The Golden City: Jaisalmer

 

The Golden City: Jaisalmer



So named for the yellow sandstone used in most of its buildings, the Golden City of Jaisalmer is an oasis of splendid old architecture that rises from the sand dunes of the Thar Desert. Once a strategic outpost, today the city is filled with splendid old mansions; magnificent gateways; and the massive Jaisalmer Fort, also known as the Golden Fort, a daunting 12th-century structure that rises high above the town.

In addition to its palaces, temples, and fine old homes, the fortress boasts 99 bastions along with massive gates leading to its main courtyard where you'll find the seven-story-tall Maharaja's Palace. Started in the early 1500s and added to by successive rulers right up until the 19th century, the palace offers sections open to the public, including areas beautifully decorated with tiles from Italy and China, and intricately carved stone doors.

There are also a number of Jain temples dating from the 12th to 16th centuries, each decorated with fine marble and sandstone images, palm-leaf manuscripts, and brightly painted ceilings. Be sure to also check out the well-preserved 1,000-year-old library, Gyan Bhandar, with its many 16th-century manuscripts and antiquities.


 

Jaisalmer Fort👉


Also called the 'Golden Fort' and locally the 'Sonar Quilla' the Jaisalmer Fort is an iconic symbol of the city. Built by the Rajput ruler Rao Jaisal, this is among the largest forts in the world. Situated in the Thar desert on the Trikuta Hill, the fort has stood witness to many battles. The unique fort situated among the golden sands of Thar and built from yellow sandstone is indeed a breathtaking sight from the outside. The fortification includes three layers of walls that are as high as 30 ft. The fort once the home to royals is now inhabited by hundrends of local families. And the insides of the fort are in a sad shape when compared to the exterior, owing to the improper sanitation system and lack of maintenance. Inside the fort, travellers must explore the Gyan Bhandar library, the Raj Mahal, Laxminath temple, Jain temples, four massive gateways and merchant Havelis. The exquisitely done sculptures and motifs, classic of the Dilwar style, is breathtaking in its beauty. Photo Courtesy: Manoj Vasanth


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