Kuldhara Village in Jaisalmer is an abandoned village in the Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan, India. Established around the 13th century, it was once a prosperous village inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins. It was abandoned by the early 19th century for unknown reasons, possibly because of dwindling water supply, an earthquake, or as a local legend claims, because of the atrocities by the Jaisalmer State’s minister Salim Singh. Ruins of 410 buildings can be seen in the former village. Another 200 buildings were located in the lower township on the outskirts of the village. The villagers mainly were agricultural traders, bankers and farmers. They used ornamented pottery made of fine clay.
About Kuldhara Village In Jaisalmer
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Kuldhara is a ghost village about 17 kilometres west of Jaisalmer. Three centuries ago it was a prosperous town, but today it is an abandoned village shrouded in mystery. It was founded in the 13th century and was formerly a prosperous village where Paliwal Brahmins lived. By the 19th century, the village had been deserted for unknown reasons. Possible causes proposed in the 20th century include lack of water and the atrocities of a Diwan (official) named Salim Singh (or Zalim Singh). By 1815, most of the wells in the village had dried up. The village of Kuldhara is around 18-20 kilometres from the main city of Jaisalmer. The residents of the village were Vaishnavites. The village’s main temple had sculptures of Vishnu and Mahishasura Mardini. The local legend claims that while deserting the village, the Paliwals imposed a curse that no one could re-occupy the village. Those who tried to re-populate the village experienced paranormal activities, so the village remains uninhabited.
Must Read: Things To Do In Jaisalmer
Places To Visit Near Kuldhara Village In Jaisalmer
There are plethora of places to visit in and near the village of Kuldhara in Jaisalmer, Here is well curated list of captivating place to visit near Kuldhara village Jaisalmer to make your next trip most memorable.
1. Khaba Fort
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Khaba Fort is a cursed village of Paliwal Brahmins, who abandoned this place 200 years ago due to unknown reasons. The crumbling structure of the fort still has the ruins of the homes of some 80 families that used to live here. The fort is also a great place to take in the sunset. Khaba Fort is a stunning example of Rajasthani architecture and a famous sightseeing attraction in Jaisalmer. The elegance of the Fort is enhanced by the presence of many peacocks roaming around the fort. Witness hundreds of peacocks and peahens roaming in the site for daily grains and experience a morning like never before.
Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: INR 50 Onwards
2. Jaisalmer Fort
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Jaisalmer Fort is situated in the city of Jaisalmer, in the Indian state of Rajasthan. It is one of the very few “living forts” in the world, as nearly one-fourth of the old city’s population still resides within the fort. Situated amidst the Thar Desert, Jaisalmer Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even though the name suggests so, Jaisalmer Fort is not just a fort but an entire complex comprising temples, houses, and shops. It is a massive fort that was built in 1156. The entrance gates of Jaisalmer Fort are Ganesh Pol, Rang Pol, Bhoota Pol, and Hava Pol, renowned for their intricate sculptures and stunning designs. Among the most frequented sites within the fort are Raj Mahal, The Jain Temple, Laxmikanth Temple, and numerous other temples and gateways.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fees: INR 50 Onwards
Suggested Read: Jaisalmer Resorts
3. Salim Singh Ki Haveli
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Salim Singh ki haveli is located in the heart of Jaisalmer city in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. It is situated beside the hills near the Jaisalmer Fort. Salim Singh ki haveli is one of the well-known palaces in Jaisalmer and one of the destinations on the top of lists. The Haveli is an architectural wonder and has 35 balconies. At one point, Jaisalmer was the capital of Rajasthan, and the prime minister in 1815 was Salim Singh. He created a mansion with distinctive architecture, making the haveli a must-visit place. The Haveli is made of sandstone and boasts a unique blend of Rajput and Islamic architectural styles.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: INR 20 Onwards
4. Tazia Tower
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Tazia Tower is a five-storied enchanting architecture which has numerous balconies. The best part about the Tazia Tower is its delicately carved balconies. Mounted on the top of Badal Palace, this tower resembles “tazia”, a tomb which is carried in processions for various Islamic festivities. The Tazia Tower holds important cultural value, particularly for the Muslim community in Jaisalmer. During the month of Muharram, it becomes a religious place for processions and ceremonies celebrating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain. Tazia in Urdu means float which was taken during Muharram’s procession. The Muslim artisans designed the balcony framework as a Tazia and gave it to the Badal Palace Royal Patrons.
Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Suggested Read: Monsoon In Jaisalmer
5. Vyas Chhatri
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Vyas Chhatri has beautiful memorials and is a cremation ground for Brahmins. The yellow sandstone cenotaphs are built on raised platforms, with intricately designed chhatris on top of finely chiselled pillars. It was built in order to honour Sage Vyasa, who compiled the 300,000 verses of the epic Mahabharata. His cenotaph is situated on the north of the structure. It is popularly known as the city’s sunset point as it gives a birds-eye view of Jaisalmer. Vyas Chhatri is a scenic spot for visitors who’d love to catch a sunset in the desert among the golden sandstone structures.
Timings: 8 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fees: INR 100 Onwards
6. Patwon ki Haveli
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Located in Jaisalmer city. The first mansion is called ‘Kothari ki Patwa Haveli’. It is a cluster of five small havelis built by a rich trader in the 19th Century. Locals also refer to the haveli as Kothari’s Patwa Haveli. The five havelis were built for the family and together, the entire complex forms the largest mansion in the city. It is one of the prominent Jaisalmer places to visit. Nathmalji ki Haveli was constructed by Maharawal Berisal in 1885 CE, to serve as the residence of Diwan Mohata Nathmal, the then Prime Minister of Jaisalmer. The chief architects of this haveli were two brothers, named Hathi and Lulu. Today, Patwaon Ki Haveli stands as a cherished heritage site and a major tourist attraction in Jaisalmer.
Timings: 9 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fees : INR 20 Onwards
Suggested Read: Lakshman Sagar Resort
7. Gadisar Lake
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Gadisar Lake is an artificial lake in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, India. It was built by the founder of Jaisalmer, King Rawal Jaisal in 1156 AD and later rebuilt by Gadsi Singh Bhati around 1367 AD. Famous things about Gadisar Lake were: The architecture of Gadsisar Lake was simply magnificent with the carved verandahs and halls. People worshipped the lake. Once this lake filled up with rainwater, the excess water used to flow to the nine smaller lakes and filled them up. It is a wonderful lake and a must-visit place in Jaisalmer. There is no entry fee to visit the lake; however, visitors can hire a boat and take a ride on the lake for a fee of INR 100 for a 2-seater pedal boat, INR 200 for a 4-seater pedal boat and INR 300 for a 6-seater row boat.
Timings: 8 AM to 7 PM
Entry Fees: Free Entry
Further Read: Adventure Sports In Jaisalmer
Now that you have a list of things to consider for your upcoming trip to Jaisalmer, be sure to schedule your visit to the abandoned city of Rajasthan, the Kuldhara Village in Jaisalmer, and explore stunning places around the city for an unforgettable experience. To avoid missing these chances, reserve your tickets right away!
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kuldhara Village In Jaisalmer
Is Kuldhara Village haunted?
Many believe Kuldhara Village to be haunted. Visitors often report an eerie atmosphere and unusual occurrences, adding to the village's mystique. However, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims.
What are the visiting hours for Kuldhara Village?
Kuldhara Village is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset. It is advisable to visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety.
What other attractions are near Kuldhara Village?
Nearby attractions include the Sam Sand Dunes, Jaisalmer Fort, Patwon Ki Haveli, and Gadisar Lake. Visitors often combine a trip to Kuldhara Village with these sites for a more comprehensive exploration of Jaisalmer.
Is there any accommodation available near Kuldhara Village?
There are no accommodations within Kuldhara Village itself, but Jaisalmer offers a wide range of options, from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses. Staying in Jaisalmer allows easy access to Kuldhara and other attractions in the area.
Is it worth to visit Kuldhara Village?
Yes, Kuldhara Village is generally safe for visitors during the daytime. However, due to its abandoned nature and eerie reputation, it is recommended to visit in groups rather than alone.
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