Jodhpur Tours

Jodhpur, the former capital of Marwar state was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha who claimed descent from Lord Rama, (the hero of the epic Ramayana). The city was built as a result of warring brothers, each of which felt the need to rule his independent state. 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. Today, the city has grown to become the second largest city of Rajasthan while still maintaining its medieval character.

A flourishing trading center in the 16th century, Jodhpur is still one of the leading centers for wood, cattle, camels, salt and agricultural crops. However, the past is never very far behind and Jodhpur boasts of some very fine reminders of this glorious past - palaces, forts, temples and other elegant monuments of architectural and historical value.

The Mehrangarh Fort spreading over 5 km on a perpendicular hill and looking down from a height of about 100 meters, the fort appears rugged and impenetrable from outside but houses some of the most intricately adorned palaces with exquisitely carved panels and latticed windows.

Moti Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana are some of the other riveting places to visit and view the collection of palanquins, howdahs, royal cradles, miniatures, musical instruments, costumes and furniture.

There is Jaswant Thada with a rich collection of cenotaphs which were built way back in 1899 and houses the portraits of the rulers of Jodhpur. Another majestic place is the Umaid Bhawan Palace, which happens to be the only palace to be built in the 20th century. An impressive sandstone structure, the palace is today run as a luxury hotel.

For shopping there is Giridkot and Sardar Market located in the heart of Jodhpur and are always throbbing with activity. Tiny shops dot the narrow lanes and a wide range of handicrafts makes this area a truly wonderful souvenir hunting zone. If you venture about 8 kms. north of Jodhpur, you will come across Mandore where the majestic Hall of Heroes with sixteen gigantic figures carved out of a single rock depicting popular Hindu and folk deities stand in bright colors and are a treat to the eyes. You would do well to visit the Mahamandir Temple built way back in 1812 with 84 carved pillars.

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