On the eastern edge of the Thar Desert, where the golden sands stretch to meet the sky, lies a magnificent stronghold that has stood for centuries — the Khimsar Fort. Built in 1523 CE, this grand fort is a remarkable specimen of Rajputana architecture and desert heritage. Located in the Nagaur district of Rajasthan, Khimsar Fort beautifully bridges the gap between the royal past and the modern present, now functioning as a luxurious heritage hotel while preserving its regal aura.
A Fort Built for Strength and Glory
Khimsar Fort was built in the early 16th century by Rao Karamsji, the 8th son of Rao Jodha, the founder of Jodhpur. Positioned strategically at the edge of the desert, it served as a military bastion and residence for the Khimsar nobles. The site was selected not only for its strategic advantage in controlling trade routes and defending Marwar but also for its scenic isolation from urban politics.
Although the fort was originally a military post, palatial residences, zenanas, courtyards, and temples were added over the years, transforming it into a full-fledged royal retreat. Its architectural style reflects a blend of Rajput and Mughal influences, with delicate jharokhas, intricately carved stone walls, and wide ramparts that overlook the vast desert plains.
A Royal Stay for an Emperor
One of the most fascinating aspects of Khimsar Fort is its association with the Mughal Empire. It is said that Emperor Aurangzeb stayed at the fort during his campaigns in Rajasthan. The rooms where he is believed to have stayed have been preserved with utmost care, offering visitors a glimpse into the imperial history of the region.
Wildlife in the Fort’s Backyard
What sets Khimsar Fort apart from many others is its unique surroundings. Just a short walk from the fort, one can find herds of rare blackbucks (black deer) roaming freely in the wilderness. These graceful animals, with their spiraled horns and swift gait, are protected in the region and are often seen in their natural habitat — making the fort an ideal spot for eco-tourism and photography enthusiasts.
From Battlefield to Boutique Luxury
Over the past few decades, the Khimsar Fort has undergone a magnificent transformation. Retaining its 500-year-old stonework and structural design, it has been converted into a heritage hotel that offers all the luxuries of modern life — without compromising its royal character.
The interiors are lavish yet traditional — with antique furniture, frescoed walls, handwoven textiles, and majestic four-poster beds. The fort now houses courtyards turned into swimming pools, elegant dining halls that serve Rajasthani cuisine, and rooms with private terraces that offer panoramic views of the desert.
Managed as part of India’s heritage hotel circuit, it continues to offer visitors a rare chance to live like royalty, even if just for a night.
Location and Accessibility
- District: Nagaur, Rajasthan
- Nearest Cities:
- Jodhpur: ~90 km
- Nagaur: ~43 km
- Best Time to Visit: October to March
- How to Reach:
- By Air: Nearest airport is Jodhpur Airport (~95 km)
- By Rail: Khimsar railway station or major junctions like Jodhpur or Nagaur
- By Road: Well connected by state highways to major Rajasthani cities
Things to Do at Khimsar Fort
1. Stay in a Royal Suite
Live like a Rajput king or queen in rooms that once hosted royalty and emperors.
2. Visit the Blackbuck Reserve
Take a jeep safari to the Khimsar Sand Dunes Village nearby and spot herds of blackbucks, peacocks, and desert foxes.
3. Cultural Evenings
Enjoy Rajasthani folk music, dance, and bonfire nights under the starlit sky inside the fort’s expansive courtyard.
4. Explore the Fort’s Architecture
Walk through majestic gates, step into rooms that echo history, and marvel at frescoes and intricate stone carvings.
5. Day Trips from Khimsar
Visit Nagaur Fort, known for its festivals and history, or Osian, the “Khajuraho of Rajasthan,” for its ancient temples.
A Journey Through Time
Khimsar Fort is more than just a fortified palace — it is a living museum that allows you to experience the history, wilderness, and luxury of Rajasthan in a single destination. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a couple looking for an offbeat royal stay, this destination offers it all — with the added charm of desert mystique and Rajput legacy.
So, the next time you’re tracing the golden trails of Rajasthan, add Khimsar Fort to your journey. Discover a fort where emperors once rested, where blackbucks still roam, and where the echoes of the past greet you at every step.