Jaisalmer: Camel Safari with Desert Camp & Village Visit

Summary

Camel bells echo through jaisalmer dunes as we ride past villages and sleep beneath the stars

You’ll ride camels across the Thar Desert from Jaisalmer, visit the mysterious Kuldhara village, sip chai by a desert lake at sunset, and share stories around a campfire before sleeping under open skies. It’s simple but honest travel — you’ll feel dust on your skin and warmth from new friends.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the soft crunch of sand under camel hooves — not loud, just steady, like a heartbeat you start to trust. We set out from Jaisalmer in the late afternoon, sun already turning everything gold. Our guide, Salim, waved us over at the edge of Kuldhara village. He told us a story about why it’s empty now — something about a curse or maybe just bad water. I couldn’t decide if he believed it or just liked watching our faces as he talked. The wind carried this dry, almost sweet smell I still can’t name.

After that we rolled on to Jiyai lake — which honestly surprised me because you don’t expect water in the middle of the Thar Desert. Camels waited for us there (mine was called Raju and seemed to have opinions about my riding skills). We climbed up awkwardly and set off for our camel safari. It’s quieter out there than I thought it’d be; sometimes all you hear is your own breathing and the camels snorting. When we stopped for chai and pakoras at sunset, someone started humming an old song — I didn’t catch all the words but it felt right.

Later on, our group sat around a small fire while dinner cooked — chapati, rice, dal with that smoky taste you only get outdoors. Salim showed me how to wrap up in my blanket so the sand wouldn’t get everywhere (I still woke up with some in my hair). Sleeping outside under those stars — I mean really outside, not glamping or anything — was strange at first but then peaceful. You wake up with sunrise right in your eyes and breakfast already waiting. The ride back felt slower somehow; maybe none of us wanted to leave yet.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Visit villages and camel safari

• Visit Kuldhara abandoned village
• Visit Jiyai natural lake
• Start camel ride from camel point
• Enjoy evening tea, coffee, and snacks
• Watch sunset with chai and pakoda
• Have bonfire and dinner
• Sleep under stars in desert

Day 2 — Sunrise breakfast and return

• Watch sunrise in desert
• Have morning breakfast
• Camel ride back to hotel

Top questions

How long is the camel safari from Jaisalmer?

The safari can be customized from half a day up to 7 days; this overnight tour includes about 1–1.5 hours of camel riding each way.

Is food included during the desert camp?

Yes, dinner (vegetarian dishes like dal, rice, chapati) and breakfast are included along with chai and snacks like pakora at sunset.

Where do we sleep during the tour?

You’ll sleep outside in the Thar Desert under the stars; blankets, pillows, and beds are provided for comfort.

Are children allowed on this camel safari?

Infants and small children can join; they may ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult’s lap during camel rides.

What villages do we visit on this trip?

You’ll stop at Kuldhara (an abandoned village) plus see another gypsy village to observe daily life along the way.

Is pickup included from Jaisalmer hotels?

The tour starts from a meeting point near Jaisalmer; check with your operator for possible hotel pickup arrangements.

What should I bring for sleeping outdoors?

Bedding is provided but bring layers for cool desert nights; sand gets everywhere so maybe pack something to cover your face or head.

Is this suitable for pregnant travelers?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health due to bumpy rides.

What’s included

Your day includes transport from Jaisalmer to the starting point, guided visits to Kuldhara village and a local gypsy settlement, camel rides through desert landscapes with stops for photos at Jiyai lake, evening tea and snacks at sunset, vegetarian dinner cooked over an open fire, comfortable bedding for sleeping under the stars in the Thar Desert, plus breakfast before your return ride back toward town.