Jaisalmer Fort Guide – History, Entry, Best Time to Visit
Overview
The Jaisalmer Fort which rises majestically from the golden sands of the Thar Desert, seems to fit into a fairytale. The honey-colored walls of the city shine during both sunrise and sunset, giving the city a special feeling. The inside has tons of lively shops, eateries and cultural activities that make it less like a monument and more like an actual town. A Jaisalmer city is not only about a fort; it brings together the beauty, customs and daily life of Rajasthan.
History of Jaisalmer Fort
Despite being known as the Golden Fort, Jaisalmer Fort is a striking symbol of India’s great history. Built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhati Rajput ruler, the fort is situated on Trikuta Hill and shines golden with sandstone, while looking down on the giant Thar Desert.
Because it was along the Silk Route, it became important for both trade and commerce. For many centuries, it was the scene of battles, mainly including those with Alauddin Khilji and the Mughals. Despite being attacked many times, the fort always showed Rajput courage.
Unlike most forts, Jaisalmer Fort is still inhabited by people, old Jain temples and royal and beautiful havelis. Now that it is a UNESCO site, it connects historians, travelers and photographers from around the globe.
Visiting Jaisalmer Fort offers a great insight into the impressive history and style that make Rajasthan so well known.
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Architecture of Jaisalmer Fort
Sandstone is the only material in this monument and its golden color comes from the desert sun. Behind walls measuring 30 feet on Trikuta Hill, the fort has 99 impressive bastions, so tourists from the fort can observe the desert from a distance. Several magnificent gateways greet you before you discover lots of deep stairs, many old markets, palaces and temples. Jaisalmer Fort displays the grand architecture found in Rajasthan via the Raj Mahal, nearby Jain temples and the lovely havelis.
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Experiences to have at fort
Things Not to Miss Inside Jaisalmer Fort:
Explore the Majestic Raj Mahal
Appreciate the protected roofs, awe-inspiring outdoor balconies and lavish furnishings of the Mahal.
Visit the Ancient Jain Temples
See seven significant Jain temples that hold ancient carvings from around the 12th to 15th centuries and demonstrate fine crafting and a serene atmosphere.
Stroll Through the Fort’s Vibrant Lanes
Check out the inside streets of the fort, as many handicraft stalls fill these corridors and you can find colorful textiles, gems, leather goods and other authentic Rajasthani products there.
Experience the Golden Glow at Sunset
Sunset at the fort is a great time to watch the walls change color from beige to gold, so you’ll get stunning photos.
Relax at Rooftop Cafes with Desert Views
Have lunch or dinner at rooftop cafes and traditional Rajasthan’s food, all with Thar Desert views in the background.
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Facts about Jaisalmer Fort
A number of shocking truths about fort are still gathered but have not been widely shared:
- Still a residence: Around 3000 people continue to live and work at the fort, providing cafés, shops and guest lodging.
- Secret Tunnels: Some historians think that there might be secret tunnels behind those closed doors for the royals to use if danger threatened.
- Constructed Without Modern Cement: The medieval people used only sandstone bricks held together without any cement during the Old Fort’s impressive construction.
- Color-Changing Walls: The sun moving over the fort made the walls appear golden yellow, then orange, so the building became Sonar Quila (Golden Fort).
- Advanced Rainwater Harvesting System: Underground and unique water tanks were built to preserve rainwater and help people survive long wars in the desert.
- Slowly Sinking: Erosion from sewage and water is weakening the building and so conservation is always needed.
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Best Time to Visit
October through March is the best time to tour Jaisalmer Fort because the winds become cool. it isn’t very warm at this time of year, you can easily visit all the palaces, explore the ancient temples and go to the lively markets. Visiting during winter lets you enjoy local shops, take photos, attend cultural events and see the fort glowing in the sun. At this time of year, the weather is usually not a problem for visitors and you can see more of royal life at India’s famous fort.
Timings of Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is open for visitors from 9:00 AM until 6:00 PM every day. It’s perfect to explore the palaces, temples and markets under the shadow of Jaisalmer Fort’s golden dome during these sunny hours.
Entry Fees of Jaisalmer Fort
Complete information about entry fees of Jaipur:
- Tickets for Indian citizens cost ₹50 each.
- Foreigners are charged ₹250 for entry, while nationals from SAARC pay just ₹150.
- Indians pay ₹100 and foreigners pay ₹250 for Entry to Fort Palace Museum.
- The price for camera charging is ₹50 for still cameras and ₹100 for video cameras.
- Jain temples are open from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
Find out more: Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer
How to reach
You can travel with Flight, train or bus to reach Jaisalmer Fort:
- By Flight: You can fly to Jaisalmer Airport, just 12 kilometers away from the city center which offers flights from Jaipur, Delhi and Ahmedabad.
- By Train: You can reach Jaisalmer by train from Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur easily.
- By Bus: You can travel by bus from Jodhpur, Bikaner and Jaipur to Jaisalmer on government and private buses.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Jaisalmer Fort famous for?
Ans: It is famous for its golden sandstone walls, ancient Jain temples, and vibrant markets inside the fort
2. Who lives inside Jaisalmer Fort?
Ans: Around 3,000 people still live inside Jaisalmer Fort, including shopkeepers, artisans, and families maintaining its unique town-like atmosphere.
3. What is the entry fee for Jaisalmer Fort?
Ans: Indians pay ₹50, foreigners ₹250, and SAARC nationals ₹150.
4. What are the 4 gates of Jaisalmer Fort?
Ans: The gates are Suraj Pol, Ganesh Pol, Akhai Pol, and Hawa Pol.
5. Who built Jaisalmer Fort?
Ans: Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal, a Bhati Rajput ruler, as a strategic fortification atop Trikuta Hill.
6. What is the history of Jaisalmer Fort?
Ans: It was a key Silk Route fort and has faced many battles but remains inhabited and preserved as a heritage site.
