Jalore

Jalore District is a district of Rajasthan state in western India with its administrative headquarters located in Jalore city. There are seven tehsils namely Jalore, Ahore, Bhinmal, Raniwara, Sanchore, Sayala and Bagoda in Jalore. Jalore economy is based on animal husbandry and agriculture. Before independence the present district of Jalor was a part of Jodhpur province. Administratively, it was divided into three Parganas of Hukumats- Jalore, Jaswantpura and Sanchore. History was written on 30th March 1949 when Rajasthan state was formed and Jodhpur province was incorporated into it and consequently, Jalore became a part of Jodhpur province. Jalore is located on the left bank of the Sukri river. It was also known as Jabalipur in ancient times. It has also been called Swarngiri or songir after the name of a hill. In the ancient and medieval times. It was a flourishing town adorned with temples and beautiful buildings.Jalore has a long glorious history of chivalry and sacrifice. It is famous for the impregnable fort built by the parmar rulers. The district is bounded on the northwest by Barmer District, on the northeast by Pali District, on the southeast by Sirohi District, and by Banaskantha District of Gujarat state on the southwest.

History:-  Jalore was known as Jabalipur, the name of a saint. The town was also known as Suvarngiri or Songir, the Golden Mount, on which the fort stands. According to some historical sources, in 8th-9th centuries, one branch of the Gurjara Pratiharas was ruling at Jablipur (Jalore). It was a flourishing town in the 8th century. Jalore was ruled by the Paramaras in the 10th century. Kirtipala, the youngest son of Alhana, ruler of Nadol, was the founder of the Jalore line of Chauhans. He captured it from the Parmars in 1181 and took the clan name Songara, after the place. His son Samarsimha succeeded him in 1182. Udayasimha was the next ruler under whom Jalore had a golden period. He was a powerful and able ruler ruling over a large area. He recaptured Nadol & Mandor from the Muslims. In 1228, Iltutmish circled Jalore but Udayasimha offered stiff resistance. He was succeeded by Chachigadeva & Samantasimha. Samantasimha was succeeded by his son Kanhadadeva. During the reign of Kanhad Dev Songara, Jalor was attacked and destroyed in 1311 by Ala ud din Khilji, Sultan of Delhi. Kanhad Dev Songara and his son Viramdeo Songira died defending Jalore. The Muslim rulers of Palanpur in Gujarat briefly ruled Jalor in the 16th century and it became part of the Mughal Empire. It was restored to Marwar in 1704, and remained part of the kingdom until shortly after Indian Independence in 1947.

Tourist Attractions:

Jalore Fort:- Jalore Fort is the main attraction of Jalore, a town in the Indian state of Rajasthan, one of the nine castles of the Maru', under the Paramaras in the 10th century. It is one of the most famous and impressive forts in the state and has been known through history as the Sonagir or the 'golden mount'. Jalore Fort is regarded as one of the most impregnable forts of the country. There is a saying: Let the sky be torn, the earth turned upside down, let the iron armour be cut to pieces, body fighting alone, but Jalore would not surrender. The mahal or "the residential palace" inside the fort is now desolated, and what is left of it are the ruined symmetrical walls with huge rock formations around it. The cut-stone walls of the fort are still intact at many places. There are some drinking water tanks in the fort. 

The Fort Mosques The Kila Masjid (Fort Mosque) within the fort is also noteworthy as they demonstrates the widespread influence of the architectural decorations associated with the Gujarati styles of the period. Another shrine in the fort is that of Saint Rehmad Ali Baba. Near the main gate there is the tomb of Malik Shah, a noted Mohammedan saint. The temple of Mahavira was also known as Chandanavihara Nahadarao, named after a Pratihara ruler and a hero of Jain tradition who built it in the 14th century.

The Jain Temples Jalore is also a place of pilgrimage for Jains and the famous Jain temples of Adinath, Mahavira, Parshvnath and Shantinath are located here. The oldest temple is that of Adinath, which existed as far back as in the 8th century. The mandapa was subsequently built in 1182. by Yasovira, a Srimali vaishya. The temple stands out the most among the dark fort walls and rocky surrounding . Built in white marble this imposing structure is quite a sight.

Hindu Temples There is an old Shiva temple, a temple devoted to Lord Shiva. It was built by Kanhaddev Ruler of Jalore. Same was renovated by Mah Singh Ruler of Jodhpur and built a Samadhi Mandir of Shri Jalandharnath. The temple of Parsvanath was built by the ruler of Jalore and then rebuilt in 1785. This temple has a spectacular toran or an archway and a golden "cupola' in the hall meant for theatre performances. Built near the Bal Pol, which is situated north west of the fort.

                       "Let the sky be torn, the earth turned upside down, let the iron armour be cut to pieces, heads severed, body fighting alone, but jalore still would not surrender."

The Main Poles / Fort Gateway:- There are 4 strong gates or poles that show the way into the Jalore fort. Built into the fort wall are poles or gateways. TheSuraj Pole, Dhruv Pole, Bal Pole and the Siroh Pole are the mighty gateways that lead into this fortress. The Suraj pole or the “Sun Gate” from the town is so built that the first rays of the morning sun enter through this gateway. It is an impressive gate with a small watch tower built over it. The Dhruv pole is rather simple looking compared to Suraj pole.

The Step well Attractions of Fort:- The mahal or the residential palace inside the fort is now desolated, and what is left of it are the ruined symmetrical walls with huge rock formations around it. Two considerable bauris including Jalar Bauri (step well), chatris (cenotaph), Charan Paluka and the Bhairon Dev Ki Chowki within the fort are the other structures that have survived the brunt of time.

Fort of Bhadrajun:- Fort of Bhadrajun 54 Km. away from district headquarter Bhadrajun is settled on Jalore-Jodhpur road. It gets it name from Subhadra and his husband Mahabhart brave hero Arjun. Subhadra-Arjun in time lag disrupted to Bhadrajun. It is said that where on the permission of Lord Shri Krishna Arjun lifted Subhadra from Dwarika stayed here on the way. There marriage had also taken place here only.

Fort of Kot Kastha:- Fort of Kot Kastha 65 Km. away from headquater Jalore and 20 Km from Sub Division Bhinmal this place kot kasta was once two villages named Kot and Kastha now known as unified Kot Kasta. In building this wall mountain was also used as wall. Outside this fort's boundary wall one big wall was also made, to enter those two big and two small gates were made. Nearly 200 years old this Naths fort consists of there stored palace rampart, tower and huge entry gate and many other construction could be found. From the twilight of sum fort could be seen from quiet a distance. Though small in size it is though beautiful and strong. At the main gate of fort a huge wood gate in half broken condition is present that is closed from inside now.

Topekhana:- One of the most important structures within the town is the Topekhana or "the cannon foundry". The building is not in the best of conditions now, but its architecture indicates that this structure must have been awesome in the old days. It was built by "Ujjain King" Vkramditya as a "Sansrut Pathshala" for education for his public.But at the time of Muslin Emperor Ala ud din Khilji converted into a Muslim monument. The structure is imposing, with a spacious forecourt and an intricate facade. The colonnade and the ceiling are tastefully carved. Malik Shah's mosque, Sire Mandir at Jalore, Jain temples built in the 8th century, dedicated to the first -Tirthankara of Jainism, Rishabha, the 16th Tirthankara, Shantinath, the 23rd Tirthankara, Parsva and the 24th Tirthankara, Mahavira, Derasars of Rishabha, Munisuvrata, Acharya Rajendrasuri and Neminath.

Lohangarh of Jaswantpura:- Lohangarh of Jaswantpura70 Km. away from Jalore, Situated in the valley of mountain its natural beauty is tremendous Temperature during summers remains comparatively Low. Formerly there was a big village named Lohiyana in this area where Lohiyana dynasty's king lived. Once Maharana Pratap also took shelter in Lohiyana. That's why Lohiyana's king was called Rana as it was under mewar's suzerainty. Afterwards due to economic disruptions king Rana salji Dewal became a dacoit his army kept dacoiting in Marwar province.

Kirti Stambh Nandishwar Deep Tirth:- Nandishwar Deep Tirth is located beside the Collectorate Office of Jalore. There are only seven temples of Nandishwar Deep across India. Near the main entrance of Nandishwar Deep Temple, there is a 72 fit tall, 5 storied tower from where, the whole of the town of Jalore can be viewed. The tower has the statue of Mahaveer Swami. Near the western gate of Nandishwar Deep, the temple of Asthapadh has been established, featuring statues of Asthapadh pilgrims on all four sides.

Ahore’s Bawan Jinalaya Jain Temple:- Ahore’s Bawan Jinalaya Jain Temple Just 20 km from city, 52 Jinalay temple of Godi Parshavnath constructed in white marble was build by Shrimad Rajendra Surishwar Ji in 1936 Vikram Samvat's Magh Shukla Dashmi. This jain temple is beautified by 52 lords. It is big and heart catching. There are five more temples worth visiting and two rest houses where Jain Saints and Saintess visits frequently. Dinning facility is commendable but lodging is only of middle class available. In Ahore old Jain literature Pandulipis(manuscripts) are being kept in good shape.

Jain Pilgrim Bhandarpur:- Jain Pilgrim Bhandarpur there is huge Jain temple 600 years old. The statue of Lord Mahavir Swami is 1200 years old here in this temple.There were hundred of house of very prosperous Savetambar Bisa Oswal. In Besala now there are thousands of house of other community also. At that time in 813 Vikram Samvat Migsar on the day of Shukla Saptemi grand temple was laid foundation of with idol of Lord Mahavir 220 rooms rest house and a huge dinning hall is run by the trust here.

NeelKanth Mahadev:- NeelKanth Mahadev Bhadrajun Tehsil of Jalore district on the verges of Jalore, Pali and Barmer Neelkanth village is famous for Neelkanth Mahadev Temple. While entering the village one can see Shiva temple. It is situated on a high mound. Southern faced this Shiv temple attracts visitors of its minarets like pillars. It is said that here one widow lady saw a Shivlinga and she regularly started praying it. Envied by the strong faith of the lady here family members tried hard to bury it but it appeared again but again out of earth with the influx sand. In this way huge mound of sand emerged there. Taking it to be a Charismatic, Shivlinga temple was established there It is said to be a very old temple. rainy season and Shivratri devotees sets here in great numbers.

Jagannath Mahadev:- Jagnath Mahadev is one of the two temples built by Rudal Devi, situated 20 Km away. It was found underneath a mound some years before when one new temple was already built some distance away. This temple is called Juna Mandir(Old Temple). The ancient temple is the one possibly constructed by Rudal Devi. During Khilji's and Pathan's rulers this temple probably went uncared about and got buried under sand. New Shiva temple was established nearby.

Sundha Mata Temple:- The historical and religious Sundha Shrine is center of attraction for devotees which is situated at the end of Arawali Mountains, the heart-line of Rajasthan. Several historical and religious matters have been attached to this shrine which is surrounded by the soothing climate of Arawali Mountains. Its attractive natural beauty is incomparable in itself. The water touching the sacred feet of "MAHISHASUR MARDINI" is spreading its soothing musical sounds in the unique atmosphere. The Soil of hue feet gives a pleasing touch even in summer season. The mountain too appears like an evergreen forest. There is a unique combination of mountains, water and soil. The flowing water, lovely twittering of birds and sporty monkeys attract people automatically.

Saint Jalindernath Maharaj Shrine:- West of the fort is the shrine of Saint Jalindernath Maharaj. The name Jalore has been derived from his. The origin of this divinity of Jalindernath is unpredictable, it might have been imported from the Ganges or left behind by the Chauhanas. Some others believe that it is a "remnant of the foes of Alexander, driven by him from Multan" and use the caves of Jalinder in the vicinity as a proof of this. What ever the origin it is now been incorporated into the ally of indigenous deities.

Sire Temple of Jalore:- Sire Mandir is a temple situated in Jalore town in Rajasthan state in India. This shrine of Saint Jalindernath Maharaj is in west of the Jalore fort. Being the sacred groove of sage Jabali many saints came and meditated here. Pandavas spent some of their time here and king Bhruthhari's path leader Suanath and his disciples made it their home. There are many temples for Shiva and Shakti present here, out of which Sire Mandir Temple is famous for its natural beauty belief and austerity.

Ship Temple-Mandwala:- This temple not only attracts Jains but also other community people. Hundreds of pilgrims from all over the state and country comes here for drowning themselves into divinity. There is also established idol of Shantinath Bhagwan in ship temple. There is facility of beautiful dinning hall and huge rest house. This ship temple is of its own kind in whole India there is Jain temple, Dadabari and not also temple of Guru but also training center for Saint and Saintesses.

Jalore Wildlife Sanctuary:- Jalore Wildlife Sanctuary is a small locally owned sanctuary about 130 km from Jodhpur near Jalore town. The sanctuary is a remote natural jungle spread over an area of 190 square km. It is home to a sizable number of endangered wild animals. Indian gazelle, desert fox, leopard, Asian-steppe wildcat, tawny eagle and long billed vulture. Herds of Blue-Bull antelopes and Gazelles roam freely right outside the camps that are set for tourists in the heart of the jungle.

Once in Jalore Wildlife Sanctuary you can discover the forest either on foot or on Jeep safaris. Forest authorities operate two safaris daily which lasts for about three hours. The tourists are escorted by guards and a naturalist who imparts information about the forest and helps them find the animals. Bird watchers can spot up to 200 different species of birds in the Jalore sanctuary.

There are also opportunities for adventure seekers to explore the trails as part of full day hikes that are offered with lunch to the top of the granite mountain ecosystem inside the sanctuary. If you are lucky, you can see sloth bears and leopards on the trail. You may have to make prior bookings as only six tourists are allowed to stay in the sanctuary every day. The number has been set low by the local authorities to increase the probability of sightings and to give the tourists the experience of being in a jungle without any disturbance.

Fair & Festivals: All festivals are celebrated here with full enthuciasm and zeal. Deepawali, Holi, Dushera, Gangaur, Teej, Idul-Fitar, Idul-Juha, X-mas day, Raksha Bandhan, Janmashthami, Akshya Tritia are main festivals celebrated here.

Jalore Mahotsav

Jalore Mahotsav will be held from 15th February to 17th February at Jalore stadium in Jalore district of Rajasthan. Jalore Mahotsav showcase the culture of Jalore and the best of the things Jalore district has to offer. Handicrafts, cattle, crops, plants, wild life, dance forms, Academic seminars, singing & dancing, village-life, sports, youth career guidance ,cultural programmed, trade fair, food-stalls,sports for all age-groups, Kavi Sammelan, artificial rock-climbing etc.

Jalore Dhol Dance 

This dance is performed on the occasion of marriage by mali, Dholi, Sargaras and people of Bhil Communities. it is perdominantly a male dance, 4 to 5 drums are beeden consequetively. At start leaders beat drum in 'Thakna Shaili'. As soon as thakna ends some dancers puts swords in mouth, some with lathis and others taking handkerchief in hands rest only manage body thus the dance starts. Sargaras & Dholis are professional folk singer & drum beaters who are very proficient in the art. it this dance common people can also take part with professionals.

How to reach:

By Air:- Nearest Airport is Jodhpur Airport 141 Km from Jalore. At Jodhpur one can find nearly all type of domestic flights. There are direct flights to Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai and other Metros. There is also an air strip at village Nun about 35 km from Jalore City.

By Rail:- Jalore is situated in Samdari-Bhildi segment, connect Jalore directly with Jodhpur Division network in Rajasthan and Gandhidham, Ahmedabad network in Gujarat.

By Road:- National Highway No.15 (Bhatinda-Kandla) passes through the district in Sanchore tehsil. All the block head quarters are connected with bus routes. One can come to Jalore from Jodhpur, Rajasthan Roadways and Private operators has many Bus Services to Jodhpur, Jaipur, Ajmer, Ahmadabad, Surat, Bombay.

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