Is Jaisalmer expensive to visit?
Jaisalmer is a smaller spot that entices a mix of tourists, showcasing various travel styles, financial habits, and budget considerations. Accommodation options range from budget-friendly hostels to mid-range hotels to high-end luxury properties.
Although Jaisalmer can be quite pricey if you let it be, you can cut costs by looking for discounts and coupons.
On average, budget travelers spend $19 (₨1,627) per day, mid-range travelers spend $46 (₨3,913) per day, and luxury travelers spend around $103 (₨8,722) per day. These costs are calculated from the expenses of previous travelers to Jaisalmer.
Within Asia, Jaisalmer is a reasonably affordable destination compared to other places. It is in the top 25% of cities in Asia for its affordability. You can find more affordable cities such as Mandalay, but there are also more expensive cities, such as Similan Islands.
For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is Jaisalmer Expensive?
How much money do I need for a trip to Jaisalmer?
The average Jaisalmer trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Jaisalmer travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers. Also, you can see more details at How much does a trip to Jaisalmer cost?
Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget
It's important to be realistic about your travel budget when visiting Jaisalmer. Although some travelers believe they can get by on a shoestring budget, most people aren't comfortable with that type of travel. Consider what you enjoy on vacation and how you've traveled in the past. Do you like staying in resorts, hotels, vacation rentals, or hostels? Are dining out and visiting attractions a priority? Your preferences will affect your overall budget and itinerary.
The Truth on Budget Travel
You might consider yourself a budget traveler, but if you're not ready to give up some comforts, prepare to spend a lot more than the $19 per day that younger budget travelers manage.
Backpackers will usually stick to this shoestring budget by staying in hostel dorms, dining at the cheapest spots such as fast food places, using public transit, and mostly visiting free attractions.
Thankfully, Jaisalmer is home to plenty of hostels, including Wonbin Safari Hostel Jaisalmer, Jaisalmer Toffu Safari, and Open Road Hostel and Cafe - Jaisalmer. In these hostels, you can find economical dorm accommodations and a fun social atmosphere, but amenities are typically limited.
Do You Identify as an Average Traveler?
If you're a couple or family taking a fun trip, you'll probably prefer a mid-range hotel, enjoy meals at favorite restaurants, and visit the main museums and attractions that require entry fees. A trip to Jaisalmer wouldn't be complete without visiting its major attractions, museums, sights, and landmarks. Most activities have costs involved. Thus, it's realistic to expect your daily budget to be closer to $46 per person, per day.
Jaisalmer boasts a wide array of hotels and vacation rentals. When traveling with others, you can share accommodations with a partner, friend, or children, thus reducing your expenses. Families should prioritize hotels and restaurants that are geared toward kids. Killa Bhawan is an excellent family-friendly option, while 1st Gate Home- Fusion is also superb. You can find additional family and couple-friendly hotels in our hotel guide for Jaisalmer here.
Want to Experience a Luxurious Trip?
For a trip that encompasses every convenience with outstanding service, get ready for a daily cost nearing $103. To experience nicer hotels, enjoy award-winning cuisine, indulge in extravagant outings, and use taxis or private drivers for your journeys in the destination, be prepared for premium pricing. Many high-end visitors also prefer unique experiences such as Private Heritage Walking Tour in Jaisalmer Fort and Old Bazaar - offered by Viator.
Accommodation Budget in Jaisalmer
In Jaisalmer, the price of hotels can really surprise you. Some are much more expensive, offering higher luxury and amenities. Peak season rates soar, with off-season averages around $34 and peak season rising to an average of $63. Prices typically range from $15 to $160, but hostels remain cheaper, especially in dorms. To save money, book during the low season or take advantage of special promotions and advance deals.
Calculated from travelers like you
The average price paid in Jaisalmer for two people for a typical double-occupancy hotel room is $26 (₨2,253). For one person sharing a room, the average price paid for a hotel room is $13 (₨1,126) per night. These costs are from the reported spending of actual travelers.
Looking for a hotel in Jaisalmer? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.
The most affordable highest rated hotels in Jaisalmer include:
- Killa Bhawan starting at $99
- Hotel Rawalkot Jaisalmer starting at $77
- Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli starting at $38
- 1st Gate Home- Fusion starting at $94
- Pal Rajah Resort starting at $54
If you plan your trip outside of and during the low or shoulder season, you'll find better accommodation rates and fewer tourists.
Food Budget in Jaisalmer
Cuisine often serves as a primary motivation for travel, so make sure to indulge in the local dishes.
Calculated from travelers like you
-
While restaurant and meal prices in Jaisalmer can vary significantly, the average cost of food in Jaisalmer is $23 (₨1,944) per day, per person, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.
-
Food2
Meals for one day
$23
₨1,944
When dining out, the average daily cost for food in Jaisalmer is around $23 (₨1944) per person, with previous travelers spending from $10 to $47. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.
Typical meal prices in Jaisalmer are as follows:
- Breakfast: $2 to $7
- Lunch: $3 to $9
- Dinner: $7 to $16
- Coffee: $2
- Fast Food or Street Food: $3
Many of the restaurants in this city are targeted towards Westerners; therefore finding traditional food can be hard to come by. If you do come across a place that offers traditional food, be sure to try some of the local specialties. This includes lentils and rice (Dal Baati Churma), onion balls (Pyaz Kachori), and dumplings with curry (Gatte Ki Sabzi).
Many establishments feature breakfast in their pricing, although some tack it on as an added expense. The price and quality can fluctuate depending on the hotel. Being aware of this beforehand helps you gauge if you'll need extra cash. The hotel buffet might be a delicious choice, or you could save some cash by heading to a nearby bakery or cafe.
Pack a water bottle to avoid buying drinks on the go. Plus, it's beneficial for the planet.
Planning a tour? Be sure to confirm in advance which meals are provided. You could find yourself footing the bill for some meals, which can affect your budget.
Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Jaisalmer. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:
- Peaceful Non -Touristic Sunset Camel Safari With Dinner for $35 details
- Overnight Stay in a luxury Camp with a cultural show & dinner. For $75 details
- Half Day Sunset Camel ride & Cultural program dance & dinner for $30 details
Below are some standard food costs in Jaisalmer, gathered from real travelers. These prices should give you a general idea of what you can expect to spend on dining and meals. Keep in mind, though, that your own costs may differ depending on your taste in restaurants, travel habits, and menu choices.
Sightseeing and Activities Budget in Jaisalmer
Calculated from travelers like you
-
Sightseeing activities, entertainment, and entrance tickets in Jaisalmer typically cost an average of $12 (₨1,031) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.
-
Entertainment1
Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
$12
₨1,031
The Jaisalmer Fort, or the Golden Fort, is the most notable sight in the city. It is the backdrop of Jaisalmer, so it would be hard to miss upon arriving in the city. The fort is very picturesque, especially around dusk, when the light from the sunset gives it even more of a golden hue. Inside the fort, you can find a full living and working community. There are many great lookout spots within the fort, which all offer gorgeous views over Jaisalmer as a whole.
Ghadsisar Lake is the water supply for the whole city; it collects rainwater. The lake was created over six hundred and fifty years ago by King Ghadsi and in modern day, the lake is surrounded by tombs of saints and temples. Boat rides are offered on the lake, which is a great way to see the temples and tombs up close.
Within the fort are seven intricately carved temples, built in the twelfth century. Each temple has a walkway that connects it to the next one, and so on. When entering a temple always be sure to remove your shoes and any articles made of leather. Some of the temples are not open for tourists to visit, however, there are a few that are open to tourists. One of them is dedicated to Chandraprabhu, the eight Jain God, which is symbolized by the moon. This temple was built out of rare stones back in 1509.
Camel and jeep safaris are one of the main attractions in Jaisalmer. Both involve escaping out into the desert and seeing the beautiful scenery with the sun setting in the background. Most of the camel safari trips are put together in the surrounding towns of Osian, Pushkar, and Bikaner (if the ones in Jaisalmer don't interest you). You can go out on a camel safari for two to seven days. Each person gets a camel for the trip and there is also a cart that carries the bags, tents, and any other necessary supplies. Some companies in Jaisalmer that offer camel safaris are Sahara Travel and Trotters Camel Safari.
Visit the Indian Crafts Boutique Museum, which gives an insight into not only the local trade history but also Indian trade history as a whole. Learn about the jewelry making process and textile production through displays and brochures. There is also information on alternative medicine (chakras, Ayurveda, and meditation).
Shopping is another great activity in Jaisalmer. The city is known for its artifacts made of leather, its embroidered silk and cotton, and its silver jewelry. Within the fort, you will find many vendors that sell all of the above. Roop Kashore is one of the vendors who makes custom rings.
A nice way to explore destinations in Jaisalmer is with local tours that last just a few hours. This way you can see as much as possible in an efficient way with knowledgable guides. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:
- 2 Days-1 Night Camel Tour for $100 details
- The Billion stars Experience in the Desert for $60 details
- Over Night camel safari non touristic sand dune for $42 details
Outlined below are some typical prices for entry fees and activities in Jaisalmer. They have been reported from the expenses of previous travelers. These costs provide an idea of what you might need to spend, though your individual expenses will depend on the activities you participate in, the places you visit, and how often you choose budget-friendly or free activities.
-
Sam Sand Dunes for Two
₨300
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.