Local Attractions

Places to visit in Jodhpur

Jodhpur, the second largest city in Rajasthan is popularly known as the Blue City. The name is clearly befitting as most of the architecture – forts, palaces, temples, havelis and even houses are built in vivid shades of blue. Jodhpur marks its origin back to the year of 1459 AD.

The history of this prosperous city revolves around the Rathore clan. Rao Jodha, the chief of Rathore Clan is credited with the origin of Jodhpur in India. The city is known to be built in place of the ancient capital, Mandore of the state of Manwar. the people of Jodhpur and surrounding areas are commonly known as Marwaris.

Mehrangarh Fort

Jodhpur is a city in the Thar Desert of the northwest Indian state of Rajasthan. Its 15th-century Mehrangarh Fort is a former palace that’s now a museum, displaying weapons, paintings and elaborate royal palanquins (sedan chairs). Mehrangarh Fort still bears the imprints of cannonball attacks courtesy the armies of Jaipur on its second gate. Rising perpendicular and impregnable from a hill which is 125 metres above Jodhpur’s skyline is the Mehrangarh Fort.

Jaswant Thada

A Tranquil Marvel in Jodhpur, Jaswant Thada is an architectural gem nestled in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Jaswant Thada is also called Tajmahal of Jodhpur. This place exhibits exquisite architecture made of marble and the famous reddish pink Jodhpur sandstone This serene monument boasts intricate white marble carvings and delicate lattice work, offering visitors a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. The cenotaphs inside the monument, dedicated to Marwar rulers, provide a poignant connection to the past. Jaswant Thada stand out is the stunning view it offers of the Mehrangarh Fort and the city of Jodhpur from its garden surroundings.

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park

It is located next to Jaswant Toda. A good place to explore in nature. There are some trails to explore the park and observe the surrounding natural beauty.

Umaid Bhawan

A small portion of majestic Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur is turned into a museum, while other major parts have been turned into Luxurious Hotel and residence of royal family. The current royal family of Jodhpur still lives in the palace.Umaid Bhawan Museum is nice example of antique collection displayed & amazing architecture, showing long history of Suryvanshi dynasty in detail, art work of another level. The museum is well maintained and displays the antiques belonging to the maharajas and the royal family that includes cutleries. paintings, arms and ammunition etc. The complex also displays collection of vintage cars. The place also offers a closer view of the grand Umaid Bhawan Palace.

Ghanta Ghar

Jodhpur's Clock Tower, also known as Ghanta Ghar, is a 3-story landmark with a giant, functional English clock. Built in the 19th century by Maharaja Sardar Singh.Intricate details grace the tower, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan's royal past. It blends Gothic and Indian architectural styles, resembling a minaret more than a square clock tower.The surrounding market bursts with colourful stalls overflowing with textiles and handicrafts, creating a feast for the senses.

Mandore Garden

Mandore Gardens, featuring high rock terraces.Within the gardens lie unique dewals, or cenotaphs, dedicated to Jodhpur's past rulers. “Chhatri” shaped cenotaphs found throughout Rajasthan, these impressive structures resemble Hindu temples. Built from red sandstone, they stand four stories tall with elegant spires and finely crafted columns.The most magnificent dewal belongs to Maharaja Ajit Singh. These cenotaphs are beautifully integrated within the landscaped gardens, with the Maharani's cenotaphs positioned on a rocky outcrop overlooking the hills. The garden complex houses couple of pretty cenotaphs and ancient temples. The evening light & sound show depicting the ancient history of Mandore was quite interesting.

Toorji Ka Jhalra (Toorji’s Step Well)

The step well has an unique architecture with multiple steps and levels, it may be slightly tricky to walk down from the top to lower levels. excellent monument showing the great work by our forefathers in India. Thier planning and execution of such precise engineering architecture is truly mesmerizing.

MACHIYA BIOLOGICAL PARK

Machia Biological Park is located about 8.5 km from the city, It is a host to varied species of flora and fauna as well as a nature interpretation centre and the Machia Fort. The premises houses a veterinary hospital for maintaining the well-being of the animals inside. There is also a bird watching point for bird lovers. A nature interpretation centre has been set up for those seeking an in-depth experience of the ecology and biodiversity.It is home to multiple wild animals such as the deer, desert fox, monitor lizard, rabbits, feral cats, gazelles, mongooses, tortoises, etc.

GUDA VILLAGE

Guda, a Bishnoi village, is home to a vivid range of exotic wildlife and nature. It is a habitat for thousands of migratory birds in the area. One can often catch the Demoiselle crane frolicking at the lake. Antelopes and black bucks can also be spotted by the pond. Approximately 22 km away from the city of Jodhpur, the site is the best place to witness the scenic beauty and exotic wildlife. The Guda Bishnoi Lake, an artificial lake by that flows by the village, is a sight to behold and serves as a watering hole for a large number of birds and animals. This village is inhabited by the Bishnoi community, that is one of the tribes residing in Rajasthan. As they are committed to the worship of the different forms of nature, they are devoted to the protection and conservation of the natural environment around them, along with its varied inhabitants. Upon visiting the village, one can find antelopes, Blackbucks, Demoiselle cranes, Saru cranes, spotted owls, rabbits, gazelles, blue bulls, and peacocks.

References

1. https://www.tourism.rajasthan.gov.in/jodhpur.html
2. https://www.makemytrip.com/tripideas/places-to-visit-in-jodhpur