24 January 2025 · Jaisalmerholidays
Most travellers stick to Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon ki Haveli and the dunes — but if you have half a day free, Lodurva and Amar Sagar are two of the most peaceful spots in the region and almost nobody is there.
What is Lodurva?
Lodurva (also spelled Lodhruva) was the old capital of the region before Jaisalmer itself was founded. What remains today is a beautiful Jain temple complex, rebuilt in carved yellow sandstone, with a central shrine, ornate torans (arched gateways) and a quiet compound that feels a world away from the fort crowds. It's an active place of worship — dress modestly and remove shoes before entering.
The drive is short — about half an hour from Jaisalmer city — on a straight desert road.
Adding Amar Sagar
On the way back you can stop at Amar Sagar, an old artificial lake with a small Jain temple complex and cenotaphs. It's photogenic in the late afternoon light and adds maybe 30–45 minutes to the trip.
How to fit it into a half-day trip
- Leave Jaisalmer around 3–3:30 pm to catch the softer afternoon light.
- Spend 45 minutes to an hour at Lodurva.
- Stop at Amar Sagar on the return.
- Be back in the city by sunset for a rooftop dinner.
Both spots pair well with our Jaisalmer sightseeing tours — we can bolt them onto a half-day or full-day itinerary. The easiest way is a private cab through our Jaisalmer taxi service, so you're not tied to a fixed route or timing.
Practical tips
- Carry water — there's very little around either site.
- Photography is usually fine outside the shrine; check inside.
- Cover shoulders and knees at the temple.