Jodhpur

Encircled by a stone wall, Jodhpur City was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs & was the capital of the State of Marwar. There is an ancient fort crowning the hill, overlooking the old town. A new, modern palace was created by the than King as a famine relief programme. It is now partially converted into a hotel, with the royal family still residing in part of the palace.

There is much to do in town and for shoppers, it is a delightful treasure trove of goodies. Amongst other things, Jodhpur is famous for its tie-dye fabrics and leather goods.

Mehrangarh Fort:Dominating the city of Jodhpur is Mehrangarh, one of Rajasthan's three great hilltop forts (the other two are Kumbhalgarh and Chittaurgarh). Mehrangarh literally means "Majestic Fort". It is located at the very centre of the city, and is visible from the surrounding area. There are, in all, three gates, each built to commemorate a particular victory, as well as to reinforce the fort. Originally built in 1806, the fort has been added to, many times since. Carved panels and porches, elaborately adorned walls and windows of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana seem to make the medieval splendor come alive. The palaces in this fort were built in an informal pattern over several centuries. They have their own peculiar style, with narrow staircases, serving as the only means of access to the royal residences within. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, furniture and cannons on the fort's ramparts are well - preserved.
Mehrangarh appears impregnable, and with good reason. Its battlements soar four hundred feet above a hill, that rises sharply from the surrounding countryside. Mehrangarh has its own architectural appeal, such as brilliant stained glass, that creates vibrant mosaics on the floors, with the passage of the sun through the day.

Umaid Bhavan Palace:The 20th century Umaid Bhavan Palace, (also known as Chhittar Palace because of the Chhittar sandstone used in building it) was built in a time of peace, and is quite Western in its design. It was built, as a famine relief project, which gave employment to people, for 16 years. Under a dome, the like of which no other palace in Rajasthan can boast of, the Palace contains over 300 rooms. It has its own theatre, eight dining rooms, and a banquet hall which seats three hundred people. A Ball Room had been built, catering to the westernised royal lifestyle. Much of the interior of the palace is in the art deco style. In fact, it is said to be one of the finest surviving examples of art deco in the world. Deep within the palace is an indoor swimming pool, with a mosaic of zodiac symbols. The palace now runs as a hotel, though, a part of it has been retained as a museum and part as royal residence.

Jashwant Thada:Close to the fort complex lies this white marble cenotaph, built in 1899, in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Rare portraits of Jodhpur's rulers are, also, to be seen at Jaswant Thada.

Mandore garden:is located about 5 miles north of Jodhpur. It was the former capital of Maharajas of Marwar.

Clock Tower and Sardar Market:A prime attraction of the city, is the Clock Tower and the colourful Sardar Market near it. Narrow alleys lead to quaint bazaars selling textiles, antiques, silverware and handicrafts.

Other attractions : Kumbhalgarh Fort, Yellow stone handicrafts shopping.