing inspiration in coffee shops and hidden corners.
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