Lakhpat Fort, Lakhpat
A walled ghost town on the western edge of Kutch
- Type
- Fort town
- Location
- Lakhpat, Kutch
- Time needed
- 2 to 3 hours
- Best time to visit
- October to February, in the morning or late afternoon
About Lakhpat Fort
Lakhpat sits at the far western edge of Kutch, close to Kori Creek and the border. It was once a busy port and trading town on a branch of the Indus river, with goods moving through it by boat. Its long stone fort walls still stand today.
An earthquake in 1819 changed the course of the river, and the water that fed Lakhpat's trade dried up. Over the years people moved away, and today only a small number of families live inside the long walls. Walking through the quiet lanes among old houses and ruins gives it the feel of a ghost town.
Inside the fort there is a gurudwara that marks a place where Guru Nanak is said to have stayed on his travels, and the carved stone tomb of Pir Ghaus Mohammed. You can walk on parts of the fort wall for views over the creek and the flat land beyond. Lakhpat is usually combined with Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar, which are close by.
Things to do at Lakhpat Fort
- Walk along the fort walls for views over the creek
- Visit the Lakhpat gurudwara
- See the carved tomb of Pir Ghaus Mohammed
- Walk through the old lanes and ruined houses
How to reach Lakhpat Fort
- By road from Bhuj: about 140 km, about 3 hours by car.
- Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar are about 30 to 40 km away, so the three are usually seen on one long day trip.
Tips before you go
- Lakhpat is close to the border. Carry a photo ID and follow any instructions from security staff.
- There are very few shops. Carry water and snacks.
- Dress modestly and cover your head when entering the gurudwara.
Nearby places to visit
Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar
A sacred lake with temples at Narayan Sarovar and the seaside Koteshwar Mahadev temple, two important pilgrim sites in western Kutch.
Time needed: 2 to 3 hours for bothRead more →Mata no Madh
The temple of Ashapura Mata, the main goddess of Kutch, visited by large numbers of pilgrims, especially during Navratri.
Time needed: 1 to 2 hoursRead more →Bhuj
The main town and base for Kutch, with the Aina Mahal and Prag Mahal palaces, Hamirsar lake and the Smritivan memorial.
Time needed: 1 dayRead more →Lakhpat Fort: FAQs
Why is Lakhpat called a ghost town?
It was once a busy port, but an earthquake in 1819 changed the course of the river that supported its trade. Most people left, and the walled town is now nearly empty.
Can Lakhpat, Narayan Sarovar and Koteshwar be visited in one day?
Yes. They are close to each other on the western edge of Kutch. Leave Bhuj early, as it is about 3 hours each way.