Jalore Fort Jalore Rajasthan The Invincible Rock Fortress of Marwar

Prabhuling jiroli

May 10, 2025 4:53 pm

Located in the ancient city of Jalore in Rajasthan, Jalore Fort stands tall atop a steep hill at 336 meters above sea level. Known for its impregnable construction and rich Rajput legacy, this fort was historically referred to as the ‘Sonagir’ or ‘Golden Mount’. From the Parmars to the Chauhans, it has seen the rise and fall of mighty dynasties and remains a proud emblem of Rajasthan’s warrior spirit.

Quick Overview

FeatureDetails
LocationJalore, Rajasthan, India
Altitude336 meters above sea level
Founded8th–9th Century AD
BuilderParmar Rajputs (later reinforced by Chauhans)
Entry FeeFree
Best Time to VisitOctober to February

History of Jalore Fort 📜

Early Period

  • Built in 8th–9th century AD by Parmar rulers of the region.

  • Later controlled by Chauhan Rajputs, who made it a bastion of defense.

Heroic Battles

  • Attacked by Alauddin Khilji in 1311 AD; Kanhad Dev Chauhan resisted fiercely.

  • Known for the Jauhar (self-immolation) performed by Rajput women during the invasion.

Later Eras

  • Passed through Mughal and Maratha hands.

  • Used as a watchpost to secure the southern approach of Marwar.


Why Visit Jalore Fort? 💼

  • Historical Significance: Witness of epic Rajput resistance.

  • Trekking Adventure: A challenging climb rewarded with panoramic views.

  • Spiritual Connect: Temples inside the fort dating back centuries.

  • Offbeat and Serene: Less commercialized, more authentic.


How to Reach Jalore Fort ✈️🚄🚌

By Air:

  • Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (140 km)

By Train:

  • Jalore Railway Station (5 km from fort base)

By Road:

  • Connected via NH-15 from Jodhpur, Sirohi, and Mount Abu.

  • Local cabs and autos available from Jalore town.


Trekking and Access Routes 🥾

Trek Route:

  • Start from fort base gate near Sundha Mata Road.

  • Steep trail of over 1000 steps, interspersed with stone paths and scenic lookouts.

Trek Details:

RouteDurationDifficultyNotes
Main Path (Stairs)60–90 minsHardRequires stamina, early start advised

What to Carry 🎒

  • Water and light snacks

  • Sturdy hiking shoes

  • Cap and sunglasses

  • Power bank and flashlight

  • ID proof


Gates and Towers 🏯

NameDescription
Suraj PolEastern gate, means 'Sun Gate'
Bal PolMain fortified gate with bastions
Sire PolTemple-facing gate
Watch BastionsElevated towers, great for city panoramas

Things to Do 📸

  • Visit Jain temples dedicated to Adinath and Parshvanath.

  • Explore ruins of Hindu temples and royal complexes.

  • Watch the sunrise or sunset from the ramparts.

  • Discover stone inscriptions and old cannon placements.

Things to Avoid ❌

  • Don’t trek post-afternoon in summer.

  • Avoid venturing off the marked trail.

  • Do not damage heritage walls or leave plastic behind.


Best Time to Visit 🌞

  • October to February: Ideal for trekking and exploration.

When to Avoid

  • March to June: Harsh heat, dehydration risk.

  • July to September: Slippery stones and visibility issues.

Whom Should Avoid

  • Elderly with mobility or respiratory challenges.

  • Children under 10 unless carried or closely supervised.


Fascinating Facts About Jalore Fort 📌

  • Once home to scholars and Sanskrit poets—known as ‘Kashmir of the South’.

  • The site of Jauhar sacrifice during Khilji’s siege.

  • Inscriptions inside temples date back to 12th century AD.


Accommodation in Jalore 🏨

Hotel NameTypeDistance from Fort
Hotel Geetco JaloreMid-Range4 km
Shree Rajlaxmi HotelBudget3 km
Hotel Marudhar JaloreStandard5 km

Travel Tips 🧭

  • Start trek early in the morning.

  • Carry extra water and a scarf.

  • Respect temple customs if visiting holy sites.

  • Engage a local guide to learn the fort’s battle legends.


Summary Table

SectionHighlights
HistoryBuilt by Parmars, defended by Chauhans against Khilji
Trekking Info1000+ steps, 90 mins climb
What to CarryID, water, snacks, trekking shoes
Main AttractionsJain temples, ramparts, gates, inscriptions
Best Time to VisitOctober to February
AvoidPeak summer, monsoon storms

Conclusion ❤️

Jalore Fort is a living museum of Rajput valor, medieval engineering, and serene beauty. If you seek not just views but a journey into the soul of Rajasthan’s warrior clans, this hilltop fortress awaits your footsteps.