Read More on Pokhran Fort
History
The Pokhran is situated in a very remote region in the Thar desert near the Jaisalmer district in Rajasthan. According to the Pokhran fort history, this fort was once the seat of the Chief of Champawats, the clans of Rathores of the Marwar-Jodhpur. To recognize every Thakur of Pokaran, to honor them in the court of Marwar-Jodhpur they gave a title ‘Pradhan’ meaning Premier Noble. In the past times, Pokaran worked as a trade route to Persia, and salt, silk, spices, etc. were traded through this.
Once this fort of Pokhran offered hospitality to the Mughal emperor Humayun in the 16th century. Later, it also offered the same services to the son of the last Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb named Akbar II. It is an ideal spot for a weekend getaway and an offbeat trip.
Architecture
The Pokhran fort architecture is a perfect blend of Mughal and Indian styles of design. This famous fort was built in the 14th-century and is a heritage memorial built with sandstone. To depict the blend of two different architectural styles this fort houses some beautiful courtyards, arched entrances, chhatris, pillars, and domes. Mangal Niwas, Phool Mahal, Hawa Mahal, and Rani Mahal are the names of the palaces that are inside this fort. These palaces in Pokhran fort are not enormous but elegant ones.
Inside the premises of the fort, a temple dedicated to goddess Durga is also constructed. It was built along with the fort in the 14th century and is a beautiful work of Indian traditional architecture style of temples. The main hall of the Pokhran fort, Mangal Niwas is uniquely built in an octagonal shape with various beautiful Jharokhas lurking out of the walls. In the center of the mansion, the mahals form a complex which is encircled by stone fortification to protect the fort from attacks.
The Pokhran Fort Jaisalmer houses a museum and a beautiful library that take you back to the bygone royal era. With royal colors and designs, the interior of the Pokhran fort is decorated. The fort houses lush gardens, fountains, and a few courtyards. A part of the Pokhran fort is converted into a heritage hotel that is decorated with modern architecture, wooden doors, ceilings, and aesthetically pleasing ambiance. In the evening the entire fort is lit by yellow lights and hues that suit the royal stature of the fort.
Activities
- The first and foremost activity is to explore the beautiful fort fully. One part of this fort is now converted into a heritage hotel.
- Pay respect to the temple of goddess Durga which is situated inside the fort.
- Go for the Pokaran city walk tour.
- Go shopping at the local markets and purchase some famous souvenirs.
Tips for visiting
- As Pokhran is situated in the Thar desert, it is better to visit during the winter season.
- Take sunscreen lotion, water bottle, and caps with yourself. As the temperature here is slightly high compared to other cities.
- Visit the Ramdev temple and enjoy the safaris to dunes.
- Visit the fort during the Pokhran fort timings.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit the Pokhran fort is during the winter season. As Pokhran is situated in the desert area so it is best to avoid the summer season. October to early March is considered the best time to visit this fort. The temperature rises to 50 degrees during peak summers. It is best to visit the Pokhran fort either during the early morning or during the evening time.
Nearby Atractions
- Baba Ramdev Temple
- Pokharan Museum
- Tilon ki Pol
- Tanot Mata Temple
- Kuldhara
- Fort of Fatehgarh
Nearby market/ shopping places
Here are some of the markets and shopping places near the Pokhran fort so you can take back souvenirs with you from this trip.
- Sardar Bazar: Sardar Bazar or Gandhi Market is the oldest shopping market in the city. This marketplace offers daily householding things, garments, hops, and electronic items.
- Solanki Market: Solanki Market is situated on the Barmer rd. is another shopping place in Pokhran. This market is an in-store shopping place where you can purchase goods and other things.
- Matuja Market: It is the supermart in Pokhran. This market is popular for gifts, clothing, and other accessories among locals.
Nearby Hotels
- The Fort Pokaran- A Heritage Hotel
- Hotel Ganga Palace
- Hotel Hinglaz
- Hotel Devrang
- 1st Luxury
- Hotel Bhawani Palace
Interesting Facts About Pokhran Fort
- The Pokhran Fort was built in the 14th century also known as the ‘Balagarh’.
- The Pokhran word means “The Place of Five Mirages” and is India’s first nuclear testing site.
- The Pokhran city was once a trade route to Persia through which silk, spices, and salt were traded.
- This fort was once offered hospitality to the Mughal emperor Humayun in the 16th century.