The Magnificent Golden Fort of Jaisalmer
Golden Fort also known as Sonar Kila is situated in the city of Jaisalmer
in Rajasthan. This fort is one of the oldest forts of Rajasthan. Bhatti
Chief Jaisal laid the foundation of the fort in 1156 A.D. This fort is
situated on the top of a hill known as Trikuta. This fort named as Golden
Fort because it is made up of yellow sandstone and shines like gold when the
desert sun drops its rays on it. One fourth of the city population still
lives in the fort. The architecture of fort is cross cultural as it reflects
the Rajput and Islamic styles in its architecture. It has balconies and
windows which display a wonderful masonry work. There are several tourist
attractions inside the fort like Ganesh Pol, Akshya Pol, Suraj Pol, Hawa Pol
and Jain temples. Jain temples are the best attractions of the fort, built
between 12th to 15th centuries.
How to Approach
Sky Way : Jaisalmer Airport is just at a distance of 5 km from the
city center and is well linked by air with New Delhi, Jaipur and Jodhpur.
Other major airport nearby is the Jodhpur airport which lies at a distance
of about 285 km from Jaisalmer.
Trackway : The best and the most exciting way to reach Jaisalmer, is
by train. Jaisalmer is well connected with other famous and major cities and
states. A daily train service from Jodhpur takes you to Jaisalmer after an
overnight journey. The Palace on Wheels, a heritage luxury train is a
fabulous option if you can afford it.
Expressway : Jaisalmer has a good network of roads and is well
connected to other cities of Rajasthan including Jaipur, Jodhpur and Bikaner
and major cities of India. You can also choose a bus or rented car.
The Most Popular Sights to Visit
Jain Temples
The most attractive and famous attraction of the fort is Jain Temples.
These Jain Temples were built in the 15th and 16th centuries. Golden fort
houses 7 Jain temples and these temples are open daily from 7 am till noon
for all visitors. The architecture of these temples always touches the
hearts of visitors. The first temple you come to is dedicated to
Chandraprabhuji, the 8th Tirthankara (Jain Prophet). Another temple is
dedicated to Parshvanath, the 22nd Tirthankara. Each of the temples is
devoted to one main tirthankara. Shantinathji temple, one of the seven
temples is the finest example of architecture. Kunthanathji temple below
offers a harmony between enlightenment and oblivion. Chandraprabhuji temple
provides a beautiful ceiling of the sabha mandapa which supports a demonic
looking head surrounded by five bodies.
Merchant Havelis
Fort also has several beautiful Havelis which were once the home of wealthy
merchants. The most attractive thing about these Havelis which attracts the
visitors is their creative designs and adornments. The fine cutwork, yellow
and red stonework treatment, and the bracket-shaped beautification of
peacocks of these Havelis are worth visiting. Some Havelis are many hundreds
of years old. Some famous Havelis have many floors and countless rooms which
are well decorated windows, archways, doors and balconies. Among these is
the Vyas Haveli which was built in the 15th Century.
Gadsisar Sagar Lake
Gadsisar Sagar Lake in Jaisalmer is one of the most breathtaking
attractions of the city. Here in and around the lake, one can also enjoy
watching hundreds of migratory birds during the winter season. This lake is
an ideal picnic spot for all types of visitors.
Folklore Museum
Folklore Museum is the private museum which contains some interesting
exhibits, particularly the handcrafted items. This museum is open for all
visitors daily from 8am to noon and 3 to 6pm.
