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Jaisalmer Fort under the night sky

Living fort · Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort, the Sonar Qila

A golden sandstone citadel rising from the Thar, and one of the few forts in the world where people still live inside the walls.

LocationTrikuta Hill, Jaisalmer
Founded1156, Rawal Jaisal
Bastions99
UNESCOHill Forts of Rajasthan

The story

A little history.

Rawal Jaisal, a Bhati Rajput ruler, founded the fort in 1156 on Trikuta Hill. For centuries Jaisalmer grew rich on the camel caravans that crossed the Thar, and that wealth shows in its palaces, temples and carved houses.

Thousands of people still live inside its walls, which is why it is called a living fort. The yellow sandstone glows gold at sunrise and sunset, giving it the name Sonar Qila, the Golden Fort.

What to see

Don't miss.

  • Raj MahalThe seven-storey royal palace, now a museum with views over the city.
  • Jain templesA group of seven temples from the 12th to the 15th century, with exquisite carving.
  • Laxminath TempleA Hindu temple at the heart of the fort.
  • The rampartsWalk the walls and bastions for views across the desert city.
  • Lanes and cafesNarrow streets of homes, shops and rooftop cafes.

Our tip: Watch sunset from a rooftop inside the fort or from Vyas Chhatri. We suggest staying in a hotel outside the walls, to ease the pressure on the fragile fort.

Good to know

Questions travellers ask.

Why is Jaisalmer Fort called a living fort?

Because thousands of people still live inside its walls, in homes that have been passed down for generations.

Who built Jaisalmer Fort?

Rawal Jaisal, a Bhati Rajput ruler, founded it in 1156.

Should I stay inside Jaisalmer Fort?

It is atmospheric, but the fort's old drainage struggles with extra water use, so we recommend hotels nearby.

More in Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer city guidePatwon ki HaveliNathmal ki HaveliDesert National ParkJaisalmer Desert Festival

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