Phalodi Fort is a historical site, located in the small city of Phalodi in Jodhpur. This fort is another place that reflects the cultural richness of the Blue city and speaks of the historic period of Jodhpur. Phalodi is also called the “salt city” due to the concentration of a large number of salt industries. This beautiful monument was built in 1488 by Rao Hammir Narawat, the grandson of Rao Suja Maharaja of Jodhpur. Located on Sadar Bazar Road, Phalodi, Phalodi Fort is 135 kms away from Jodhpur.
The fort reflects the fine work of artists of Marwar of that era. Fort is renowned for its intricate architecture. People can relax inside the fort also as there are relaxing as well as refreshments arrangement.
The best time to visit the fort is between the months of October and March due to a more tolerable weather. One can visit the Phalodi Fort during timings 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM and the entry in this fort is free Jodhpur Tour Packages.
History of Phalodi, Jodhpur
Phalodi was established in the late-15th century by Shree Siddhuji Kalla and was initially recognized as Phalvaridhika. Years later, the widowed daughter of Shree Siddhuji Kalla made a generous contribution for building the Phalodi Fort and requested that the name of the town be changed to Phalodi. Rao Maldeo Rathore ruled the town from 1547 until 1578, after which Emperor Akbar handed it over to the King of Bikaner, Rai Singh. Later, in 1615, Rao Soor Singh began ruling the town and ever since, Phalodi became a part of Jodhpur Attractions.
Places to visit in and around Phalodi, Jodhpur
Phalodi has quite a number of attractions in and around the town. Amongst them, Lala Niwas is a major heritage attraction and heritage hotel. Lal Niwas was built in the mid-18th Century and is famous for its architecture. The name is derived from the fact that it is built entirely of red sandstone. The traditional architecture has Jharokas, jali work, wooden doors and windows. The interiors are equally beautiful with carved stone antique wooden furniture and décor items. Guests can book rooms at this hotel to experience the royal hospitality of Lal Niwas.
Temples
Phalodi is also known for its ancient temples. Amongst them, the Jain Glass Temple, which is situated within the city limits, is just 2.6 kilometres from the centre of Phalodi. It was built by the Oswal Jain Community in the mid-19th century and is also known as the Parsnath Jain Temple. Kalyan Raoji’s Shrine that was built in the early 13th Century and the temple dedicated to Shantinath and Latiyal Devi are also located in the town. These temples can be covered in a day while another day might be required for the shrines located far away.
Ramdevra Temple and Sachiya Mata Temple
The Ramdevra Temple, Sachiya Mata Temple and the Sun Temple are located outside Phalodi but can be covered in a day. Sun Temple, 135 kilometres away from Phalodi and the Ramdevra Temple, 143 kilometres from Phalodi, are located in Jodhpur. The Sun Temple is a 10th century temple with ancient architecture dedicated to the Sun God while the Ramdevra Temple is a 20th century shrine dedicated to Ramdevji Baba. These two temples can be explored along with the 9th century temple, Sachiya Mata temple which is located about 75 kilometres away from the town.
Khichari Bird Sanctuary
Phalodi is also famous for Khichan Bird Sanctuary or Demoiselle Crane Village which was established in the village of Khichan, about 4.3 kilometres to the east of the town. The sanctuary is home to a number of local bird species but is also a temporary abode for migratory birds namely Karkara, Kurjan and Kunch. These birds migrate from Europe and fly through Poland, Ukraine, Africa and Mongolia. The migratory season lasts between October and March and that is when visitors get to see the birds, but even during other seasons, they can explore the sanctuary and get to observe the local birds.
How To Reach Phalodi Jodhpur
Phalodi Fort is well-connected by Indian roadways and railways. State transport buses can be boarded within the state to reach Phalodi by road. Rental cabs or self-driven vehicles can also be a good option. Jaisalmer, Jodhpur and Bikaner have good road connectivity with the town. Within the town limits, local transport – rental cabs, auto rickshaws and local city buses are best to explore the destination.
