Jaisalmer Fort stands in Jaisalmer and is also known as Sonar Quila, or the Golden Fort. UNESCO includes it as a component of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan, and its Jain temples make a visit a chance to see an important religious complex within the historic walls.
- Sonar Quila means the Golden Fort.
- The fort is a component of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan.
- The Jain temple complex inside the fort comprises seven temples.
- The temples’ visiting hours are 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM.
What makes Jaisalmer Fort distinctive
Jaisalmer Fort is known as Sonar Quila, or the Golden Fort, and forms part of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan. Its Jain temples sit within the fort complex, bringing a place of worship into the visit to this historic fort.
Rajasthan Tourism describes a group of seven temples: Chandraprabhu, Rikhabdev, Parasnath, Shitalnath, Sambhavnath, Shantinath and Kunthunath. The Astapadhi temples are also within the same complex.
Walking through the fort lanes
The lanes inside the fort connect the wider fort visit with its Jain temple complex. As you make your way through, keep the temples’ visiting hours in mind so you can plan that stop during the morning opening period.
If you are arranging a day around the fort, the route in this one-day Jaisalmer itinerary from the fort to Gadisar Lake links the fort with another city attraction.
Jain temples and visitor etiquette
Chandraprabhu is the first temple in the sequence. It is dedicated to the eighth Tirthankar and was constructed in 1509.
The temple interiors feature frescoes, mirrors and detailed carvings. The figures on the walls are compared with the style of the Dilwara temples. The Rikhabdev temple is safeguarded with glass cabinets.
These are active religious sites as well as historic buildings. Follow any instructions given at the temples, and take care around the protected details and glass cabinets.
How do you reach the Jain temples inside Jaisalmer Fort?
The Jain temples are inside the fort complex, and you can hire or share an auto rickshaw from anywhere in Jaisalmer to reach them. Once inside the fort, allow time to find the temple complex and visit within its morning hours.
Incredible India gives the Jain temples’ visiting hours as 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Hours and access arrangements can change, so check the official site before you go.
Conservation and respectful visiting
Jaisalmer Fort is protected as a Monument of National Importance under India’s 1951 legislation. UNESCO says a 2010 amendment establishes a 200-metre protection zone around designated monuments.
A conservation and restoration project for the fort was completed in 2020, involving the Archaeological Survey of India, the World Monuments Fund and the National Culture Fund. Its master-plan topics included structural assessment, water intake and sewage discharge, waste management, underground cabling, signage and conservation zones.
For a wider city plan, Jaisalmer’s Patwon Ki, Nathmal Ki and Salim Singh Ki havelis are another subject to consider alongside the fort.
Jaisalmer’s Sadar Bazaar, Manak Chowk and Bhatia Bazaar markets offer another part of the city to include in your plans.
In the city, 1st Gate Home-Fusion offers rooms at this four-star hotel.
FAQs
What does Sonar Quila mean?
Sonar Quila is another name for Jaisalmer Fort and means the Golden Fort.
How many Jain temples are inside Jaisalmer Fort?
The complex described by Rajasthan Tourism contains seven temples.
When are the Jain temples open?
The visiting hours are 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Check the official site before going, as hours and access details may change.