Jaisalmer Desert Festival Rajasthan

On a normal day the remote and unspoiled Thar Desert looks quite calm and composed, however it comes to life during the three days’ cultural extravaganza which takes place amidst the beautiful sand dunes of Jaisalmer. No matter how barren and unexplored the location is, visitors can’t resist taking a glimpse of the festival. Set against the backdrop of the majestic Jaisalmer fort, the Desert festival is perfect personification of the traditional culture of Rajasthan. The state tourism department impeccably organizes this festival every year with an intention to exhibit the imperial state culture of Rajasthan. Dressed brilliantly in colourful and traditional attire, the three-day festival commences with a procession from the Jaisalmer fort, spreading euphoria everywhere. First day, the artists and performers put up a great show performing Rajasthani art, folk dance and music for the visitors setting a perfect tempo of the festival. As the day progresses Rajasthani competitions such as turban tying, longest moustache, fire dance and Mr. and Mrs. Desert keep the visitors engaged. Following day too engages the audience with various games and art performed by local women ending it with music and dance. The last day is planned in the superb setting of Sam dunes where the most prestigious camel rides and camel races are held. The festival winds up with the traditional Rajathani folk music.

Dates of the festival: The festival is celebrated for three days in the month of February, such that the last day falls on the full moon day.

Special highlights of the festival:

• Since the last day of the festival falls on a full moon day, the melodies of the musical concert conducted under the starry night will get etched in your memory forever.
• The camel race is also one of the best activities of this festival. The animal is decked up beautifully while the artists are seen doing various acrobatics on the camel back.
• Since the festival is conducted in the desert, it’s an ultimate experience to camp in the desert near the sand dunes.
• The festival also offers an assortment of local delicacies which makes it even more interesting for food lovers to attend this festival.
• Souvenirs and handicrafts which are locally made are a good option to take back and retain them as a memory.