Kuldhara: The 'Ghost Village' Of Rajasthan

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Kuldhara, known as the "ghost village", is an abandoned village in Rajasthan's Jaisalmer

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The village site is located about 18 km south-west of the Jaisalmer city

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Three centuries ago it was prosperous, but today it is an abandoned village shrouded in mystery

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The village was established in 1291 by the Paliwal Brahmins. But was abandoned in the early 19th century for unknown reasons

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Stories about the village and its desertion range from an earthquake to dying water supply, to the atrocities of a Jaisalmer minister, Salim Singh

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One legend has it that the villagers were forced to leave by Salim Singh, who wanted to marry the village head's daughter

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Another legend claims the villagers left due to a feud with the Salamba Rajputs

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The ruins of Kuldhara are a fine example of the architectural excellence of that era

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Today, the village is a protected monument under State Archaeology Department

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