Some of the most moving places in Jaisalmer aren't in the city at all. Around 120 km north-west, close to the India–Pakistan border, lie Tanot Mata Temple and the Longewala War Memorial — two sites that tell remarkable stories of faith and courage. A day trip here is one of the most memorable experiences in the region.
Tanot Mata Temple
Tanot Mata is a form of the goddess revered in the region, and her temple sits close to the international border.
The legend
During the 1965 India–Pakistan war, the area around Tanot was heavily shelled. According to accounts preserved at the temple, many shells that landed near the shrine did not explode. Soldiers and locals credited the goddess's protection, and the temple became a powerful symbol of faith. Some of the unexploded shells are displayed in the temple museum.
After the war, the Border Security Force (BSF) took over the management of the temple, and BSF personnel still conduct the daily rituals. A victory pillar stands in the temple complex.
Longewala War Memorial
The Battle of Longewala in December 1971 is one of the most celebrated battles in Indian military history. A small Indian Army post at Longewala held out through the night against a much larger armoured attack, and at first light the Indian Air Force joined the fight. The story inspired the Bollywood film Border (1997).
Today, the memorial at Longewala displays captured tanks and vehicles, along with exhibits and an audio-visual presentation that tells the story of the battle.
The Indo-Pak border area
Beyond Tanot, the road continues towards the international border. Access to the border zone is controlled by the BSF, and visitor access can change depending on the security situation — sometimes requiring permission arranged in advance. Your driver will know the current rules on the day.
Route and timing
- Distance: about 120 km from Jaisalmer to Tanot; Longewala is on a connecting road in the same region.
- Drive time: roughly 2–2.5 hours each way on good roads through open desert.
- Typical day: leave Jaisalmer after breakfast, visit Tanot first, then Longewala, and be back in the city by evening — in time for sunset at Gadisar Lake.
The drive itself is beautiful: endless desert, wind farms, herds of camels and small villages.
Tips for the border trip
- Carry a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, passport or driving licence). Foreign nationals should carry their passport.
- Start early — it's a long day with limited facilities on the way.
- Carry water and snacks.
- Follow BSF instructions and photography rules near military areas.
- Use a private taxi — public transport to Tanot is very limited.
Book your border trip
The Longewala and Tanot trip is part of our 1 Night 2 Days, 2 Nights 3 Days and 3 Nights 4 Days packages. Prefer to do it on your own schedule? Book a car with a driver through our taxi service.
