Jaisalmer Fort (Sonar Quila)

Rising from the desert like a giant sandcastle, Jaisalmer Fort — the Sonar Quila, or Golden Fort — glows honey-gold at dawn and dusk. Built in 1156, it's one of the largest fully preserved fortified cities in the world, and remarkably, one of the very few 'living forts': a quarter of the old city's population still lives inside its walls.

Wandering its lanes, you pass Jain temples, carved havelis, shops, guesthouses and homes, all within the massive ramparts. The Raj Mahal (palace) museum and the fort's bastions offer views over the golden town and the endless desert beyond.

• ›The fort glowing gold at sunrise and sunset.
• ›The intricately carved Jain temples inside.
• ›The views from the ramparts over the desert town.

As a living fort, it faces conservation pressures — tread lightly and support responsible businesses. Getting lost in its lanes is part of the magic.