Khaba Fort Jaisalmer is a ruined citadel set amid a barren desert village. It’s an architecturally impressive landmark full of eeriness, history and mysticism. Wander the dusty streets lined with crumbling houses and almost devoid of human activity. Khaba Fort dates back to the 13th century and was once an important part of Kuldhara, a village inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins. Sometime during the 1800s the residents fled the village and left behind a ghost town.
Climb the staircase to the fort’s entrance and imagine a time when it was the focal point of a prosperous village. Admire the turreted towers, elegant windows and intricate latticework. Jaisalmer Tour Packages They serve as a testament to the artistic talents of the Paliwal Brahmins. Walk along the ramparts and enjoy uninterrupted views of the village below and the surrounding countryside. Go to the fort’s small museum to see displays of archaeological artifacts found in and around the Khaba Fort Jaisalmer.
Take time to stroll through the spookily quiet streets of Kuldhara, which stretch out from the base of the fort. Visit an impressive Shiva temple, check out the mud huts and peer down staircases that travel deep underground. Find the remains of more than 80 deserted sandstone abodes. A rumor states that before leaving, the former residents cast a spell to prevent anyone from settling in the village.
While there is little human movement here, you might see farmers herding cattle and women milking animals. Watch for the musters of colorful peacocks that roam freely among the ruins.
The fort is about a 30-minute drive from Jaisalmer. Many people visit the fort as a side trip on their way to Sam Sand Dunes. Alternatively, take a taxi or public bus from the city center.
Khaba Fort Jaisalmer is open daily and has an admission fee. Visit at sunrise or sunset, when you can watch the sandstone buildings and surrounding desert dramatically change appearance.
History of Khaba Fort
Almost 200 years ago Khaba Fort Jaisalmer and its surroundings was populated by Paliwal Brahmins, a community of Rajasthan. But suddenly one night in the year 1825, due to some mysterious reason they vacated the village. Some say it was overnight desertion of the fort and its surroundings.
There were around 80 families then in these regions. No research on this has yielded any fact about how this sudden disappearance took place or where they went. There are unverified rumors that they moved on to Jodhpur and settled in some place beyond that Jaisalmer Monuments.
There are stories of how the Paliwal Brahmins before leaving the village cursed the place saying no one would ever be able to inhabit the villages. And to this date there are just ruins, not a sign of life as far as the eye can see.
Paliwal Brahmins since 1291 were prosperous residents of Kuldhara village of Jaisalmer. Till date it is a mystery that why after residing there for 7 centuries they vacated the place overnight.
Places to visit near Khaba Fort
- Jaisalmer Fort
Built-in 1156 by Rajput Rawal Jaisal, the Jaisalmer Fort is one of the most visited forts of India. The fort is a very popular spot for tourists in Rajasthan as the fort is active to date.
Meaning, the fort houses some 1/4th population of the Jaisalmer city and is believed to be amongst the very few living forts in the world.
Jaisalmer Fort is the second oldest fort of Rajasthan and is a hotspot for tourists. The fort is also known as the ‘Golden Fort’ or ‘Sonar Quila’ because the walls of the fort are made up of yellow sandstone which makes it look goldish when the sunlight falls on it.
Along with being one of the most visited forts of the world, the fort is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Tanot Mata Temple
The historic temple located near the India-Pakistan border is dedicated to Hinglaj Mata. The temple is a very popular spot for visitors who often visit Khaba Fort Jaisalmer.
The temple is around 70-80 km from Jaisalmer Safari and is very close to the Longewala battle site of the Indo-Pak war of 1971.
- Jaisalmer War Museum
Jaisalmer War Museum was built in 1965 to honor the martyr soldiers of various wars fought near the border. Popularly known as JWM, the museum has the names of the brave hearts awarded with the titles of Param Vir Chakra and Maha Vir Chakra on its walls.
Many tourists visit the museum to learn the history of the several wars fought between India and Pakistan.
Also, the museum has a Hunter Aircraft belonging to the Indian Air Force which was used in several wars to attack and destroy enemy tanks.
The museum is around 45 kms from Khaba fort and is easily connected by road.
Best Time To Visit:-
Khaba Fort is a prominent tourist attraction in Jaisalmer and is popular for its eerie ambiance. Since there is no special event or occasion for visiting this site, it can be visited during any season of the year. If tourists are planning a trip during summers, it is recommended to carry water, sunscreen, and eyewear to protect from the harsh sun.