Exploring the Golden City.. Jaisalmer Fort, War Museum, Khabha Fort ,Kuldhara Village |

Kuldhara is a famous abandoned village near Jaisalmer, often called the “haunted village” of Rajasthan. It is not a fort in the traditional sense, but rather a settlement with ruins, temples, and structures that resemble fort-like architecture.

🏰 History & Legends
Founded in 1291 by the prosperous Paliwal Brahmins, known for their agricultural skills in the desert.
The village was mysteriously abandoned overnight in 1825, along with 83 nearby villages.
Legend: Salim Singh, the powerful minister of Jaisalmer, wanted to marry the village chief’s daughter against her will. To protect her honor, the villagers fled overnight, leaving behind their homes forever.
Other theories suggest water scarcity or earthquakes as reasons for abandonment.

📍 Location & Access
Situated 17 km west of Jaisalmer, on the road to Sam Sand Dunes.
Entry fee: ₹10 (Indians), ₹100 (foreigners), ₹50 (car parking).
Timings: 8:00 am – 6:00 pm daily.

🌄 What to See
Ruins of houses: Rows of crumbling sandstone homes with arched doorways.
Temple structures: Small shrines and courtyards still stand.
Khaba Fort nearby: Overlooks the ruins and offers panoramic views of the desert.
Atmosphere: Quiet, eerie, and photogenic—ideal for storytelling and filming.

📸 Visual Glimpse
Here’s how Kuldhara looks today, with its hauntingly beautiful ruins:

Jaisalmer Fort, also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort, is one of India’s most iconic desert fortresses, built in 1156 AD by Rawal Jaisal. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and still houses a living community inside its walls.

🏰 Key Highlights
Architecture: Constructed from yellow sandstone, the fort glows golden under sunlight, giving Jaisalmer its nickname “Golden City.”
Living Fort: Unlike most forts in India, Jaisalmer Fort is still inhabited—about a quarter of Jaisalmer’s population resides within its walls.
Attractions Inside:
Raj Mahal (Royal Palace) with ornate balconies and courtyards.
Jain Temples (12th–16th century) known for intricate carvings.
Merchant Havelis showcasing fine stonework.
Markets selling handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry.
Timings & Entry: Open daily from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Entry fee is ₹50 for Indians and ₹250 for foreigners.

🌍 Cultural Significance
Part of the Hill Forts of Rajasthan, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013.
The fort has witnessed centuries of trade, battles, and cultural exchanges along desert caravan routes.
Its blend of Rajput and Islamic architectural styles reflects Jaisalmer’s diverse heritage.

The Jaisalmer War Museum is a tribute to the Indian Army, showcasing its valor in the 1965 and 1971 Indo-Pak wars. Located about 10 km from Jaisalmer on the Jodhpur highway, it’s a must-visit for anyone interested in military history.

🏛️ About the Museum
Established: Conceived by Lt. Gen. Bobby Mathews and inaugurated on 24 August 2015 by Lt. Gen. Ashok Singh.
Purpose: Dedicated to the bravery and sacrifices of Indian soldiers, especially during the 1965 and 1971 wars.
Collections:
Captured enemy tanks, guns, and military vehicles.
Weapons, equipment, and uniforms used in battle.
Audio-visual displays narrating war stories.
Honour Wall with names of martyrs.

🕒 Timings & Entry
Open daily: 8:00 am – 1:00 pm & 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm.
Entry fee: ₹80 per person.
Location: Thaiyat, Jaisalmer, Rajasthan – on the Jaisalmer–Jodhpur highway.