The desert town of Barmer, just some 20 odd kilometers from the Indo-Pak border, lying in the Thar Desert region of Rajasthan is as historic a place as it can get. With a proud lineage of Indian rulers who have left their impressions on the city, Barmer is often neglected when touring Rajasthan. However, it’s a secret jewel that needs to be explored by the avid traveler.

The Nakoda Jain Temple is among the primary attractions of Barmer. Located amidst the forests of the Aravali Hills, the temple is an architectural marvel with the most intricate stone-carvings. For a slightly more historic appeal, the Kiradu Temples, right in the heart of Thar Desert, is a must-visit. A conglomeration of five temples that are close to 1500 years old, what make them even more special are the details in the construction and erotic statues carved on them, very similar to the Khajuraho Temples.

Best Time to Visit Barmer

The best time to explore this beautiful town of Rajasthan is between the months of October and March as the weather remains pleasant during this part of the year in this sandy region.

Places to Visit in Barmer

Kiradu Temples

35 km from Barmer, in a town located near the Thar Desert, are 5 temples known as the Kiradu Temples. Known for their Solanki style of architecture, these temples have remarkable and magnificent sculptures. These temples are dedicated to Lord Shiva and of the five temples, the Someshvara temple is the most remarkable.

Barmer Fort and Garh Temple

Rawat Bhima built a Barmer fort in 1552 AD at a hillock in the present city of Barmer when he shifted old Barmer (Presently JUNA village in Barmer Dist) to the present city. He built a fort on top of the city which is also known as Barmer Garh. The Hill of Barmer fort is 1383 feet but Rawat Bhima built a fort at a height of 676 feet which is safer than the top of the hill. The main entrance of Fort (Prole) is in the North direction, Safety Burg is made in the east & west direction. The boundary wall of the fort was ordinary due to the natural wall protection of the hill. This fort is surrounded by temples on all sides. This Hill of Barmer Fort has two important religious places; Top of the hill is the temple of JOGMAYA Devi (Garh Mandir) which is situated at height of 1383 & at Height of 500 feet there is Nagnechi Mata temple, Both temples are very famous and have fair during Navratri festivals. The rest area is the residence of the former royal family of Barmer.

Shri Nakoda Jain Temple

Built-in the 3rd century, this temple has been renovated multiple times. Alamshah invaded and looted this temple in the 13th century and failed to steal the idol as it was hidden in a village a few miles away. The idol was brought back and the temple was renovated in the 15th century.

Devka-Sun Temple

This temple was built in the 12th or 13th century. Located in Devka, a small hamlet situated about 62 Km from Barmer along the Barmer-Jaisalmer Road, the temple is known for its incredible architecture. The village also holds the ruins of two other temples that house stone sculptures of Lord Ganesha.

Vishnu Temple

Located in Khed, the Vishnu temple is one of the most important tourist locations in Barmer. Even though the temple is falling apart, it is still a marvel of architecture and has a grand aura surrounding it. The markets around this temple are known shopping destinations throughout Barmer.

Rani Bhatiyani Temple

Rani Bhatiyani Temple is located in Jasol. She is especially worshipped by the Manganiar bard community as she is said to have given a divine vision to a Manganiar. Many also refer to this goddess as Majisa or mother and sing songs in her honour. Legend says that the goddess was a Rajput princess called Swarup before she became a goddess.

Juna Fort and Temple

Juna is in old Barmer. It was the main city built by Bar Rao but during Rawat Bhima's rule they shifted Barmer to a new place where present city stands and Juna remains as ruins of past glory and old heritage. It is 25 Kms from Barmer and is known for its Jain temple and old fort. According to inscriptions on a stone pillar near the temple, it was built in the 12th or 13th century. Juna is surrounded by hills and also a small lake.

Mahabar Sand Dunes: Barmer

The Mahabar Sand Dunes remain to be one of the lesser-known tourist spots in Barmer. The expanse of the Barmer Sand Dunes is equally beautiful as Sam Sand Dunes and will spellbind you for sure. To reach the Mahabar Sand Dunes, one would need to take the Barmer-Ahmedabad highway. The road is motorable and one doesn’t have to face too much trouble to reach Mahabar Sand Dunes. The sand dunes provide a perfect respite from the city, as they are quiet and less crowded and yet to be explored as compared to other spots. Visit Mahabar Sand Dunes to enjoy spectacular views of the sunrise and sunset and for an unforgettable experience.

How to Reach Barmer

Barmer is located in the state of Rajasthan and is well-connected with major cities like Jaisalmer and Jodhpur by road. It does not have its own airport but has good road connectivity with Jodhpur by road and rail. Here is how to reach Barmer:

BY AIR: The nearest airport is at Jodhpur around 220 km from Barmer. There are frequent flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur and Udaipur. Taxis are available from the airport. The closest international airport is at Jaipur, around 320 km from Barmer.
BY TRAIN: The Barmer railway station is well connected to Jodhpur, which in turn is well-connected to other major cities of India. The station is located along the Jodhpur-Munabao route. Trains are a cheap means of transport to reach Barmer.
BY ROAD: The Barmer Bus Terminus is located near the railway station and state-run buses connect the town with most of the cities in the state including Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Udaipur. Tickets are affordable and buses are frequent.