Destinations that exude spooky vibes and boast eerie surroundings have now become some of the most sought-after places. You can attribute this trend to OTT platforms. Dark tourism is gaining momentum, and every travel enthusiast now seeks to experience it at least once in their lifetime. Therefore, in today’s blog, I will be writing about a village named Kuldhara in Jaisalmer, managed by the Archaeological Survey of India. Situated approximately 20 km from the city of Jaisalmer, the village is steeped in myths and stories, making it an enchanting place to visit.
History
There are several popular legends surrounding the demise of the village. One tale begins with the settlement of Paliwal Brahmins, a prosperous tribe engaged in trade, who had established themselves here over generations. Salim Singh, a minister in the area, developed an interest in the chief’s beautiful daughter. He issued an ultimatum to the entire village: surrender the girl or face dire consequences. The villagers requested time to deliberate. Instead of complying, the chiefs fled the village overnight, along with their belongings. This abrupt departure led to the disappearance of the entire settlement, encompassing over 83 villages. A curse was purportedly cast upon Kuldhara during their departure, decreeing it uninhabitable.
Another version of this story available online suggests that Salim Singh imposed exorbitant taxes on the village, rendering life unbearable for the villagers, who consequently abandoned Kuldhara overnight.
Yet another interpretation posits that the villagers encountered severe famine. Each narrative intrigues us in its unique way, adding a mystical allure to the place, now famously known as the ghost village
Structure
“The place is now deserted, with only decaying and collapsed homes dotting the landscape. Overgrown shrubs seem to have protected the area for centuries. Perhaps you’ve wondered about the original structure of these now devastated houses. To preserve the essence, the Rajasthan government undertook the reconstruction of some houses, offering a glimpse of their square-shaped design. These houses feature beautifully crafted internal staircases, complemented by balconies and small temple structures that enhance the allure of this destination. Despite its ghostly reputation, people often feel apprehensive about visiting, but I can confidently say that the architecture holds its own unique beauty.
According to a local legend, some elderly members chose not to leave with the rest of their families due to their age. They remained in the village and passed away slowly, leaving behind the lingering curse. Some locals also attribute this to the downfall of Salim Singh.
Other significant ruins of kuldhara village
As I wandered, I stumbled upon the pavilion, likely the village’s shelter. Down the winding lanes, I discovered an abandoned, large step well. Beyond it, an unfenced regular well caught my eye. Curiosity led me to peek in, but my heart raced for two reasons: the lack of safety measures like a handrail and the seemingly endless depth. The eerie ambiance of a deserted ghost town added to the chills.
Among the numerous wells in Kuldhara, I encountered ornate poles, possibly cenotaphs honouring the deceased elders or leaders of the village. Adorned with intricate Hindu deity carvings, they bore an enigmatic inscription hinting at the year 1217 CE.
Some special tips to visit.
Please read the instructions carefully before entering the village.
Due to its eerie atmosphere, individuals who are sensitive or easily scared should consider refraining from visiting these locations.
Consider hiring a guide. Engaging a local guide can provide comprehensive insights into the destination.
Pack your essentials as it’s uncommon to encounter many people. Having essentials with you will help avoid any potential problems during your visit
How to reach?
As kuldhara village is 20 km away from Jaisalmer thus to reach the village first we have to drive towards jaisalmer
Hence,
To reach Jaisalmer, you have a few options. You can take a flight to Jaisalmer Airport (JSA) from major Indian cities like Delhi or Jaipur. Alternatively, you can take a train to Jaisalmer Railway Station, which is well-connected to various cities in Rajasthan and other parts of India. Additionally, buses ply regularly to Jaisalmer from cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Bikaner, offering a road travel option to reach this beautiful desert city.
To get to Kuldhara Village from Jaisalmer, you can hire a taxi or rent a car. From Jaisalmer, head towards the Sam Sand Dunes. There’s a road that leads to Kuldhara, situated about 18 kilometres away from the city centre. The village is known for its mysterious abandonment and is a popular historical site in the region. Once you arrive, you can explore the ruins, learn about the village’s history, and experience the intriguing atmosphere of this deserted place.
Accomodations
Jaisalmer offers a range of accommodations suiting various budgets and preferences. You’ll find luxurious heritage hotels within the city’s forts, boutique guesthouses in the old town, and more affordable options in the newer parts of the city
Final thoughts
This destination ranks among the popular spots for dark tourism, and as an adventure enthusiast, it fulfils my craving for exploration. The beautifully constructed houses offer a glimpse into the lives of the chieftains, while the local legends associated with the place add an enchanting layer to my journey. The blend of fear and curiosity during the visit leaves an indelible and memorable imprint on oneself.
