From glowing desert nights to soulful folk performances, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival turns the sands of Jaisalmer into a celebration of culture, tradition and timeless heritage.
If you are someone who travels not just to explore the famous landmarks of the destination but also who has keen interest in the culture, heritage and history then the Jaisalmer desert festival is perfect for you.
Rajasthan is known for its rich culture and tradition and the best ways to explore them deeply is by attending its vibrant festivals. Events like Jaisalmer desert festival or maru mahotsav bring the desert alive, where colours and shimmers, folk music, dance performance, camel parade surprise visitors with unique experiences. During this is the time the entire desert glows with joy and happiness.
Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2026
Rajasthan is organising a 3 day cultural event in Jaisalmer showcasing the Rajasthan heritage with folk music and dance performance, moustache competition, camel possession, puppet shows, turban tying and amazing unique activities. The dance performance includes ghoomar and kalbeliya is a treat to watch.
The Camel parade is the major highlight. The event concluded with fireworks and lighting the desert sky.
The festival has been celebrated since 1156 AD by Raja Jaisal a rajput king of bhati dynasty and eventually the festival is now celebrated by Rajasthan tourism department.
Festival details
The desert festival will take place between 30 January to 2 February 2026.
Jaisalmer desert festival is celebrated at sam sand dunes 42 km from Jaisalmer.
This time is ideal to visit Jaisalmer as the weather is pleasant during this time when the day is warm and night is cool.
Festival highlights
- You can enjoy camping in the midst of golden sand as many luxury camps are available.
- During the festival you must experience desert safari and can enjoy camel rides decorated in beautiful colours and shimmers.
- You can enjoy shopping handicrafts, textiles and paintings.
- The place is perfect for stargazing, offering an incredible night view sky full of sparkling stars.
- The Camel polo match is also the major highlight of the festival.
- Savoring authentic Rajasthani cuisine is a must to try when coming to Rajasthan.
- Witness majestic sunset at sam sand dunes when sky turns to golden orange and creates a magical vibe in the midst of desert.
Conclusion
Rajasthan is always ranked on the top when it comes to hospitality and experiences and attending the vibrant festival adds more colours to your vacation. Away from the towering building and jam packed streets golden thar desert welcomes you in the celebration which is not loud but happening.
Cultural performances performed by locals in their traditional attires will bring you close to culture and tradition of Rajasthan. Shopping unique art will leave you awestruck how beautifully and patiently every art piece is curated. Tasting the amazing flavours in the midst of a pristine nature setting surrounded by soft lamps, colorful decoration and becoming the part of the celebration is the experience not to be missed in Rajasthan.
