Barmer: A Journey Beyond Imagination | 10 Best Places To Visit In Barmer | How To Reach

Barmer, a city and district in Rajasthan, India, sits in the western expanse, nestled within the Thar Desert. It boasts a rich tapestry of historical sites, cultural heritage, and lush vegetation. Key attractions include the Kiradu temples, Siwana Fort, Nakoda Temple, Viratra Mata Temple, and Sams Sand Dunes. Barmer is renowned for its handicrafts, including embroidery, pottery, wood carving, and leather work. The city hosts the annual Barmer Thar Festival, showcasing the region’s folk music, dance, art, and cuisine, offering visitors a glimpse of Rajasthan’s beauty, diversity, and allure.

Best Places To Visit In Barmer:

Barmer boasts colorful folk culture, historic landmarks like Kiradu ruins and Barmer Fort, and an agrarian economy with growing tourism initiatives. Visitors experience a blend of ancient traditions and modern aspirations, with opportunities to explore historical treasures, immerse in vibrant festivals, and marvel at the breathtaking vistas of the Thar Desert.

Here are some places to visit in Baemer:

1. Kiradu Temples

The Kiradu Temples, a cluster of five ancient Hindu temples situated in Rajasthan’s Barmer district, earned the moniker “Khajuraho of Rajasthan” due to their intricate stone carvings and sculptures. Erected between the 10th and 12th centuries by the vassals of the Chalukya (Solanki) dynasty, these temples, notably the Someshvara temple dedicated to Shiva, showcase exquisite craftsmanship. Located in the Thar desert, approximately 35 km from Barmer and 157 km from Jaisalmer, these temples have garnered local lore of being haunted. Legend has it that a sage’s curse turned the entire village of Kiradu, save for a woman who aided his disciples, into stone. Upon her petrification for glancing back, a statue of her at the village border is believed to be a manifestation of the curse. Consequently, locals avoid lingering near the temples after sundown, fearing a similar fate.

2. Siwana Fort

Siwana Fort, a historic stronghold nestled in Rajasthan’s Barmer district, bears witness to the turbulent history of the region. Initially constructed by a son of the 11th-century Paramara king Bhoja, the fort saw successive captures by the Delhi Sultanate, Mughals, and Rathors of Marwar. Perched atop a hill, it offers sweeping vistas of the surrounding landscape and houses a palace, temple, and pond within its precincts. Visitors to Siwana Fort can immerse themselves in the legacy and struggles of Rajasthan’s erstwhile rulers while basking in the natural beauty and desert sunsets. However, caution is advised against lingering after dark, as local legend speaks of a haunting curse believed to petrify those who trespass into the night.

3. Nakoda Temple

Nakoda Temple stands as a significant Jain pilgrimage site. Situated in the village of Nakoda, approximately 110 km from Barmer, Rajasthan, Revered for its dedication to the 24th Tirthankara, Parshvanatha, the temple also enshrines the icon of Nakoda Bhairava, a revered guardian deity among Jains. Dating back to the 3rd century BCE, the temple boasts ancient architecture and sculptures, attracting devotees and tourists alike. Additionally, the temple complex comprises facilities such as a dharamshala, bhojanalaya, and museum, enhancing the spiritual and cultural experience for visitors.

4. Viratra Mata Temple

Viratra Mata Temple, a Hindu shrine venerating the goddess Viratra, revered as an incarnation of Durga, graces the town of Viratra, situated approximately 90 km from Barmer, Rajasthan. During the auspicious Navratri festival, throngs of devotees flock to the temple, adorning the goddess’s idol with opulent gold and silver ornaments. With a rich history spanning 900 years, the temple is steeped in legend. According to lore, King Vikramaditya of Ujjain beseeched the goddess Hinglaj Mata in Balochistan to accompany him to his kingdom. Despite agreeing, the goddess cautioned him against looking back while transporting her idol. Unfortunately, the king’s gaze fell upon the hills of Viratra, causing the idol to become rooted there permanently. Henceforth, the goddess decreed herself as Viratra Mata, promising to bestow blessings upon her devotees from the sacred site.

5. Mahabar Sam’s Sand Dunes

Mahabar Sams Sand Dunes offer a captivating natural spectacle near the village of Sams. Situated approximately 50 km from Barmer, Rajasthan, Renowned as a popular tourist attraction, these dunes provide a picturesque vista of the desert landscape, particularly during sunset. Ideal for camel safaris, camping, and cultural programs, the dunes offer visitors an authentic desert experience. Though not towering, the dunes offer a genuine taste of the desert ambiance. Visitors can relish the intricate formations of the sand carpet, accompanied by the gentle breeze and serene ambiance. Additionally, one can catch glimpses of Barmer city in the distance and the Viratra hills, home to the famed Viratra Mata Temple.

6. Barmer Market

Barmer Market stands as a bustling hub in Rajasthan, offering an array of handicrafts crafted by skilled local artisans. Here, visitors can browse through a diverse range of products, including woodcarvings, pottery, carpets, embroidered fabrics, block printed textiles, and traditional attire adorned with mirror work. Renowned for its ethnic wear such as embroidered fabric, pouches, rugs, blankets, shawls, and carpets, the market entices travelers seeking unique and vibrant souvenirs. Barmer Market presents an excellent opportunity. Visitors can engage in bargaining with vendors to secure favorable deals on their purchases. However, caution is advised to avoid purchasing counterfeit or substandard products, as some sellers may attempt to deceive customers. Additionally, visitors can explore renowned shops within the market premises, such as Jooti Corner, Kamdar Company, Dada Handicraft, Mohan Solanki, Geeta Enterprises, and Barmer Print Industries.

7. Devka sun temple

Devka Sun Temple, an ancient Hindu Nestled in the village of Devka, approximately 62 km from Barmer, Rajasthan, stands the shrine believed to have been erected between the 12th and 13th centuries in homage to the Sun God. Renowned for its remarkable architectural design and intricate stone carvings, the temple exudes timeless elegance. Enveloped by the remnants of two additional temples adorned with sculptures of Lord Ganesha, the site offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship of the bygone era.

8. Safed Akhara

Situated near Barmer, Rajasthan, Safed Akhara, also known as the Sideshwara Mahadev Temple, stands as a revered Hindu temple complex dedicated to Lord Shiva. Adorned with a sizable idol of Lord Shiva seated in a lotus position, the temple encompasses shrines dedicated to various deities including Radha Krishna, Hanuman, and Saraswati. Additionally, the temple boasts a serene garden inhabited by peacocks and features a water tank for drinking purposes. Safed Akhara serves as a sanctuary where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich culture, art, and spirituality of Rajasthan. Moreover, the tranquil ambiance offers an opportunity to appreciate the beauty of nature and witness captivating desert sunsets. However, caution is advised against lingering after dark, as local legend speaks of a haunting curse believed to petrify trespassers, urging visitors to depart before nightfall.

9. Vishnu Temple

Located in the village of Khed, approximately 45 km from Barmer, Rajasthan, the Vishnu Temple stands as an ancient Hindu sanctuary dedicated to Vishnu, the preserver deity in Hinduism. Renowned for its architectural grandeur and intricate stone carvings, the temple boasts an imposing image of Garuda, Vishnu’s eagle mount, adorning its entrance. Despite the surrounding dilapidated walls, the temple continues to exude its majestic charm. Accessible by road from either Barmer or Jodhpur, Additionally, nearby attractions such as the Kiradu temples, celebrated for their remarkable sculptures and historical significance, offer further exploration opportunities for enthusiasts of ancient architecture and heritage.

Timings: Open from 6 am to 6 pm daily.

Entry fees: free.

10. Barmer Fort

Perched majestically in Barmer, Rajasthan, the Barmer Fort stands as a significant historical landmark. Constructed in 1552 AD by Rawat Bhima, who elected to relocate his capital from Juna to Barmer, the fortress is also referred to as Barmer Garh. Atop the hill lies the revered temple of Jogmaya Devi. A favored destination among tourists, the fort offers panoramic vistas of the cityscape and the sprawling desert beyond.

These were some places to visit in Barmer. Hope you enjoy it. Have a safe journey!

How To Reach Barmer

1. By Road:
   • Barmer is well-connected by road networks. It can be reached via National Highway 15, which connects it to major cities like Jodhpur, Jaipur, and Ahmedabad. State-run buses, private coaches, and taxis are available for travelers.
2. By Air:
   • The nearest airport to Barmer is Jodhpur Airport, located approximately 220 kilometers away. From there, travelers can opt for a taxi or bus service to reach Barmer.
3. By Train:
   • Barmer Railway Station is situated on the Jodhpur-Bathinda railway line and is connected to major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Delhi. Regular trains ply to and from these destinations.

Here is a table of trains running from Delhi to Barmer Railway Station, along with their name, number, timings, and charges.

Fares are for the sleeper class and may vary. Check the exact fare and availability on the IRCTC website or app.

Barmer Weather & Temperature

Barmer, Rajasthan, experiences a desert climate with scorching hot summers, mild winters, and limited rainfall during the monsoon season. Summer temperatures often exceed 40°C, making outdoor activities less favorable. The monsoon season, from July to September, brings some relief with occasional rainfall, but the region remains arid. Winter, from October to March, offers milder temperatures, making it the best time to visit Barmer for exploring attractions and outdoor activities. Overall, visitors should be prepared for extreme temperatures and plan their trip accordingly.

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