Fast Facts
Location: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Built By: Rawal Jaisal
Highlights: Raj Mahal, Jain templs, Halls like Diwan-e-aam,
Diwan-e-khaas
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Timings: 08:00 A.M. - 06:00 P.M. (April October), 09:00 A.M.
- 06:00 P.M.(November to March)
Entry Fee: Adult: For Indians Rs. 20, For Foreigners Rs. 70
Reaching there: The fort is easily approachable by hiring local
buses, tongas, auto-rickshaws and taxis.
Introduction

Cradled
by the Trikuta hills, the fort of Jaisalmer enjoys the status of being the
one of the largest of desert forts of the world. As a contrast to the quiet
Thar desert, the fort is much impressive and fondly referred to as Sonar
quila. On your trip to
Jaisalmer,
the fort is a must visit. Built by a Rajput ruler Jaisla in 1156, the
mammoth fort was reinforced by the subsequent rulers. After the 12th
century, the capital of Mewar was shifted to Jaisalmer. It was the most
secured and formidable fort that was ever conquered. Visit the fort during
night when the moon flirts with the stars and the fort bears testimony to
this love affair, when the winds whisper their tale of love in the ears of
the fort and the fort blushes.
Architecture of
Jaisalmer Fort :
Particularly attractive is the architecture of the fort which is a
dreamlike sync of Rajput and Mughal architectural styles. The lower three
blocks of the fort are constructed of solid stone blocks. Above the
structure is the key feature of Jaisalmer the cenotaphs, the chattris. There
is a series of stupendous gates which lead to a enormous courtyard. The aura
of past years is resonant in the walls of the fort where still a large
number of population lives in the ramparts. The fort walls offer exotic view
of desert and city areas. This legendary fort is a specimen of medieval
culture
and the status enjoyed by the royal monarchs.
Attractions of Jaisalmer Fort :
Raj Mahal: It is towering over the main courtyard of the
fort and was the palace of former maharaja. A part of the fort is open for
public and the visitors here can discover the spy technique of that time.
There is a pavilion styled balcony in the palace which was used as alarming
place by the soldiers.
Jain Temples: The fort walls have been a haven for seven
Jain Temples since ages. These Jain temples are beautified with stone
carvings. These lovely temples of 12th - 15th century were dedicated to
Rikhabdeva and Shambhunath. Connected with corridors these temples are a
must see.
Halls: Worth seeing are the two halls of the palace Diwan
-e- aam and Diwan -e-khaas. These halls render exclusive view of the fort
and the city. An array of white and blue tiles is worth seeing here.
Sightseeing Around Jaisalmer Fort :
Havelis: The beauty of
havelis
is simply marvelous. These mansions were built by rich traders. The
incredible fine sculptures in sandstone dating back to 19th century are
totally excellent. The awesome decorations of havelis are the main
attractions of these. The legacy of these havelis surpassed the test of
time.
Thar Desert: The mesmerizing quiet
Thar
desert is close to the fort. People visiting th effort make it a
point to not to pretermit the exciting Camel Safaris in the Thar. The Sam
Sand Dunes are worth seeing.