Places to visit in Pokhran take you on a journey through the heart of Rajasthan’s Thar Desert, where history, culture, and nature merge seamlessly. Famous as India’s first nuclear test site, Pokhran is also a treasure trove of heritage, with magnificent architecture, ancient temples, and desert landscapes. The town’s forts and shrines tell tales of Rajasthan’s glorious past, making it a perfect destination for travellers seeking the rustic charm of the region. Here’s a curated list of the top 10 places to explore in Pokhran, where history and culture meet the desert’s serene beauty.
10 Places To Visit In Pokhran
Explore these places to visit in Pokhran for a serene getaway.
1. Pokhran Fort
Photo: Daniel VILLAFRUELA. / Wikimedia Commons
The Pokhran Fort or Balagarh is a 14th-century fort standing crucially for the defence of the Marwar kingdom, top spot in Pokhran tourist places . Constructed by local rulers, it is globally known for its magnificent architecture, major courtyards, and beautifully designed interiors. Offering a sneak peek into Rajasthan’s rich royal history, the fort at present has been converted to a heritage hotel as it allows visitors to experience royal hospitality. Inside the fort, there is a museum that accrues ancient weapons, artefacts, and regal costumes. Historians and photographers are drawn to this fort because of its desert landscapes.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Heritage architecture, museum
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (110 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pokhran Railway Station (2 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
2. Salim Singh Ki Haveli
Photo: Karthik Sreenivas / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Salim Singh ki Haveli was an architectural miracle and is the star attraction among the Pokhran tourist places list. Constructed in the 17th century by Salim Singh, the then-prime minister of the ruling kingdom of Jaisalmer, and is situated near Pokhran in the town of Jaisalmer. Its arched roof formed like the hood of a peacock. Hence the name and extravagantly ballooned and intricately carved balconies make it an exemplary specimen of Rajasthani craftsmanship. Chief among these is its architecture, representing a fine blend of Mughal and Rajput styles. It is one of the best places to visit in Pokhran.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Peacock-shaped roof, intricate carvings
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (285 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pokhran Railway Station (110 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
3. Ramdevra Temple
Photo: Sourav Debnath / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
It is one of the most important pilgrimages and one of the major tourist attractions in Pokhran of Rajasthan, basically devoted to Babaji Ramdevji-a locally revered deity. It is situated in the village of Ramdevra, lying 12 km west of Pokhran city. Thousands of devotees come every year to this temple seeking a blessing with eagerness to participate in the Ramdevra Fair. The temple complex is simple, spiritually enriching, and peaceful; the pilgrims who visit these temples come from all over the country.
Best Time To Visit: August to March
Major Attractions: Spiritual significance, Ramdevra Fair
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (120 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Ramdevra Railway Station (10 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
4. Baba Ramdev Samadhi
Photo: Sourav Debnath / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located near the Ramdevra Temple, the Samadhi of Baba Ramdev is a place where the saint had breathed his last. The people of Rajasthan consider him to be a God because he was said to have taken samadhi himself. The samadhi of the saint holds great spiritual importance, and people visit it in order to offer prayers and seek blessings. It is definitely an abode of peace and tranquillity for seeking rest in solace with the peaceful environment and spiritual aura of the place.
Best Time To Visit: August to March
Major Attractions: Spiritual aura, peaceful surroundings
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (120 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Ramdevra Railway Station (10 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
5. Jaisalmer Fort
Photo: Rashi Jain / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Jaisalmer Fort, one of the largest fortifications in the world, is located about 110 km from Pokhran. Also known as Sonar Quila or the Golden Fort is one of the best places to visit in Pokhran. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its golden sandstone architecture that glows brilliantly under the desert sun. The fort houses several intricately carved palaces, Jain temples, and havelis, making it a must-visit for history lovers. Walking through the narrow lanes of this living fort gives a glimpse of the grandeur of the bygone era.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Golden architecture, Jain temples
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (285 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Jaisalmer Railway Station (110 km)
Ideal Duration: 3 to 4 hours
6. Khaba Fort
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Khaba Fort is a mysterious and abandoned fortress located on the way to Jaisalmer from Pokhran. The fort, once a bustling village, was mysteriously deserted overnight by its inhabitants about 200 years ago. Today, the ruins of the fort stand as a haunting reminder of the past. Visitors can explore the remnants of the fort and visit the small museum housed inside that displays artefacts from the region’s history. The surrounding landscape, with its vast desert vistas, adds to the fort’s allure, making it a popular stop for photographers and history buffs.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Abandoned ruins, desert views
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (280 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pokhran Railway Station (120 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
7. Pokhran Museum
Photo: Dannie Jing / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Pokhran Museum is located inside the Pokhran Fort and showcases a rich collection of artefacts, weapons, and relics from the region’s history. The museum offers insights into the culture, traditions, and military history of Pokhran and the surrounding areas. Visitors can explore displays of ancient weapons, regal costumes, and historic manuscripts, making it an essential stop for those interested in learning more about the town’s historical significance. The museum is particularly interesting for those who wish to delve deeper into the royal and military history of Rajasthan.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Historical artefacts, weapons collection
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (110 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pokhran Railway Station (2 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
8. Dechu Sand Dunes
Photo: Keith Hardy / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Dechu Sand Dunes are located around 60 km from Pokhran and offer a quintessential desert experience for travellers. Known for their pristine beauty, these sand dunes are perfect for camel safaris, desert camping, and experiencing the rustic charm of Rajasthan’s Thar Desert. Visitors can enjoy stunning sunset views, traditional folk music performances, and Rajasthani cuisine during the evenings. Dechu is a great place to unwind and immerse yourself in the tranquil and expansive desert landscape, making it a popular spot for adventure enthusiasts and those looking for a peaceful escape.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Camel safari, sunset views
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (160 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pokhran Railway Station (60 km)
Ideal Duration: 2 to 3 hours
9. Fort Ajeetgarh
Photo: Meriç Dağlı / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Fort Ajeetgarh, located near Pokhran, is a relatively lesser-known fort but holds great historical significance. This ancient fort offers stunning views of the surrounding desert and provides a quiet escape from the more tourist-heavy spots. Though not as grand as some of Rajasthan’s larger forts, Ajeetgarh Fort’s simplicity and charm make it worth a visit. The fort’s historical importance lies in its strategic location, and visitors can explore the ruins and enjoy the tranquillity of the desert surrounding it.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Desert views, historical significance
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (130 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pokhran Railway Station (20 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
10. Khetolai Village
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Khetolai Village, located near Pokhran, is known for its connection to India’s nuclear tests. The village played a significant role during the nuclear tests conducted in 1974 and 1998. Today, Khetolai serves as a reminder of India’s scientific achievements, and while there are no major tourist attractions here, the village holds historical importance. Visitors often come to Khetolai to understand the impact of the tests and explore the area, which remains a significant part of India’s nuclear history.
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Major Attractions: Historical significance of nuclear tests
Nearest Airport: Jodhpur Airport (120 km)
Nearest Railway Station: Pokhran Railway Station (25 km)
Ideal Duration: 1 to 2 hours
Places to visit in Pokhran, with its unique attractions, and serene desert landscapes, offers visitors a chance to explore Rajasthan’s cultural and natural beauty. From the majestic Pokhran Fort to the tranquil sand dunes of Dechu. Ready to discover the desert charm of Pokhran? Book your Pokhran tour with TripXL today and embark on a journey through this hidden gem of Rajasthan.
Cover Photo: Daniel VILLAFRUELA. / Wikimedia Commons