DELHI- Tata Group-owned Air India (AI) will launch non-stop flights between Delhi (DEL) and Jaisalmer (JSA) starting 26 October 2025. The seasonal service will run until 28 March 2026, aligning with the peak travel period for the Golden City.

The airline will operate double daily services on this route with Airbus A320 aircraft, making it the only full-service option available for passengers traveling to Jaisalmer (JSA). Connections to major European, UK, and domestic destinations are also built into the schedule.

Air India Adds Delhi to Jaisalmer Flights

This new route highlights Air India’s strategy of boosting connectivity to high-demand tourist destinations. By offering two daily flights between Delhi (DEL) and Jaisalmer (JSA), the airline ensures flexibility for both international visitors and domestic travelers planning cultural itineraries across Rajasthan.

The decision to operate during the October to March window directly corresponds with Jaisalmer’s tourism season, when the desert climate is most favorable and events like the Jaisalmer Desert Festival attract significant footfall.

With Jaisalmer lacking multiple full-service options, Air India’s entry strengthens accessibility and improves the travel experience.

Schedule Details for Delhi–Jaisalmer Flights

The service begins on 26 October 2025 and concludes on 28 March 2026. Air India (AI) will operate two flights daily in each direction.

Flight Schedule

• AI487: Departs Delhi (DEL) 0720 hrs → Arrives Jaisalmer (JSA) 0850 hrs
• AI488: Departs Jaisalmer (JSA) 0925 hrs → Arrives Delhi (DEL) 1055 hrs
• AI489: Departs Delhi (DEL) 1250 hrs → Arrives Jaisalmer (JSA) 1420 hrs
• AI490: Departs Jaisalmer (JSA) 1455 hrs → Arrives Delhi (DEL) 1625 hrs

Strategic Importance of the Route

By aligning the flight timings with international arrivals and departures, Air India (AI) enables smooth onward journeys from Europe, the UK, and other key hubs. For inbound tourists, this means a quick and efficient connection to Rajasthan’s cultural heartland without the need for lengthy surface travel.

The deployment of A320 aircraft balances capacity with demand, while maintaining Air India’s full-service offering that includes complimentary meals and baggage allowance. This distinguishes the airline from low-cost competitors serving regional routes.

Exploring the Golden City

Jaisalmer, known as the Golden City for its sandstone architecture, is one of Rajasthan’s top attractions. Seasonal connectivity ensures tourists can easily visit the Jaisalmer Fort, desert camps, and surrounding heritage sites during the cooler months.

For domestic travelers, the direct flights save time compared to long rail or road journeys. For international tourists, the integration with long-haul connections makes Rajasthan’s desert circuit more accessible. This move also complements broader efforts to promote India’s cultural tourism sector.

At the heart of Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila), built in 1156 by Rawal Jaisal. Unlike most forts, this one still houses families, temples, shops, and cafes inside its walls. Its winding lanes, Jain temples, and panoramic viewpoints make it the centerpiece of the city.

Another landmark is Patwon Ki Haveli, a group of five grand havelis built in the 19th century by a wealthy trading family. The carvings, frescoes, and mirror work here reflect the prosperity of Jaisalmer’s past as a major trading hub.

For a quieter setting, Gadisar Lake, once a water reservoir, offers paddle boating, birdwatching, and calm sunrise or sunset views. Just outside the city, the Sam Sand Dunes bring the desert alive with camel rides, jeep safaris, folk music, and starlit skies. Nearby, the abandoned Kuldhara Village adds an element of mystery with its legends and ruins.

Where to Stay

Jaisalmer offers a mix of royal palaces, boutique havelis, and budget stays:

• Luxury Hotels: Suryagarh Palace and Fort Rajwada deliver a regal stay, with sandstone courtyards, desert-facing suites, and fine dining.
• Boutique Resorts: Sonaar Haveli and The Gulaal balance design with comfort, offering rooftop dining and fort views.
• Budget Stays: Hotel Shahi Palace is a favorite for backpackers, with clean rooms, rooftop dining, and friendly service.

Where to Eat

Food in Jaisalmer is as much about the experience as the flavor. For authentic regional dishes like dal baati churma and ker sangri, popular spots include Chokhi Dhani and Desert Boy’s Dhani.

For cafes, Café The Kaku is known for fort views and global menus, while Traveller’s Cup Coffee Shop is a snug hideout for book lovers. Fine dining options include The Trio Restaurant with live Rajasthani music and Wyra at Suryagarh, which serves a blend of local and international flavors. For cocktails, Dunes Bar & Lounge and Musafir Khana stand out.

Shopping in Jaisalmer

Markets like Sadar Bazaar and Bhatia Bazaar are packed with camel leather goods, embroidered textiles, and silver jewelry. For curated shopping, Rajasthali and Desert Handicrafts Emporium offer fixed prices. For something more personal, Kuku’s – The Art of Leather specializes in handcrafted journals, sandals, and bags.

Best Time to Visit

The ideal time to visit Jaisalmer is between November and February, when days are warm and nights are cool — perfect for exploring forts or enjoying bonfires in the dunes. Summers often exceed 45°C, making it difficult to explore, while the short monsoon season is less popular but more budget-friendly.

Getting Around

The old city is best explored on foot, especially around the fort and bazaars. For longer distances, auto-rickshaws are affordable and easy to find. Taxis and jeeps can be hired for desert excursions, while some hotels arrange camel cart rides for a traditional experience.

Feature Image by Harsh Tekriwal | X

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