Desert Cultural Centre and Museum

The Desert Cultural Centre and Museum is a cultural museum in Jaisalmer established by historian N.K. Sharma in 1997. Located on Gadisar Road near Jaisalmer Fort, it showcases the art, craft, and heritage of the Thar Desert region through exhibits of traditional musical instruments, medieval coins, Rajasthani jewelry, handicrafts, weapons, fossils, and folk costumes. The museum features evening puppet shows with English commentary depicting Rajasthani folklore.

Visitors can explore a collection of ethnic artifacts including traditional musical instruments, ancient coins, Rajasthani jewelry, handicrafts, weapons, fossil works, and sandstone sculptures. The museum displays costumes of maharajas and maharanis, kitchen tools, and traditional paintings. An hour-long puppet show with English commentary takes place in the evening. A small bookshop sells literature about Jaisalmer. The setting is intimate with hand-curated exhibits showcasing desert culture and way of life.

Established in 1997 by Mr. N.K. Sharma, a teacher and local historian who dedicated his life to preserving Jaisalmer's cultural heritage. The museum was built to showcase the rich history and traditions of the Thar Desert region.

The museum preserves and presents the folk art, crafts, music, and traditions of Rajasthan's desert communities. It serves as a repository for traditional knowledge including the Karal (opium mixing box), folk instruments, and royal costumes. The evening puppet shows maintain the tradition of Rajasthani storytelling through kathputli (puppetry).