Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort
4.5
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
About
Duration: More than 3 hours
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  • FHTR In Rajasthan
    Jaipur, India263 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A Timeless Gem Amidst the Golden Sands - Jaisalmer Fort
    A true marvel of Rajasthan. This place deserves every bit of its UNESCO World Heritage Site status! Built in the year 1156 AD by the visionary Maharaja Rawal Jaisal, this fort stands tall, casting its enchanting shadow over the golden sands of Thar. What sets it apart is that it's not just an ancient relic but a 'living fort,' where thousands of people still call it home. The history and culture that seep through its walls are absolutely mesmerizing. As you stroll through its narrow alleyways and explore its intricate architecture, you can feel the echoes of a legendary past whispering to you at every turn. From the awe-inspiring views of the desert below to the vibrant markets filled with local crafts, Jaisalmer Fort is a destination that promises an unforgettable journey into history. – It's a must-visit for anyone exploring the wonders of Rajasthan.
    Visited February 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written October 31, 2023
  • HrishiS
    Sangli, India96 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Must See and Stay!
    The fort is truly one of a kind with people staying on it with all sorts of shops, hotels and restaurants on it. You don't get to understand the hustle and bustle till you actually get there. We visited the Mehrangarh before in Jodhpur which is spic and span with lots of displays of royal items. This is unlike that in every sense. Its bustling with people and the noise. Our guide Mr. Bhupendra showed us the entire fort in a very lovely way. The Jain temples are really worth seeing, the stone work in the temple is mind boggling. Mr. Bhupendra expertly took photos of ours and showed us areas for photos we wouldnt have thought of. He then took us to the roof top of Garh Jaisal hotel which is at one end of the fort. Honestly, after visiting Mehrangarh, the museum in Jaisalmer Fort can be given a miss. The roof of the Garh Jaisal hotel gave us panoramic views of the town where we were alone and could eat and enjoy the weather and views and get great photos at the same time. We on the next day also stayed in the hotel next doors Hotel Killa Bhawan which is a must stay because the people who manage the hotel are really warm, welcoming and accommodating. The stay on the Fort is also an experience in itself and is a must have because theres not a lot of unique places like this that you can claim to have stayed at. All in all a must do in Jaisalmer but my recommendation would be to stay rather than just visit. It'll be worth it.
    Visited November 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written December 12, 2023
  • Milind Shah
    Ahmedabad, India2,017 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Awesome piece of architecture
    One of the largest living forts in the world and one of the top attractions of Jaisalmer, the fort is something not to miss out during your visit to the city. While it is free to enter the fort, you need to pay fees to visit the queen's palace and the Patwa ki haveli. The charges are around 200 and 100 bucks for each adult. The fort has plenty of restaurants, hotels, shops, cafes and temples within it, making it one of the largest living forts in world. The history and beauty of the fort surely astonishes you. It is recommended to hire the services of a guide which would relive the history and beauty of the fort for you. The visit to fort takes at least 4-5 hours. One can also walkdown to various other historical places and Jain temples in the fort premises.
    Visited December 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written December 22, 2023
  • arzanstudio
    Mumbai, India350 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The most mesmerising and mystical fort you’ll ever seen in your life.
    I have been to lots old towns within forts all around the globe. The last one being The Dubrovnik fort in Croatia. But I have to tell you, if the other forts are books, the Jaisalmer fort’s a complete encyclopaedia series. There’s drama, colour, and life all around. The sun bathed fort walls that show off their stone walls, the small shops within the walls, all with the most colourful wares. Stones, carpets, vessels, curios, teeth shirts, and numerous contemporary garments done in the traditional style. Then there’s the vendors who take care of your gastronomical needs. Besides the multiple restaurants that offer roof top views, there’s fresh orange juice, coconut water, ginger tea, Maggi noodle vendors, all scattered over the entire area. Just walking through the lanes is like a story unfolding in front of you. The light and shadows give you an array of visuals all along. Then there’s the King’s palace and the queen’s palace. Fabulous intertwined buildings with room after room of memorabilia from that era. Armoury, garments, curios, clocks, walking sticks etc. One day is not enough to explore this magic kingdom. Definitely the most gorgeous fort you’ll ever see.
    Visited December 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written December 23, 2023
  • Sherry U
    Victoria, Canada127 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Magical Jaisalmer Fort
    Wonderful fort in Jaisalmer. It is a UNESCO heritage site but made all the more special in that it is still occupied by 500 residents. You can wonder for hours through the narrow lanes, visit the incredible temples in the fort, shop at endless shops and visit the King’s palace as well as the Queen’s palace. Many wonderful places to eat. I came back day after day to soak up the magical atmosphere.
    Visited December 2023
    Traveled solo
    Written December 27, 2023
  • Carpediem7
    Bengaluru, India24 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Worth visiting fort
    There is a whole city inside the fort. It feels like you are walking in a shopping center. There are beautiful Jain temples inside the fort that one must not miss. The palaces add a regal touch inside the fort. Hire a guide and walk inside the ramparts of the fort to understand the history and the significance.
    Visited January 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written January 6, 2024
  • Aana
    Mumbai, India7 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    exotic fort
    A living fort, is a different experience as compared to all other forts I have visited. Though the fort itself is not as impressive as others, a whole ecosystem exists inside the fort walls, which is quite amazing. Also being one of the oldest forts and still standing strong. A must visit place inside the fort is the Jain temple. One of the most beautiful temples I have been to.
    Visited January 2024
    Traveled solo
    Written January 17, 2024
  • Rahul Habbu
    Mumbai, India116 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Rich Indian History kept live by becoming servants of east India company
    Exploring Jaisalmer Fort was a captivating journey into Rajasthan's rich history. The intricate architecture and golden sandstone walls transported me to another era. Wandering through narrow alleys revealed charming shops, vibrant markets, and ancient temples, creating a vibrant tapestry of local life. The panoramic views from the fort's ramparts showcased the breathtaking expanse of the Thar Desert, making it a photographer's paradise during sunset. The audio guide provided insightful commentary, adding depth to the historical significance of each section. The Jain Temples within the fort were architectural gems, adorned with delicate carvings and detailing. The Royal Palace, though weathered by time, offered a glimpse into the lives of the Rajput rulers. The fort's vibrancy extended to its bustling market, where traditional artifacts, textiles, and local crafts were on display. Engaging with the friendly locals and savoring local delicacies added a delightful cultural touch to the visit. However, the high tourist footfall occasionally led to crowded spots, affecting the overall tranquility. Despite this, the unique charm, historical grandeur, and cultural richness of Jaisalmer Fort make it an unmissable destination for any traveler.
    Visited January 2024
    Traveled as a couple
    Written January 31, 2024
  • macedonboy
    Glasgow, United Kingdom185,662 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Incredible Walled City
    The former stronghold of the Maharajas of Jaisalmer, this walled city is now narrow streets lined with the maharajas palace, havelis, souvenir shops, restaurants, cafes, temples and other tourist oriented places. Built from local sandstone, the walls of the fort and buildings glisten like gold. The streets are very clean by Indian standards. I recommend staying inside the walled city, the hotels here have so much character.
    Visited February 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written February 14, 2024
  • Ravi
    Thane, India103 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Best Desert Fort
    Jaisalmer fort is the best desert fort. Take a guide with you to understand it. Without guide it's very difficult to fund right way. It's bhul bhulaiya. Enjoy the night view when light is on from terrace of restaurant. Night view in lights is only possible in Jaislamer fort, so don't miss it. Best time to visit Mid Oct to Mid Mar.
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled as a couple
    Written March 24, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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Popular mentions

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Gopi D
Germantown, Maryland, United States180 contributions
2.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020
Jaisalmer fort does have nice history behind it and nice carving and all in it, but given the fact that people live and do business inside this fort, the fort is very noisy, dirty and somewhat smelly. People ride by two wheelers honking for no reason, just plain noise pollution. Even though Jain temples inside the fort have very nice carving and beautiful history, the public bathrooms are also very dirty. You are walking on narrow streets fighting street sellers
If you have been to Jaipur or Jodhpur and not willing to shop, you can skip Jaisalmer fort and Patwon ki Haweli. I must admit, Patwan ki haweli is a masterpiece in terms of carving and stuff, but again, very crowded streets and small canlas of dirty water going around. There are many small small Hawelis inside and people will charge you to visit there. Gadi sagar lake is not maintained , you can may be take a photo. Better visit Desert camp (stay in a tent) instead of going to Jaisalmer. Mehrangargh fort in Jodhpur is awesome, much more impressive.
Written April 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Miles To Cherish
New Delhi, India11 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
You must be thinking why I am saying it a living fort because still inside the Fort like a small town is established.

Still, the people from centuries are living here from one generation to another.
So I visited in the month of Feb and the best time to come here is Nov- March because of the Desert.

It's a very old Fort and we hired a guide who helped us with the complete history of Fort. When we entered the Fort we saw the shops all around, a few antiques, traditional clothes, famous stones for jewelry and I bought famous Red Stone Glass which is good for Drinking water.

The structure and walls are very old and they are not maintained and everywhere will found scooters, cycles roaming inside the Fort.

It's established in a big area but because of less maintenance, the places inside different Fort areas are not kept properly.

Suggestion: There are different places inside Fort and every entrance needs ticket so do not go at all places inside Fort and one thing not to miss there is Birla Mandir.
Also, don't spend more than 2 hrs there that is sufficient to cover the Fort
Written April 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Dhawal
Jaysingpur, India122 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020 • Solo
Fort for tourists opens after 9 am. Instead of paying for private guides at the Fort, visit a Government office near by Fort who will provide you with the guide. Don't trust anyone here everyone will try to fool you here.
Written February 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

sps-kpkm
8 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2019
We visited here during mid of december. We visited here during mid of december. The climate was very good, cold during night and slightly warm (not hot) during day time. The living fort is superb. A must visit place. It is worth to keep a guide to know some facts and history of the places inside fort. English/hindi guides are available for Rs.200 - 300. Our English guide (a local person) was very patient and helpful. For visiting the palace and jain Temple would take around 1 1/2 hrs. We purchased only some low cost items in the shops inside the fort since we were short of time.
Written January 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

good-living-montreal
Montreal, Canada206 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020
This was my first fort to visit in India. It is well kept, even though people still live inside. The locals say that the fact that they live in it, makes sure that the maintenance is done constantly. Inside the fort, you may want to visit the palace, the Jain temple and shop all the various merchants. The view from the fort is remarkable, especially in the early morning or on sunset.
Written March 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

prarthana dadoo
New Delhi, India29 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020 • Couples
the fort was amazing... 4500 people living inside.. it was a small city in itself.. you can do shopping inside.. lots of shops there.. the view point to the whole city was good.
jain temple was very nice inside the fort.. do take a guide with u.. without knowing the history of such places the visit is useless.
take special care of the kids inside.. as it was very crowded and have moving bikes all around bcoz of people who have home inside.
Written January 7, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Govind C
Mumbai, India15 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2020
Awesome experience! Its literally the Sonar Kila: the Golden Fort the golden hue is due to the shining sun rays on the yellow sandstone. Built by Rajput Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD, this massive structure 1500 x 750 feet and 250 feet above the ground level stand above the Jaisalmer skyline. You cannot miss it. The winding path with the 4 gates : Akhand Pol, Suraj Pol, Ganesh Pol, and Hawa Pol all in different directions; the entire path is lined with shops, restaurants, and musicians on the flute or string instruments. A living city within the fort; my guess at least 4000 inhabitants inside.The Chauhata Square with its Raj Palace, its intricate architecture, designs, balconies and cupola, the Marble Throne of the Rawal King, the Rani Mahal (dilapidated) and the Kumar Mahal (dilapidated) along with the canon on the top guarding the Fort from invaders. Also saw huge round boulders on the top which used to be thrown on the invaders in the bygone era. The views of the city from the top is exhilarating including the Gadisar Lake. This is the Rajput Quarter of the Fort. Adjacent to the Chauhata Square is the Shree Chandraprabhuswamiji Temple; an architectural delight with its sandstone shikharas and carved pillars. The Temple Quarter or the Brahmin Quater houses the temples of Shiva, Parvati, Vishnu, Ganesh, the Jain Temples of Rikhabji and Shambhavji all intricately carved along with the houses of the Brahmins and the havelis (Artistically designed) of the rich especially the Vyas Haveli. The path is dotted with shops selling leather bags, shoes, souvenirs and restaurants with Rajasthani and Continental fare. To appreciate the entire fort one needs at least 3 to 4 hours. Come prepared with walking shoes, your camera, comfortable clothing, cap and water. ( It gets pretty hot in the afternoons.)
Written January 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Rachi85
Agra30 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Dec 2019 • Family
Jaisalmer fort is one of the few forts in the world where people are currently living and we had the privilege of visiting such a place for first time which made it really special. The beautiful architecture and use of local yellow rocks is worth noting. There are numerous local shops and cafe inside the fort and it feels like a city itself. We hired a local guide who told us several related stories. The Jain temples inside the fort need a mention too for their beautiful architecture. The top of the fort give complete view of the city. No. 1 attraction to see while in Jaisalmer.
Written January 1, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Gaurav A
Mumbai, India3 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2020 • Friends
It is an excellent attraction in this small city. The visit to this fort will give engaging moments of 1.5 hrs. Take a good guide who will impart a comprehensive story of every facet. Since we visited during feb the fort occupied with moderate crowd and hotels were also cheaper. We stayed at a decent place which charged us 100 per person only and it can compete with good hotels in terms of cleanliness. It was occupied with foreigners who had been staying there for over a week. Overall it is a good place and deserve a visit.
Written February 27, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

A Choudhury
New Delhi, India112 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Feb 2021 • Solo
Jaisalmer Fort is one of the very few forts in the world where people reside within the fort. It is made of yellow sandstone due to which it is also known as Sonar Kella or Golden Fort. There are several palaces, havelis, courtyards and temples inside the fort. You can have a beautiful view of the city from the top. There are several shops, cafes and eateries inside the fort. You can hire a guide if you want to know all the history associated with this fort and it will take around an hour to cover the entire fort.
Written May 27, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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