Jodhpur

Standing on the edge of the great Thar Desert, Jodhpur is Often referred to as the 'Sun City'. The imperial city of Jodhpur is full of energy and charm amidst the emptiness of the desert.

Jodhpur is the second largest city of Rajasthan and was once the capital of erstwhile Marwar state.  The city was founded in 1459 A.D by Rao Jodha. He was the chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs. Rathore always claimed to be descendants of Rama – of the epic period of the Ramayana.

A 10km long high wall encompassing the city and surrounded by 8 gates and remarkable bastions, the place is famous all over the world for its forts and palaces. Jodhpur was a major trading center in 16th century A.D. during the Rathore reins.

The city is part of the great desert triangle circuit which also includes Bikaner and Jaisalmer. Jodhpur is also called “Blue City” and is famous for its colorful fairs and festivals.

Jodhpur''s piece de resistance is undeniably the magnificent art noveau and art deco style Umaid Bhawan Palace, residence of the royal family and now a heritage hotel

 

The imposing Mehrangarh Fort is the main attraction of Jodhpur. Just opposite to the fort is Umaid Bhawan Palace. It is also called Taj of Desert and the sprawling fort is one of the most spacious and well planned Palaces in India. One part of the palace has been converted into a luxury heritage hotel. Another part of the palace is the residence of Maharaja Gaj singh Ji.

People of Jodhpur are amongst the most hospitable in India and the place is known for its unique lifestyle and colorful attires.

Jodhpur is a land of graceful palaces, forts and temples scattered through the city showcasing the historic grandeur of the city.

Some of the important sightseeing places in Jodhpur are:

• Mehrangarh fort – 15th century fortress situated on a hilltop

• Jaswant Thada – a memorial of Maharaj Jaswant Singh

• Ummaid Bhawan Palace – One of the best example of modern architecture

• Mandore – the first capital of jodhpur state

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Grandeur by the sand dunes, founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, Jodhpur was the capital of the state of Marwar during the rule of the Rathor clan.

Set right at the edge of Thar Desert, Jodhpur is strewn with forts and palaces that go back to the 15th century, all vividly testify to the history of the princely state.Khajuraho - Hallmark of the Chandela Dynasty that ruled central India between the 10th and 11th Century A.D., the 25 odd surviving temples are today a world heritage site.

The sleepy town rose into prominence when this heritage presented to the world was discovered not so long ago. The temples are world famous for their erotic carvings and have given rise to much speculation since their discovery by a British officer in 1838.

 

Places to see

Mehrangarh Fort

Mehrangarh Fort dominates the city and is the largest fort in all Rajasthan. Founded in 1458 as the site of Rao Jodha's new capital — hence the name, Jodhpur — the city has grown around it, and in the 500 years that have passed the fort has never been taken by force. It's easy to see why: it occupies the entire top of a 150-meter hill with commanding views all around, with some three kilometers of massive ramparts built around the edges.
The name "fort" belies the size of the complex, which houses the Maharaja's palace, several temples and, tucked away in the back, an extensive garden still farmed to this day. Highlights within the palace include:

• Moti Mahal (Pearl Hall). Pearl-colored inside and decorated with colored glass windows, this is where the Maharaja held his audiences, with the five alcoves on the far wall allowing his queens to listen in.

• Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Hall). Just what the name says.

• Phool Mahal (Flower Hall). The most extravagant of them all, this was the Maharaja's pleasure chamber, for dancing girls and revelry.

• Zenana Deodi. The inner sanctum of the palace once guarded by eunuchs, this is where the Maharaja's wives whiled away their days. The delicate sandstone screens and carvings are exquisite.

• Chamunda Mataji Temple. Tucked away at the far end of the battlements, this temple is devoted to Rao Jodha's favorite goddess and remains a local favorite to this day.

A number of people are employed here and there to add flavor by dressing in period costume and doing photogenic things like playing traditional instruments and smoke opium (yes, the real thing). Snap away, but they'll appreciate a tip if you do. The museum also includes galleries devoted to howdahs (elephant-mounted seats), palanquins, fine arts, weaponry, and the inevitable Turban Gallery.
Entry to Mehrangarh costs Rs.250, including still camera fee and an excellent audioguide available in six languages. A rickshaw from the city will cost around Rs.30, or you can try to pick your way through the alleys up on foot. Open 9AM-5PM daily.

Historical sites

Jaswant Thada, 1 km downhill from Mehrangarh (easily walked). Royal cenotaphs built in marble, with a picturesque location next to a little lake. Entry Rs. 20, plus Rs. 25 for a camera.

• Mandore, 7 km outside the city. The ancient capital of Marwar, before Jodhpur was built.

• Umaid Bhawan Palace. Clearly visible to the south of the city and completed only in 1944, this is the last great palace built in India. The Maharaja of Jodhpur lives here to this day, but half the building has been converted to a 5-star hotel (see Sleep) and there is also a small museum on grounds (Rs. 50, open 9 AM to 5 PM). You'll have to take a rickshaw to get here, and it's best to ask them to wait: figure on Rs. 100 for a round-trip with an hour's waiting time.

• Khejarla Fort, located 85 kms. from the main city. Situated in a rural setting, the 400-year-old, Fort Khejarla offers guests an enlivening experience. The stunning red sandstone monument is a mesmerizing example of the architecture of the Rajputs. The rugged exterior contradicts an inner paradise with a striking blend of art and architecture leaving one with a magnificent aura! The spellbound grandeur of the Fort offers picturesque settings, latticework friezes, and intricate Jharokas that at once transports you back in time to experience the majesty of a long-gone era of valour and chivalry.

Natural sites

• Balsamand Lake - now converted to a resort

• Kailana Lake - a picnic spot and a main drinking water source for the city

• Ranisar Padamsar - Ranisar was made by Queen Jasmade Hadi, Rao Jodha's wife in 1459. Ranisar is situated near Fateh Pole in Mehrangarh.

• Gulab Sagar Lake - Gulab Sagar water storage was constructed by Gulab Rai in 1788.

Temples

• Baba Ramdev Temple, Masuria Hills.

• Ganesh Temple, Ratanada.

• Mahamandir Temple, Mahamandir Chauraha.

• Pal Balaji Temple, Pal Gaon.

• Santoshi Mata Temple, Lal Sagar.

Content courtesy: Wikipedia & WikiTravel