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Jodhpur, the city of eternal brightness, was once the capital of the Marwar Kingdom. Today, the sun city is the second largest metro in the state of Rajasthan. The bright and colourful culture of the city, set against the stark background of the Thar desert is a rewarding experience for every traveller crossing these lands.
Jodhpur is a popular tourist destination in Rajasthan with its many forts, places, lakes and other monuments of historic and cultural value. Here is our travel guide to Jodhpur city, learn more on the places to visit and the key tourist attractions.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Among the popular places to visit in Jodhpur is the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace. It is currently listed among the largest privately owned residences in the world. It is also among the few such palaces that is still occupied by the royal family in part, and taken care of by a luxury hotel in part. The palace also has a museum that can be visited during the day between 9:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Photo Courtesy: Ghirlandajo
Mehrangarh Fort
The Mehrangarh Fort in Jodhpur is among the largest forts in India and is a key attraction here. Situated atop a hill, the fort is at an elevation of 400 ft. Inside the fort there are many palaces and structures that boast of intricate sculptures and breathtaking architecture. The outside is fortified by thick impenetrable walls. The fort also has one of the best museums in the region with various artefacts on display such as palanquins, armoury and paintings. To the north of the fort, travellers looking for adventure can try zip-lining, which is a joy ride of 1.5 hours!
Photo Courtesy: Schwiki
Jaswant Thada
Built by Maharaja Sardar, the Jaswant Thada memorial is a must-visit place in Jodhpur. The architectural marvel was built in memory of the King's father. The astounding memorial is completely built in marble, and what is truly awe inspiring are the intricate carvings and lattice work. This must have been a herculean task, given that the marble sheets used were kept thin to allow the play of light! The cenotaph also has lovely gardens, gazebos and a lake.
Photo Courtesy: Flying Pharmacist
Balsamand Lake
Another place to visit in Jodhpur is the Balsamand Lake, located at a distance of 5 km from the city. Originally designed to be a water reservoir, the lake is today a major tourist attraction in Jodhpur. Spanning one kilometre in length, the lake is surrounded by lush greenery. The vegetation has many fruit yielding trees, and you can even sight pretty peacocks here!
Photo Courtesy: Hector Garcia
Kaylana Lake
Located 8 km from Jodhpur city is another tourist attraction, the Kaylana Lake. Spanning a vast area of 84 sq km, the lake is responsible for providing Jodhpur and the surrounding areas with drinking water. It is a scenic location with Bambool trees and many migratory birds.
Photo Courtesy: Archan Dave
Gangaur
The Gangaur festival in Jodhpur held on the days after Holi is among the popular attractions the city offers. One of the most important festivals in the region, Gangaur is the celebration of marriage. Especially significant for women, prayers are offered to Goddess Gauri or Parvati, seeking the blessings for a long, healthy and happy married life. This colourful festival sees some interesting rituals such as application of interesting mehendi patterns on the hands of women and carrying pots with lamps around the village collecting small gifts.
Photo Courtesy: Ggia
Ghanta Ghar
Among the things to do in Jodhpur is a visit to the Ghanta Ghar or the clock tower. The tower represents interesting architecture and sports beautiful sandstone carvings. Outside the clock tower, travellers can find markets selling a variety of items such as beautiful mirror work handicrafts, embroidered clothing, silver antiques, cloth dolls and clay figurines.
Photo Courtesy: VD
The Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park
A place of natural interest in Jodhpur is the Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park. Built in 2006, the park is a sustained effort at restoring the natural vegetation and ecology of the wetland surrounding the fort. A walk through the interesting garden with its many unique forms of cactus plants is definitely on the list of popular things to do in Jodhpur.
Photo Courtesy: Nevil Zaveri
Food and Shopping
Try the mouth-watering Rajasthani cuisine in Jodhpur. Make sure you get a taste of the popular snacks such as kachori and ladoos. Also have a refreshing drink of makhaniya lassi. For those with a sweet tooth, try the many sweets that Jodhpur offers like the besan ki chakki.
Jodhpur has many colourful handicrafts to choose from, buy something for every member of your family here. Products range from colourful jewellery to toys.
Photo Courtesy: Arian Zwegers
How to Reach Jodhpur
By Road: Jodhpur is well connected by roads to all major destinations in Rajasthan and Gujarat. The highway network connects to major cities such as Agra, Ajmer, Ahmedabad, Delhi, etc.
By Rail: The Jodhpur Railway Station is well connected by trains to all major destinations in the country. The IRCTC offering 'Palace on Wheels' also makes a stop at Jodhpur.
By Air: Located 5 km from the city center, the Jodhpur Domestic Airport has flights to major destinations in the country. The only international airport in Rajasthan is located in Jaipur, 328 km from Jodhpur.
Photo Courtesy: Jean-Pierre Dalbera
