Jaisalmer Fort in Rajasthan

Jaisalmer is currently the hottest tourist destination in Rajasthan, popular among the domestic and international travel enthusiasts in India. The city rightly got its nickname, because of its yellowish golden architecture for which it is often referred as the Golden City of Rajasthan. It is well known for its rich culture, royal heritage, and the vastness of Thar Desert. The city is located in the western region of the royal state.
When it comes to Jaisalmer, one thing that comes in mind is the iconic Jaisalmer Fort. And here we are going to share some detail information about this grand castle. So, let’s take a look on how beautifully Jaisalmer Fort takes pride for boasting Jaisalmer tourism.

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.

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.

The Jaisalmer also known as the Golden Fort Jaisalmer is a magnificent architectural marvel and houses a number of noteworthy attractions within its walls that serves as a living testament to its past glory. Here are some of the things to do inside the fort.

1. Marvel at the huge gates: The Jaisalmer Fort has 4 main gates which are named after the direction they face. The Ganesh Pol, located on the east side is adorned with a statue of Lord Ganesha. The Suraj Pol, also located on the eastern side offers magnificent views of sunrise over the Thar Desert. The Bhuta Pol facing west is also called the gate of demons. The Hawa Pol or the Wind Gate is in the south and provides a cool breeze in the scorching summers.
2. Explore the Royal Palace and Suites: The Raj Mahal or the Royal Palace is an impressive structure in the fort area. This was the residence of the last Bhati Rajput kings and is adorned with intricate carvings, elegant mirror work, latticework, and beautifully painted ceilings.
3. Visit the other Historical Monuments: Apart from the royal residences, the Jaisalmer fort is also adorned with several historical monuments like the royal cenotaphs (chhatris) that house the tombs of the royal family members. The step-wells and ancient water reservoirs in the fort complex are in working condition even today and are a major source of freshwater for the people living in the fort, just like in old times.
4. Visit the Jain Temples: The Jain Temple complex within the Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most beautiful groups of temples. These seven exquisitely carved Jain temples are an important pilgrimage site for Jains. These temples date back to the 12th and 15th centuries and are adorned with intricate marble carvings, delicate statues, and detailed artwork depicting Jain teachings and stories.
5. Walk on the fort walls and ramparts: Walking along the fort’s ramparts offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Jaisalmer and the surrounding desert landscape. The sunset views from the fort are particularly mesmerizing, with the golden hues of the sandstone walls blending seamlessly with the colors of the sky.
6. Take a look at the past of the Palace Museum: The Fort Palace Museum is housed within the Jaisalmer Fort and exhibits a rich collection of artifacts, royal possessions, arms, and paintings from the bygone era. It offers visitors a deeper understanding of the history and cultural heritage of the region.
7. Stay inside the fort: The Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort that provides opportunities to have a unique experience of staying inside the fort. There are a number of hotels, guesthouses and heritage homes to stay within the fort walls. Tourist can choose their stay as per their budget and experience the royal lifestyle. Some of these properties offer a glimpse of the city’s heritage and architectural splendor, giving guests a taste of royalty and grandeur.
8. Watch the city views from the Cafes: The Jaisalmer Fort has a number of cafes and restaurants within its narrow lanes and alleys. You can enjoy the views of the fort in the background and the majestic city views in the front while relishing your taste buds with a variety of cuisines, including traditional Rajasthani delicacies. These cafes provide a great opportunity for tourists to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
9. Shop some traditional handicrafts: The narrow lanes and the colorful alleys in the Jaisalmer Fort are famous for offering a range of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The lovely shopping area here sells intricate handicrafts, embroidered textiles, leather goods, jewelry, and colorful puppets, which are a must-buy while shopping in Rajasthan. Bargaining is a common practice here, so visitors can hone their negotiation skills while picking up unique mementos to take back home.

Things to Do around the Jaisalmer Fort

Other than the Jaisalmer fort, the city of Jaisalmer also offers a perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and mystique, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. You can indulge in numerous exciting activities and attractions that visitors can explore to make the most of their experience in this enchanting city. Here are some popular things to do around the Jaisalmer Fort:

1. Watch a sunset at the Gadisar Lake: The Gadisar Lake is a serene water reservoir situated near the Jaisalmer Fort. Visitors can soak in the beauty of the lake from its picturesque ghats that are built in Rajputana and Mughal architectural styles. One of the most delightful experiences here is watching the sunset over the lake. You can also take a boat ride or walk along the banks to enjoy the beautiful views and capture stunning sunset photographs.
2. Visit the Havelis and the Mansions Around the Fort: The area surrounding the Jaisalmer Fort is home to several magnificent havelis owned by the merchants and the nobles. Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, and Salim Singh ki Haveli are some of the prominent ones. These havelis feature intricate architecture, delicate carvings, and fascinating stories of their erstwhile occupants.
3. Day Excursion to Jaisalmer Border: A short drive from Jaisalmer will take you to the Jaisalmer War Memorial which is located on the Longewala border. It is dedicated to the Indian soldiers who were martyred during the Indo-Pak War of 1971. Near the War Memorial is the famous Tanot Mata Temple, which is believed to be the protector of the army based around the borders here.
4. Go for a Desert Safari in the Thar Desert: One of the must-do activities when in Jaisalmer is going for a desert safari in the magnificent golden Thar desert. You can explore the golden desert by taking a camel ride or by jeep safari. You can also indulge in some adventure activities in Rajasthan here like sandboarding, dune bashing, ATV rides, etc. If you want you can also stay back in the desert camps and enjoy stargazing at night.
5. Visit the Haunted Kuldhara village: The Kuldhara village, located 20 km from Jaisalmer is one of the most haunted places in Rajasthan. According to the legend, the village was cursed and deserted overnight by the villagers in the 19th century. From then, this village lies abandoned in the middle of the Thar Desert. Today, it is considered haunted and has an eerie atmosphere. Exploring the deserted streets and crumbling structures is a fascinating yet spine-chilling experience.

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.

How to reach Jaisalmer Fort Palace Museum and Heritage Centre

Jaisalmer is well-connected to major cities in India by air, rail, and road.

Flights: The nearest international airport is Jodhpur Airport, which is located about 330 km away from Jaisalmer. After reaching Jaisalmer by taxi or bus, you can opt for the best cab rentals in Jaisalmer to reach the museum.

Trains: The nearest railway station is Jaisalmer Railway Station, about 2 km away from the museum. The museum can be reached by taxi or auto-rickshaw from the station.

Carrental

Cars/ Bikes & more: Jaisalmer is also well-connected by road. To reach Jaisalmer, you can take a bus or hire a taxi from nearby cities such as Jodhpur, Bikaner, and Jaipur. Once you reach Jaisalmer, you can easily reach the museum by hiring a taxi or taking an auto-rickshaw.

Jaisalmer tour