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| Jaisalmer Fort |
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History
Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 A.D. by Raja Rawal Jaisal, a Bhatti Rajput ruler, from where it derives its name. The fort stands proudly amidst the golden stretches of the great Thar Desert, on Trikuta Hill, with its outer wall of palaces, houses and temples of soft yellow sandstone. The fort is also known as ‘Sona Quila’ and is a dominating structure amidst sands.
Jaisalmer Fort is the second oldest in Rajasthan and one of the largest forts in the world. Two hundred and fifty feet tall and reinforced by imposing crenellated sandstone wall 30 feet high; it has 99 bastions, 92 of which were built between 1633 and 1647. The fort is a five storied structure and contains of three layers of walls that serve protection to the fort. The fort is adorned with screen windows, delicate pavilions and beautiful balconies. Wells within the fort still provide a regular source of water to the people.
The walk through the fort, through the narrow lanes, is an experience in itself. The fort can be approached through its four gates known as Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, Bhoot Pol and Hawa Pol. The Jaisalmer Fort of Rajasthan also encompasses many havelis and a group of Jain temples dating from the 12th to the 15th centuries. A statue of Lord Mahavir dominates these temples.
There are five palaces inside the Jaisalmer fort and are known as Sarvottam Vilas, Akhai Vilas, Gaj Mahal, Rang Mahal and Moti Mahal. These Mahals boast of exquisite beauty and are a reminder of the great Rajputana architecture. The most famous of all the palaces, the Rang Mahal also has mural paintings to attract the tourists.
This is the world's only living fort where about a quarter of city's population resides in the fort. Most of the people living in the fort are merchants or shop owners. At one point of time the entire population of Jaisalmer used to live within the fort; but with the increase in the population, people was forced to move out and find shelter under the foot of the Trikuta Hill.
Jaisalmer fort is a monument worth visiting especially during the night when the beauty of the fort becomes outstanding with lights highlighting every corner of the fort.
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Best time to visit
The winter months between October and February are most definitely the best time to visit Jaisalmer.
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Trivia
Watch the massive yellow sandstone walls of the fort change their color - a tawny lion color during the day, turning to a magical honey-gold as the sun sets and camouflages the fort making it appear a part of the picturesque yellow desert.
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Timing
The fort is open 24 hours all days.
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Holiday Packages
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Travel Tools
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