Jaisalmer Fort perched atop Trikuta Hill offers stunning views of Jaisalmer city and is one of the most famous historical places in Rajasthan
The fort is a 250-foot-tall structure and is also known as the Golden Fort or Sonar Qila and is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited forts in the world
Jaisalmer fort is also one of the few “living forts” in the world, with about a quarter of the old city’s population still living within its walls
The magnificent Sonar Qila was built by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD and was reinforced by subsequent rulers of Jaisalmer
The Jaisalmer fort is made of yellow sandstone, which gives it a golden hue that reflects the sunlight, and hence the name Golden fort or Sonar Qila
The fort walls are about 30 metres high and are fortified with bastions. The fort has four fortified entrances: Hawa Pol, Akshya Akshaya Pol, Ganesh Pol, and Suraj Pol
It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with five other forts as a part of the group Hill Forts of Rajasthan: Chittor Fort, Kumbhalgarh Fort, Ranthambore Fort, Gagron Fort and Amber Fort
The Raj Mahal is the largest and most impressive palace within the fort. It features ornate balconies, intricately carved pillars, and exquisite artwork
Jaisalmer Fort is home to several beautifully carved temples. The most notable among them are the Jain Temples, dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras
The Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, and Nathmal Ki Haveli within the fort showcase intricate stone carvings, elaborate facades, and exquisite craftsmanship