Jaisalmer Fort (Entry Fee, Timings, History, Built by, Images & Location)

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Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort, is a magnificent fortress located in the city of Jaisalmer in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visiting Jaisalmer Fort allows you to experience the vibrant culture and lifestyle of the local people. The narrow lanes are filled with shops selling handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and other traditional Rajasthani items. Exploring the fort's nooks and corners reveals hidden gems, such as rooftop restaurants offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding desert.

Jaisalmer Fort is not just a historical monument; it remains a living heritage with a significant population residing within its walls. However, the increasing influx of tourists and modernization has posed challenges to the fort's preservation. Efforts are being made to balance tourism and conservation, ensuring the long-term sustainability of this iconic landmark.

A visit to Jaisalmer Fort is like stepping back in time, immersing oneself in the grandeur of a bygone era. The fort's rich history, architectural splendor, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a must-visit destination in Jaisalmer for travelers on their Jaisalmer tour.

History of Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

Tracing its history back to the 12th century, the foundation of the Jaisalmer Fort was laid by Raja Rawal Singh in the year 1156. It was strategically constructed to serve as a stronghold and protect the kingdom from invasions. Over the centuries, the fort evolved into a thriving city within its walls, housing several palaces, havelis (mansions), temples, markets, and residential quarters.

The construction of the Jaisalmer Fort involved yellow sandstone, giving it a distinct golden hue that reflects the sunlight, hence its name "Sonar Quila" or "Golden Fort." The fort's walls, which stand at a height of about 30 meters, are fortified with bastions and encompass an area of approximately 1,500 feet by 750 feet.

Jaisalmer Fort has witnessed numerous battles including clashes between the Bhati Rajputs and rival kingdoms. Despite several attempts, the fort remained unconquered throughout its history. It served as an important center for trade along the Silk Route, connecting India with Central Asia and beyond.

Today, Jaisalmer Fort remains inhabited, with a significant portion of the population residing within its walls. However, due to conservation efforts, commercial activities have been limited to preserving the historical and cultural integrity of the fort.

Image Gallery of jaisalmer-fort,india

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Architecture of the Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

Featuring a remarkable blend of Islamic and Rajput style influences, the Jaisalmer Fort stands as a splendid example of medieval Rajasthani architecture. It has four main gates named as Ganesh Pol, Akshya Pol, Suraj Pol, and Hawa Pol, providing access to the fort. These gates are intricately designed and decorated with ornate carvings and motifs.

Here you can also find several bastions and turrets that not only serve as defensive structures but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of the fort. These elevated platforms offer panoramic views of the city and the surrounding desert.

Jaisalmer Fort is home to several beautifully carved temples. The most notable among them are the Jain Temples, dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras. It also houses several palaces that once served as the residences of the royal families. The Raj Mahal (Royal Palace) is the largest and most impressive palace within the fort. It features ornate balconies, intricately carved pillars, and exquisite artwork.

Jaisalmer Fort is also renowned for its havelis, which are grand mansions of wealthy merchants and nobles. The havelis within the fort such as Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, and Nathmal Ki Haveli showcase intricate stone carvings, elaborate facades, and exquisite craftsmanship.

One can also see a maze of narrow streets and lanes that wind their way through the buildings. The streets are lined with shops, stalls, and houses, giving visitors a glimpse into the daily life and vibrant culture of the people living within the fort.

Things to do at Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

1. Explore the Architecture: Jaisalmer Fort is a treasure trove of stunning architecture. Take a stroll through its narrow lanes and marvel at the intricate carvings, ornate balconies, and beautiful facades of the palaces, havelis, and temples within the fort. Admire the yellow sandstone structures that give the fort its golden glow.

2. Visit the Palaces and Havelis: Step into the grandeur of the past by visiting the palaces and havelis within the fort. Raj Mahal, the royal palace, offers a glimpse into the lives of the erstwhile rulers of Jaisalmer. Explore the exquisite craftsmanship, stunning murals, and breathtaking views from the palace.

3. Discover the Jain Temples: Jaisalmer Fort is home to several Jain temples, known for their intricate architecture and spiritual significance. Visit the Shree Mahaveer Ji temple, dedicated to Lord Mahaveer, and admire the detailed carvings and beautiful sculptures. Take a moment for reflection and experience the peaceful atmosphere within these temples.

4. Enjoy Panoramic Views: Climb up the fort's ramparts and towers to enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Jaisalmer city. From the vantage points, you can witness the golden expanse of the Thar Desert, the bustling streets of Jaisalmer, and the surrounding landscapes. Sunset and sunrise views from the fort are particularly enchanting.

5. Shop for Local Crafts: Explore the shops and markets within Jaisalmer Fort to discover traditional Rajasthani handicrafts, textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. Look for intricate mirror work, embroidered textiles, camel leather products, and silver jewelry. Bargaining is a common practice, so you can try your hand at getting a good deal.

6. Attend Cultural Performances: Jaisalmer Fort often hosts cultural performances that showcase the vibrant folk music and dance traditions of Rajasthan. Catch a live performance of traditional Rajasthani music including the soulful melodies of the Manganiars and the rhythmic dances like Ghoomar and Kalbeliya.

7. Indulge in Local Cuisine: Within Jaisalmer Fort, you'll find a variety of restaurants and cafes serving delicious Rajasthani cuisine. Try traditional dishes like Dal Bati Churma, Laal Maas, Gatte Ki Sabzi, and Ker Sangri. Don't forget to savor local sweets like Ghewar and Malpua.

8. Attend the Desert Festival: If you happen to visit during February, don't miss the Jaisalmer Desert Festival. This vibrant event showcases the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan with camel races, folk performances, turban-tying competitions, and more. The fort serves as a backdrop for this lively festival.

Entry Fee and Timings of Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

The entry fee to visit the Jaisalmer Fort is INR 50 per person for Indian nationals and INR 250 per person for foreigners. Coming to its timings, it is generally open for its visitors from morning until evening i.e., from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on all days.

However, these timings are subject to change, especially during festivals or special events. It's recommended to check with the local authorities or the official website of Jaisalmer Fort for the most up-to-date information on entry fees and timings.

Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer

October to February is the best time to plan a getaway to the Jaisalmer Fort. At this time, the weather remains pleasant with average temperatures ranging from 7 degrees Celsius to 24 degrees Celsius, making it ideal for you to explore the fort and enjoy outdoor activities without being affected by the extreme heat.

Moreover, visiting Jaisalmer Fort during the winter season allows you to witness various cultural events and festivals that take place in Jaisalmer, such as the Desert Festival. However, it would be worth noting that the popularity of Jaisalmer as a tourist destination increases during the winter months, so the fort and the city might be more crowded compared to other times of the year. So, make your plan accordingly and get the reservation of your hotel done in advance.

How to Reach Jaisalmer Fort, Jaisalmer?

To be there at Jaisalmer Fort, you need to first arrive in Jaisalmer which can be done through the following modes of transportation:

By Air: Fly to Jodhpur Airport by taking a domestic or international flight from the metro cities in India or from overseas countries. After deboarding your plane, you can hire a private cab to cover the required distance of approximately 275 km from Jodhpur to Jaisalmer.

By Train: Jaisalmer maintains great rail connectivity with the other railheads of the country. You can check the train schedules and book your tickets to Jaisalmer Railway Station. From the railway station, you can hire an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to reach Jaisalmer Fort. It is approximately a 15-minute drive from the station.

By Road: Lastly, choose to either drive to Jaisalmer or take a state-owned bus from Jaipur, Jodhpur, Bikaner, or Ahmedabad to enjoy a hassle-free journey. It can be a time-consuming option but is a pocket-friendly way for all who’ve budget constraints in their mind. Once you reach Jaisalmer, you can book a taxi from top car rental companies in Jaisalmer to travel to your desired location within the city in your utmost comfort.

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Explore the rich culture of Rajasthan by booking a Jaisalmer tour package with Jaisalmer Tourism, a division of Holidays DNA. With us, you can have a relaxed vacation while we take care of your accommodation, transportation and other needs. We also help with planning your itinerary the way you want. To get in touch with us, please fill the Contact Us form.

Location Map for Jaisalmer Fort