Khaba fort near by jaisalmer

Khaba Fort, located near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan, is a historic fort with a fascinating past. Situated in the Thar Desert, this fort is one of the lesser-known but captivating attractions near the city of Jaisalmer. Despite its relative obscurity compared to other famous forts in Rajasthan, Khaba Fort offers a unique glimpse into the desert’s history and the culture of the Marwar region.

History of Khaba Fort

Khaba Fort is believed to have been built during the 15th century as part of the larger Jaisalmer Fort defense system. The fort was constructed to protect the area and serve as a watchtower for the ancient desert route. It is also associated with the nearby Kuldhara Village, which is famous for its mysterious desert ruins and legends.

The fort is thought to have once been home to a community of people, possibly Paliwal Brahmins, who were known for their prosperity and wealth. According to local legends, the village and fort were mysteriously abandoned overnight, and the people fled due to a curse or an impending disaster. The deserted fort and village have since become the subject of many stories and tales about ghostly apparitions and unexplained events.

Today, the fort stands in a dilapidated but fascinating state, attracting curious travelers interested in exploring the stories and historical remnants of the desert.

Architecture of Khaba Fort

Khaba Fort is not as grand or well-preserved as other Rajasthan forts, but it still has significant historical value. The architecture of the fort features the typical Rajput style, with sandstone walls that blend seamlessly into the desert surroundings. Some parts of the fort are in ruins, with only the outer walls and the foundation remaining intact. However, the remnants of the structure, including narrow passageways, crumbling walls, and a small temple within the fort, offer visitors a sense of its former grandeur.

The fort is relatively small compared to others in Rajasthan, but it still holds an air of mystique and historical importance. The view from the top of the fort offers a spectacular panoramic view of the Thar Desert, the surrounding arid landscape, and the vast sky.

Things to Do at Khaba Fort

1. Explore the Ruins: Visitors can walk through the fort’s narrow corridors and ruined structures. The fort, though in a dilapidated state, still retains its historical charm, making it a fascinating place for those interested in Rajasthan’s architectural history.

2. Photography: The fort offers many excellent photography opportunities. The desert surroundings, the crumbling walls of the fort, and the expansive sky make for beautiful and dramatic photographs.

3. Visit Kuldhara Village: Khaba Fort is located near Kuldhara Village, an ancient village that is said to have been mysteriously abandoned in the 19th century. The village is shrouded in mystery, and many believe it to be haunted. Visitors often combine a visit to both Kuldhara Village and Khaba Fort, as they are located close to each other.

4. Desert Views: The fort offers a peaceful and tranquil setting, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the vastness of the Thar Desert. The sunset views from Khaba Fort are particularly breathtaking.

5. Learn About the Local Legends: The fort and the nearby village are steeped in folklore. Local guides can share the stories of why the fort and village were abandoned and the mysterious events that surround them.

Legends and Myths

Khaba Fort, along with Kuldhara, is steeped in numerous legends. The most popular legend is that the Paliwal Brahmins, who once lived in the area, fled the village and fort in the dead of night due to a curse or a threat from the local ruler. According to one version of the story, the ruler of Jaisalmer fell in love with a Paliwal girl and demanded that she marry him. When the villagers refused, he threatened to destroy their village and capture them. To escape the ruler’s wrath, the villagers abandoned the fort and village overnight, and the place has remained deserted ever since.

Locals believe that the spirits of the Paliwal Brahmins still haunt the area, and some claim to have experienced ghostly phenomena at both Khaba Fort and Kuldhara Village. These legends contribute to the eerie atmosphere of the fort and make it a popular place for those interested in the supernatural.

How to Reach Khaba Fort

1. By Road: Khaba Fort is located approximately 35 kilometers from Jaisalmer, which is the nearest major city. Jaisalmer is well connected by road to other cities in Rajasthan, such as Jaipur and Udaipur. You can take a taxi, private car, or bus from Jaisalmer to reach the fort.

2. By Train: Jaisalmer has a railway station that is well connected to major cities in India. From the station, you can take a cab or private vehicle to Khaba Fort.

3. By Air: The nearest airport is Jaisalmer Airport, which has limited connectivity, mainly with Delhi. From the airport, you can hire a taxi to the fort.

Best Time to Visit Khaba Fort

The best time to visit Khaba Fort is during the winter months from October to March, when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing. The summer months (April to June) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, making it difficult to explore the fort and desert area.