Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Killa or the Golden Fort, is a medieval marvel. Built by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal, in 1156 AD and is among the largest desert forts in the world. The colour of the fort changes from tawny lion color in the day to honey gold in the sunset. Jaisalmer Fort is the second largest in Rajasthan after the Chittorgarh Fort.

The fort raises high on the desert sands and has 99 bastions and several turrets. There are three layers of walls; each served a particular purpose in the defense of the town if it was attacked by invaders. The fort held out for nine long years against the armies of Alauddin Khilji in the 13th century. As the fort was captured, its women committed mass self immolation or Jauhar. The fort was again captured later on by the Mughal Emperor Humayun.

The Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort. Nearly a quarter of the town’s population resides in its ramparts. There are several attractions for sightseers, the most notable ones being Raj Mahal (Royal palace), Jain temples, Laxminath temple and four massive gateways.