Jaisalmer Fort

About the Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer fort was built in 1156 and is the second oldest in Rajasthan. Two hundred and fifty feet tall and reinforced by an imposing crenellated sandstone wall 30 feet high, it has 99 bastion, 92 of which were built between 1633 and 1647. The fort is also known as the Golden Fort, for its amber hue, attracting a large section of tourists from all around. Almost one fourth of present Jaisalmer lies inside the complex of this massive fort. The fort nestles over Trikuta Hill and is guarded by number of gorgeous havelis, beautifully carved Jain Temples of the 12th-15th century AD and 5 royal palaces. The Havelis or mansions built by the wealthy merchants in the 19th century within the complex are famed for their exquisitely carved sandstone facades. The fort also has 4 gateways - Akhaiyal, Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol and Hava Pol.

Today, the fort has been populated by merchants and shop owners living within its walls. Small, winding lanes are peppered with houses, temples, and shops. The Golden Fort of Jaisalmer is alive with people going about their daily routine lifestyle.


Other Attraction s Near Jaisalmer Fort
The Havelis of Jaisalmer
Havelis of Jaisalmer are some very interesting places to visit. The intricately latticed Havelis of Jaisalmer are elaborately designed. Patwon-Ki-Haveli, Salim Sing ki-Haveli, Nathmalji-ki-Haveli all with exquisite lattice work are worth visiting.

Jain Temples
The Parswanath Temple is the oldest and the most beautiful of the Jain temples. The walls of the sanctum are carved with animal and human figures. There is a small dome which is crowned by an amalak and a waterpot containing a lotus flower.

Gadsisar Lake
A rainwater lake, now a picnic spot - ideal for boating. This is one of the best hangouts in Jaisalmer.

Lodurva
Once the capital of Rawal Jaisal, Lodurva now has ruins of the ancient townhip. It is an important center of Jain pilgrimage. The temples at Lodurva exhibit some more fine examples of intricate craftsmanship on yellow stone.

Sam
Sam, easily accessible from Jaisalmer displays an outstanding desert life. It is a great place to see patterns carved out by winds on the sand. Camel rides on the sand dunes are an unforgettable experience as is the sunset.

Getting There
Air : The nearest airport is Jodhpur.
Rail : Jaisalmer is connected to Jodhpur by a regular train service.
Road : Roads in Jaisalmer connects it to major cities of Rajasthan, which are well linked to rest of the country.