Khuri Sand Dunes

What Khuri is like

Khuri is a village south-west of Jaisalmer with a stretch of dunes on its edge. It is smaller and calmer than Sam, and that is exactly why people choose it. The village itself is part of the experience: round huts with mud walls and thatched roofs, painted courtyards, cattle, and families going about their day.

Evenings here are usually quieter, with fewer jeeps on the sand and a more relaxed pace in the camps. It is still a tourist area, and in peak season you will not be alone, but the mood is closer to a village stay than a desert fairground.

Khuri suits travellers who want time rather than thrills: a slow sunset on the sand, a simple dinner, a fire and a long look at the sky. Families with young children, older travellers and anyone who has already seen Sam often find it a welcome change. If you want jeeps, quad bikes and a big party atmosphere, you will probably be happier at Sam. Our Sam vs Khuri guide sets out the differences side by side.

Things to do at Khuri

Camel rides and safaris

Camel rides are the main activity. A short ride usually costs around ₹100–300 per camel, while a sunset safari out to the dunes runs about ₹500–900. Khuri is also a good base for an overnight camel safari with a night under the stars, typically ₹2,500–5,000 per person. A slower camel cart ride, at around ₹400–800 per cart, suits families and older travellers.

Village walk

Many camps and homestays offer a short walk through the village. You will see how the huts are built and kept cool, how water is stored, and how daily life works in the desert. Please ask before photographing people or entering homes, and avoid handing out sweets or money to children.

Evenings and stargazing

After dinner there is usually folk music around a fire. Because Khuri has fewer bright lights, the night sky can be very clear on moonless nights, so it is a good place for stargazing.

Where to stay

Stays range from mud-hut camps and simple tents to family homestays and a few more comfortable resorts. Budget camps here usually fall around ₹1,500–3,000 per night for two, with standard camps around ₹3,000–6,000, generally including dinner, breakfast and the evening programme. Facilities are often simpler than at Sam, so confirm hot water, heating in winter and bathroom arrangements before booking.

Browse camps and homestays on our stays page, or see the Khuri village overnight package.

Getting there and combining

Khuri is ~45 km · 1 hr from Jaisalmer by road. Most visitors travel by taxi or arrange a pickup through their camp. On the way you can stop at Kuldhara, which is broadly in the same direction. Getting from Khuri to Sam means a longer drive across country, so most people pick one dune area per night rather than trying both in one evening.

For road transfers from the city or the airport, see our local sightseeing cab and airport transfer pages.

Practical notes

• Most camps open roughly October to March; some stay open in the off-season at lower rates.
• Mobile signal can be patchy; download maps and bookings before you leave the city.
• Agree camel prices and ride length in advance, as at any dune area.
• Dress modestly in the village and keep noise down late at night.