About Jodhpur The ‘Blue City’, as it is known, was founded on the edges of Thar Desert in 1459 A.D by Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rathore clan of the Rajputs. It was the capital of the Rathore Kingdom, which was the largest in the Rajputana. Jodhpur is the second largest city in Rajasthan after Jaipur, and is encircled by a high 10 km long wall. The city is blessed with a number of forts, temples, gardens and lakes. The historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, music and the brightly attired people lend an aura of romance to the city. The city lies 317 km. from Jaipur and 597 km. from the national capital New Delhi. It is well connected by rail to Jaipur and New Delhi. Location & Attractions MEHRANGARH FORT The Mehrangarh Fort is the most impressive fortress in Rajasthan. The 5 km long ramparts of the fort, perched on a 125 metre - high rocky cliff in the middle of the city, has four gates which can be approached by a winding road. The fort offers a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. Inside the fort, one can see magnificent palaces adorned with intricately carved panels and latticed windows. The palaces have evocative names, like Moti-Mahal, Phool-Mahal, Sheesh-Mahal, Sileh-Khana and Daulat-Khana. To match their character. These Palaces house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty - Palanquins, Elephant Howdahs, miniature paintings of various schools, music instruments, costumes and furniture. UMAID BHAWAN PALACE At the start of the 20th century, a western–style palace was built to help people of Jodhpur during famine. It took 16 years for the palace to take shape. This stately mansion with nearly 350 rooms and an imposing central dome has the distinction of having been one of the largest private residences of the world. The opulent edifice in sand stone is now partly the residence of the descendants of Jodhpur Kingdom, while the rest of the monument is home to star hotel and a museum. The museum houses a rare collection of rocks, watches, fine china, ornate mirrored furniture, glass and crystal ware and photographs. JASWANT THADA This cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in 1899 A.D. in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, also houses the portraits of various kings who ruled Jodhpur in the past. MANDORE Mandore was the capital of the ancient Marwar Empire, prior to the foundation of the city of Jodhpur. Extensive gardens with the rock terraces make this historic city even more enchanting. The soaring temple shaped memorial to Maharaja Ajit Singh here is the largest and the finest of all the cenotaphs of Jodhpur rulers. It houses the "Hall of Heroes" which contains 16 figures of Hindu deities and local heroes on horse back. GIRDIKOT AND SARDAR MARKET These colourful markets with tiny shops dotting the narrow lanes are situated in the heart of the city. The markets have a wide range of handicrafts on offer, making them a popular haunt for shoppers. KAILANA LAKE The charming picnic spot with a small artificial lake is situated on the Jaisalmer road, 11 km from the city. It is delightful spot to watch the sunset from. BAL SAMAND LAKE Originally constructed as a bund by Balak Rao Parihar and enlarged by Maharaja Sur Singh, this spot overlooks a fine artificial lake. The Bal Samand lake is located 7 km from city. Festivals Jodhpur’s main festival, the Marwar Festival in October is devoted mainly to music and dance.