Jalore - INTRODUCTION
The 12th century capital of Chauhan Rajputs, Jalore was captured in 1310 AD by Ala-ud-Din Khilji of Delhi. Sukri River, a tributary of the Luni River, is to the south of Jalore. Earlier known as Jabalipur, the city is overlooked by an 11th century fort. Jalore is often referred to as Suvarnagiri after the name of the hill at the foot of which it is situated.
Jalore's history includes quite a few interesting stories of warfare, revenge, love and dominance. A politically important division of Marwar in the past, Jalore's fertile land has always meant economic benefit to its rulers. Before landing up in the hands of the Marwar rulers, the forts and palaces of the city passed through many hands. However, before that, in the 8th century AD, Jalore was ruled by Pratihar kings and boasted of many beautiful temples and houses.
The hustle and bustle of big cities is missing in this small Rajasthani city. The peaceful surroundings make it a sought-after place for people willing to explore the beauty of rural Rajasthan.
Also known as the 'Granite City' because of the presence of innumerable shops selling granite, Jalore is one of the most reasonable and tourist-friendly places in Rajasthan.
Jalore - IMPORTANT INFORMATION
| Area | 10,640 sq. km. |
| Population | 1021653(2001) |
| Altitude | 268 meters |
| Languages | Hindi, English, Rajasthani |
| Best Time to Visit | August to March |
| STD Code | 02973 |
Climate
Summer: 32.2 degrees Celsius 16.8 degrees Celsius
Winter: 25.4 degrees Celsius 7.3 degrees Celsius
Rainfall: 41.90 cm
Location
Almost on the banks of Sukri River, Jalore is situated on the southern edge of the vast sandy plain of Marwar. Barmer, Sirohi, Pali and Banaskantha (Gujarat) form the borders of this city.
IMPORTANT ATTRACTIONS
Jalore Fort
It is the biggest attraction of Jalore. It was one of the nine castles built by the Paramaras in the 10th century. Known as the 'Sonagir' or the 'Golden Mount', the Jalore Fort is considered to be one of the most impregnable forts in the country.
Perched atop a perpendicular hill, the fort has rocky outcrop that is about a 1200 feet high. They have a wall and bastions with cannon mounted upon them. After a two-mile long serpentine ascent, you can enter the fort through only one of its four gigantic gates or pols - Suraj Pol, Dhruv Pol, Bal Pol and Siroh Pol. Quite interestingly, the Suraj Pol is built in a way that the first rays of the morning sun enter through this gateway.
To approach the fort, you have to climb a steep, slippery road through three rows of fortification to a single 20 feet rampart wall. This exercise can take more than two hours.
The main residential palace inside the fort is now desolated. Just a few of its ruins are left. The Topekhana or the cannon foundry is the most important structure. It was built in the 14th century by Ala-ud-din Khilji. There are few mosques inside the fort. They are believed to have been built using the ruins of 84 Hindu and Jain temples.
Mosque of Malik Shah
It is housed in the center of the Jalore Fort. Known to be famous Mohammedan saint, Malik Shah's mosque was built by Ala-ud-din Khilji. The mosque demonstrates the widespread influence of Gujarati style architectutal decorations on the designers.
The Jain Temples
There are quite a few Jain temples in Jalore. Few of them date back to the 8th century AD. The oldest one is that of Adinath. Its mandap was subsequently built in 1182 AD by Yasoriva. Built in white marble, the temple stands out astoundingly amidst the dark fort walls.
The temple of Parsvanath was built by the ruler of Jalore and then rebuilt in 1785 AD. A golden 'cupola' in the temple hall was used for theatre performances.
Other temples include the ones dedicated to Mahavira, Santinatha and the Ashtapads.
EXCURSIONS
Bhinmal
The ancient town has supposedly been buried due to a natural calamity. It was a renowned center of Brahmanical learning under the rulers of Jalore.
Sanchore
This town was a center of learning for Jainism and Shaivism. It is about 145 kms from Jalore.
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