Explore
Walk through 12th-century defensive gates and reach outer bastions overlooking the Thar Desert.
Jaisalmer Fort sits on Trikuta Hill, rising 250 feet (76 meters) above the desert. The outer defenses include massive stone walls and 99 circular bastions. Most of these bastions date back to the 17th century. Walking these ramparts gives you a clear view of the city layout and the surrounding landscape.
20 minutesUphill path
Four massive gates guard the main entrance: Akhai Pol, Suraj Pol, Ganesh Pol, and Hawa Pol. The path between them uses sharp, zig-zagging turns. Builders designed these angles specifically to stop charging war elephants.
15 minutesCentral square
This is the central square right after Hawa Pol, the final gate. You will find local vendors and the entrance to the Royal Palace Museum here. Buy a cup of chai and watch the daily activity before entering the museum.
30 minutesCity views
Old cannons sit on the outer bastions along the fort's edge. These platforms provide panoramic views of Jaisalmer city and the Thar Desert. Visit these spots an hour before sunset to see the yellow sandstone walls turn a deep golden color.
