Journey to the desert capital of Rajasthan, during the most extravagant time of the year.

Jaisalmer is known as the ‘Golden City’ due to the beautiful yellow sand stone, used in much of the architecture of the city. It was founded by Maharawal Jaisal in the 12^th century, and is situated 350 miles west of the state capital, Jaipur.  It is the heart of the Thar Desert, the 7^th largest desert in the world.

The Desert Festival is organized every year by the Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, in the months of January or February, for three days. The city bustles with life during the Desert Festival. It splashes a kaleidoscope of colors throughout the arid city. Truly, it’s the best occasion to experience the desert folk culture of the Rajputana, in the forms of music, dances, and acrobats. The festival is not only a cultural one, but also a musical extravaganza onto itself.

Two very renowned musical family dynasties, Langa and Manganiar perform. They are hereditary musical dynasties, with talents and skills passed down from generation to generation, honed in the desert Royal Courts. The soulful, full throated voices reflect all expressions of Rajasthani life.

The festival is held against the backdrop of magnificent Jaisalmer fort. This festival is a picturesque portrait of desert heritage and folk culture of Rajputana. It starts with a procession, which displays the rich culture, and the life of desert state. Rajasthani folk dancers dressed in vibrant and colorful costumes. The “Gair” and fire dances are spectacular. Colorfully decorated camels are the essential part of life, and any event in Rajasthan. The festival would be incomplete without camel polo, camel race, camel decorations, and camel dances.

Rajasthan is known for its majestic and chivalrous warriors. Turbans and moustaches are deemed to be symbol of honor, in the state of Rajasthan, so make sure you take the time to see ‘the turban tying competition’ and ‘the most glorious moustache.’

The festival finishes with the folk artist performances, with the splendid backdrop of the famous Sam Dunes, on the full moon night, with the fireworks in the sky.

Travelling Tips

• Make your booking at least 3 months prior to your visit.
• Ask for a program list, so you can plan which activities you want to see.
• Carry comfortable walking shoes, sun screen lotion, sun glasses and hat.
• Afternoons are sunny, but usually nights are cold. So carry some warm outfits.
• Make sure you have enough memory cards and batteries, for your cameras!