Jaisalmer – Desert Heritage & Cultural Exploration Experience

Volunteer in Jaisalmer – Desert Heritage & Cultural Exploration Experience +65

The Jaisalmer Desert Heritage & Cultural Exploration Experience is an incredible opportunity for volunteers to explore Rajasthan’s rich cultural heritage while contributing to important community development and conservation projects. By participating, you will help preserve one of India’s most historically significant cities, empower local communities, and gain firsthand experience in the vibrant traditions of Rajasthan’s desert landscape.

Fast Facts

• Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India
• Program Length: Min 1 week – Max 3 weeks
• Arrival Airport: Jodhpur Airport (JDH)
• Airport Transfers: Included from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer
• Volunteer Work: Heritage preservation, rural development, environmental conservation, desert ecology, community engagement, local arts & crafts, educational programs

Program Highlights

• Experience the vibrant cultural heritage of Jaisalmer, often called the “Golden City” due to its yellow sandstone architecture, and contribute to the preservation of its unique desert culture
• Volunteer in local villages and rural communities, focusing on empowerment projects like women’s health, children’s education, and sustainable agriculture
• Participate in desert conservation efforts to protect Jaisalmer’s fragile ecosystem, including the Thar Desert’s desert flora and fauna
• Engage in promoting traditional crafts, including block printing, mirror work, and the famous Jaisalmer embroidery, by supporting local artisans
• Explore the awe-inspiring Jaisalmer Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and other historical landmarks, including havelis, step wells, and temples
• Immerse yourself in the region’s culture by participating in folk music and dance, and experiencing the rich desert traditions of Rajasthan
• Discover the mystic beauty of the Thar Desert through camel rides, sand dune excursions, and stargazing under clear desert skies

Program Schedule:

• Arrival Day, Sunday: Volunteers arrive at Jodhpur Airport on Sunday. From there, they will be transferred to Jaisalmer. After the orientation session, volunteers will be introduced to the history and cultural significance of Jaisalmer.
• Day 1, Monday: Volunteers begin their activities by immersing themselves in the preservation of Jaisalmer’s rich cultural heritage. They will visit historical sites such as the Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and the stunning Jain temples. The focus will be on helping preserve these sites, including assisting with restoration projects, cleaning, and educating visitors about their importance.
• Days 2-3, Tuesday & Wednesday: Volunteers will take part in rural community development activities, such as organizing health camps, promoting education, and empowering women. They will also work with local farmers on sustainable agricultural practices that conserve the desert’s resources. In the afternoons, they will assist local artisans in workshops, learning traditional crafts like block printing, mirror work, and embroidery, and helping with their sale and promotion.
• Day 4, Thursday: The focus will shift to environmental conservation. Volunteers will work with desert ecologists on projects related to desert flora and fauna, such as protecting endangered species, reducing soil erosion, and promoting sustainable water usage. This will include excursions into the Thar Desert for fieldwork, including planting native vegetation and monitoring wildlife.
• Day 5, Friday: Volunteers will participate in the preparation for and celebration of traditional Rajasthan festivals, including folk music, dance, and art exhibitions. They will help organize performances, and assist in the setup of cultural events in collaboration with local communities. Volunteers will also learn to play traditional Rajasthani instruments like the dholak and tabla.
• Days 6-7, Saturday & Sunday: Weekends are free for volunteers to explore the stunning landscapes of Jaisalmer and its surroundings:

• • Jaisalmer Fort and Havelis: Visit the famous Jaisalmer Fort, a massive golden sandstone structure, and explore the many havelis and Jain temples around the city.
  • Camel Ride and Desert Safari: Volunteers can enjoy a camel ride through the Thar Desert, visiting sand dunes and traditional desert villages.
  • Sam Sand Dunes: Experience the stunning sand dunes and go on a desert safari. Volunteer participants can also enjoy stargazing under the clear desert sky.

Program Accomplishments:

• Volunteers will help conserve the historical architecture of Jaisalmer, including the restoration of havelis and temples, and help maintain the Jaisalmer Fort, which faces challenges from weather and time.
• Community outreach efforts will support local initiatives in health and education, helping rural villages improve living conditions and promote sustainability.
• Cultural preservation projects will ensure that traditional Rajasthani crafts and folk music are passed down to future generations.
• Environmental efforts will contribute to desert ecology protection, promoting sustainable farming practices and reducing desertification.

What’s Included:

• Accommodations: Volunteers will stay in eco-friendly guesthouses, homestays, or volunteer houses in Jaisalmer, providing an immersive desert experience with basic but comfortable facilities.
• Food: Traditional vegetarian meals, 3 meals per day (Monday-Friday), featuring Rajasthani cuisine such as dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and ker-sangri.
• Transfers: Airport transfers from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer, local transport for program activities, and group travel for excursions to nearby destinations.
• Support: 24/7 emergency support, volunteer coordinators, cultural facilitators for workshops, local guides, and project mentors.
• Cultural Experiences: Participation in cultural workshops, folk music and dance performances, desert safaris, and visits to cultural and historical landmarks.

What’s Not Included:

• Flights to Jodhpur (assistance with booking can be provided).
• Personal expenses (shopping, optional tours).
• Travel health insurance.
• Weekend accommodations or additional transport if extending stay beyond program dates.
• Special tours (Camel safari, Jaisalmer Fort, Sam Sand Dunes, etc.) available at an additional cost.

Volunteer Age Requirements:

• Minimum age: 18. Volunteers aged 16-17 may apply with parental consent.
• Families with children over 12 years old are welcome to join the program.

Weekend Add-On Activities:

• Camel Safari and Sand Dune Experience: Experience the magic of the Thar Desert by taking a camel safari and visiting the Sam Sand Dunes for an unforgettable desert experience.
• Visit to the Desert National Park: Explore the Desert National Park, home to rare wildlife such as the Indian Bustard, and participate in wildlife conservation programs.
• Rajasthani Cultural Tour: Enjoy a guided cultural tour of Jaisalmer, visiting the Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and several beautifully preserved Jain temples.

Program Variations and Add-Ons:

• Rajasthani Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional Rajasthani dishes such as dal baati churma, gatte ki sabzi, and laal maas.
• Block Printing and Mirror Work Workshop: Spend more time working directly with local artisans to learn and preserve traditional handicrafts like block printing, mirror work, and embroidery.
• Yoga and Meditation Retreat: For those seeking inner peace, consider adding a yoga and meditation retreat to your program, set against the backdrop of the peaceful desert environment.

Pioneering Efforts:

• Volunteers will play an essential role in preserving Jaisalmer’s ancient fort and temples, contributing to conservation and restoration efforts.
• Rural community development projects will improve access to education and healthcare for remote desert villages.
• Volunteers will help protect the unique desert ecosystem, focusing on water conservation and sustainable agriculture practices, and reducing desertification in the region.