History of Khejarla Fort
Constructed in 1611 AD, the Fort of Khejarla was conceived by the Maharaja of Jodhpur to honour the heroic services provided by Maharaja Gopal Das Ji in the war against the Mughal Empire. It derives its name Khejarla from a Khejdi tree in the village, which is believed to have protected the fort when it was under attack from Mughal ammunition. The fort was attacked thrice by the Mughal Army, and each time it was built back up again, portraying the spirit of resilience among the Rajputs.
In that era, Khejarla was a prosperous centre of Rajput royalty that included eminent court officials, estate managers, hundreds of servants, several camels and horses for transportation, as well as a large area of agricultural land. Officials at this court were highly regarded not only for their intellect but for the honour, nobility and bravery they exhibited during times of war.
Today, the ancient fortress still exudes an aura of power and strength, a reminiscence of its glorious past. After a part of the Khejarla Fort was leased by Bhandari Heritage Pvt. Ltd (a subsidiary of Bhandari Export). In recent years, it has been intricately developed and made accessible to the public for visits and accommodation. The royal family descendants from Jaisalmer, including the current Maharaja of the fort Thakur Dileep Singh, still reside in a private part of the structure.
Structure and Architecture of Khejarla Fort
The sturdy fortress consists of four separate sections which were built to suit the traditions of that era, but have now been creatively renovated as recreational spaces to complement the heritage hotel -
Entrance:This is an arched gateway mainly used as a public space in those times to hold court, house prisoners in jail, and as a parking lot for horse carriages.
Zenana Mahal (South Block): As per Rajput tradition, royal ladies and gents of the house must reside separately. The Zenana Mahal was where the royal ladies stayed, complete with a lounge, two floors of suites and rooms, and a terrace with a splendid view of the Indian grasslands.
Mardana Mahal (West Block): Originally set up for the male members of the royal house, parts of the block have been refurbished as a dining hall, bar, and garden area. The remaining sets of rooms in this arena have also been spruced up with splendour and extravagance.
Main Courtyard (East Block): Today, this block serves as the common area for guests, including the hotel reception, swimming pool, an Ayurvedic centre, gym and shopping area.
Accommodation at Khejarla Fort
The Khejarla Fort offers three types of carefully furnished rooms, designed to produce the ultimate royal experience in modern-day India:
The Luxury SuitesThe Regal RoomsThe Royal Chambers
Designed with mosaic marble floors, poster beds and finely woven durries (cotton rugs), the rooms radiate an ambience of majesty and comfort. Some rooms boast of patios with divine views of the surroundings and most importantly, the sunset. Handcrafted ethnic décor, a traditional crafts bazaar, lush green lawns, and a royal Rajashthani welcome for the guests is what defines the time-honoured fort, making it the quintessential destination for luxury, relaxation and a gentle flirtation with history.
Amenities at Khejarla Fort
The heritage hotel presents a plethora of indulgences mainly including recreational activities such as henna art, bullock cart rides, camel rides, cycling, and traditional Rajasthani Folk Dances. A library consisting of more than five hundred books was also initiated by the late Thakur Bhairon Singh Khejarla, aimed at promoting as well as preserving the rich history and literature of Marwar.
Dining at the Khejarla Fort Hotel is also a pleasurable affair, with an assortment of Mughlai, Continental and Rajasthani cuisine offered on the menu. The biggest advantage of dining at an age-old fort is that the delicacies are prepared by cooks who have served royalty for generations.
The nearby temple of Goddess Durga brings about a chance to take a walk into the neighbourhood and catch a sunset at the top of the hillock. Several camels, horse and jeep safaris traversing through Rajasthani lands are also available and could be organised upon request if anyone wishes to immerse themselves in the unique culture of northwestern India fully.
Best time to visit Khejarla Fort
Visiting during the off-season months, like August, September, February, and March is better, since it is less likely to be crowded and the heat temperatures are tolerable.
How to Reach Khejarla Fort
The nearest major city is Jodhpur from where one can hire a cab/taxi to reach the Khejarla Fort, located 85 km to the east of the city. From the Jodhpur highway, it is only a 15 min ride. The luxury destination is an hour's drive from the Jodhpur railway station, which is well connected with most major cities of India. The hotel also offers the facility of organising transport from the Jodhpur Airport or Railway Station, if informed in advance.
Top Tourist Places in Jodhpur
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Khejarla Fort
Jaswant Tada
Mandore Garden
Balsamand Lake
Rajasthan International Folk Festival
All Tourist Places in Jodhpur
Tips
Book in advance if you wish to stay at Khejarla Fort, as this heritage hotel is a highly sought out destination travellers from around the world.
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