Where to Stay in Jaisalmer: Heritage Hotels, Swiss Tents & Scenic Views

Known as the "Golden City" of India, Jaisalmer is a jewel in Rajasthan’s crown, famed for its magnificent fort, intricately carved havelis, and the vast Thar Desert. While exploring this desert city is a delight in itself, choosing the right accommodation can greatly enhance your overall travel experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple looking for a romantic escape, or a family exploring Rajasthan’s rich heritage, Jaisalmer offers a wide variety of stay options tailored to every need.

This blog provides insights into the best heritage hotels in Jaisalmer, unique experiences like an overnight stay in Swiss tents, and tips for finding the best hotel in Jaisalmer with view—ensuring your stay is as memorable as the city itself.

Understanding Jaisalmer’s Accommodation Landscape

Jaisalmer offers a diverse mix of stays, including:

Heritage havelis converted into hotels

Luxury and mid-range hotels near the fort

Budget guesthouses and homestays

Desert camps with Swiss tents

What makes Jaisalmer truly unique is its ability to offer stays that feel connected to the city’s history and geography. Many of the best accommodations are housed in centuries-old sandstone buildings or offer unparalleled views of Jaisalmer Fort, especially during sunrise and sunset.

Best Heritage Hotels in Jaisalmer

One of the most rewarding ways to experience Jaisalmer is by staying in a heritage property. The best heritage hotels in Jaisalmer are often former merchant mansions or royal residences that have been restored while preserving their historical charm. These hotels are perfect for travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience without compromising on comfort.

What to expect in heritage hotels:

Authentic Rajasthani interiors with antique furniture and hand-carved décor

Rooftop restaurants offering views of the fort or city skyline

Courtyards, jharokhas (overhanging enclosed balconies), and sandstone facades

Personalized service reflecting local hospitality

Staying in a heritage hotel places you in the heart of the old city, where you can walk to landmarks like Patwon Ki Haveli, Gadisar Lake, and Jaisalmer Fort. A notable example is Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli, a beautifully maintained haveli that offers both charm and proximity to key attractions.

Overnight Stay in Swiss Tent: Desert Experience Like No Other

If you want to take your Jaisalmer adventure beyond the city walls, an overnight stay in Swiss tent is a must. Set up in the sand dunes of Sam or Khuri, Swiss tents offer a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the Thar Desert under a starlit sky.

What is a Swiss Tent?

Swiss tents are luxury tents equipped with basic to premium amenities such as beds, attached bathrooms, and electric lighting. They provide a glamping-style experience in the middle of the desert.

Why it’s worth it:

Sunset camel rides across the dunes

Rajasthani folk music and dance performances by the campfire

Traditional meals served in a rustic setting

Stargazing in the peaceful desert night

Depending on your budget, you can choose between basic Swiss tents with shared facilities or luxurious versions with AC, ensuite bathrooms, and private balconies. These camps typically include pickup/drop-off from the city and camel safaris as part of the package.

For those looking to combine city comfort with a desert experience, many Jaisalmer hotels collaborate with reputable desert camps for seamless overnight trips.

Best Hotel in Jaisalmer with View: What to Look For

Waking up to a view of Jaisalmer Fort bathed in golden sunlight is an unforgettable experience. If that sounds appealing, look for the best hotel in Jaisalmer with view—many of which are located in or just outside the old city.

Tips for finding the perfect view:

Choose a hotel near Gadisar Lake or the eastern side of the fort for sunrise views.

Ask about rooftop access or private balconies when booking.

Read reviews and check photos for actual views from rooms—not just from rooftops.

Many heritage hotels and boutique properties, such as Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli, are situated strategically to offer fort-facing rooms and rooftop lounges that allow guests to enjoy the ever-changing hues of the golden fort throughout the day.

Accommodation Tips Based on Traveler Type

Every traveler has different expectations and priorities. Here's a breakdown of stay options based on needs:

For Budget Travelers:

Stay Options: Guesthouses, hostels, or modest havelis near the fort.

Key Benefits: Affordable rates, local food, easy access to major attractions.

Things to Watch: Basic amenities, check for hot water and Wi-Fi availability.

For Families:

Stay Options: Mid-range hotels or heritage havelis with spacious family rooms.

Key Benefits: Proximity to attractions, child-friendly meals, indoor and outdoor play areas.

Things to Watch: Confirm safety measures, such as railings on rooftops and clean bathrooms.

For Luxury Seekers:

Stay Options: High-end heritage hotels or luxury desert camps.

Key Benefits: Personalized service, premium amenities, curated local experiences.

Things to Watch: Availability during peak season (October–March), as bookings fill fast.

For Couples:

Stay Options: Boutique heritage hotels or desert camps with private Swiss tents.

Key Benefits: Romantic ambiance, rooftop dinners, and peaceful surroundings.

Things to Watch: Choose adult-only or couple-friendly properties for privacy.

Location Guide: Where to Stay in Jaisalmer

Inside or near Jaisalmer Fort: Best for those who want to be in the heart of the old city. Ideal for heritage lovers.

Desert Area (Sam/Khuri): Best for experiencing desert life, camel safaris, and cultural nights.

New Jaisalmer Town: Offers more modern hotels with better vehicle access and parking.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right stay in Jaisalmer can turn a good trip into an unforgettable one. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of the best heritage hotels in Jaisalmer, eager to enjoy an overnight stay in Swiss tent, or seeking the best hotel in Jaisalmer with view, there’s something here for everyone.

Be it a haveli tucked inside the old city, like Hotel Garh Jaisal Haveli, or a luxury tent pitched in the middle of the desert, your accommodation should reflect the kind of experience you’re seeking—cultural, adventurous, relaxing, or romantic.

Take your time to research, read reviews, and align your stay with your travel goals. In Jaisalmer, the right hotel doesn’t just offer a bed—it becomes part of your story.