Lying on the strategic Delhi: Gujarat
trading route, Jodhpur was one of the major hub for trading in the medieval
time. Centrally located in the western part of the state Rajasthan, the city
is the second largest city of the state and is a popular tourist destination
offering palaces, forts & temples, worth visiting. The economy of the city
depends on several industries including handicraft, textiles & some metal
based industries. Located at the heart of the desert, this city of Rajasthan
is the majestic jewel of Rajasthan's eternal crown.
A Date With the Past
Jodhpur, called the Land of the Dead, was founded by Rao Jodha, the chief of a clan known as the Rathores in 1459. The city is surrounded by a 10 km long wall which was built 100 years after the city was founded. The history of Jodhpur has been evident of the fall and rise of many empires. The Rathore clan of Rajputs who enjoy the royal house today are the descendants of the Suryavansh dynasty who ruled in the Deccan during the 8th century AD. The city was ruled by the Maharajas since 14th century and this continued till India got independence.
Must See in Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort : This is one of the largest forts in India,
situated on a hill top of 125m and spread over an area of 5km. There are several
decorated palaces like Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal are located inside
the fort complex. Also the museum inside the fort has a rich collection of
miniatures, musical instruments, costumes, armoury etc. This fort has seven
gates and provides a wonderful views of the city.
Umaid Bhawn Place : This is built up of red sandstone & marble
and it took almost 16 years from 1929 to 1943 under the supervision of Maharaja
Umaid Singh. Presently this is the residence of the royal family of Jodhpur
with a part of it running as hotel and remaining a excellent museum.
Other Attractions
Jaswant Thada : This white marble monument was built in 1899
in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. There are some portraits of the
rulers of Jodhpur also displayed here. This is a must see place in Jodhpur.
Government Museum : The museum is located in the middle of
the Umaid garden and has a rich collection of weapons, textiles, paintings,
manuscripts, portraits, local art & crafts.
Balsamand Lake & Palace : This is an artificial lake is a
splendid picnic spot and was built in 1159 AD. There is also a beautiful summer
palace situated by the side of the lake & an interesting place to visit.
Festivals in Jodhpur
The Marwar is the main festival takes place in the month October. Besides, the festival of Nagpanchami is also celebrated with great fun and joy.
Shopping in Jodhpur
Jodhpur is known for its wooden & iron furniture, traditional jodhpuri handicrafts, dye textiles, leather shoes, antiques, embroidered shoes carpets, Tie & Dye Sarees, silver jewellery, local handicrafts & textiles, lac work and bangles are few items which you can buy from Jodhpur.
The Central Market, Sojati Gate, Station Road, Sardar Market, Tripollia Bazaar, Mochi Bazaar, Lakhera Bazar are some of the best shopping place.
Best Time to Visit
October to March is the best time to visit the city.
Travelling in the city
Mehrangarh Fort - Jodhpur Unmetered taxis, auto:rikshaws, tempos and cycle rikshaws are the main mode of transportation within the city.
How to Get There
Air : Jodhpur has its own airport which is connected to Jaipur,
Delhi, Udaipur, Mumbai and some other major cities.
Rail : The city is directly connected by meter gauge railway
lines which links it with the major destinations within & outside Rajasthan.
Road : The state transport has regular bus services to the
major cities in and arround Rajasthan with a good motorable road network.
More Rajasthan Destinations :