The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is in all probability, a festival that showcases the best (and might we say "also the funnier") aspects of Rajasthani culture. Held in Jaisalmer, in February every year, this festival commences with a procession from Sonar fort to the Shahid Poonam Singh stadium. This three day carnival will see a host of events, some soulful, some entertaining and some downright bizarre. There are folk dancers, singers, snake charmers, fire eaters, puppeteers, "desert models", unsung yet fantastic cooks all spread around in this treasure chest of all things Rajasthani. And how can we forget the camels. There are so many camels, furry camels, not so furry camels, race camels, lazy camels. Basically, lots of camels. Be there people, it is an absolute visual treat. Photographers, after the Kumbh Mela, this is where you should be heading for next.
Rs.3,749*
Day One
Once you reach Jaisalmer, freshen up at the hotel, and then an air conditioned cab will take you to the venue for the day Shahid Poonam Singh stadium. The day starts with a ghoomar dance performance by school girls and later events include Mr Desert and Miss Moomal Contest, Longest Mustache Contest, Turban Tying competition, fireworks display and an Aerial Display by the Air Force.
Day Two
After breakfast, your cab takes you to the Dedasar stadium, where the events for the first half of the day will take place. There is a Tug of War between Indians and foreigners and it is a lot of fun. Camels come into the fore this day, and there is Camel Decoration, Camel Fur Cutting, Camel Polo taking place. In the evening, head back to the Shahid Poonam Singh Stadium for the Camel Tattoo Show by BSF personnel and a folk music show later in the night.
Day Three
After breakfast, your cab takes you on a half day Jaisalmer city sightseeing tour, starting from Jaisalmer Fort to some beautiful havelis - Patvon ki Haveli and Kothari Haveli. Next, we head for the Sam Sand Dunes, where after a beautiful air show display by the Air Force, there is a beautiful Cultural Programme in the moonlight night, to mark the end the festival.
Day Four
After breakfast, check out of the hotel and proceed back from Jaisalmer to your destination.