Sonar Quila / Golden fort, the living fort of Jaisalmer is fascinating and exotic. Memories of time spent here will be etched forever.
Jaisalmer fort was built by Bhati Rajput ruler Jaisal in 1156 on the Trikuta hill.
The cannons placed at strategic points on the Jaisalmer fort are a grim reminder of the many battles fought to retain the fort. As you walk safely on the narrow lanes of the fort and hear the stories of the brave Rajputs and the women folk committing Saka and Jauhar to defend the fort from the Mughals, you can feel the rage and the emotions felt at that time by these Rajputs.
Jauhar refers to the ancient Indian tradition of honorary self immolation of women (mass suicide). Saka refers to the subsequent march of men in saffron robes to the battle field to end their life with respect.
Golden sand stone that is locally available are used to build this fort. The sand stone is placed one about the other with mud as binding material. It has stood the test of time and also has been protected and renovated very well by the administrators. The fort wall has 3 layers of wall and is 250 feet tall, with five entrances.
The Jaisalmer fort looks its best in the night with the flood lit lights turning into a wonderland.
It is a living fort, as many of the earlier fort dwellers continue to live there. Places of interest in the fort are the Raj Mahal Palace, Jain Temples, Laxminath temple, the view of Jaisalmer city from the fort, the canons, the petit restaurants, and colorful shops.
Manek Chowk market is lively with colorful wares and eager shoppers from across the globe.
Place Statistics:
Type of place: Fort
Situated: Jaisalmer, Rajasthan
Distance: 299 Km from Jodhpur, 333 Km from Bikaner, 558 Km from Jaipur
Transport: Well connected by road
Facilities: Hotels, Restaurants, Shops, Rest Rooms are available
Note: Vehicles of visitors are not allowed inside the fort
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