Jaisalmer Fort

Overview

Jaisalmer Fort rises from a ridge in the Thar Desert, built of yellow sandstone that glows gold at sunset. It is traditionally dated to about 1156, when the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal founded the city of Jaisalmer.

Unlike most Indian forts, it is still lived in. Houses, shops, guesthouses and a cluster of Jain temples fill its lanes, and it is part of the UNESCO-listed Hill Forts of Rajasthan.

What to look for

• The Jain temples inside the fort, carved in yellow sandstone
• The havelis with carved balconies around the fort
• The view over the golden city and the desert from the ramparts
• The series of massive gates leading up to the main square

Visiting tips

• People live in the fort, so be respectful of residents and keep to the lanes.
• Go in the late afternoon and stay for sunset on the ramparts.
• Wear comfortable shoes for the stone lanes.

Why visit with a private guide

A private guide shows you where to stand, when to arrive and what most visitors miss at Jaisalmer Fort, and fits the visit around the rest of your day.

More photographs

Nearby

Junagarh Fort Karni Mata Rampuria Havelis Patwon ki Haveli Sam Sand Dunes Gadisar Lake Desert Camp Bhandasar Jain Temple