Have you ever seen a photo and thought to yourself, I would love to go there!?!  A few years ago I saw a photo from a café with a lit up fort in the background and I instantly felt like I wanted to experience that view for myself.

Here is the image I saw.

This photo was taken in the small desert town of Jaislmer in the state of Rajastan, India. When we planned our trip to India this year, I included a three night stay in Rajasthan . We spent one night in Jodhpur and two nights in Jaislmer.  After a one night stay at Ajit Bhawan in Jodhpur, we made the six hour drive through the Thar desert to Jaisalmer where we stayed at a beautiful hotel called Suryagarh.  Usually car rides make me sleepy, but this drive was so unique that I was wide awake the WHOLE TIME.   We stopped along the way for tea and selfies with cows and camels ( I couldn’t resist) until we finally reached our destination. 

Where to Stay

In Jaisalmer we stayed at Suryagarh. This seven star resort in in the heart of the desert is literally the stuff dreams are made of.  For my fellow Bollywood fans, think Sanjay Leela Bansali perfect.  With backdrops and structures worthy of Hum Dil De Chuke Sanam or Ram Leela this haveli had everything. Most recently Housefull 4 was filmed here.

What To Do

The weather in Rajasthan is great during the month of December with highs hitting about 70-73 degrees Fahrenheit during the day and the nights getting down to a cool 45 degrees.  Known for its location in the Thar Desert, excursions into the desert are popular among tourists.  I, for one, could not wait for a desert jeep safari and camel ride into the dunes.  I have always felt a connection with the desert which is why Sedona, Arizona is also one of my favorite places in the US (see my post about my favorite drive of 2019 here). 

We ventured into the desert, walked through the only remaining living fort in India, and visited Gadisar Lake. Jaisalmer was everything I could have expected and more from this little town.  From the local experiences all the way up to the seven star hotel experience, Jaisalmer is a must see.  I love seeing places a little bit off the beaten path and this is one of those places not overrun by tourists. In my opinion, two nights in Jaisalmer is just right for a Rajasthan itinerary (note: they have a great airport).

Travel is one of those things that you spend money on and it truly makes you richer.  My visit to India was wonderful, but the visit to Jaislmer was truly the cherry on top. 

Having visited Mumbai, Kerala, and now Rajasthan, next on my list is Leh.  If you know anyone who has been there who has recommendations please let me know.

Thanks for checking out my post.

Your Chick,

Rina

Jodhpur Hotel Recommendation

Known as the little brother of the much more luxurious and expensive (3x more expensive) Umaid Bhawan (where Priyanka Chopra got married), Ajit Bhwan offers a royal and regal experience right in the heart of the city.  It’s amazing to me how places like this are built with so much creativity and effort.  The hotel is designed like a village where you are escorted to your mini villa.  It was also the best shower I had in the two weeks I was in India.  See my pictures from Ajit Bhawan below.