In short
- Cover shoulders and knees for temples.
- Wear shoes with good grip for cobblestones.
- Remove leather items before temple entry.
In this article
Jaisalmer Fort is a massive 12th-century citadel built on a desert hill. Since it contains 7 Jain temples and active Hindu shrines, covering up is essential. The steep paths also demand practical footwear.
Is there a dress code for Jaisalmer Fort?
The fort streets have no official dress code, but the temples do.
You can wear casual clothes while walking the alleys. However, when entering the 7 intricately carved Jain temples or the Laxminath Temple, you must dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees. Carrying a scarf or stole is the easiest way to cover up quickly.
Do I have to remove my shoes?
You must remove your footwear before entering any temple or shrine.
You keep your shoes on while exploring the main gates, museums, and alleys. Take them off only at temple entrances. Wear slip-on shoes if you plan to visit multiple shrines to save time.
Can I wear leather inside the temples?
Leather items are often restricted inside the Jain temple complex.
You may need to remove leather belts, wallets, and bags before entering the Jain temples. These temples were built between the 12th and 16th centuries and follow strict religious protocols.
What shoes are best for the fort?
Wear comfortable walking shoes with a good grip.
The paths inside Jaisalmer Fort are made of steep, uneven cobblestones. Motorized vehicles are mostly restricted past Gopi Chowk. You will walk for hours, so leave high heels at home.
How should I dress for the desert weather?
Wear light cotton clothing during the day and a warm jacket at night.
The best time to visit is from October to March. During the day, the strong desert sun requires light, breathable clothes. Evenings get surprisingly cold, making a sweater or jacket necessary.
| Time of Day | Clothing Strategy | Accessories |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime | Light, breathable cotton | Sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat |
| Evening/Night | Warm jacket or sweater | Scarf or stole |
What accessories should I pack?
Bring sun protection, a reusable water bottle, and a wide-angle camera lens.
- Sun gear: Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat protect you on the 250-foot (76 m) high Trikuta Hill.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated while climbing the ramparts.
- Cash: Bring small denominations for tips and the museum entry fee.
Questions travellers ask
Are cars allowed inside Jaisalmer Fort?
Motorized vehicles are mostly restricted past the main gate (Gopi Chowk). You will need walking shoes to explore the alleys.
How many Jain temples are inside Jaisalmer Fort?
There is a complex of 7 intricately carved Jain temples built between the 12th and 16th centuries.
How much is the entry fee for Jaisalmer Fort?
Entering the residential streets is free. The Fort Palace Museum charges ₹50 for Indian citizens and ₹250 for foreigners.
