Jaisalmer like other towns of Rajasthan is centered around
a fort - the Jaisalmer Fort which is popularly referred to
as Sonar Quila. The majestic fort is located to the south
of Jaisalmer on the picturesque Trikut hill. The length of
the fort is 457 meter and the breadth is 229 meters.
The Fort was built in 1156 and is one of the oldest forts
in Rajasthan rising as it does like a mirage from the surrounding
deserts. The Fort was built by Maharaja Jaisal who had the
desire to set up a new capital since the former one located
at Lodurva was susceptible to enemy incursions.
The fort has 99 towers some of which possess cannons even
today. In the Chauhata Square the majestic palaces of Maharawals
are located. To reach the palace, one has to climb a flight
of steps. In close proximity is the Tazia Tower which is all
of five stories and is conspicuous by its unusual roof. The
external portion of the fort is well protected by lofty walls
which has an exclusive corridor that leads to the first barricade.
In the days of yore, a majority of the population of Jaisalmer
lived within the fort premises but with the burgeoning growth
of population, people began living elsewhere from 17th century
onwards. Nonetheless, even in the present times the fort is
bustling with activity and there are a lot of people who still
live within the ramparts.
The Fort has an unusual and weird device, which is set on
top of the fort and was used to forecast the weather for an
entire year. Legend has it that if it wafted in the northerly
direction it was a sign of famine and if it wafted on the
westerly direction it was a precursor to a fine monsoon.
All said and done, the magnificent Jaisalmer fort is one of
the finest examples of Rajput architectural grandeur as far
as the art of stone carving is concerned.
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for Rajasthan Forts and Palaces. For more information or to
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