- Details
- Written by Anchal B Chaudhary
Desert Festival, Jaisalmer
Desert Festival of Jaisalmer is one of the major tourist attractions of Rajasthan.
This vibrant, three-day long festival is held annually in the month of January or February and showcases rich and colourful Rajasthani folk culture.
Organised by Rajasthan Tourism development Corporation, against the backdrop of the magnificent Jaisalmer fort at Sam Sand dunes, Desert Festival of Jaisalmer is a three day long extravaganza of folk performances, music, cultural events, camel rides, bonfires and handicraft fairs.
A number of unusual and interesting competitions, like Turban Tying, Best Moustache, Matka Race and Mr Desert Competition, are hosted to sheer amusement of the visitors.
Where, Tug of War sees many foreigners and locals participating, the captivating puppet shows mesmerise one and all. Then there are snake charmers… after whom the world titled India as ‘The land of the snake charmers’!
However this dazzling festival itself proclaims that India is not just about snake charmers! Where the country has distinct deep-rooted traditions and rich cultural heritage on one hand, on the other it’s a beautiful country with warm and friendly people and all modern amenities and latest technologies.
To sheer delight of the visitors, payments are accepted by credit cards on most if not all kiosks and there are aplenty mobile money exchangers.
For shopaholics there is no dearth of options available. There is a lot to choose from… from camel leather items, embroidered fabrics and ‘odhnis’ to handmade silver jewellery.
And this is not all! Indian Air Force carries out the fantastic Surya Kiran show at the venue and at night there is a wonderful firework display.
Origin of Desert Festival
The origin of the desert festival at Jaisalmer is dated back to the times of Mughal emperor Jehangir, who on his way to his summer resort Kashmir, would set up his camp here with full paraphernalia.
The Rajput Royals continued the tradition for their outdoor evenings, hunting trips and royal gatherings.
Desert Festival Schedule 2017
8th to 10th February
