Tourist Places in Pokaran

Introduction of Pokaran
Pokaran (Pokhran) is a city and a municipality which is situated in Jaisalmer district in Rajasthan. Pokaran means “the place of five mirages”, it is enclosed by sandy, rocky and five salt ranges. It is on the way both from Bikaner to Jaisalmer and Jodhpur to Jaislamer. It is a remote location in the Thar Desert region and served as the test site for India's first underground nuclear weapon explosion. Pokaran has a temperate climate. Temperature is around 38.1º Celsius in summers and it is around 5.5º Celsius in winters. Common languages which are spoken here are Rajasthani, Marwari, English and Hindi.

History of Pokaran
Fort Pokaran stands amidst the Thar desert, it is a premier fort of the clan of Rathores of the state of Marwar-Jodhpur. Erstwhile noble title attached the prominent honour ‘Pradhan’ (The Premier Noble) to identify every Thakur of Pokaran as of the first honour in The Darbar (the court) of the state Marwar - Jodhpur. It definitely makes a perfect break and offers extended traditional hospitality which was once offered in the 16th century to Humayun who was the Mughal Emperor and later to his great grandson Akbar who was the son of the last Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb.

Tourist Attractions in Pokaran
Important tourist attractions in Pokaran is Fort Pokaran. Fort Pokaran is a 14th century citadel also known as “Balagarh” which stands as a model amidst the Thar Desert. The fort attracts tourists from all over to experience the history where each stone of the fort speaks out volumes of the past. Imperial gates of Pokaran fort were opened for the tourists which offer a feel of royalty. The building of the fort offers a view of the red sandstone Mahals, the grand towers, traditional Jharokas and walls which depicts Mughal and Rajput architecture. Guests are served with traditional cuisines by the family Chef in the Mangal Mahal which is a prominent hall inside the fort. There is a museum of the family collection inside the fort which has local artistry, miniature paintings, garments, armoury, and handicrafts.

Pokhran Fort
This is a yellow sandstone fort which was built in the 15th century by the by the Marwar Thakur Rao Maldeo. The fort is known for its architectural splendour. The fort is marvellously designed to sustain the harsh climate of desert. It is famous for its wells and grain storehouse where tonnes of food grains can be stored. The wooden doors at the gateway of this fort are fitted with lethal iron spikes to guard against enemy. The goddess Durga temple located inside the fort complex is another popular attraction where devotees come in large number to offer their prayer.

Chhatris
These are beautifully carved sandstone cenotaphs which were built to honour kings after their death. Some of these chhatris were also built in the honour of queens who immortalized themselves by committing sati. Women who used to offer themselves to the fire after the death of their husbands are known as sati. The architecture of cenotaphs consist of series of pillars on a raised platform supported a central dome. These cenotaphs are adorned with beautiful sculptures and design patterns which fascinate tourists during their visit.

Pokhran Museum
This is a small museum situated inside the fort complex. It is famous for the heritage collection of weapons, paintings, pottery and the costumes of royal families.

Ramdeo Temple
This is a famous temple of the region which is known for its colourful and vibrant fair held biannually in the months August and February. Scores of tourists come here during this celebration to enjoy and experience colourful display of heritage culture of Rajasthan. This festival is celebrated for 11 days in the in honour of the Baba Ramdeo who is revered by Hindus and Muslims equally.

Shopping In Pokharan
Tourists can buy amazing handicrafts from the bazaars of Pokharan such as interior crafts and furniture. The interior crafts available here reflect the royal beauty of Rajasthan. Adorn your house with such rafts to give a new and traditional look to it.

Accommodation In Pokharan
The most talked about accommodation option in Pokharan is the Pokharan Fort, which has been superbly converted into a heritage hotel. Attracting tourists who are inclined towards luxury, they must plan a stay at this heritage hotel while on their tour to Pokharan.

How to Reach Pokhran?
By Air - Jaisalmer airport at the distance of 142 km is the nearest airport to reach Pokhranby air. You can take a taxi or bus from Jaisalmer Airport to Pokhran. Jodhpur is another option at the distance of 208 km to reach Pokhran.

By Train - Ramdevara Railway Station is the nearest railway station to reach Pokhran. Distance between two cities is 21 km that can be covered by bus or taxi. Jaisalmer is another option at the distance of 132 km from Pokhran.

By Road - There are regular buses from Jaisalmer and nearby cities to reach Pokhran by Road. You can take a bus or taxi or reach by your own vehicle.