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The Thikana of the Rathore Dynasty’s Bika clan, Sankhu Fort, is situated in the serene landscapes of Rajasthan. The Thakurs of Sankhu are the descendants of Maharaj Kishan Singhji, who was conferred the hereditary Dohri Tazim, Hathro Kurab, by Raja Rai Singhji, 6th ruler of Bikaner, in 1618 AD. The fort was built for strategic reasons and was a defensive fort to protect the villages and the trade routes. It is a perfect place to explore and enjoy something unique by visiting the rugged fort, which offers great countryside views.
Quick Details About Sankhu Fort
Location: Sankhu, Rajasthan
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Nearest Airport: Jaipur International Airport, 170 km away
Nearest Railway Station: Sikar Railway Station, 40 km from the fort
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Location
Photo: TeshTesh / Wikimedia Commons
In Sikar, 40 km from the city, on a hilltop, lies the small village of Sankhu with the imposing Sankhu Fort. The dry land around the fort is elevated and spread out among its buildings. The roads leading to the fort are Malsisar-Sadulpur Road and Jhunjhunu-Sadulpur Road. The nearby landmarks are Kumawat Fancy Store, Punjab National Bank, Chandu Stone Supplier, and Rajputi Cloth Point.
How To Reach
Photo: jatocreate / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Sankhu Fort is connected to major cities like Sikar and Jaipur. Visitors can hire a taxi or auto rickshaw to travel from Sikar to the fort.
- By Air: Sanganer Airport in Jaipur, approximately 170 km from Sankhu Fort, is the nearest. The best way to travel to the fort from the airport is to hire a taxi.
- By Railway: Sikar Railway Station is the closest railway station, approximately 40 km from the fort. From the railway station, you can hire transport like an auto or taxi to reach the fort.
- By Road: You can travel by car to the fort. Another option is to travel by public transport buses that are suitable for budget travellers. You can take RSRTC buses from nearby cities such as Churu or Jaipur.
Things To Do
Sankhu Fort offers several activities for visitors, particularly for those interested in history, architecture, and outdoor exploration.
1. Explore The Fort’s Architecture
Photo: Pinakpani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Sankhu Fort is a historical military compound displaying classic Rajput building features. The heavy brick walls, massive gates, and watchtowers are some of the many elements typical of Rajput defensive architecture as a demonstration of their sublime and splendid might. Their chambers, courtyards, and halls, diminished by time, still stand with the formidable pride of their militancy. Another reason to visit Sankhu Fort is its attractiveness for climbing to the bastions on top of the hill.
2. Bird Watching
Photo: Aditya Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
Sankhu Fort is surrounded by remote and quiet settings, which makes it an ideal place for birdwatching. The fort’s natural surroundings are visited by the local bird species, offering a pleasant view for lovers of nature. The scattered trees and the land in an open area attract numerous birds. The surroundings around Sankhu Fort are also perfect for some gentle walks in nature and for seizing the moment of the semi-arid climate of Rajasthan while observing the local flora and fauna.
Places To Visit Around Sankhu Fort
After exploring Sankhu Fort, visitors can explore nearby attractions that reflect the cultural and natural beauty of Rajasthan.
1. Harshnath Temple
Photo: Raj Jalindra @sikarkabanjara / Wikimedia Commons
Harshnath Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is situated at a distance of about 30 km from Sankhu Fort on the hill and provides a great view of the valleys. This 10th-century temple consists of outstanding rocks and carvings of numerous Hindu gods and rulers’ carvings and mythologies as well. The temple now lies partly in the ruins by attacks and invasions, and the rest still stand as a great contribution from olden times. It is a good tourist spot in the olden days of Rajasthan temple architecture.
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
2. Sikar City
Photo: Raj Jalindra @sikarkabanjara / Wikimedia Commons
Sikar City is about 40 km from Sankhu Fort. It is known for its rich markets, historical havelis, and temples. Sikar is part of Shekhawati, an area full of beautifully frescoed mansions built by rich merchants. These mansions can be found in several busy markets, painted with mythological tales, daily life, and even the colonial history of the area. Sikar has both popular havelis and bustling markets where visitors can buy local handicrafts, textiles, and even jewellery.
Timings: Open all day
Entry Fee: Free
3. Laxmangarh Fort
Photo: Khusboo / Wikimedia Commons
Laxmangarh Fort is 35 km from Sankhu Fort. The 19th-century fort, which was constructed by Raja Laxman Singh, consists of some of the best examples of Shekhawati’s fort architecture. The fort sits at the top of a rocky hill where you can climb up just to savour the sight of the rocky tracts. Although in most places, the fort is closed to the public, one can ascertain the grand walls and the blend of sculptures and creations at the site.
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: Free
4. Jeenmata Temple
Photo: Balramahir / Wikimedia Commons
Jeenmata Temple is a divine place dedicated to the goddess Jeenmata. Situated beyond the Sankhu Fort, about 60 km away, it is a temple that lies amidst the Aravalli hills. During Navratri season, the temple is beautifully decorated on the outside, and special prayers are also conducted inside the temple. The surrounding beauty simply adds to the serenity of the temple, and you can enjoy a beautiful sight in the company of God. It is as peaceful a place as it gets and serves as an ideal destination to find peace and solace.
Timings: 5 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: Free
5. Rani Sati Temple
Photo: Death pilani / Wikimedia Commons
The Rani Sati Temple is 70 km from the Sankhu Fort, and it is one of the most ancient and honourable temples in Rajasthan. It is one of the fifty-one Shaktipithas dedicated to Rani Sati. Since the queen is worshipped as a goddess in Rajasthan, the temple has become significant for the entire country. A wonderful garden and a small museum dedicated to the history and legends of Rani Sati are also found on the territory of the temple. The temple is richly decorated with marble architecture, and the spacious prayer hall is an integral feature.
Timings: 4:30 AM – 10:30 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: uwekern / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
- The Sankhu Fort is best visited from October to March when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- The summer can be harsh in Rajasthan, and exploring the fort can be difficult. It is wiser to choose to visit the fort during the cooler months of the year.
- There is no entry fee for the visit to the Sankhu Fort and nearby attractions. But you will be required to spend on transportation since the fort is in an isolated area. The accommodation options are also affordable.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you will have to walk on uneven surfaces exploring the fort.
- Take some water and snacks because there is no food sold within 3 km, as the locals claim on the path to the fort.
Sankhu Fort provides an authentic glimpse into the state’s rich cultural heritage and is worth a visit for those eager to explore off-the-beaten-path locations. Its architecture, hilltop views, and serene surroundings make it an ideal destination for history enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking a quiet retreat. Whether you’re a solo traveller, history buff, or photographer, Sankhu Fort promises a rewarding experience. So, plan your visit today with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Akhil Sharma / Wikimedia Commons
