In the heart of the Thar Desert, where golden sandstone glows under the setting sun and centuries-old traditions still shape daily life, a city is winning hearts across the world—not just for its beauty, but for the warmth of its people.
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan’s famed “Golden City,” has once again found itself in the global spotlight after being ranked among the Top 10 Most Welcoming Cities in the World by global travel platform Booking.com.
The desert city secured the 9th position worldwide, putting it alongside some of the most celebrated tourist destinations on the planet.
But for those who have experienced Jaisalmer’s hospitality firsthand, the recognition comes as no surprise.
A Welcome Fit for Global Guests
Jaisalmer’s reputation for hospitality extends far beyond India’s borders.
Just last month, Tiffany Trump, daughter of former US President Donald Trump, visited the city’s iconic fort along with her husband Michael Boulos.
The couple received a traditional Rajasthani welcome complete with Tilak ceremony, floral garlands, folk music and traditional bands.
Former Maharawal Chaitanya Raj Singh also presented them with a traditional Jaisalmeri Pattu, a handwoven woollen shawl known for its warmth and craftsmanship.
It was a scene that perfectly reflected the city’s age-old culture of treating guests as royalty.
The Living Fort That Captivates the World
At the centre of Jaisalmer’s appeal stands the legendary Jaisalmer Fort, popularly known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort. Unlike most historic forts that function solely as monuments, Jaisalmer Fort remains one of the world’s rare “living forts.”
Thousands of residents still live within its walls.
Why Tourists Love It
| Attraction | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Jaisalmer Fort | One of the world’s few living forts |
| Patwon Ki Haveli | Intricate carvings and architecture |
| Desert Safaris | Authentic Thar experiences |
| Local Markets | Handicrafts and textiles |
| Heritage Walks | Medieval history and culture |
For many visitors, the city’s charm lies in this unique blend of living heritage and hospitality.
The Wedding Destination of Royals and Celebrities
If there is one property that has transformed Jaisalmer’s luxury tourism story, it is Suryagarh Jaisalmer. Located amid the dunes of the Thar Desert, the luxury hotel has become synonymous with destination weddings and royal celebrations.
Its biggest moment came in February 2023 when Bollywood stars Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani tied the knot there in a grand traditional ceremony.
Torch-lit pathways, folk performances, majestic architecture and desert landscapes transformed their wedding into one of India’s most talked-about celebrity events.
Today, Suryagarh is considered one of the country’s most sought-after wedding destinations.
Jaisalmer’s Hotels Win Global Recognition
Jaisalmer’s hospitality sector is collecting accolades across international travel platforms.
In the prestigious Travelers’ Choice Awards 2026 by TripAdvisor, multiple hotels from the city secured recognition among India’s finest luxury properties.
Hotels Bringing Global Attention
| Hotel | Recognition |
| Suryagarh Jaisalmer | Among India’s Top Luxury Hotels |
| The Serai | Featured in Main List |
| Marriott Resort & Spa | Special Category Recognition |
| The Gulaal Jaisalmer | Travel Platform Recognition |
Tourism Boom Breaks Records
The city’s growing international profile is translating into impressive visitor numbers.
Jaisalmer Tourism Snapshot
| Indicator | Figure |
| Tourist Arrivals (2025) | More than 4.1 million |
| Global Hospitality Ranking | 9th Most Welcoming City |
| Major Attraction | Jaisalmer Fort |
| Key Tourism Segment | Heritage & Luxury Tourism |
More than 41 lakh domestic and international tourists visited Jaisalmer last year—a record for the district.
Industry experts believe the latest global ranking will further boost tourist arrivals in the coming season.
Beyond Tourism: An Economic Lifeline
The impact extends far beyond hotels.
Every tourist supports a network of livelihoods:
- Handicraft artisans
- Folk musicians
- Camel safari operators
- Tour guides
- Travel agencies
- Taxi operators
- Restaurant owners
As visitor numbers grow, so does the local economy.
For a desert district that has successfully turned heritage into opportunity, tourism remains one of its strongest growth engines.
More Than a Destination
Jaisalmer’s latest global recognition is not merely about luxury hotels or famous visitors.
It is about a city that has mastered the art of hospitality.
Whether welcoming a world leader’s family member, hosting Bollywood royalty or greeting backpackers from distant countries, Jaisalmer offers something increasingly rare in modern travel—a genuine sense of warmth.
And perhaps that is why, in a world filled with beautiful destinations, the Golden City continues to shine a little brighter.