Amidst the sand dunes and thorny vegetation of Thar desert towers a fort, 120 metres above the plain. The fort overlooks the imperial city of Jodhpur, which is a part of the Desert Tourist Triangle. The old Jodhpur city is surrounded by a 10 km long wall with eight gates serving as entrances. The new city is settled around this walled area. The Maruthal or 'land of death' , came into life when the Rathores of Kanauj moved in. But the city of Jodhpur was founded by Rao Jodhaji in 1459 AD. This city was on the silk route of the 16th century and hence was host to a number of travellers.
In Jodhpur, the genius of its sculptors comes to life in its exquisite palaces, forts, temples and havelis, which stand testimony to the imperial grandeur. The most alluring part of Jodhpur is the traditional lifestyle, festivity and the smiling people who treasure this former princely state.
Tourist Attractions in Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort
The Mehrangarh Fort is the most impressive and majestic structures of Jodhpur. This huge fort is 5 km long with 125-meter high hill. With its four gigantic gates, the fort encloses some magnificent palaces with intricately carved panels, latticed windows and names reminiscent of the royal history of Jodhpur. The Moti Mahal, the Sheesh Mahal, the Phool Mahal, the Sileh Khana and the Daulat Khana are the other grand structures within the fort. These palaces have an exclusive collection of palanquins, miniature paintings of various schools, musical instruments, elephant hawdahs, costumes and furniture.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
The Umaid Bhavan Palace has an interesting story behind it. The Maharaja of Jodhpur ordered the construction of this palace just to provide employment to the famine struck population of Jodhpur in the 20th century. The construction of the palace took 16 years of hard labor. Now, this palace made of sandstone has been divided into two parts - a hotel and a museum.
Jaswant Thada
Built in 1899 AD, this cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble is a memoir of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. The portraits of various Jodhpur rulers are there on the main cenotaph that boasts of the bravery of Rajput rulers in Jodhpur.
Girdikot and Sardar Market
The vibrant Girdikot and Sardar markets of Jodhpur have the tiny shops situated in the center with a wide range of handicraft items and other antique items.
Government Museum
The government museum in the middle of the Umaid Public Gardens has a varied collection of textiles, miniature portraits, local crafts, weapons, the images of Jain Tirthankars etc.
Kailana Lake
A charming picnic spot around a lake, famous for a spectacular view of sunset this lake is located 11 kilometers from Jodhpur.
Balsamand Lake and Palace
A summer palace on the embankments of a serene and calm lake, Balsamand Lake is located 7 kilometers away from Jodhpur.
Clock Tower & Sadar Market
In the old city, clock tower is a prominent land mark. But main attraction is the Sadar Market. The market has kept alive the old 'haat bazaar' culture.
Shopping in Jodhpur
The Sadar Market near the Clock Tower gives immense shopping pleasure to the locals as well as the visitors. The colourful but hectic bazaar consists of many narrow lanes, lined with tiny shops. Look for the tie & dye textiles, embroidered leather shoes, lacquerware, antiques, carpets and puppets. Here, one can buy exquisite Rajasthani textiles, clay figurines, miniature camels and elephants, marble inlay work and classic silver jewellery.
