Transport yourself back to the era of the great Rajput rulers and witness the royal lifestyle and grandeur that existed back then, as you step inside the majestic Jaisalmer Fort Rajasthan.
The Jaisalmer Fort is also known as “Sonar Qila” or the Golden Fort Jaisalmer, due to the golden-hued sandstone used for its construction. Get a chance to witness the shimmering golden glow of this fort during sunrise or sunset with our Rajasthan tour packages
The historical significance and the architectural brilliance of this fort have earned the recognition of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. What truly sets this fort apart is the astonishing fact of Rajasthan is that it is the only living fort in India amongst all historic forts in Rajasthan.
The Jaisalmer Fort history dates back to the 12th century. According to legends, Lord Krishna advised Rawal Jaisal to build the fort at this location due to its strategic location. The fort sits on old Silk Route trade paths, the fort became a hub for merchants trading spices, silk, and precious stones.
Over centuries, the fort witnessed several battles, including invasions by Alauddin Khilji, Sher Shah Suri, Bahadur Shah of Gujarat, Emperor Akbar, and the Marathas. Despite the conquest, the fort remained a symbol of Rajput valor and resilience. The fort’s thick sandstone walls, latticed windows, and ornate carvings highlight Rajasthan’s unmatched architectural brilliance.
Jaisalmer Fort Timings & Ticket Price
Before visiting, here are some of the important details about Jaisalmer Fort timings and entry fee:
- Jaisalmer Fort Timings: 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM (best explored early morning or late afternoon).
- Jaisalmer Fort Entry Fee: Around INR 50 for Indians, INR 250 for foreign tourists.
- Jaisalmer Fort Ticket Price (Palace Museum + Jain Temples): May vary between INR 100–300 depending on sections.
Pro-Tip: Confirm the latest Jaisalmer Fort ticket price before visiting as it may change seasonally.
Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer
The best time to visit Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer is between October to March, which is also the best time to visit Rajasthan, when the desert weather is pleasant for sightseeing. Winter evenings make exploring the ramparts and narrow lanes magical, while sunrise and sunset bring a golden glow to the fort walls. Avoid visiting in the summer season, May to July, as the desert heat can be extreme.
How to Reach Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer?
Wondering how to reach Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer? Here are the convenient ways to reach:
By Air
The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport (17km), connected to Jaipur, Delhi, and Jodhpur.
By Train
Jaisalmer Railway Station is just 2 km away from the fort, with direct trains from major cities.
By Road
Well connected by cabs, private cars, and buses. The distance from Jodhpur is 280 km and from Jaipur is 560 km.
Once in Jaisalmer city, you can reach the fort by auto, cab, or even on foot, as it lies in the heart of the town.
5+ Places To Visit Near Jaisalmer Fort
Here’s a list of places to visit near Jaisalmer Fort:
1. Patwon Ki Haveli Jaisalmer
Patwon Ki Haveli is situated a walk away from the Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer, this is a cluster of 5 havelis which are renowned for its intricate designs, mirror work, and detailed balconies.
2. Gadisar Lake Jaisalmer
Amongst places to visit in Rajasthan, the Gadisar Lake of Jaisalmer is a scenic lake surrounded by temples and ghats, ideal for boating and watching the golden sunset near the Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer.
3. Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Known for its unique peacock shaped roof and elaborate stonework, this haveli near Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer is a must visit for all the history lovers.
4. Nathmal Ki Haveli
A gem amongst places to visit in Jaisalmer, this haveli is built by two architect brothers, this haveli is admired for its extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic detailing close to the fort.
5. Desert Cultural Centre & Museum Jaisalmer
A great place to know about Rajasthani folk art, artefacts, and weapons, that add cultural depth to your Jaisalmer Fort visit.
6. Bada Bagh Jaisalmer
A regal cenotaph garden that offers panoramic views of the desert, located just a short drive away from the Jaisalmer Fort Jaisalmer.
8+ Things to Do At Jaisalmer Fort
The Jaisalmer also known as the Golden Fort Jaisalmer is a magnificent architectural marvel and houses a number of noteworthy attractions within its walls that serves as a living testament to its past glory. Here are some of the things to do inside the fort.
1. Marvel at the Huge Gates
The Jaisalmer Fort has 4 main gates which are named after the direction they face. The Ganesh Pol, located on the east side, is adorned with a statue of Lord Ganesha. The Suraj Pol, also located on the eastern side offers magnificent views of sunrise over the Thar Desert. The Bhuta Pol facing west is also called the gate of demons. The Hawa Pol or the Wind Gate is in the south and provides a cool breeze in the scorching summers.
2. Explore the Royal Palace and Suites
The Raj Mahal or the Royal Palace is an impressive structure in the fort area. This was the residence of the last Batti Rajput kings and is adorned with intricate carvings, elegant mirror work, latticework, and beautifully painted ceilings.
3. Visit the Other Historical Monuments
Apart from the royal residences, the Jaisalmer Fort is also adorned with several historical monuments like the royal cenotaphs (chhatris) that house the tombs of the royal family members. The step-wells and ancient water reservoirs in the fort complex are in working condition even today and are a major source of freshwater for the people living in the fort, just like in old times.
4. Visit the Jain Temples
The Jain Temple complex within the Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most beautiful groups of temples. These seven exquisitely carved Jain temples are an important pilgrimage site for Jains. These temples date back to the 12th and 15th centuries and are adorned with intricate marble carvings, delicate statues, and detailed artwork depicting Jain teachings and stories. It is definitely a must visit place for families covering things to do in Rajasthan.
5. Walk on the Fort Walls and Ramparts
Walking along the fort’s ramparts offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city of Jaisalmer and the surrounding desert landscape. The sunset views from the fort are particularly mesmerizing, with the golden hues of the sandstone walls blending seamlessly with the colors of the sky.
6. Take a Look at the Past of the Palace Museum
The Fort Palace Museum is housed within the Jaisalmer Fort and exhibits a rich collection of artifacts, royal possessions, arms, and paintings from the bygone era. It offers visitors a deeper understanding of the history and cultural heritage of the region.
7. Stay Inside the Fort
The Jaisalmer Fort is a living fort that provides opportunities to have a unique experience of staying inside the fort. There are a number of hotels, guesthouses and heritage homes to stay within the fort walls. Tourists can choose their stay as per their budget and experience the royal lifestyle. Some of these properties offer a glimpse of the city’s heritage and architectural splendor, giving guests a taste of royalty and grandeur. Undoubtedly, it is one of the unique things to do in Jaisalmer.
8. Watch the City Views from the Cafes
The Jaisalmer Fort has a number of cafes and restaurants within its narrow lanes and alleys. You can enjoy the views of the fort in the background and the majestic city views in the front while relishing your taste buds with a variety of cuisines, including traditional Rajasthani delicacies. These cafes provide a great opportunity for tourists to relax, enjoy a meal, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the city.
9. Shop Traditional Handicrafts
The narrow lanes and the colorful alleys in the Jaisalmer Fort are famous for offering a range of handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The lovely shopping area here sells intricate handicrafts, embroidered textiles, leather goods, jewelry, and colorful puppets, which are a must-buy while shopping in Rajasthan. Bargaining is a common practice here, so visitors can hone their negotiation skills while picking up unique mementos to take back home.
Things to Do Around the Jaisalmer Fort
Other than the Jaisalmer fort, the city of Jaisalmer also offers a perfect blend of history, culture, adventure, and mystique, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. You can indulge in numerous exciting activities and attractions that visitors can explore to make the most of their experience in this enchanting city. Here are some popular things to do around the Jaisalmer Fort:
- Watch a Sunset at the Gadisar Lake: The Gadisar Lake is a serene water reservoir situated near the Jaisalmer Fort. Visitors can soak in the beauty of the lake from its picturesque ghats that are built in Rajputana and Mughal architectural styles. One of the most delightful experiences here is watching the sunset over the lake, taking a boat ride or walking along the banks to enjoy the beautiful views and capture stunning sunset photographs.
- Visit the Havelis and the Mansions Around the Fort: The area surrounding the Jaisalmer Fort is home to several magnificent havelis owned by the merchants and the nobles. Patwon ki Haveli, Nathmal ki Haveli, and Salim Singh ki Haveli are some of the prominent ones. These havelis feature intricate architecture, delicate carvings, and fascinating stories of their erstwhile occupants.
- Day Excursion to Jaisalmer Border: A short drive from Jaisalmer will take you to the Jaisalmer War Memorial which is located on the Longewala border. It is dedicated to the Indian soldiers who were martyred during the Indo-Pak War of 1971. Near the War Memorial is the famous Tanot Mata Temple, which is believed to be the protector of the army based around the borders here.
- Go for a Desert Safari in the Thar Desert: One of the must-do activities here is desert safari in Jaisalmer, the magnificent golden Thar desert. You can explore the golden desert by taking a camel ride or by jeep safari. You can also indulge in some adventure activities in Rajasthan here like sandboarding, dune bashing, ATV rides, etc. If you want you can also stay back in the desert camps and enjoy stargazing at night.
- Visit the Haunted Kuldhara Village: The Kuldhara village, located 20 km from Jaisalmer is one of the most haunted places in Rajasthan. According to the legend, the village was cursed and deserted overnight by the villagers in the 19th century. From then, this village lies abandoned in the middle of the Thar Desert.
Conclusion: A Timeless Desert Wonder
The Jaisalmer Fort, with its golden glow, vibrant living culture, and golden glow is a not to be missed destination for anyone travelling to Rajasthan. From exploring royal palaces and Jain temples to enjoying panoramic views and shopping in traditional bazaars, the fort offers an unforgettable experience.
Whether you have plans to explore the Jain temples, shop for handicrafts, strolling through narrow lanes or watching a desert sunset, every corner of this fort tells a story of grandeur and resilience.
So, when planning your Rajasthan journey, don’t miss this jewel of the Thar Desert.Travel with WanderOn and experience the charm of the golden fort Jaisalmer in the most authentic way possible.
