The Jaisalmar Fort, Rajasthan, India.
Recently declared as one of the Seven Wonders of India, this fort is one of the largest desert forts of the world and the second oldest fort in Rajasthan. Built by Raja Rawal Jaisal, a Rajput ruler in 1156 AD and witness to many battles, this fort stands on the Trikuta Hill amidst the vast sands of India’s Thar desert. Its yellow sandstone walls (see photo) are a tawny lion color during the day and this becomes honey-gold at sunset. This sight is a real feast for the eyes. The Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray was so impressed by this sight that he honored this sight by his detective film Sonar Kella based on this fort. It has crenellated sandstone walls 30-feet high and has 99 bastions most of which were built between 1633 and 1647 AD. Evidence of subtle fusion of Rajput and Islamic architecture is clearly visible here.
The Raj Mahal or the Royal Palace, ornate Jain Temples, the Laxminath Temple and the four gateways the Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, BhootPol, and the Hawa Pol are the main attractions inside the fort.
Interestingly, this strategically located city escaped direct Islamic invasion. Its strategic importance was revealed during the 1965 and 1971 wars between India and Pakistan. But this wonder of the nation, a rich heritage now cries for better and immediate attention to maintain its splendor and safety. International heritage foundations insist on reduced water usage to preserve this fort. Efforts to restore and preserve this fort are under way, but more involvement by the government and the public is urgently called for.
Recently declared as one of the Seven Wonders of India, this fort is one of the largest desert forts of the world and the second oldest fort in Rajasthan. Built by Raja Rawal Jaisal, a Rajput ruler in 1156 AD and witness to many battles, this fort stands on the Trikuta Hill amidst the vast sands of India’s Thar desert. Its yellow sandstone walls (see photo) are a tawny lion color during the day and this becomes honey-gold at sunset. This sight is a real feast for the eyes. The Indian filmmaker Satyajit Ray was so impressed by this sight that he honored this sight by his detective film Sonar Kella based on this fort. It has crenellated sandstone walls 30-feet high and has 99 bastions most of which were built between 1633 and 1647 AD. Evidence of subtle fusion of Rajput and Islamic architecture is clearly visible here.
The Raj Mahal or the Royal Palace, ornate Jain Temples, the Laxminath Temple and the four gateways the Ganesh Pol, Suraj Pol, BhootPol, and the Hawa Pol are the main attractions inside the fort.
Interestingly, this strategically located city escaped direct Islamic invasion. Its strategic importance was revealed during the 1965 and 1971 wars between India and Pakistan. But this wonder of the nation, a rich heritage now cries for better and immediate attention to maintain its splendor and safety. International heritage foundations insist on reduced water usage to preserve this fort. Efforts to restore and preserve this fort are under way, but more involvement by the government and the public is urgently called for.
3 comments on "The Jaisalmer Fort, Wonder of India"
Almost 1000 years old, amazing!
peace,
mike
livelife365
Tks for the visit and the comments.
Gopal G.
You do help us discover India.
Post a Comment