Fort Khejarla was built in 1611 A.D for
Thakur Gopaldasji, who granted Jagir of Khejarla for his
great achievements in war, defending the frontiers of Marwar
against Mughal rulers of Delhi.
Fort Khejarla is an outstanding example of architecture
of the Raj, spread across 14 acres of Land atop granite
boulders hillock, it is ideally located 85 kms from Jodhpur
and well connected with Road to all major tourist locations
of Rajasthan.
Khejarla became one of the most important Jagirs (fiefdoms)
of the state of Marwar.
Nobles of Khejarla enjoyed the highest status and were
amongst the most trusted in the court of Marwar. Even after
India gained Independence from British Rule in 1947, late
Thakur Bhairon Singh Khejarla became member of first legislature
assembly of Rajasthan elected from Bilara constituency.
He was Health Minister of the State. He did lot of developments
in the region and worked for the welfare of the public.
He remained MLA from 1952-1962.
He opened a Research organization to promote culture and
literature of Rajasthan. Noble family of Khejarla presented
550 books of history and literature to this research organization.
This organization did great job in preserving literature
of Marwar. Khejarla was Rich State during his tenure and
had 9 Estates Managers, 400 servants, 125 horses, 15 camels
and huge land for cultivation. During famine in 1950's he
made arrangement of grain and drinking water for the public
of his constituency. He was very close to erstwhile rulers
of Jodhpur Maharaja Umaid Singh ji and Maharaja Hanwant
Singh ji. He died in July 1974.
Fort Khejarla comes into view like a mirage rising above
the plains of Marwar from far distance as one enters from
north and south.
This ancient
for is now converted into a Heritage Hotel.
Khejarla Fort is divided in to four
sections
Zenana Mahal(south
Block)
As we enter the arched gate, after few steps up we enter into
the Lounge of the Zenana.
One can feel the difference in settings as this area was meant
for The Royal Ladies of the house. It has two floors with
17 Rooms, suites, courtyard and terrace with a wonderful view
on all sides.
It is unique Rajput Heritage character of
this Fort, separate residential sections for Male and Female
Royal Family members.
Sardar Mahal(west
Block)
This block was meant for Royal Male members of the house.
23Rooms, suites of different size and aesthetically done décor
are spread out on different floor levels, ground and first.
They are being completely renovated with
best of period furniture and most modern amenities. Renovated
dining hall, bar, huge open garden with fountain are located
in this area.
East Block
Reception, Swimming pool, and Spa are located in this area.
West Block(Near
Entrance)
As one enters the Main Pol(archway gate)of the Majestic Fort
one does not get a feel of entering Fort, but in a public
place with courtrooms, jail, courtyard and parking lot
for bullock carts, horse carriages, museum.
Then the second gate Suraj Pol leads into
the Fort.
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