Jalore Fort – A Majestic Hilltop Fortress The Jalore Fort, the main attraction of the city, is an iconic example of Rajasthan’s architectural grandeur. Believed to have been constructed between the 8th and 10th centuries, this impressive fort is perched atop a steep hill, standing at a height of approximately 336 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. The fort is renowned for its high fortified walls and massive bastions, which are equipped with cannons, showcasing the fort’s military significance. Visitors can explore its four massive gates, although the fort is only accessible from one side after a two-mile serpentine ascent, making the journey a thrilling adventure. The Jalore Fort not only reflects the city’s rich history but also provides an unforgettable glimpse into the past, with its strategic location and remarkable architecture.

JALORE FORT

Sirey Mandir – A Sacred Temple in Jalore Located at an elevation of 646 meters on the Kalashachal Hill, Sirey Mandir is an ancient temple dedicated to Maharishi Jabali, believed to have been constructed by Rawal Ratan Singh. According to legend, the Pandavas took refuge in this temple during their exile, making it a significant historical and spiritual site. To reach the temple, visitors must embark on a 3-kilometer trek from the heart of Jalore city. The scenic walk through the hills adds to the temple’s serene atmosphere, offering a blend of natural beauty and spiritual serenity.

JALORE

Jalore – The City of Granite and Grandeur

Renowned for its vast granite quarries, Jalore has earned a reputation for producing some of the finest granite in the world. Once a small town, Jalore has flourished in recent years due to its industrial growth. The city's crown jewel, Jalore Fort, features the famous ‘Tope Khana’ or cannon foundry, offering breathtaking views of the city and serving as one of the top tourist attractions in the region. Another significant site is the Sundha Mata Temple, built nearly 900 years ago, which holds great reverence among devotees of Goddess Chamunda Devi.

Jalore, believed to have been founded in the 8th century AD, was initially known as Jabalipur, in honor of the saint Maharishi Jabali. The town was also called Swarngiri, named after the hill at its base. Over the centuries, Jalore came under the rule of various clans, including the Gurjara Pratiharas, Parmars, and Chauhans, before being captured and destroyed by Ala-Ud-Din Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi. After four centuries, the city was restored to the rulers of Marwar in 1704. A visit to Jalore offers a fascinating journey through its rich history and remarkable architectural heritage.

Famed for its rich history and renowned granite quarries, Jalore stands as a testament to both industrial growth and ancient heritage. Once a small town, Jalore has evolved into a thriving city with a blend of historical landmarks and natural beauty.

Top Attractions & Places to Explore in Jalore:

1. Jalore Fort The primary attraction of the city, Jalore Fort, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. A must-see is the 'Tope Khana' (cannon foundry) within the fort, where visitors can admire the historical artillery and panoramic vistas of the city below.

2. Sundha Mata Temple Located atop the Sundha Hill, this 900-year-old temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamunda Devi and is a revered pilgrimage site for devotees. The temple provides spiritual solace and offers an exceptional view of the surrounding area.

3. Granite Quarries Jalore is renowned for its quarries that produce some of the finest granite globally. A visit to these quarries offers a unique glimpse into the industrial process of granite extraction.

4. Historical Significance Jalore, believed to be founded in the 8th century AD, was originally named Jabalipur in honor of the saint Maharishi Jabali. It was also known as Swarngiri after the hill at its base. Over the centuries, the city was ruled by various dynasties, including the Gurjara Pratiharas, Parmars, and Chauhans, before being captured and destroyed by Ala-Ud-Din-Khilji. It was later restored to the rulers of Marwar in 1704. Explore Jalore for a unique combination of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural heritage. Whether you are a history enthusiast or nature lover, Jalore promises a memorable experience.

ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT AND EXPLORE IN JALORE

TOPEKHANA

Topekhana – A Historical Landmark in Jalore Located in the heart of Jalore city, Topekhana was originally a grand Sanskrit school built by King Bhoj between the 7th and 8th centuries. A renowned Sanskrit scholar, King Bhoj established several similar schools in Ajmer and Dhar to promote education. The structure was later renamed Topekhana during the pre-independence period when it was repurposed to store artillery and ammunition. Today, although the building is in disrepair, it remains an imposing structure, adorned with intricate stone carvings that highlight its historical significance. Two temples stand on either side of the Topekhana, though they no longer house idols. The most striking feature of the Topekhana is a room situated approximately 10 feet above the building’s floor, accessible via an imposing staircase. This room is believed to have been the residence of the headmaster of the Sanskrit school, adding an intriguing element to the site's legacy.

SIREY MANDIR

SUNDHA MATA TEMPLE

Sundha Mata Temple – A Sacred Pilgrimage in the Aravallis

Perched atop the Sundha Mountain in the Aravalli Range, the Sundha Mata Temple stands at an impressive altitude of 1220 meters above sea level. This revered temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamunda Devi and attracts devotees from across India due to its spiritual significance.

The temple is constructed from white marble and features intricate pillar designs similar to those found in the Dilwara Temples of Mount Abu. Visitors can also explore valuable historical inscriptions within the temple complex, making it not only a place of worship but also a treasure trove of cultural heritage.

The serene atmosphere, coupled with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, makes Sundha Mata Temple a must-visit for both spiritual seekers and history enthusiasts.

How to Reach Jalore

- By Air: The nearest airport to Jalore is Jodhpur Airport, located about 140 kilometers away. Jodhpur is well-connected with daily flights from major metros like Mumbai, Delhi, and others.

- By Road: Jalore is well-connected to all major cities in Rajasthan. You can travel by road from Jodhpur, Jaipur, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, Surat, and Mumbai. Private buses are also available for these routes.

- By Train: Jalore is connected to the Jodhpur railway division. Several trains from Gujarat and Mumbai halt at Jalore Railway Station throughout the week, making it accessible by rail from multiple regions.

SUBSCRIBE

Subscribe to be updated about latest news and blog posts and to follow what is happening in a magical land of Bali.