Rising from the heart of the Thar Desert like a golden mirage is the city of Jaisalmer.A commanding fort etched in yellow sandstone stands, with all its awesome splendor, dominating the amber-hued city. Golden fort is situated in Jaisalmer. Bhatti Chief Jaisal laid the foundation of the fort in 1156 A.D on Trikuta hill. The fort is also called Sonar Kila or Golden Fort because it is made up of yellow sandstone and seems to ignite into a golden flame when scorched by the desert sun. Even today, one fourth of the old city's population resides within the fort. A cross-cultural merging of Rajput and Islamic architectural styles is visible in this fort. Ganesh Pol, Akshya Pol, Suraj Pol and Hawa Pol are must see for tourists. Jain temples built between 12th to 15th centuries and dedicated to Rikhabdevji and Sambhavanthji is another attraction. The imposing walls of the fort, which enclose a mini-township consisting of houses of merchants and their shops, has a 30 ft high sandstone barrier, which includes 99 bastions. The main attractions are various camel related events held with the majestic Jaisalmer Fort as a backdrop. As the sun sets over Jaisalmer, the sandstone walls of this grand fort reflect the sunlight and glow with the color of molten gold. Inspired by this sight the filmmaker Satyajit Ray made his popular detective film Sonar Kella or Golden Fortress set around the Golden Fort of Jaisalmer. |
