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Rao Jodha who claimed descent from Lord Rama (the hero of the epic Ramayana)
founded Jodhpur, the former capital of Marwar State, in 1459. The city was
built as a result of warring brothers, each of whom felt the need to rule his
own independent state. A flourishing trading centre in the 16th century,
Jodhpur is still one of the leading centres for wood, cattle, camels, salt and
agricultural crops. However, the past is never very far away and Jodhpur
boasts of some very fine reminders of this glorious past - palaces, forts,
temples and other elegant monuments of architectural and historical value.
(Distance from the Airport 5 Kms, Approx. time 15 Mins.)
Places of Interest
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.
Jaswant Thada - A collection of royal cenotaphs, in white marble, lie very
close to the fort. Built in 1899, the centophs also house portraits of the
rulers of Jodhpur.
Girdikot and Sardar Market - Located in the heart of Jodhpur these colourful
markets teem with activity. Tiny shops dot the narrow lanes and their
contents, a wide range of Handicrafts, make this an especially charming area.
Mehrangarh Fort - Spreading over 5 kms 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 (Pearl
Palace), Phool Mahal (Flower Palace), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh
Khana and Daulat Khana are some of the important areas of visit and view the
collection of palanquins, howdahs royal radials, miniatures, musical
instruments, costumes and furniture. The cannons, placed strategically on the
ramparts are well preserved and impressive.
Umaid Bhawan Palace - It was meant to be a famine relief project, which gave
employment to citizens for 16 long years of drought. An impressive sandstone
structure, the palace is today run as a hotel while a part of it is still
retained by the erstwhile royal family.
Mandore - The ancient capital of Marwar lies 8 kms north of Jodhpur. This area
is of immense historical importance, but what makes it worthy of a visit is
the Hall of Heroes. Sixteen gigantic figures carved out of a single rock
depicting popular Hindu and folk deities stand there in bright colours and we
very well maintained. The area is surrounded by landscaped gardens. Other
areas of interest are the Mahamandir Temple built in 1812 with 84 carved
pillars, Kailana Lake which is 11 km away and quite popular as a picnic spot.
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