Lodurva is located approximately 15 kilometers north-west of Jaisalmer which is often chosen as an excursion from Jaisalmer – the Golden City of Rajasthan. The village is mostly visited by travelers in Same day tours from Jaisalmer during their holidays in the city. Lodurva is always being a part of Jaisalmer sightseeing tour along with enjoying various desert activities like camel safari, jeep safari, dune bashing, and most importantly camping in Jaisalmer that must be in a travelers bucket-list while vacationing in Jaisalmer. Lodurva is a small village near Jaisalmer which is prominently famous for its iconic Jain Temples, historical monuments that makes it one of the Best Places to visit in Jaisalmer.
History of Lodurva:
Lodurva or Luderwa was once the capital of Bhatti empire until Rawal Jaisal founded Jaisalmer city and shifted his capital to the city. The town of Lodurva is much older than Jaisalmer and was sacked several times, most notably by Mahmud Ghazni in the 11th century and later by Mohammad Ghori in the next century. Previously Lodurva stood on an ancient trade route through the Thar Desert which also made itself vulnerable to some frequent attacks in 1025 AD. Lodurva was also the setting for the ill-fated love story of Princess Mumal and Mahendra – a Prince of Amarkot, retained in local folklore and songs.
Rajasthan folklore of beautiful princess Mumal:
Medhi is a small palace on a hillock that belongs to a girl named Mumal Rano or Princess Moomal who was from Lodurva, Jaisalmer. This palace is completely destroyed and now there’s just a broken wall, small platform and a single window which was earlier named as Kak Mahal. Previously Medhi had beautifully carved windows, a serene garden, many mazes, fake ponds and other illusions. The palace has witnessed the love story of Mumal and Rana Mahendra.
Mumal was an extremely beautiful Rajput queen whose beauty and charms were famous not only in Jaisalmer but also the nearby areas. Most Rajasthani Paintings are inspired by the beauty of Mumal.
Major attractions of Lodurva
Lodurva is one of the most notable tourist destinations famous for its brilliant architectural ruins and surroundings of sand dunes. Here are some of the most popular attractions of Lodurva.
Lodurva Jain Temple – the Jain Temples of Lodurva are important attractions of this village which are counted as the Tourist attractions in Rajasthan. It is dedicated to the 23rd Tirthankar Parasnath. The architecture of Lodurva Jain Temple is absolute splendor of bright yellow sandstones. In the ruins, one can find the pictures of Lord Parasnath carved all along the walls of the temple. It is typically an example of Dilwara style of temple architecture that recalls the city’s former glory.
Rishabhanatha Temple – the very first Jain temple at Lodurva was Rishabhnath Temple located near the ruins of Moomal palace. Previously, the River Kak used to flow from here. The temple was constructed in 1479 by Seth Sachcha.
Sambhavanatha Temple – the temple was dedicated to Jain Tirthankar Sambhavnath, Sambhavnath Temple is counted as the second important Jain Temple at Lodurva after Rishabhanatha Temple. A fortified wall and an octagon-like pyramidal roof covering the temple complex.
Other temples in Lodurva are – the other temples of Lodurva are Hinglaj Mata Temple, Chamunda Mata Temple, and Shiva Temple that can be visited near Jain temples of Lodurva.
How to Reach Lodurva
Lodurva is easily accessible from Jaisalmer by road. You can hire a taxi, rent a vehicle, or opt for a guided tour. The drive takes approximately 30 minutes, offering a scenic route through the desert landscape.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lodurva is during the cooler months, from October to March. During this period, the weather is much more pleasant, with temperatures ranging making it ideal for exploring the temples and the desert surroundings. The summer months (April to June) can be extremely hot, with temperatures soaring above 40°C, which makes outdoor excursions less comfortable. Additionally, visiting during the winter months offers the opportunity to enjoy the unique desert landscape without the harsh heat, allowing for a more enjoyable experience.
Lodurva is a great place to visit in Jaisalmer where you can witness the mesmerizing beauty of Jain temples or reveal the interesting tales associated with this village. So, if you are planning your Jaisalmer Tour Package, then you must include Lodurva in your Jaisalmer sightseeing tour and explore the magnificent attractions of this village.
FAQ'S
What is Lodurva and why is it famous?
Lodurva is a small village located near Jaisalmer, known for its ancient Jain temples, historical significance, and beautiful desert landscape. It was once the capital of the Bhatti Rajputs and is home to stunning temple architecture and ruins.
How far is Lodurva from Jaisalmer?
Lodurva is approximately 16 kilometers from Jaisalmer, making it a short and easy excursion for visitors.
What are the main attractions in Lodurva?
The key attractions in Lodurva include the Lodurva Jain Temple, the sacred pond, intricate temple carvings, and the historical ruins scattered around the town. The surrounding desert landscape is also an important draw for visitors.
How do I reach Lodurva from Jaisalmer?
Lodurva can be easily reached by road from Jaisalmer. You can hire a taxi, rent a car, or join a guided tour. The journey takes around 30 minutes and offers scenic views of the desert.
Can I take photographs in Lodurva?
Yes, photography is allowed in most areas of Lodurva, especially around the temples and the surrounding desert landscape. The intricate carvings and vast desert views provide excellent opportunities for photography.
Are there any entry fees to visit the temples in Lodurva?
There is no entry fee to visit the temples in Lodurva, though donations are often welcomed at Jain temples. It’s always a good idea to carry some small change as a gesture of respect.
