Hiring a bike is one of the best things to do in Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer, nicknamed ‘The Golden City’, is located in the Indian state of Rajasthan. There are many things to do in Jaisalmer, and we’re taking a look at activities that are off the beaten path and away from the dense tourism that the city attracts. Jaisalmer is approximately 357 miles west of Jaipur and bike hire is available should visitors wish to explore the surrounding hidden beauty.
Things to do in Jaisalmer – Off the beaten path
Though there are plenty of things to do in Jaisalmer, the surrounding attractions can be reached by hiring a bike.
Bikaner
Founded and established by Rao Bika in 1486, the city of Bikaner is situated to the northwest of the state of Rajasthan – which is a prime hub for tourists. Once you step into the street markets of this city, one can find a plethora of traditional handicraft items and Rajasthani art forms. Tourists who come to Bikaner find the real fascination in its colossal palaces, historical forts and monuments, exotic camel safaris and temples.
The bumpy camel rides of Bikaner are a major attraction. This dusty and torrid city gives you the feel of a desert yet leaves you with a glimpse of a bygone Indian era. Want to experience more of Rajasthani art, music, food, culture, heritage and tradition minus the bustle of Jaipur? Then Bikaner is the ideal getaway place for you.
Distance: 330 kms
Tip: Go during the day, between September and March
Jodhpur
Founded in the year 1459 by the Rajput chief, Rao Jodha, Jodhpur served as the capital of the Marwar kingdom for a very long time. There a number of places of tourist importance in this city. The Mehrangarh Fort, Umaid Bhawan palace, Balsamand and Kaylana lakes and Rao Jodha Park are some of the major tourist destinations. The city houses Ravan ka Mandir, the only temple in India that is dedicated to Ravan. All these buildings see a beautiful blend of Rajput and Mughal architecture. Jodhpur witnesses less rainfall and remains hot for most of the year, thereby earning the name of the ‘Sun city’.
The ideal time to visit Jodhpur would be between October and March. A lot of travelers visit the city during the peak season from all over the world. Bike trips are available from nearby cities such as Jaipur, Ajmer, Udaipur and also Delhi are becoming extremely common. With bikes easily available for rent, Jodhpur plays host to a lot of travelers.
Visit Bike rentals in Jaisalmer, who provide a fleet of bikes to choose from for rental, allowing you to add a personal touch to your trip.
Distance: 286 kms
Tip: Don’t miss the iconic photo with the blur houses in the background.
Mandore
Located in the center part of Rajasthan, lies the historic town of Mandore. It was originally called Mandavyapurain in pre-historic times, and was the old capital of the Jodhpur kings and the Marwar region. The Fort of Mandore, once a piece of architectural marvel, now lies in ruins and is currently a converted museum which is often habited by primates.
This archaic desert town welcomes tourists with its lush green gardens, stunning ancient architectural masterpieces and lots of street vendors with impressive handicrafts that display the craftsmanship of the people. Mandore boasts several monuments, of which, the Mandore Gardens take the main spotlight. With the little colorful earthen wares and skilled handicraft items laden on the street side, it is evident that the workmanship of the items entices you to add all of them to your ensemble.
Distance: 291 kms
Tip: Take an afternoon siesta in its lush gardens.
Osiyan
Osiyan town is referred to as the Khajuraho of Rajasthan. The city of Osiyan goes back a long way back to the 8th century. A very old settlement, Osiyan was the center for Brahmanism. This culturally rich place was discerned as the cultural capital of the Mewar Kindgdom and was home to many exquisitely designed temples. Though most of them are in ruins today, around 18 of the original 100+ temples and can be enjoyed today. All these temples date back to the medieval period. While in Osiyan don’t forget to experience the typical Osiyan life.
On the edge of the Thar desert, you can relish the sultry feeling of desert village life along with camel safaris and camping. The camel safaris visit the local potters and weavers. The camel polo and camel camp are one of the top things to do in Osiyan.
Distance: 243 kms
Tip: One of the top things to do in Jaisalmer is to rent a bike and ride to this exotic location.
Khichan
Situated in an arid desert region, the nearest town to Khichan is Phalodi which is 4km away. Khichan is very well known for the migration of Demoiselle Cranes that visit the small village every winter. The number of cranes that visit this place every winter is around 20,000.
All the tourists that visit Khichan, come mostly to see these birds being fed which is truly breath-taking. The synchronized chaos of the birds unveiling before the eyes is truly a beautiful sight. But, there is more to it than meets the eye in Khichan. One must not miss seeing the ‘havelis’ in Khichan. It is unexplored and holds a lot of undiscovered lands.
Distance: 172 kms
Tip: Capture some amazing photos of those rare birds.
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