Location: Rajasthan
Attractions :Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mehrangarh Fort
Best Season :October - March
Excursions : Mandore, Ossian
Getting there : Regular flights are available from Delhi,
Mumbai, Udaipur and Jaipur. Regular trains are available
from many important Indian cities.
History
Located at the edge of the Thar Desert, the royal city of Jodupur still echoes with the tales of antiquity. Once the capital of the Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 AD by Rao Jodha- Chief of the Rathod clan of Rajputs. A major trade center of the 16th century AD, the Fortress City of Jodhpur is surrounded by a 10-km long wall that was built about a century after the city was founded.
Places of interest
Mehrangarh Fort : The 5-km long majestic fort on a 125-m high hill is one of the most impressive and formidable structures in Rajasthan. Within the fort are some magnificent palaces with marvelously carved panels, latticed windows and evocative names. Visit these palaces that house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty including palanquins, elephant howdas, miniature paintings, costumes and furniture.
Jaswant Thada : Visit this place that stands testimony to the architectural excellence of the ancient past. Built in memory of Maharaja Jawant Singh II, it is a cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble. The beautiful marble lattice work and fine views from the terrace in front of the cenotaph is sure to leave you spellbound.
Umaid Bhawan Palace : The opulent edifice in sandstone is the only 20th century palace built under the famine relief project that gave employment to famine struck population. Constructed of marble and pink sandstone, it is also reputed as Chittar Palace. It houses a very good museum that offers an amazing array of items belonging to Maharaja.
Girdikot & Sardar Market : These colorful markets with tiny shops dotting the narrow lanes are located in the heart of the city. Shopping here is a heady experience with a colorful display of the rich handcrafted items. For the shopping freaks it will prove to be a favorite haunt.
Festive Fun
Marwar Festival
The two-day long colorful extravaganza celebrating the 'Maand Style' of folk music is sure to bring out your festive spirits. Folk artists performing under the full moon bring alive the legends and the folklore of the area.
Excursions
Balsamand Lake & Gradens : A perfect place to enjoy your holidays in peace. A splendid summer palace stands by the lakeside surrounded by beautiful gardens.
Osian : HTake a break from the routine exercises and spend some time at Osian, which is an idyllic spot for excursion. Enjoy undulating terrain, punctuated by desert stretches and little hamlets as you drive towards this ancient township.