15

Places to Visit in Shekhawati

Also known as Sonar Quilla or Sone ka Quilla (golden fort) Jaisalmer fort stands high showcasing its beauty and elegance as it is one of the world’s largest forts located in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Sonar Quila is the second oldest fort in Rajasthan. Explore the majestic Jaisalmer Fort on our tailored Jaisalmer tour package, immersing yourself in its rich history, intricate architecture, and cultural allure.Its extensive yellow sandstone walls are bright yellow during the day and fade to honey-gold as the sun sets and due to this, it is also called the Golden fort. This dessert beauty has seen many battles while standing amidst the sandy stretches of the great Thar Desert on Trikuta hill. Jaisalmer itself is known as the golden city and offers the cultural fusion of nomadic desert and royalty which will let you experience something different.You will be amused by the architectural beauty of Jaisalmer Fort and other sites of the golden city. Built by the Rajput ruler Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD this UNESCO World Heritage site is the pride of the Thar desert and is a symbol of strength. Jaisalmer Fort has played a vital role from the glorious past to the present. It has been part of many amazing cultures of the different dynasty ruling.It has kept the traditions of past safe by preserving their designs and visions. This place will never fail to surprise you from its majestic beauty and will give you a different vision towards the history, traditions, and culture of the country.History of Jaisalmer FortThe Golden fort is said to be established by Raja Rawal Jaisal, who was a Bhatti Rajput ruler, in approximately 1156 A D. He selected the Trikuta hills located at the great Thar Desert for his fort to stand and symbolize the dominance and power of the royal Rajput's.Sonar Quila is known as the second oldest fort in Rajasthan and has seen and been part of many legendary battles but even today it holds the same charm and positive vibes which will leave you aw-struck when you will witness this great structure. So, one can notice the fusion of Islamic and Rajput architecture. It has also been part of the silk trade route from the 16th to the 18th century. Sonar Quila is a legendary structure and holds a great significance in the grand history. The fort has four grand entrance Ganesh Pol, Akshaya Pol, Suraj Pol, and Hawa Pol which have their own significance like Suraj pol named was given to one because the first sun rays over the city used to hit this very gate similarly other gates also have interesting stories related to them and are very beautifully carved and designed in a way that it is a combination of power and beauty.The Architecture of Jaisalmer FortThe Jaisalmer Fort is also famous for its architectural beauty. With the amazing measurement of 1,500 ft (460 m) long and 750 ft (230 m) wide it is built on a hill that rises above a height of 250 ft (76 m). You will be delighted to witness the essence of Rajasthani architectural touch with beautiful designs and patterns. Built with the gorgeous yellow sandstone the entire fort has an amazing look and shines like gold when the sun-rays fall on the walls.With the glorious sunrise and majestic sunset, this structure changes color from tawny lion yellow to honey- gold. You will be amused to see the four entrances to the fort which are named Hawa Pole, Akshay Pole, Suraj Pole, and Ganesha Pole. There are many other places that add their importance to histories such as Akhai Vilas, the Rang Mahal, Sarvottam Vilas, Gaj Mahal, and the Moti Mahal.The Moti Mahal is also known as Salam Singh Ki Haweli and is extremely beautiful with the amazing architecture, built-in 1815 with a peacock-shaped roof & numerous balconies this place will give a jaw-dropping view. These places too have been formed by keeping the designs, patterns, and texture at the priority and has been taken utmost care that they stand to showcase the royalty and energy of Rajput's and taking Rajasthani style on another level.

Opening hours- 9:00 am to 6:00 pmPrime days and hours- Weekends, Mornings Suggested Duration- 3-4 hoursTickets- Available Both Online and OfflineNearest Railway Station- Falna Railway Station, about 85 kmNearest Bus Stand- Kumbhalgarh Bus Stand, about 2.2 kmNearest Airport- Maharana Pratap Airport, about 96 kmPerched high in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan, Kumbhalgarh Fort is one of India’s grandest hill forts in Rajasthan. It stands as a testament to the valour and architectural brilliance of the Rajput era. Built in the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, the fort was designed to be invincible, with its massive walls stretching over 36 kilometres, making it the second-longest continuous wall in the world. This formidable structure guarded the western frontiers of Mewar and remained unconquered by direct assault for centuries.The fort is also revered as the birthplace of Maharana Pratap, the legendary warrior of Mewar. Within its thick walls lie numerous palaces, temples, water reservoirs, and grand gateways like Hanuman Pol and Ram Pol. The fort's elevation offers sweeping views of the surrounding forests and hills. Today, it stands not only as a military stronghold but as a symbol of pride and resistance in Rajputana history.

 Ajmer-e-Sharif Dargah boasts a stunning blend of Mughal and Rajput architectural styles. It features majestic domes, intricate marble detailings, grand arches and beautiful gates. Inside the dargah, you will get to see additional features like Buland Darwaza, Jannati Darwaza, Jhalra, Tank Victoria, a giant cauldron and the tomb of Nizam Sikka. You can offer your prayers at the dargah as well as listen to the soul-stirring qawwali performed by local artists. Right outside the Ajmer-e-Sharif Dargah, there is a vibrant market which is perfect for purchasing souvenirs and ending your day.