If you’re planning a trip to witness the grand spectacle of the desert, here's your definitive guide to the Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2026 (also known as the Maru Mahotsav). Delve into its dates, venue, timing, ticket details, and why this desert‑festival in India is a must‑visit.


What is the Jaisalmer Desert Festival?

Held in the heart of Rajasthan’s golden sands, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival celebrates the rich heritage, culture and spirited traditions of the Thar region. Visitors can expect camel races, turban‑tying contests, folk dance performances (Ghoomar, Kalbeliya), crafts bazaars and the magical ambiance of desert nights. Also called the Maru Mahotsav or desert festival in India, this event puts the “desert” in the desert‐festival brilliantly.


Key Details for 2026

  • Dates: 30 January to 1 February 2026 (three-day event)
  • Venue: Jaisalmer city and surrounding desert areas including Sam Sand Dunes (approx. 40 km from city)
  • Timing: Daily from around 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, including special night events
  • Tickets: Mostly free entry; some VIP or special event areas may have fees.


Activities and events

  • Cultural performances: Traditional folk music, dance, and ballad performances 
  • Competitions: Camel races, camel polo, tug-of-war, turban tying, and the "Mr. Desert" competition 
  • Adventure activities: Dune bashing, parasailing, and other desert activities 
  • Grand finale: A spectacular closing event that may include a Rajasthani folk concert, Air Force display, and parachuting 


Itinerary highlights

  • January 30: The festival begins with a welcome procession in Jaisalmer, followed by an evening inaugural ceremony with folk music and dance performances.
  • January 31: Activities on this day include a camel safari and a village tour during the morning, and evening desert performances and puppet shows.
  • February 1: The final day features desert viewing and yoga in the morning, with a grand closing ceremony and fireworks in the evening. 


Festival Venues

The Jaisalmer Desert Festival unfolds across several iconic locations:

  • Shaheed Poonam Singh Stadium: Hosts cultural performances, competitions, and exhibitions.
  • Dedansar Stadium: Venue for camel races, rural sports, and adventure activities.
  • Gadsisar Lake: Setting for folk music sessions and yoga.
  • Kuldhara & Khabha: Sites for Mandana art exhibitions and live musical performances.
  • Pokaran Fort: Hosts the opening ceremony and cultural events.


The main events are held at the Sam Sand Dunes, approximately 42 km from Jaisalmer city, providing a picturesque backdrop for the festivities.


Why You Should Attend

  • A dazzling blend of tradition and desert adventure—camel polo, mustache contests, turban tying, and folk dance.
  • Unique desert festival Jaisalmer night experience at Sam Sand Dunes with music and bonfires.
  • A brilliant opportunity to explore Rajasthani culture—artisan crafts, music, and rural sports.
  • The Thar desert provides a stunning and authentic backdrop for this vibrant festival.
  • If you’ve enjoyed Rann Utsav Jaisalmer, the desert festival brings similar zest with deeper desert immersion.

Travel with Comfort – RouteMakers at Your Service


Planning to attend the Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2026? Let RouteMakers handle your journey. We offer customized travel packages, car rentals and taxi services to ensure your trip is seamless and stress-free. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, RouteMakers provides reliable, comfortable, and affordable transportation options — from Jodhpur Airport pickups to dune-side drop-offs at Sam. Want to include local sightseeing or extend your trip to nearby attractions? Our team will craft a personalized itinerary that fits your interests and schedule. Book with RouteMakers and enjoy the Maru Mahotsav the way it’s meant to be — relaxed, memorable, and well-planned.


Highlights You Can Look Forward To

  • Camel Parade & Races: Camels adorned in decorations racing across desert plains.
  • Folk Performances: Ghoomar and Kalbeliya dances as part of the fun.
  • Unique Competitions: Mr. Desert (Maru-Sri), turban-tying, longest-moustache contest.
  • Night Events at Dunes: Music, dancing, and bonfires under the starry sky.
  • Crafts & Bazaar: Rajasthani textiles, mirror-work, leather goods, and souvenirs.
  • Desert Adventure: Camel or jeep safaris to enhance the festival experience.


Planning Tips & Practical Info

  • Book early: February is peak season; camps and hotels fill quickly.
  • Transport: Jaisalmer railway station is well connected; nearest airport is in Jodhpur.
  • Accommodation: Options range from budget guesthouses to luxury desert camps.
  • Weather: Expect chilly desert winter nights; pack warm clothes.
  • Packing: Comfortable shoes, jacket for evenings, camera, and modest attire for local visits.
  • Extend your trip: Explore Jaisalmer Fort, Khuri dunes, Osian, or Jodhpur for a fuller experience.


Final Word

Whether you’re drawn to camel parades in the dunes, folk music under the stars, or simply want to experience one of India’s most vibrant desert festivals, the Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2026 offers it all. From traditional contests to modern tour packages, this blend of culture and adventure—set against the vast, sandy backdrop of the Thar—makes it a must-visit. Mark your calendar, pack your bags, and prepare for a desert story you’ll remember forever.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the ticket price for Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2026?

A: Entry to the main festival is free. VIP or special experiences may have charges.


Q: Where is the venue for Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2026?

A: The festival is held in Jaisalmer city and nearby Sam Sand Dunes (about 40 km away).


Q: When are the dates for Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2026?

A: The festival is scheduled from 30 January to 1 February 2026.


Q: What are the timings for the festival?

A: Daily events run from approximately 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with special night programs.


Q: What is the Thar Festival 2026?

A: It is another name sometimes used for desert festivals in the Thar region, often referring to the Jaisalmer Desert Festival.


Q: Are there any festival packages available?

A: Yes, many tour operators offer packages that include accommodation, transport, and event access.


Q: What is Maru Mahotsav 2026?

A: Maru Mahotsav is another name for the Jaisalmer Desert Festival, celebrating desert culture and traditions.