The former capital of Marwar State,Jodhpur was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha who claimed to bea descendant of lord Rama. The massive fort - Mehrangarh - came first and around it grew the city of Jodhpur protected by a high stone wall with seven gates and countless bastions. A flourishing trading center of the 16th century, the fortress city of Jodhpur is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. Jodhpur is still one of the leading centers for cattle, and boasts of find reminders of history - palaces, forts, temples and historical monuments.

Places of Interest
» Mehrangarh Fort : Spreading over 5km on a perpendicular hill and looking down from a height of about 125 meters, the fort appears rugged from outside but houses some of the most intricately adorned palaces with exquisitely carved panels and latticed windows. Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal Sileh Khanha and Daulat Khana should be visited to view the collection of palanquins howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furniture.

» Jaswant Thada : A collection of royal cenotaphs, built in marble, lies very close to the fot. Built in 1899, the cenotaph also houses portraits of the ruler of Jodhpur. It has extremely rare 15 cm thick milk white marble slab.

» Umaid Bhawan Palce : Built in the 20th century, it was meant to be a relief project which gave employment to citizens for 16 years. The palace is presently run as a hotel while a part of it is still retained by the royal family.

» Girdikot And Sardar MarketIn the heart of the city are colourful markets throbbing with activity, tiny shops dotting the narrow lanes.

Excursions in Bikaner
» Mandore : The ancient capital of Marwar, has 16 gigantic figures carved out of a single rock depicting popular Hindu and folk deities stand there in bright colors, surrounded by gardens.

» Khilana Lake : 11 km away, it is popular as a picnic spot.

» Balsamand (5 Km) : An artificial but the oldest lake in Asia it was constructed in 1159 AD. This pretty lake has a summer palace on its banks.

» Osian (58 Km) : Here lies the ruins of an ancient city which was the cradle of Rajasthani temple art and which was destroyed by the Muslim invaders and iconoclasts. There are now only 16 Hindu and Jain temples dating from 08th- 10th centuries.

» Sardar Samand Lake And Palace (55 Km) : A shimmering lake and palace with interesting villages and lively people.

» Nagaur (135 Km) : There is an imposing fort with beautiful murals in Nagaur style. The cattle fair here attracts many buyers.

» Rohit Fort (60 Km) : The fort has now been converted into a heritage hotel.

» Saila (74 Km)The Shiva temple here has a unique Sabha Mandap with beautifully carved pillars.



How To Reach
Air: Jodhpur is connected by air with Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur
Rail:Jodhpur is connected by rail with major cities of the state.
Road: Jodhpur is connected by road with all major towns and cities of Rajasthan

For tourism details contact
RTDC, Jodhpur Division, Regional Tourist Office, RTDC Hotel Ghoomar.

Hotel Accommodation

• Welcomegroup Umaid Bhwan Palace
• Ratanda Polo Palace
• Hotel Ajit Bhawan
• Hotel Karni Bhawan
• Hotel Adarsh Niwas
• RTDC Hotel Ghoomar
• Arun Hotel
• Hotel Amenity Intercontinental