Khimsar Fort is a 16th-century Rajput fort converted into a heritage hotel, located between Jodhpur and Bikaner, at the edge of the Thar Desert. Managed by Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels, it combines original defensive architecture, residential wings added over the centuries, and a satellite camp set within the dunes.

Why stay at Khimsar Fort

The principal appeal of this place lies in its historical continuity. Built in 1523 by Rao Karamsji, the eighth son of Rao Jodha (founder of Jodhpur), the fort was conceived with a dual purpose: territorial defense and residence for local nobility. It has never been abandoned and remains the home of its builder's direct descendants, which explains its remarkable state of preservation.

The architecture preserves original elements—crenelated ramparts, bastions, hidden passages—to which were added over time sculpted balconies, interior courtyards, and havelis. The establishment holds a 5-star rating and extends into the desert via the Dunes Village, several kilometers from the main fort.

Atmosphere

Arrival is through a fortified gate, and circulation between wings flows through paved courtyards and narrow staircases. The contrast is striking between the massive rampart volumes and the more ornate residential quarters. The fort remains inhabited in the true sense: its managers are connected to the founding family, and certain rooms retain period furnishings.

In the evening, light on the sandstone walls and the silence of the surrounding desert plateau set the tone. At the Dunes Village, the atmosphere shifts: circular huts with thatched roofs arranged around a lake, away from main roads.

Rooms and suites

The hotel features 67 rooms and suites distributed across the fort's various wings. Original volumes have been preserved: vaulted ceilings, stained-glass windows, canopied beds, and carved wooden furniture. Each wing has its own character, some rooms more austere (defensive side), others more ornate (residential wings).

At the Dunes Village, accommodation is in circular thatched-roof huts arranged around a water feature, offering a desert night without compromising comfort.

Restaurants, spa and services

The establishment features several dining venues:

• Fateh Mahal: the main restaurant, housed in a columned hall, serving Indian and international cuisine with Rajasthani specialties.
• Vansh: an intimate dining space set within a décor evoking family heritage.
• The Last Sentinel Cafe: a café located in a former watchtower, serving light fare and beverages.
• Jhoompa: the Dunes Village restaurant, offering buffet service and varied cuisine.

Private dinners can be arranged in the courtyard, on the ramparts, or in the dunes. The spa offers Ayurvedic treatments and traditional massages. Additional facilities include an outdoor pool in the gardens, a fitness room, a tennis court, and bicycle excursions in the surrounding area. On the activities side, the hotel organizes desert jeep safaris, camel rides, and Rajasthani folk music and dance performances.

Standard 5-star services: 24-hour reception, concierge, room service, laundry, airport transfers, secure parking, and wifi.

Location and access

Khimsar is located in the Nagaur district, on NH62, between Jodhpur and Bikaner. It is a natural stopover on a Rajasthani circuit connecting the two cities, or as a loop from Jaipur.

• From Jodhpur: approximately 2 to 2.5 hours by road.
• From Bikaner: 2.5 to 3 hours.
• From Jaipur: plan for a half-day journey.

The nearest airport is Jodhpur, with flights from Delhi, Mumbai, and other major Indian cities. The hotel can arrange a private transfer or a car with driver.

When to visit

The climate is desert-based. The most comfortable period runs from November through March, with mild daytime temperatures and cool nights. From April to June, heat becomes quite challenging. The monsoon (July-September) cools the air but may complicate travel. December and January are the most sought-after months: advance booking is advisable, particularly for the Dunes Village.

Nearby: other properties in Northern India

To extend or complement a circuit, several character-driven properties align with the same heritage or desert-focused approach:

• Ranthambore Heritage Haveli, near Ranthambore National Park.
• Wonderland Tourist Camp, for an alternative desert experience.
• Woodville Palace Hotel, a converted palace in Himachal Pradesh.
• Red Earth, a character property in southern India.

Planning your stay

Khimsar Fort fits naturally within a Rajasthan itinerary, bridging Mughal-Rajput heritage and desert stops. To build a tailor-made journey incorporating this property, explore our India travel experiences.