As a history and culture lover, the road trip between Jaisalmer and Tanot Mata Temple and Lord Border is an exclusive view towards Indian heroic past and religious history. This route, which is situated in the center of the Thar Desert, combines the mysticism of an ancient temple with the bravery of a storied battlefront. Historical sightseers and tourism adventurers who want to experience something special must visit Tanot Mata Temple and Longewala Border in Jaisalmer. This will help you feel the history of Rajasthan yourself.
Why Visit Tanot Mata Temple and Longewala Border in Jaisalmer?
1. Historical Significance
Longewala Border is famously known for the fierce Battle of Longewala during the indo pak border in jaisalmer war of 1971. A small group of Indian troops staffed the post against a high number of attacking Pakistani troops in what could be termed one of the bravest stands in Indian military history.
Jaisalmer Tanot Mata Temple situated at the vicinity of the border is considered to be a holy site and was believed that miraculously survived war time bombing when people assumed that it was the blessing given by the goddess Tanot Mata.
2. Cultural Experience
The region reflects the valor and faith of the desert people, blending military history, folklore and local traditions.
Having to see the desert scenery gives your visual aspect a dramatic feel because the people got shaped and so did the battle by the harsh conditions.
Route: Jaisalmer to Tanot Mata Temple and Longewala Border
Based out of the historic city of Jaisalmer your route lays unmeasured long at around 120 kilometers across the Expansive Thar Desert. The route itself is scenic and gives travelers a glimpse into rural Rajasthan’s lifestyle.
Key main stops on the way:
Jaisalmer Fort: Make a visit to the golden sandstone fort that has temples, palaces and bustling markets in it before departing.
Ramgarh Village: A place of rest where one can have a taste of true Rajasthani foods and handicrafts.
Tanot Mata Temple: This 122 km from Jaisalmer, this temple has got a flowing aura and war stories associated with it.
Longewala Border: Just few kilometers from the temple visit the memorial of historic post and war memorial in memory for Indian soldiers.
Tanot Mata Temple, the Protector of the Desert Goddess
History and Legend
The temple is dedicated to Tanot Mata, the fierce form of Goddess Durga. Local legend credits her with protecting the Indian soldiers during the 1971 war. Despite heavy artillery shelling, the temple remained unharmed, and unexploded bombs found nearby added to the temple mystique.
Architecture and Environment
The temple is rustic and rustic in design being built out of local sandstone to lighten and show the harshness of the desert.
Its calm conditions as against the harsh desert conditions make it a spiritual refuge.
Visitor Experience
The rituals and prayers make the temple come alive each and every day.
Local guides provide interesting information about the temple in the history of the war of 1971.
Visitors can witness offerings and special ceremonies during festivals such as Navratri.
Longewala Border: Anatomy of Bravery
Battle of Longewala – A brief Overview
In December 1971, a small Indian army post at Longewala faced an attack by an entire Pakistani brigade.
Major Kuldip Singh Chandpuri led the defenders, who gave in to sheer weight of numbers.
Air force support arrived at dawn to reverse the trend, it was a major turnaround for India.
What to See at Longewala Today
War Memorial: Celebrates the soldiers who had fought bravely.
Tank and Gun Displays: Original military equipment at the battle exists.
Conducted Tours: At the battle soldiers and experts of the land tell the history and strategic significance of the battle.
Influence on the Indian Military History
The fight portrays this instance of defense amid the unfavorable circumstances.
Tanot mata temple and Longewala Border from Jaisalmer - How to Reach
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Road Distance: There is a road distance of about 3 to 4 hours because of desert terrain.
Transports: The ideal solution would be to rent a 4x4 auto or Jeep with a local driver that knows the desert roads.
Route: The standard route is the road running through Pokhran-Jaisalmer highway with the route marked properly along the Tanot Mata Temple and Longewala Border.
Guided Tours: A lot of the travel operators in Jaisalmer provide guided tours that visit both attractions in the same day or overnight camping trips across the desert.
By Air
- The closest airport is the Jaisalmer Airport that is poorly connected. The nearby large is Jodhpur Airport (Approx 280 km of Jaisalmer).
- Take a taxi or rent that car in the airport to get to the city of Jaisalmer and then move by road to Tanot Mata and Longewala.
How to Get Permits for Tanot Mata Temple and Longewala Border Visit
The significance of Tanot Mata Temple and Longewala Border is that both sites are situated close to border between India-Pakistan, hence security policies are observed there, and civilian visitors are subjected to permit.
Procedures to get Permits:
To enjoy a fuss-free visit to Tanot Mata Temple and Longewala Border at Jaisalmer, it is easy to get online the permits required to visit these places. Tanot Mata Temple, and Longewala Border permit form Visit the official Tanot Mata Temple and Longewala Border permit form to apply your border pass in a short time, where the process is secure.
Important Permit Notes:
- Visitors must carry the original permit during the trip.
- The permits have a specified expiry, and beyond the time they expire, more security or financial fines may follow.
- Photography may be restricted in near the border areas so get clearances first.
- Tourists may have to offset security checks at different places.
Best Things to Do: Jaisalmer to Tanot & Longewala Tour
- Best Time to Visit: October to March- the weather is cool and appropriate climate to travel desert.
- Transportation: The 4x4 car or Jeep rental across Jaisalmer is the best option to drive in the desert comfortably.
- Accommodation: You can keep at Jaisalmer city or prefer desert camps at Tanot Mata and get different experience.
- Guides: The hiring of local guide will enable learning more about the places and ensuring safety.
- Essentials: Bring water, and sunscreen and dress according to desert weather.
Distinct Adventures Throughout the Journey
Watch the dessert sunset near Tanot Mata Temple.
Talk to local communities living at the desert, and learn their folk tales.
Visit tiny desert villages and visit Rajasthani cities.
Take pictures of expansive sand dunes juxtaposed with historical sites