Jaisalmer Fort
Jaisalmer Fort is a 250 foot tall fort that was built in 1156 by the Bhati clan in India. Protected by 30 feet walls, double ramparts, and circular bastions, it is the second-oldest fort in Rajasthan, and the oldest continuously inhabited fort in India. Jaisalmer Fort was strategically built on a hill at the edge of the Indian and Pakistani border to provide extra protection in times of battle, and for economic advantage since that was a major trade route leading to the ancient Silk Road. The fort's stunning design is a fusion of Islamic and Rajput architecture as well as influences from rich merchants and craftsmen who stopped here on their way to the Silk Road.
Jaisalmer Fort is also known as the “Golden City” because of the golden-hued Jurassic sandstone used to build it. This enchanting fort looks like a magical golden castle straight from the "Arabian nights". It presently houses about 3,000 people, museums, hotels, restaurants, shops, etc.
A visit to this ancient edifice will take you through one of its four majestic gateways up to a number of paved roads leading to the palace. You can walk to the museum, stroll around the lush gardens, the souvenir shops, and Hindu temples. The culmination point of a tour of the fort is the rooftop, it is the highest point of the entire complex and the view from here is truly magical.
