The Jaisalmer Fort built in the year 1156 A.D., by Rawal Jaisal, crowns the 80m high Trikuta hill. The fort from its outer walls to palaces, temples and houses is made of soft yellow sandstone. It has 99 bastions around its circumference, some of which still bear canons. One quarter of the town population resides inside the fort.

The fort has narrow winding lanes and four huge gateways, the last one leading to main chowk dominated by the old Palace of the Maharwal. This five story fade of balconies and windows displays some of the finest masonry work, while the interior is painted and tiled in typical Rajput style.

Attractions within the fort walls are a group of beautifully carved Jain temples built between the 12th and 15th century. Gyan Bhandar, the library containing Jain manuscripts, paintings and astrological charts is also in the temple complex.

The city's real showpieces are its Havelis ( beautiful mansions built by wealthy merchants). The prominent among them being the Patwon Ki Haveli , is the most elaborate and magnificent of all. It has exquisitively carved pillars and extensive corridors and chambers.

Salim Singh ki Haveli, is 300 years old of Jaisalmer’s Prime Minster to Maharaja Rawal Gaj Singh and named after him. It has a beautiful blue cupola roof with superbly carved brackets in the form of peacocks. Built in yellow stone it is covered with intricate carvings and has an elaborate projecting balcony on the top storey.

And Nathmal ki Haveli built in the 19th century was also house to the prime minister. Yellow sandstone elephants guard the building, and even the front door is a work of art.