G.B. International ::- India Tours ::- Rajasthan
| Jaipur | Ranthambore | Pushkar | Jaisalmer | Mt. Abu |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jodhpur | Udaipur | Bikaner | Ranakpur | Mandawa |
| North Cities | Other States | Royal Journey |
Jodhpur
The fortified city of Jodhpur was founded in 1459. The imperial city set at the edge of the Thar desert. Is replete with amazing legends of romance and heroism. A major trade center of 16th century, Jodhpur has grown to become the second largest city of the state. Magnificent Mehrangarh fort stands a top a 125 meter high hill dominating the city's skyline . It is one of the most impressive and formidable fort of the country. The Jaswant Thada, the memorial of Maharaja Jaswant Singh 11. Built in 1899 in white marble near the fort is noteworthy for its superb architecture. The Umaid Bhawan Palace, is the only palace built in 20th century, and is a splendid example of indi-colonal Style of 30's A portion of the palace has been converted into a luxury hotel. Other palaces of interest are the Girdikot and Sardar market, Mandore Gardens kailana lake etc The royal crest is highlighted on the valance alongwith the mininature paintings in the lounge which is typical of the Jodhpur School of art.
The city can be roughly divided into four parts-Ratanada, which primarily houses old buildings and government offices; sardarpur, which is mostly residential; old city, that is the market area and shastri nagar, which is the new Jodhpur with modern houses ,etc. New buildings, blend well with the ancient Rajputana architecture as Jodhpur maintains a unique charm of old and new.
CITY SIGHTS
Mehrangarh Fort:- It was founded by RAO Jodha in 1459 when he shifited his capital here from nearby Mandore. There are palaces, housed within this daunting strecture among them are Moti Mahal and Phool Mahal.It is one of the most stunning hill forts of Rajasthan. Mehrangarh appears to rise from the bluff-coloured sandstone hill itself , so well built into the base that it is difficult to tell where the hill ends and the walls begin. Founded in the 15th century by the Rathore Rajputs when they shifted their capital from nearby Mandore to Jodhpur (or the region known as Marwar) Mehrangarh from the outside is impressive, and certainly forbidding. There is a surprising lightness to it though, once actually within the fort.Umaid Bhawan Palace:- Umaid Bhawan Palace that holds one in awe. It is also known as Chhittar Palace because of the particular type of sandstone used to build it- which does not decay in the rains . Portion of the palace have been converted into a hotel and museum.
Jaswant Thada:- Constructed out of thin sheets of marble which allow the sun to filter in, was built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh 11 in 1899.
Mandor:- It is 9km of the city, was once the the capital of ancient Marwar and now hosts the cenotaphs built in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh and Maharaia Ajit Singh. Crowned with soaring spires, these are embellished with sculptured relifs reflecting theglories of ancient Marwar. It's Hall of Heroes depicting popular Hindu and folk deities is worth a visit. The 16 figures here are carved out of one single rock.
EXCURSIONS
Osian(65 kms): The ancient town of the Thar desert is an archaeological delight. It has sixteen Brahamanical and Jain temples, beautiful sculpted and designed. Sacchiya Mata and Mahavir Jain temples are the largest among surviving shrines.Khimsar (72km): On the Jodhpur-nagpur-bikaner highway, Khimsar is where Aurangzeb is reported to have stayed when he ordered his arm is to invade Jodhpur.Jeep safaris can be provide at khimsar fort. The Royal Castle the home of the Thakur of Khimsar, is now a Welcome group hotel.
FESTIVALS OF JODHPUR
Marwar Festival (November) It held in noe in Jodhpur, this annual event attempts to showcase the art and culture of the jodhpur region . It is devoted almost exclusive to song and dance, and the Maenad Festivals has become a part of this huge regional celebration.SHOPPING
Jodhpur is a shopper's paradise and handicrafts here differ from those in other Rajasthani tourist centers. The Jodhpur -breeches are famous the world over, popularly called Jodhpuris. Jodhpur is famous for its embroidered shoes, and for carved ivory. Also famous are the Jodhpur 2kg quilts, available in various price ranges.