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If you are planning a trip to Rajasthan, the Longewala Museum and War Memorial is a must-visit destination. Located in the Thar Desert, this site is rich in history and offers a unique glimpse into India’s military past. It commemorates the Battle of Longewala, which took place during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971. It displays the weapons, exhibits related to battle, artefacts, vehicles such as tanks and jeeps reflecting the battle. Visitors can wander through, watch documentaries and immerse themselves in the timeless tales of this battle.
Location
Photo: Lakshmikanta Manna / Wikimedia Commons
The Longewala War Memorial, located approximately 30 kilometres from Ramgarh in Rajasthan, India, commemorates the significant Battle of Longewala. This battle is notable for the courage displayed by Indian soldiers, particularly under the command of Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri, who defended the post against a much larger Pakistani force.
How To Reach Longewala Museum
Photo: VishuN / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: The closest airport to the Longewala Museum is in Jaisalmer, located around 125 kilometres from the site. Once you land at Jaisalmer Airport, you can hire a taxi for direct transport to the Longewala War Memorial.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to the Longewala Museum is Jaisalmer, which is about 111.6 kilometres away. From the station, you can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the memorial.
By Road: The Longewala War Memorial is situated approximately 124 kilometres from Jaisalmer. Local buses and taxis are readily available in Jaisalmer, making it easy to travel to the memorial. The drive is straightforward and offers a glimpse of the beautiful desert terrain.
Places To Visit Near Longewala Museum
Here is a list of nearby attractions worth visiting while exploring the Longewala museum and war memorial:
1. Tanot Mata Temple
Photo: Günther Jontes / Wikimedia Commons/ Image For Representation Only
Tanot Mata Temple is a significant religious site about 120 kilometers from Jaisalmer. The temple gained fame for surviving miraculously during the Indo-Pak War of 1965. Dedicated to Goddess Hinglaj, the temple attracts many pilgrims and tourists. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and participate in daily rituals, including the evening ‘aarti’ from 6 PM to 7 PM. The temple is open daily from 6 AM to 8 PM, and there is no entry fee.
Major Attraction: Historical and spiritual significance
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Jaisalmer
Nearest Train Station: Jaisalmer
2. Jaisalmer War Museum
Photo: Jaisalmer War Museum / Wikimedia Commons
Located approximately 13.5 kilometers from Jaisalmer, the Jaisalmer War Museum showcases the history and valor of the Indian Armed Forces. It includes various exhibits related to the wars fought in the region and is a great educational stop for visitors. It even displays the vehicles like jeeps and tanks used at the time of the battle.
Major Attraction: War exhibits and educational displays
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Jaisalmer
Nearest Train Station: Jaisalmer
3. Sand Dunes Of Thar Desert
Photo: Sumeet Jain / Wikimedia Commons
The Sand Dunes of the Thar Desert offer stunning landscapes and are ideal for camel rides and desert safaris. The golden sands, especially during sunset, are a popular spot for photography. Experiencing the desert’s beauty is a highlight of the trip to the region.
Major Attraction: Desert adventure and sunset photography
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 hours
Nearest Airport: Jaisalmer
Nearest Train Station: Jaisalmer
4. Desert National Park
Photo: Mike Prince/ Wikimedia Commons
The Desert National Park is home to unique flora and fauna, including the Great Indian Bustard. It offers opportunities for wildlife viewing and is a great place for nature enthusiasts to explore the desert ecosystem. The park provides a different perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
Major Attraction: Wildlife viewing and desert ecosystem exploration
Ideal Trip Duration: Full day
Nearest Airport: Jaisalmer
Nearest Train Station: Jaisalmer
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Most accommodations near the Longewala Museum are located in Jaisalmer. Staying in this city provides easy access to the memorial and other local attractions. Some recommended places include Hotel Golden City which offers comfortable rooms with good amenities. The Desert Palace combines luxury with traditional décor. Hotel Jaisalmer is a budget-friendly option with basic comforts.
Where To Eat
Photo: Niranjan.gohane / Wikimedia Commons
Dining options near the Longewala area are a bit limited, so most visitors choose to eat in Jaisalmer. Some popular restaurants nearby include – The Trio, known for its local cuisine.
Another is Spice Court which offers a variety of Indian and international dishes. Desert Handicrafts Provides a unique dining experience with local flavours serving the authentic rajasthani cuisine.
Best Time To Visit Longewala Museum
Photo: Jaisalmer War Museum / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The ideal time to visit the Longewala War Memorial is during the winter months, from October to March. This period offers cooler temperatures, making it more comfortable for exploration. Summers in the desert can be extremely hot, which may hinder your visit.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Jaisalmer War Museum / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for the Longewala War Memorial. However, a nominal fee of ₹40 or 0.5 USD is charged for watching the war film displayed at the site.
Duration of Visit: Visitors typically spend about 1 to 2 hours at the memorial. This allows time to explore the exhibits and reflect on the historical significance of the site.
Crowd Management: To avoid crowds, it is advisable to visit on weekdays rather than weekends and public holidays.
Local Regulations: The area is sensitive due to its proximity to the border. Identity checks may be conducted at checkpoints near the Tanot Mata Temple.
The Longewala Museum and War Memorial offer a unique and enriching experience for history enthusiasts and travellers alike. The site provides valuable insights into India’s military history and the courage of its soldiers. Make sure to capture some memorable Longewala photos. For a great experience, plan your visit with TripXL and unveil the timeless tales of bravery and glory traversing this museum!
Cover Photo: Nirmal Katariya3 / Wikimedia Commons
