Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2024: Date, Location, Time, and Highlights

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival, also known as the Maru Festival, is a colorful celebration that showcases the rich traditions and cultures of Rajasthan. This annual event holds great significance in both the state's culture and tourism industry, attracting both local and international visitors to Rajasthan Tour Packages.
The festival takes place from February 22nd to 24th and serves as a vibrant platform to celebrate the unique customs and traditions of Rajasthan, passed down through generations. During the festival, activities like Camel Racing and performances like Kalbelia and Gair, as well as Turban Tying contests, are held for three days. It attracts visitors from across the globe, acting as a powerful magnet for tourism.

What Is the Jaisalmer Desert Festival?

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival, or Maru Mohotsav, is a cultural event held annually in the Golden City of Jaisalmer in the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, India. The festival celebrates the cultural heritage of Rajasthan. It offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional lifestyle of the desert region.

Various cultural performances and activities are held during the festival, including folk music and dance performances by local artists. The festival also features exciting events such as camel races, turban-tying competitions, and Mr Desert contests, adding a touch of fun and excitement to the festivities.

One of the highlights of the Jaisalmer Desert Festival is the display of local handicrafts, where tourists can shop for designed jewelry, textiles, and other handmade products. Traditional Rajasthani cuisine is also a major attraction at the festival, allowing visitors to savor authentic flavors and culinary delights. 

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is an exclusive event is a must-attend event for tourists or travelers who want to explore the rich tradition of the Desert Land.

When Is The Jaisalmer Desert Festival?

The Jaiselmer Desert Festival 2024 will take place from February 22nd to 24th. The festival offers three days of festivities, the first two days (February 22nd and 24th) will be held in Jaisalmer at the Shahid Poonam Singh Stadium and will feature camel races, traditional games, and cultural dance performances. On the final day, the festivities will move to the Sam Sand Dunes, located 42 KM away from Jaisalmer city. If you are attending the Jaisalmer Desert Festival you can enjoy folk music and dance performances under the starry sky between golden dunes.

Also Read: Top Places To Celebrate Holi In India

Jaisalmer Desert Festival Highlights

Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2024 has a plethora of attractions that will immerse you in the rich culture of Rajasthan. Here are some key attractions and highlights of the Jaisalmer Desert Festival:-

Camel Races And Polo Matches

You can watch thrilling camel races and polo matches. These races and activities showcase the connection of Rajasthani locals and their Camels. Witness the strength and agility of the Camels

Kalbelia, Terah Taali, Ghoomar And Cultural Performances

You can experience cultural performances that are truly one-of-a-kind, such as the Kalbelia and Ghoomar dances accompanied by Manganiyar music. Performers don traditional black attire and dance to songs inspired by local legends and stories. Another must-see is the Bhavai Folk Dance, where dancers balance multiple pots on their heads while they move to the rhythm. 

Legends In The Form Of Puppet Shows

Beyond entertainment and fun, the Puppet Shows in the Jaisalmer Desert Festival narrates legends and folklore in disguise. The puppets are dressed and decorated with traditional attires and jewelry and the shows revolve around stories of courage, honesty, and respect. It is a beautiful way of celebrating culture and honoring the traditions.

Turban Tying, Mustache, And Tug-Of-War Competitions

You can enjoy fun and joyful events like Turban Tying, Mustache Competitions, and Tug-of-War. Witness the spirit and unique passion of locals in Rajasthan. 

Engage With Artisans And Witness Local Craftsmanship

Explore stalls filled with exquisite Rajasthani handicrafts, offering an opportunity to purchase designed jewelry, textiles, pottery, and other traditional items.

Food Stalls

You can try out Dal Baati Churma, Ghevar, Ker Sangri, Pickles, and more local cuisines on the food stalls at the Jaisalmer Desert Festivals.

Things To Do At The Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2024

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2024 promises rich experiences. While in Jaisalmer you can participate in various activities such as Camping, Paragliding, and Desert Safaris. Here are some detailed activities for visitors to enjoy during the festival:

Participate In Traditional Activities

You can engage in hands-on experiences such as traditional turban-tying competitions, and Mehendi competitions. You can try out Rajasthani attire like vibrant Ghagras (skirts) and Bandhini Dupattas (scarves). 

Attend Workshops On Traditional Rajasthani Art Forms

You can participate in the workshops that offer insights into traditional crafts like poetry making, puppet crafting, block printing, and mirror embroidery. You can learn from skilled artisans and create souvenirs to take home.

Adventure Activities

You check out adventure activities like desert safaris on jeeps and camels while enjoying views over the golden dunes. 

Night Camping

You can enjoy night camping at the Sam Sand Dunes after a day filled with festivities. Night camps at the Sam dunes offer bonfire gatherings, with live traditional performances against the sand. 

Faqs Around Jaisalmer Desert Festival

Which Festival Is Famous For Desert?

Jaisalmer Desert Festival is famous for deserts.

In Which District Of Rajasthan Is The Desert Festival Famous?

Jaisalmer District in Rajasthan is famous for the desert festival.

Which Festival Is Held At Jaisalmer Every Year?

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is held annually in the city.

What Is the Jaisalmer Desert Festival?

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival celebrates Rajasthan's culture with camel races, traditional performances, competitions, and local cuisine

Conclusion

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival is truly a celebration of culture and traditions. It allows the visitors to truly witness the generational heritage of Rajasthan. You witness Rajasthani handicrafts and taste authentic Rajasthani cuisine while enjoying the traditional puppet shows. If you want to learn about the traditions and cultures of the Thar Desert then the Jaisalmer Desert Festival is something you cannot miss. Book your package with India Tours and enjoy seamless travel arrangements, and customised itineraries and experiences.