Khaba Fort, Jaisalmer - Timings, History, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 25 km from Sam Sand Dunes and 35 km from Jaisalmer, Khaba Fort is a ruined citadel set amid a barren desert village in Jaisalmer district of Rajasthan. It is one of the top places to visit in Jaisalmer.

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. Khaba Fort dates back to the 13th century AD and was once an important part of Kuldhara, a village inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins.

Once, Khaba Fort was the Sarai Fort (fort at the frontier). The traders who entered Rajasthan via the Silk Route trade stayed inside this fort for a night. Only after they paid taxes they were given the permission to go ahead for trade. The remains of the village looks like a well-planned settlement with a temple surrounded by several houses. Strangely none of the houses in the ruins have roofs. Khaba Fort still carries an abandoned feel with very minimal human activity in the area.

Restoration work is on in the fort now. There is a small museum that displays ancient artifacts. The view of the green field from the top of the fort is fantastic. It makes for great photography opportunities. The elegance of the Fort is enhanced by the presence of many peacocks roaming around the fort. Witness over hundreds of peacocks and peahens roaming in the site for daily grains and experience a morning like never before.

Timings: 8 AM to 6 PM

Entry Fee: Rs. 50 per person