Jaisalmer Fort Timings, Entry Fees, History, How to Reach and What to Expect

Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort, is one of the most spectacular attractions in the city of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living heritage, as it houses several palaces, temples, havelis, and shops within its walls.

In this article, you will learn about the Jaisalmer Fort timings, entry fees, history, how to reach, and what to expect from your visit.

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Jaisalmer Fort Timings and Entry Fees

Jaisalmer Fort, a marvel of architecture and history, welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Admission is affordably priced at INR 50 for Indian nationals and INR 250 for international guests.

For those wishing to capture memories, a nominal fee of INR 50 for still photography and INR 100 for video recording applies. Tickets are conveniently available at the fort’s entrance or can be pre-booked through its official website to ensure a seamless visit.

Inside the Fort: What to See and Do

Spanning an impressive area, the fort houses exquisite palaces, havelis, temples, and museums, each telling a tale of its rich past. To fully appreciate the intricate details and storied history, visitors are encouraged to engage a guide or partake in a guided tour.

Alternatively, audio guides are available for rent at INR 150 per person, offering a personalized tour at your own pace.

Experiences and Entertainment

The fort’s vantage points offer breathtaking views of Jaisalmer’s landscape, with sunrise and sunset being particularly magical moments. Additionally, the fort hosts an enchanting light and sound show in the evenings, vividly bringing to life its legends and history.

The show runs from 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM in Hindi and 7:45 PM to 8:45 PM in English, with tickets priced at INR 100 for Indian visitors and INR 200 for international guests.

Consider reading: Jaisalmer Desert Festival 2024 Location, Dates, Timings, Entry Fees, Theme, How to Reach

Jaisalmer Fort History

Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 AD by the Bhati Rajput ruler Rao Jaisal, from whom the city and the fort derive their name. The fort was strategically located at the crossroads of important trade routes, including the ancient Silk Road, connecting India with Central Asia and beyond. The fort served as a stronghold and a center of commerce for the Bhati Rajputs, who ruled over the region for several centuries.

The fort witnessed many battles and sieges but remained unconquered throughout its history. The most famous siege was in 1299 AD when the fort was attacked by the Sultan of Delhi, Alauddin Khalji, who was provoked by a Bhati raid on his treasure caravan. The siege lasted for eight years, and the Bhati Rajputs defended the fort with great courage and valor.

However, facing certain defeat, the women of the fort committed ‘Jauhar’, a ritual mass suicide by fire, to avoid capture and dishonor by the enemy. The men of the fort then fought to their death in a final battle with the Sultan’s forces.

The fort also witnessed the rise and fall of the Mughal Empire, the Maratha Empire, and the British Raj. The fort remained the seat of power of the Bhati Rajputs until 1947 when India gained independence from British rule. The fort then became a part of the state of Rajasthan, and a major tourist attraction.

Summary: Jaisalmer Fort was built in 1156 AD by Rao Jaisal, and remained the capital of the Bhati Rajputs for centuries. The fort was never conquered but faced many attacks and sieges, the most famous being the one by Alauddin Khalji in 1299 AD. The fort is a witness to the history and culture of Rajasthan.

Consider reading: Top 20 Best Places to Visit in Rajasthan in 3 Days, 5 Days, 7 Days and 10 Days

What to Expect at Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort is not just a historical monument, but a living heritage with a vibrant and colorful atmosphere. The fort is home to about a quarter of the city’s population, who live in traditional houses and havelis, and practice their ancestral occupations and crafts. The fort is also a hub of cultural and artistic activities, with many festivals, events, and performances taking place throughout the year.

Some of the main attractions and places to visit within the fort are:

• Raj Mahal: The royal palace of the Bhati Rajputs, which showcases their lavish lifestyle and exquisite architecture. The palace has several rooms, courtyards, balconies, and windows, decorated with intricate carvings, paintings, and mirrors. The palace also houses a museum, which displays the royal artifacts, weapons, costumes, and photographs.
• Jain Temples: A group of seven temples, dedicated to various Jain Tirthankaras, or enlightened beings. The temples are built in the Dilwara style of architecture, and are adorned with beautiful sculptures, frescoes, and paintings. The temples are open from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm for the Jain community, and from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm for the general public.
• Laxminath Temple: A Hindu temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, the presiding deities of the fort. The temple is one of the oldest structures in the fort, and is revered by the locals. The temple has a simple and elegant design, with a domed ceiling and a marble idol of the deities.
• Havelis: The mansions of the wealthy merchants and traders, who lived in the fort and prospered from the trade. The Havelis are known for their elaborate and ornate facades, with intricate carvings, jharokhas (balconies), and jaalis (latticed windows). Some of the famous havelis in the fort are Patwon Ki Haveli, Salim Singh Ki Haveli, and Nathmal Ki Haveli.
• Museums: The fort has several museums, which showcase the history, culture, and art of the region. Some of the popular museums are the Government Museum, the Desert Culture Centre and Museum, the Folklore Museum, and the Thar Heritage Museum. The museums display a variety of exhibits, such as coins, pottery, textiles, paintings, musical instruments, and fossils.

Summary: Jaisalmer Fort is a living heritage with a lot to offer to visitors. The fort has several palaces, temples, havelis, and museums, which reflect the rich and diverse culture and history of the region. The fort also has a lively and colorful atmosphere, with many festivals, events, and performances.

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How to Reach Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort is located in the heart of the city of Jaisalmer, and is easily accessible by various modes of transport. The nearest airport to Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Airport, which is about 15 km away from the fort. The airport has flights to and from major cities like Delhi, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad. You can take a taxi or a bus from the airport to the fort, which will cost you around 300 to 500 rupees.

The nearest railway station to Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Railway Station, which is about 2 km away from the fort. The station is well connected to other cities in Rajasthan, as well as Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata. You can take a rickshaw, a taxi, or a bus from the station to the fort, which will cost you around 50 to 100 rupees.

The nearest bus stand to Jaisalmer is the Jaisalmer Bus Stand, which is about 1 km away from the fort. The bus stand has regular buses to and from other cities in Rajasthan, as well as Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur. You can take a rickshaw, a taxi, or a bus from the bus stand to the fort, which will cost you around 20 to 50 rupees.

You can also drive to Jaisalmer by your own vehicle, or rent a car or a bike from the city. Jaisalmer is well connected by road to other cities in Rajasthan, as well as Delhi, Ahmedabad, and Jodhpur. The road conditions are good, and the scenery is scenic. However, you will have to park your vehicle outside the fort, as the fort does not allow any vehicles inside its premises.

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Best Time to Visit Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort can be visited throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 25°C, and the sky is clear and sunny. This is also the peak season for tourism, and the fort is bustling with activities and events.

Some of the festivals that you can enjoy at the fort during this time are:

• Desert Festival: A three-day extravaganza of music, dance, camel races, turban tying, mustache competition, and cultural performances, held in February every year. The festival showcases the best of the desert culture and heritage and attracts thousands of tourists from all over the world.
• Jaisalmer Literature Festival: A literary event that celebrates the art of storytelling, poetry, and literature, held in January every year. The festival features eminent writers, poets, artists, and performers, who share their insights and experiences with the audience. The festival also offers workshops, book launches, panel discussions, and interactive sessions.
• Basant Panchami: A festival that marks the onset of spring, and the worship of Goddess Saraswati, the goddess of learning, music, and art, held in January or February every year. The festival is celebrated with great fervor and enthusiasm, with people wearing yellow clothes, flying kites, and offering prayers and flowers to the goddess.

Summary: The best time to visit Jaisalmer Fort is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and cool, and the fort is lively and festive. You can enjoy various festivals and events at the fort, such as the Desert Festival, the Jaisalmer Literature Festival, and Basant Panchami.

Final Thoughts on Jaisalmer Fort

Jaisalmer Fort is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves history, culture, and adventure. The fort is a living heritage that offers a glimpse into the glorious past and the vibrant present of Rajasthan. The fort has something for everyone, whether you are interested in architecture, religion, art, or entertainment.

You can spend hours exploring the fort, admiring its beauty, learning its stories, and experiencing its charm. Jaisalmer Fort is not just a fort, but a world in itself.