Khimsar Fort

The unique Khimsar Fort in Khimsar, Rajasthan is situated on the edge of the great Thar Desert amidst the heart of rural India. Even after centuries of battles, this fort stands as intact as ever. The 8th son of Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur City started the construction of the Khimsar Fort in 1523 AD. The fort was built in Khimsar as both the brothers of Rao Jodha resided near the location, one in Jodhpur and the other in Bikaner.

Though the fort was built in the 15th century, but the royal family of Jodhpur shifted here only in the 18th century after the construction of the 'Zenana', a separate wing for the royal ladies. Later in the 1940s, a regal wing was constructed by Thakur Onkar Singh for his personal use.

Even today after a period as long as 21 generations, the Khimsar Fort functions as a home to the Karamsot Rathor. The rest of the fort has been made into a premier classified heritage hotel. It ranks amongst the best of luxury hotels in India. The hotel is a grand scale and welcomes you with elegant and royal Rajput hospitality. The Tourism Board of the Government of India recently awarded the Hotel Khimsar Fort 'Grand Heritage Award for Excellence'.

History of Khimsar Fort
The eighth son of Rao Jodhaji, Rao Karamsiji built this magnificent fort 500 years ago in 1523 A.D. He established his kingdom between Jodhpur and Bikaner. Due to its strategic allocation, there were numerous wars fought for its possession. The fort was further expanded in the 16th century to include the ladies wing, which was followed by the shifting of the family in the fort premises. Further, in 1940 a regal and luxurious wing was also incorporated in the fort by Thakur Onkar Singh for himself. You can witness the unfolding of hundreds of years of our magnificent history as you step foot in this impressive fort.

Architecture of Khimsar Fort
Situated amidst sand dunes, the Khimsar fort spreads over 11 acres of land. The lush green gardens spread over the acres of land are a rarity in the desert. There are close to 50 varieties of birds to welcome the visitors, which further add to the grandeur and charm of the fort. The long pathways and corridors consist of turrets, ruins, stables, majestic towers, pillars erected in the memory of the warriors and satis and still preserved guns and cannons. The sandstone carved statues of the 9th century Jain God and Goddesses are a sight to behold. It is perched at the edge of the Thar Desert,/ and hence has a marvellous visual appeal. The nearby attractions include the Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mehrangarh Fort, Jaswant Thada, Mandore Gardens, Sachhiyamata Temple and Jain Temples at Osian.

Best Time To Visit Khimsar Fort
Khimsar experiences a somewhat extreme climate, with hot summers and chilling winters. During summers, the temperature soars up to 44 degrees Celcius while during winters it goes as low as 7 degrees Celcius. The average rainfall during the monsoon is approximately 30 cm. Hence, winter months are more suitable to visit the Khimsar Fort.

How To Reach Khimsar Fort
Jodhpur is the nearest airport at 92 km; the same goes for the nearest railhead. Khimsar is connected to other cities and towns in Rajasthan via several buses. Buses, taxis and jeeps can be hired from any part of Khimsar to explore the Khimsar Fort. Khimsar is located at about 90 km on the Jodhpur-Nagaur-Bikaner Highway.