Jaisalmer Weather

Jaisalmer Fort

Fort Overview

Jaisalmer Fort, nestled amid the golden sands of Thar Desert and steeped with rich past and heritage, is not just a fort but a mini-town with houses, temples, shops, and restaurants. Showcasing brilliant craftsmanship, it is one of the most renowned forts in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Built in 1156, Jaisalmer Fort gets its name from the former Bhati Rajput ruler Rao Jaisal.

More than three thousand people live within the fort walls with multiple entrance gates on the path up top, the last of which directs you to the popular public square named Dashera Chowk. Standing tall with an impressive height of 450 meters, the Fort offers a stunning panoramic view of Jaisalmer city dripped in yellow where most of the houses and complexes are built of yellow sandstone.

Fort History

The famed Jaisalmer Fort was built in the year 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler named Rawal Jaisal who conspired with Sultan of Gaur to dethrone his nephew Bhojdev. The fort has served as a backdrop for several battles and wars. The Rang Burj was added to the fort as a fortified defence structure by Maharawal Jetasi in 1276 AD after the two Muslim invasions by Sultan of Delhi and the fort was surrounded by his army. Sultan’s army was able to breach and capture the fort after eight long years. Bhati’s were able to rescue the fort after much of it was destroyed by the Mughal army.

Fort Architecture

Jaisalmer Fort is an amazing rustic fusion of Islamic and Rajputana style of architecture. Standing haughtily, this gigantic structure presents a stunning sight at night under the shadows of the moon. The Golden Fort complex comprises of several buildings such as palaces, temples, houses, wells, Havelis; all of them crafted out with light yellow sandstone which reflects a soft lion colour at day time and honey-gold as the sun sets. One would notice the intricate carvings and designs decorating the balconies, windows, and arches of havelis. The fort has several entrances namely Hawa Pol, Ganesh Pol, Rang Pol and Jawahar Pol, each uniquely and exquisitely crafted. The final gate across the zigzag pathway leads to Dashera Chowk.