Fort Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer Fort is one of the largest fortresses in the world. The fort was built in 1156 by the ruler Pao Jaisal, from where the name originated.

The fort is proudly located in the middle of the great Thar desert. During its existence, the fort was the scene of many battles. It consists of 99 bastions, of which 92 were built between 1633 and 1647. The fort also played an important role in trade with Persia, Arabia, Egypt and Africa.

Its massive yellow sandstone walls change color depending on the time of day. When the sun sets, the fort merges with the desert. It is because of this amazing phenomenon that the fort is also known as the “Golden Fort”. Also among the locals there is another name of the fort - "Sonar Kila".

The fort consists of the Raj Mahal (Royal Palace), Jain temples, Laxminath Temple and four massive locks.

Due to seismic activity, the fort is unsafe. The World Monuments Fund has carried out major restoration work, costing more than $1 million.