Sun City Jodhpur , Gateway to the Thar desert, the city is known
for its starking Forts, stately Palaces and gracious buildings. Some of these
are now India's finest hotels. Jodhpur founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha. The
massive 15th century A.D. Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a rocky hill,
soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains.The city is encompassed by a high wall -10
km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions.A major trade centre of the 16th
century A.D. the fortress-city of Jodhpur is now the second largest city of
Rajasthan
PRIME SITES
Mehrangarh Fort: The 5 km long majestic fort on a 125 metre
high hill is one of the most impressive and formidable structures. Although
invincible from the outside, the fort has four gates approached by a winding
road. Within the fort are some magnificent palaces with marvelously carved panels
, latticed windows and evocative names.
The Moti Mahal, the Phool Mahal, the Sheesh Mahal, the Sileh Khana and the Daulat
Khana. These palaces house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty
including a superb collection of palanquins, elephant hawdahs, miniature paintings
of various schools, musical instruments, costumes and furniture.
Jaswant Thada:
A
cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in 1899 A.D. in memory of Maharaja
Jaswant Singh II. Within the main cenotaph are the portraits of various Jodhpur
rulers.
Umaid Bhawan Palace : The only 20th century palace built under the famine relief
project that gave employment to famine struck population. The palace was completed
in 16 years. This opulent edifice in sandstone is still the residence of the
former rulers with a part of it running as hotel and remaining part as a museum.
Girdikot and Sardar Market : These colourful markets with tiny shops dotting
the narrow lanes are situated in the heart of the city and are popular for a
wide range of handicrafts, making them the favorite haunt of shoppers.
Museum: The museum has an exquisite
ensemble of paintings, sculptures and antique weapons.EXCURSIONSBalsamand Lake
and Gardens (5 km) : A pretty lake built in 1159 A.D. A splendid summer Palace
stands by the lake side surrounded by beautiful gardens. An idyllic spot for
excursions.
Mandore: ( 8 km ) The ancient capital of Marwar has
cenotaphs of the Jodhpur rulers. The Hall of heroes has fifteen figures carved
out of the rock on the wall which represent Hindu deities. Its beautiful
gardens
with high rock terraces make it a popular picnic spot.
Mahamandir Temple: ( 9 km ) :
Built in 1812 A.D. it is noteworthy temple with 84 carved pillars.
Kailana Lake (11 km): The beautiful
lake is an ideal picnic spot.
Osian (58 km): An oasis in the
desert, situated on the diversion off the main Jodhpur-Bikaner Highway. A drive
to this ancient township takes one past undulating terrain,punctuated by desert
stretches and little hamlets.Osian has 15 beautifully sculptured Jain and Brahmanical
temples. Of these the most outstanding ones are the earlier Surya or Sun Temple
and the later Kali temple, Sachiya Mata Temple and the main Jain temple dedicated
to Lord Mahavira.
Dhawa (45 km): A wildlife sanctuary
with the largest number of Indian antelopes.
Nagaur
(135 km): An imposing fort with beautiful murals. It is also the venue
for a beautiful murals. It is also the venue for a week long cattle fair held
in Jan/Feb every year.
Rohitgarh
(40 km): This fort is a one of the best heritage hotel in Rajasthan.
Luni Fort (20 km): This fort also
converted into a heritage hotel and its worth to visit.
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