Jaisalmer Desert Festival

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is an annual event in February in the beautiful city of Jaisalmer. It is held in the Hindu month of Magh (February), three days before the full moon. The festival is celebrated amidst the beautiful dunes of the Thar Desert in the Sam Dunes (42 kilometers from Jaisalmer).

Major Tourist Attractions at Maru Mahotsav 2025
- Shobha Yatra (Ceremonial Procession)
- Maha Aarti
- Inauguration Ceremony of Desert Festival, performance by folk artists
- Turban tying competition, Tug of War (Women & Men), wrestling freestyle, Moomal-Mahendra competition, mustache competition, Mr. Desert competition, Mehandi competition
- Deepdaan ceremony
- Rangoli & Mandna, wall paintings
- Algoza Vadan
- Cultural program
- Camel safari, camel decoration show, camel and horse race
- Performance by local artists and musical evening
- Fireworks display

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is a vibrant and colorful celebration that takes place annually in the city of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India. The festival showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region and offers visitors a unique experience in the heart of the Thar Desert. Here's an overview of the Jaisalmer Desert Festival:

Dates: The festival is typically held over three days in the months of February or March. The exact dates vary each year, as they are determined by the Hindu calendar.

Activities and Highlights:
Cultural Performances: The festival kicks off with a colorful procession of camels, local musicians, dancers, and beautifully dressed locals. Cultural performances, including folk music and dance, are held throughout the festival, showcasing the vibrant traditions of Rajasthan.

Camel Races and Competitions: The festival is known for its camel-related activities. Visitors can witness thrilling camel races, camel polo matches, and even camel dancing competitions. These events showcase the agility and skills of these magnificent animals.

Turban Tying and Best Mustache Competitions: Guests have the opportunity to participate in various competitions, such as turban tying and best mustache contests, where they can embrace the Rajasthani culture and showcase their skills.

Folk Music and Dance: Traditional musicians and dancers entertain the crowd with captivating performances. Local artists showcase their talent in various folk music forms like Manganiar and Langa, while dancers perform the traditional Kalbeliya dance, known for its snake-like movements.

Puppet Shows and Magic Shows: Puppeteers and magicians mesmerize the audience with their artistry. Puppet shows depict Rajasthani folklore and legends, while magicians perform astonishing tricks and illusions.

Food and Handicrafts: The festival offers a wide array of Rajasthani cuisine, including local delicacies like dal bati churma, ker sangri, and gatte ki sabzi. The festival grounds also feature stalls where visitors can shop for traditional handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and other local products.

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival provides a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the vibrant culture of Rajasthan and experience the desert lifestyle. The festival's lively atmosphere, traditional performances, and exciting camel-related activities make it a memorable and colorful event for both locals and tourists alike.