Pali is named after the Paliwal Brahmins who once inhabited the area. Ancient Pali housed a highly evolved civilization. The land, which was leased by the then chief of Mandore (the former capital of Jodhpur district), was cultivated diligently by the Paliwals who abandoned their former priestly profession. Being a hardworking and intelligent tribe, they soon became wealthy and were noticed by the chieftain of Marwar at the time, Raja Sheoji. Wanting to replenish his treasury for the battles which lay ahead Sheoji imposed a war levy on the inhabitants of Pali in 1243 AD. The Paliwals demanded exemption under the plea that they were Brahmins.  The furious king threw some of their leaders into prison in retaliation, and passed an edict mandating punishment on every Pali resident who did not cough up the war tax. Sheoji’s persecution forced the Paliwals to flee, which they did lock stock and barrel to Jaisalmer, until Pali resembled a ghost town. Pali’s chief attraction are three exquisite temples, namely the Hatundi Rata Mahabir Temple, the Ranakpur Jain Temple and the Surya Narayan Temple.