Top Attractions

Jaisalmer War Museum

Jaisalmer War Museum is an important military-history attraction near Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Located at Thaiyat on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur Highway, around 10–12 km from the city, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the courage, sacrifice and achievements of the Indian Armed Forces.

History of Jaisalmer War Museum
The Jaisalmer War Museum was conceived by Lieutenant General Bobby Mathews and developed by the Indian Army's Desert Corps. It was opened to the public in 2015 and was created mainly to honour the soldiers who fought in important conflicts, particularly the Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. The museum also remembers the contribution of Indian soldiers during the 1965 and 1971 wars. Its exhibits help visitors understand the challenges faced by soldiers in the desert region and the importance of military operations in western Rajasthan.

The museum has indoor galleries as well as an outdoor display area. Visitors can see military vehicles, tanks, guns, weapons, aircraft and other equipment. The Laungewala Hall presents information about the famous battle through photographs, maps, models and displays, while the Indian Army Hall covers the wider history and achievements of the Army. One of the notable displays is a Hunter aircraft, associated with the Battle of Longewala. The museum also has an Honour Wall commemorating recipients of the Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra. An audio-visual hall provides additional information about the battles and the soldiers who took part in them.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer War Museum
The best time to visit Jaisalmer War Museum is generally October to March, when the weather in Jaisalmer is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. This is especially useful because several important exhibits are displayed outdoors. Morning and late afternoon are particularly pleasant for exploring the outdoor military displays. During the summer months, temperatures in Jaisalmer can become very high, so an early morning visit is more comfortable. The museum is also a good stop when travelling towards the Sam Sand Dunes or Longewala, making it easy to include in a wider Jaisalmer sightseeing itinerary.

How to Reach Jaisalmer War Museum
By Road: The museum is located on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur Highway near Thaiyat. From Jaisalmer city, you can reach it by private car, taxi or local transport. The drive generally takes around 20–30 minutes depending on your starting point and traffic.
By Train: Jaisalmer Railway Station is approximately 10–11 km from the museum. From the railway station, visitors can hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw to reach the museum.
By Air: Jaisalmer Airport provides air connectivity to the city. From the airport, a private taxi or cab is the most convenient option for reaching the museum.