Historical Background_Khimsar_Sand_Dunes_Village

Khimsar was founded in 1523 by Rao Karamsji, 8th son of the founder of Jodhpur Rao Jodha, who started the construction of the Khimsar Fort, 90 km from Jodhpur where one brother resided and 150 km away from Bikaner, fiefdom of another brother.

The house of the Karamsot Rathors, founded by Rao Karamsji, has seen turbulent times but like the fort, have withstood the travails of time as testified to by the fact that the 21st direct descendant of Rao Karamsji still resides in the Fort.

The fort itself is a testament to history - the guns and cannons that have seen raging battles, defaced 9th century Jain idols,

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pillars erected in the memory of war heroes and also to women who committed Sati, at a time when this practice was considered one of Rajput courage and sacrifice.

Adjoining the fort walls are the ruins of Fateh Mahal, named after Fateh Pir Baba, a Sufi saint revered by the royal family. This saint was buried next to the fort while the Fateh Mahal was being built. Subsequent building activities were abandoned as the ruling chieftain died during the ongoing construction, leading the family to believe that Fateh Pir Baba's spirit was being disturbed.

The Khimsar Sand Dunes Village, 6 km from the Fort, was established for a purer and more removed commune with the deserts on which Khimsar was founded.