Barmer

A tiny yet lively town in sun-drenched sands, Barmer is a miniature Rajasthan with all its colours, warmth and tradition. Although a barren land with harsh climate and rough terrain, Barmer is nown for its rich crafts, dances and music. Once on the ancient camel trade route, the town is now the center for wood carving, pottery, carpets, intricate embroidery work, block printed fabrics and multi-hued traditional costumes.Especially famous are the geometric ajrak prints in dark shades of red and blue, ideal for protection against the sun.

The most interesting part of a trip to Barmer is the journey through rural Rajasthan. The small villages with mud-walled houses decorated with delicate folk motifs and colourfully attired people on the way offer a fascinating sight.

How to reach Barmer

Nearest airport, Jodhpur. The Bus stand is situated near Railway Station and Tilak Bus Stand connects Barmer with Jodhpur

What to see in Barmer

Barmer

Perched on a rocky hill, the town has ruins of an old fort. Of interset are a temple dedicated to Balark (the Sun) and the ancient ruins of Juna Barmer. The three Jain temples, an inscription of 1295 A.D. and a massive pillar in the hall of the largest temple of Maharaja Kula Sri Samnta Sinha Deva, a ruler of Bahadmera (now, Barmer) are also worth avisit.

Kiradu

Situated on the foot of a hill near village Hathma in Barmer tehsil is Kiradu. The inscription dating back to 1161 A.D. reveals that the place was called Kiratkoop and had once been the capital of Punwars. The ruins of five ancient temples – one dedicated to Lord Vishnu and other four dedicated to Lord Shiva – areof interest to archaeologists and art lovers, alike. The biggest of these temples is the Someshwar Temple.

Khed

Rao Siha, the founder of the Rathore clan alongwith his son (Asthanji) conquered Khed from the Guhil Rajputs and planted the standard of the rathores.An old Vishnu temple of Ranchhrji is surrounded by a crumbling wall and an image of Garuda (the eagle) at the gate gaurds the complex. Other temple nearby include temples of Brahma, Bhairav, Mahadev and a Jain temple.

Jasol

Once a principle state of Mallni, this ancient village has got its name from the descendants of a Rathore sub-clan. A Jain temple and a Hindu temple are worth visiting. The Hindu temple is ornamented with fine sculptures which wre brought from a Jain temple of Lord Mahaveer.

Meva Nagar

Once called Viranipur, this 12th century village lies on the slope of a hill called Nagar-ki-Bhakarian, 9km away from Baletra. The village has three Jain temples. The biggest of these is the one dedicated to Nakoda Parsvanath. A vishnu temple is also worth visiting.

Mahaveer Park

Mahaveer park is a beautifully laid out park with a tiny museum housing ancient stone carved statues.

Safed Akhara

(Sidheswara mahadev Temple Complex) is a tiny yet pretty garden near Barmer. Temporary accommodation and cooking facilities are available.

Neemari

Neemari is another picturesque garden on chhatan route, 23 km away from Barmer. An old swimming pool is an attraction.

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Shopping in Barmer

A veritable shopper’s paradise, Barmer is treasure trove of vibrantly coloured embroidery with excellent mirror work. Also famous are beautifully embroidered fabrics and pouches often patterned with tiny mirrors. Traditional rugs, blankets, shawls, carpets, ‘Pattius’ Dari in typical Barmer colours and weave are a speciality of the district.

The shopping spots include the tiny shops along the narrow lanes of the colourful and lively Sadar Bazar.