Jaisalmer Fort in Jaisalmer
· Summer: March-August (25°C - 42°C)
· Winter: November-February (7°C - 24°C)
· Monsoon: September-October
Best time to visit:
October-March
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Weekly Holiday:
Entry Fees for Indians
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Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
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Rajasthan’s second oldest fort which shines like gold throughout the day, Jaisalmer Fort is a sandstone wonder which stands on Trikuta Hill amidst the boundless Thar Desert. A witness to numerous battles, the fort came into life in the 12th century when Bhatti Rajput Rao Jaisal built it as his stronghold. The way it changes shades from tawny lion to honey gold towards the day’s end, the fort is rightly called ‘Sonar Quila’ or ‘Golden Fort’. One of the World’s largest forts, it still accommodates life (about a quarter of Jaisalmer’s population).
Enter the grand fort from one of the many spectacular gateways, including Akshya Pol, Hawa Pol and Suraj Pol, and an entire world of spectacular architecture opens in front of eyes. Some beautiful palaces inside the fort include Jawahar Vilas, Rang Mahal, Gaj Mahal, Zenana Palace and Moti Mahal. The must-visit sites are the stunning Jain Temples which boast of fascinating carvings. Laxmi Nath Temple, a Hindu religious masterpiece, is yet another wonderful attraction. A trip to the fort is incomplete without exploring the exquisite designs and paintings of numerous mansions (havelis) at the fort.
Raj Mahal which now serves as Jaisalmer Fort Museum & Heritage Centre is another section worth visiting as it displays many interesting items of the bygone era. Entry ticket to this part costs INR 30 for Indiana, INR 250 for foreigners and INR 50 and INR 100 respectively for still camera and video camera. One can also purchase interesting handicrafts and traditional clothes from the shops within the complex.
Connectivites
Road:
The whole city of Jaisalmer has grown around the fort which can be accessed by well-maintained roads from different cities of Rajasthan. Ring Road, Fort Road and Gadisar Road all lead to the fort. Most of the tourists prefer to walk, though local transportation modes like auto-rickshaws can also be used.
Railway:
The railway station of Jaisalmer is just about 2 km. from the fort. To access the fort from here, you can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw or you can cover the small distance on foot.
Airway:
Jodhpur Airport is the closest airport to the fort, though it is located about 270 km. away. You must hire a taxi from the airport to reach the destination conveniently.