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Jaisalmer is one of the most elegant & gorgeous cities of Rajasthan that boasts of its historical pride, heritage, and royal triumph. Titled after Maharaja Jaisal Singh, this dazzling city is located amid Thar Desert and its rich culture & tradition are truly inspiring. And overlooking the city from the top of the Trikuta Hill is the expansive Jaisalmer Fort. Read on to know more about the royal Jaisalmer Fort before you take a trip to Rajasthan.

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About Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort stands on a ridge of yellowish sandstone
  • Best Time To Visit: November to March is the best time to visit Jaisalmer Fort. This is the time when Jaisalmer tourism is at its peak and pull maximum tourists, due to the comfortable weather and the happening Desert Festival in January – February.
  • Jaisalmer Fort Timings: 6 am to 5 pm; daily
  • Tariff: There is no admission charges to enter inside Jaisalmer Fort. However, entrance charges exist for private museums and palaces @INR 50 for Indians and @INR 250 for foreign travelers.

History Of Jaisalmer Fort

A night shot of the Jaisalmer Fort standing on the ridge of yellowish sandstone

Jaisalmer Fort is an important hub of the Rajput Bhati rule. More popularly known as the Golden Fort or Sonar Quila, this yellow sandstone regal structure was raised by Rajput ruler Raja Jaisal in 1156. It was the centre of a number of historical encounters between the Bhattis, the Mughals of Delhi, and the Rathores of Jodhpur. The Jaisalmer Fort history also talks of multiple attacks on the fort by the Muslim kings like Ala-Uddin-Khilji and Mughal Monarch Humayun.

Must Read: 20 Historical Places In Rajasthan That Will Take You Back To The Glorious Past


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Present Scenario Of Jaisalmer Fort

Lovely sunset view from Jaisalmer Fort

Today, the Sonar Quila is one of the prime places to visit in Jaisalmer. This UNESCO-listed world heritage site comprises of narrow crisscrossing lanes, temples, residents, handicraft shops, guest houses, and restaurants. There are multiple entrance gates of the fort that consequently open to the Dashera Chowk, the most popular public square of the fort. Presently, it has a resident population of about 4,000 people who are largely from the Brahmin and Daroga communities. They are mostly followers of the working population of the Bhatti kings of Jaisalmer, who were allowed to live within the premises.

Architecture Of Jaisalmer Fort

 Jain temple architecture details in Jaisalmer fort

The Jaisalmer Fort architecture is awe-inspiring and marvelous. The seamless blend of Rajput and Islamic styles, the golden tinge due to the yellow sandstone, and the enthralling carvings & sculptures make it rank among the glorious forts in Rajasthan.

Things To See Inside Jaisalmer Fort

Ancient sandstone made Hindu Temple inside Golden fort of Jaisalmer

The fort offers stunning views of the Golden City. As most of the houses & buildings are made of yellow sandstone, this monochromatic effect creates magic and charisma. Some of the most interesting things to see in Jaisalmer Fort include Maharawal in Chauhata Square, Tazia tower, Raj Mahal, Jain Temple, Laxmikanth Temple, and Jawahar Palace – the former residence of the royal family.

The museum showcasing arms, dresses, utensils, & ornaments of the Rajput kingdom is absolutely fascinating. One should also see the splendid carvings and the beautiful design of the four entrance gates of the  fort – Ganesh Pol, Rang Pol, Bhoota Pol, and Hava Pol. The narrow bustling lanes lined with classic looking houses, archways, balconies, and ornate windows are outstanding.

Suggested Read: 33 Regal Forts In India That Are Popular Tourist Attractions Today

Things To Do In Jaisalmer Fort

Unidentified seller on shopping street in the fort of Jaisalmer

Explore the quaint cafes & eateries and try some sumptuous local cuisine, visit the innumerable shops to check out silver jewelry, vibrantly colored puppets, souvenirs, and Rajasthani handicrafts. Utensils made of yellow sandstones are truly appealing. Take a professional guide to explore the fort and know about its historical tales. Watch the fort during sunset and capture this photogenic view for an enchanting memory.

Suggested Read: 35 Best Things To Do In Jaisalmer For A Spellbinding Tour In Rajasthan

Exclusive Stays In Jaisalmer

Interiors of deluxe room in Palace On Wheels

Image Source

Thar Vilas

  • What’s Special: The modern amenities – both Indian and Western, special barbecue restaurant, and Kairali Ayurvedic massage
  • Must Do: Walk through the Kuldhara Village, desert safari in Jaisalmer, and dine at the in-house restaurant for their gala dinner
  • Website

Citadel In The Thar

  • What’s Special: Stone villas, infinity pools overlooking Thar, art spa, sauna, and jacuzzis
  • Must Do: Enjoy a terrace-breakfast, witness splendid sunrises & sunsets, and treat yourself with the ayurvedic treatments

How To Reach

The grand Thar Vilas is a majestic hotel in the heart of the desert in Rajasthan

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The Jaisalmer railway station is 2 km from the city. The Palace on Wheels is one of the luxury trains in India that can take you to Jaisalmer. Other than this, there are few trains from Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur. Jaisalmer airport is 5 km from the city and is well connected with Delhi, Jaipur, and Jodhpur. Inter-state buses also ply from Jaipur to Jaisalmer on a regular basis.

Further Read: This Is How A Family Fell Prey To The Charm Of Jaisalmer

So, what are you waiting for? Take a Jaisalmer city tour now! This guide for Jaisalmer Fort Rajasthan has all the details that you must know about this grand fort. Head to for a family vacation or take your friends to this stunning fort in Jaisalmer right away!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Jaisalmer Fort

What is the other name of Jaisalmer Fort?

The grand Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known by different names like the Sonar Quila, the Golden Fort, and Sone ka Quila.

Who lives in Jaisalmer Fort?

In ancient times the population of Jaisalmer lived in the for and today around 4000 people belonging to the Rajput and Brahmin community reside in this fort.

When was Jaisalmer fort built?

Jaisalmer fort was built by Rawal Jaiswal in 1156 AD and since then it is one of the most famous forts in Rajasthan.

Which rock is used to make Jaisalmer fort?

Jaisalmer was built by yellow sandstone and this is the reason it is called the Golden fort.

Which is the oldest fort in Rajasthan?

Chittorgarh Fort is the oldest fort in Rajasthan and was built in 7th century AD.


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