Stretches and stretches of lofty sand dunes, a vast blue sky above your head, and nothing to see but some camels at a distance. That’s pretty much how you can describe Sam Desert. Travellers often take a trip to this natural wonder to catch a surreal sunset and take a safari on the golden sand. However, if you are looking for the iconic desert experience of Rajasthan, you have got to spend a few days here. And with this travel guide, we are telling you how to get the best out of Sam.

Jaisalmer City View and the iconic Jaisalmer Fort

Best Time to Visit Sam Desert

Being a desert, Sam Sand Dunes have pleasant temperatures during the daytime, but nights tend to get a bit chilly during the winter months. Having said that, the absolute best time to visit Sam is between October and March. However, a few showers between July and September give a little respite from the blazing sun, making monsoon a good time to experience the colourful culture and many outdoor activities. And if you want to see how corn pops without a popcorn maker, you can visit Sam between April and June.

Guide to Sam Desert & Jaisalmer

To help you explore the best of Jaisalmer and its dune-y outskirts, we've got you a locally curated tourist guide. Find out the detailed version here.

How to Get the Best of Sam Desert?

Sam is home to one of Rajasthan’s most iconic experiences. One that gives you an insight into what it’s truly like to live in a desert and what an authentic desert safari is made of. And with Zostel Sam Desert (Jaisalmer), you can make the best of this unique destination. Here are some of the unmissable experiences of Sam:

Explore Kuldhara Village and Khaba Fort: A small hamlet woven in mystery, the Kuldhara Village was once a prominent village of its time. Legend has it that in the year 1825, the village became deserted as the residents vanished in thin air. Today this abandoned village is home to architectural ruins that echo the tales of its past.

Architectural Ruins at the Kuldhara Village

Visit the Sand Dunes: Among the first on the list of places to visit in Sam are the iconic sand dunes. These gold-toned mounds present an enthralling sight, especially in the middle of the day, when the blazing sun seemingly sets the whole place ablaze with warm colours. Plus, adventure enthusiasts can ride the ATV here!

Visit the Indo-Pak border and the Laungewala War Memorial: A symbol of valour and gallantry, the Laungewala War Memorial enshrines the brave martyrs who defended the Laungewala border post during the Indo-Pakistan war in 1971. One of the finest spots for your Jaisalmer sightseeing tour, a small museum and theatre here give you an insight into this historic incident.

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm (Mon-Sat)

Note: Travellers are advised to mandatorily carry 2 ID cards while visiting.

Go on a desert safari at the Desert National Park: The Desert National Park houses the best of Thar Desert’s unique and thriving ecosystem. The landscape is formed by undulating sand mounds, serrated rocks, and saline Sambhar Lake. It is home to creatures like the Chinkara, Black Buck, Desert Fox, and the Great Indian Bustard. During winter, many migratory birds like the Eastern Imperial Eagle, Himalayan and Eurasian Griffon Vultures, and the Saker Falcon are a guest here. The best part, you can try a Sam desert safari experience with just a 15-20 min drive from Zostel Sam Desert (Jaisalmer).

Safari Jeep Prices: ~550 INR per person

Timings: 3:30 pm till Sunset time [6:45-7 pm]

Griffon Vulture (left) and Steppe Eagle (right) at the Desert National Park, Jaisalmer

Explore the Tanot Mata Temple: Built close to the Indo-Pak border and the Laungewala memorial, this temple has been maintained by the Border Security Force of India. Legend has it that despite being within range of thousands of shellings during the 1971 Indo-Pak war, the temple remained unscathed. The unexploded bombs continue to be housed in the Tanot Museum, present in the temple premises.

Timings: 5 am to 8 pm

Savour the Sunsets and Stars: Among the Sam sand dunes, the celestial display is an unparalleled sight. As the sun sets, the sky ignites with a prismatic blaze of orange, red, and yellow, creating a stark contrast with the cool blue and star-studded night scene.

Cultural Highlights of Jaisalmer and Sam

The silken sand dunes of Sam are home to some of the most iconic cultural experiences in Rajasthan, including a full-fledged festival celebrating life in the desert and the iconic Kalbelia culture.

Jaisalmer Desert Festival: Every year, the golden sands of Thar come alive with celebrations, colours, and music with the Jaisalmer Desert Festival. This 3-day festival takes place between the months of January and February and is packed with a number of cultural activities across the various sand dunes. From traditional folk performances, puppetry, camel races, and camel polo to live concerts by prominent singers, travellers can indulge in a truly different side of the Thar desert during this period.

Kalbelia Dance and Music: The Thar desert is home to the Kalbelia or Kalbeliya tribe. The tribe were professional snake handlers once upon a time. Nowadays, they’re renowned for their iconic music and dance. Kalbelia traditional music often includes spontaneous and improvised lyrics. The Kalbelia women are often seen twirling at a dizzying pace while wearing intricately sewn black skirts. Meanwhile, the men accompany the performance with traditional instruments like Pungi (wind instrument) and Khanjari (percussion).

Folk dance and sunsets at the Sam Sand Dunes

Iconic Marvels of Jaisalmer City

With a short ~40-min drive, you can find yourself in the golden city of Jaisalmer. To help you explore its best, here’s a list of the best places to visit in Jaisalmer:

Jaisalmer Fort: The most well-known attraction of Jaisalmer, the fort is not just a place to visit; it’s actually alive! This sprawling urban centre is packed with houses, temples, shops, and restaurants. And did you know you can find Zostel Jaisalmer inside the fort?

Patwon-Ki-Haweli: Among the largest structures in the area, this ancient haveli is made of a cluster of 5 havelis. With carefully crafted balconies and windows, the entire structure is adorned by detailed murals and mirrorwork.

Tickets: 20 INR per person (Extra for Camera/Video: 50/100 INR)

Timings: 9 am to 5 pm

Salim Singh ki Haveli: Also known as Moti Mahal, this iconic structure was built in the 18th Century. Its distinctive form with a narrow base and flared top make it a renowned spot for travellers as well as Jaisalmer Tourism. With carefully crafted walls, arched balconies featuring light blue cupolas, and a roof decorated with peacock-shaped brackets.

Tickets: 50 INR per person (Extra for Camera/Video: 50/100 INR)

Timings: 8 am to 6 pm

Patwon ki Haveli (left) and Salim Singh ki Haveli (right)

Bada Bagh: Perched on a hilltop, this brilliantly yellow cluster of cenotaphs is a popular sunset point in Jaisalmer. Also, you can catch a breathtaking bird’s eye view of the entire city, along with the endless expanse of the silken desert.

Tickets: ~20-50 INR per person (Extra for Camera/Video)

Timings: 9 am to 6 pm

Things to Do Near Sam Desert

When in Jaisalmer, you’ll never fall short of trying new and unique experiences. From feasting your eyes on the architectural virtuosity of Rajasthan to throwing a feast for your tastebuds with iconic street food, there’s a whole lot to do in Jaisalmer.

Catch a light and sound show at Gadisar Lake: Visit the pristine Gadisagar or Gadisar Lake of Jaisalmer during the evening time to catch an eye-catching light and music show display.

The iconic Gadisar Lake of Jaisalmer

Visit the Akal Wood Fossil Park: These wood fossils are said to have been fossilised 180 million years ago. You’ll also find some Emu and a Deer here.

Shop at the local markets: Jaisalmer is packed with a number of markets, where you can buy yourself a number of souvenirs, handicrafts, and traditional Rajasthani knick-knacks.

Best Places to Eat near Sam Desert (Jaisalmer)

The best eateries around Sam Sand Dunes can be found in Jaisalmer, as Sam is a secluded hamlet tucked away from the cityscape. Jaisalmer will treat you to the most iconic gastronomical delights of Rajasthan. All the foodies be advised, here’s a mouthwatering list of some of the must-try delicacies and where to find them:

• Dal Pakwaan at Daulat Ji’s
• Kachoris at Fatehlal Ji
• Pyaz Kachori and a variety of Ladoos at Dhanraj Ranmal Bhatia Sweets
• Ghotan Mithai at Bhatia Sweets
• Ker Sangri at Chokhi Dhani
• Gatta Kadhi at Riddhi Siddhi Restaurant
• Lal Maas at Restaurant Romany Jaisalmer, The Trio, and Cafe The Kaku
• Dal Baati Churma at Desert Boy’s Dhani
• Makhania Lassi at Kanchan Shree Ice Cream
• Mirchi Bada at Chandan Shree Restaurant

About Zostel Sam Desert (Jaisalmer)

Offering a comfy camping experience in the middle of a desert, Zostel Sam Desert (Jaisalmer) is the perfect place for disconnecting from the bustling cities. Welcoming solo, friends, and couples alike, this Zostel is also a great place to embark on many adventures like going on a desert safari, exploring ancient villages, and paying respects at a real-life battlefield. To make your trip all the more memorable, it offers you the pleasures of spaciousness, uninterrupted views of sand dunes, and extravagance. Unwind at the bar as you sip a cooler, indulge in games as you chill with fellow travellers, and dance the night away with folk artists. Explore Zostel Sam Desert (Jaisalmer) here.

Glimpses from Zostel Sam Desert (Jaisalmer)

Lively dorms and cosy & luxe private rooms at Zostel Sam Desert (Jaisalmer)

In summary or should we say sam-mary, the iconic sandscape of Sam Desert is a scenic sight that holds many mysteries, a rich history, and a whole lot more for travellers to explore. Make your way to this hidden gem to sample the ultimate Rajasthani desert adventure.