Attractions of Jodhpur

The city has something extraordinary for everyone. If you are an architecture lover, you can visit the stunning structures like Mehrangarh fort, Jaswant Thada and Umaid Bhavan. For the shopping addicted, Jodhpur is not less than a blessing. From the famous embroidered Rajasthani dresses or adorned jewelries to fragrant spices and crafts & handlooms, the city provides every magnificent thing associated with the bygone era. Briefly, you can say that Jodhpur has everything for everyone which make it a perfect getaway.

Mehrangarh Fort: Regarded as the most splendid and stunning fort of Rajasthan, Mehrangarh fort was built by the founder of city Maharaja Jodha Rao in year 1459. The fort stretches to a length of 5 kms and is located on approx 125 meters high elevated land. The best and unique thing about the fort is that, it was constructed in such a way that it was nearly impossible to the rivals to invade the fort. Reaching at the highest point of the fort, the panoramic view of city will surely mesmerize you. On one side, you will witness Jaswant Thada houses beautiful cenotaphs and on another side, proudly stand Umaid Palace showing its lavish structure. While roaming the fort, you’ll find some cultural performers sitting at the corners by presenting the fascinating music. It is their magic that every passerby is easily influenced and the whole atmosphere is echoed on the versions of the bygone era. I would suggest not to forget your camera to capture these moments.

Jaswant Thada: Houses the elegant cenotaphs of the royal families, Jaswant Thada was built in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II in the year 1899. Constructed in white marbles, this structure presents a fine example of magnificent architecture. Inside the central cenotaph, you’ll find the portraits of many Rajput rulers who had served Jodhpur.

Umaid Bhawan: The luxurious, lavish and extravagant Palace ever constructed in North India, Umaid Bhavan is an example of the early modern period architecture. Built in early 20th century, the palace is divided into 3 major parts. In first part is resident of the royal family which is one of the world’s largest private residences. The second part are now occupied by the esteemed group of Taj hotels and the third one is converted into the museum and the opens for the general public. There is an interesting fact behind construction of Umaid Bhavan. It was actually built to provide the employment to famine struck population of Jodhpur which took over 16 years to complete.

A culinary city

You may be aware that Rajasthani people are food lovers! While the popular dishes like ker-sangri, gate ki subzi, dal-bati churma and badi ka saag are available almost everywhere in Jodhpur, head to some fine local restaurants to savour a variety of cuisines. Within the city, you’ll find some good and value for money eateries offering a great variety of food. These include Jodhpur Coffee House which is also famous for good South Indian snacks, Uttam Restaurant, On the Rocks that offers variety of both veg and non-veg food. How can one forget the famous sweets of Jodhpur! If you were born with a sweet tooth, Jodhpur offers a great variety of sweet delicacies. For the traditional age old recipes, head to Mishrilal, Janta Sweet Home or Jodhpur Sweet Home for mouth watering Mave ki Kachori, Makkhan Vade, Moong Dal ka Halwa and Makhania Lassi which is made from yogurt with saffron.

Best time to visit to Jodhpur

Although there is no particular condition or time for a traveler to plan out, but if you don’t like summers and like others wish to plan out during winters, I would suggest you to visit during the months from October to March.

Location

Lies within the very famous Thar Desert (the Great Indian Desert), Jaisalmer is located 575 kms west of the pink city Jaipur, 350 kms north-east of Bikaner and 307 kms south-east of the blue city Jodhpur.

The city was named after the Rajput king and the founder of the city, Maharawal Jaisal Singh in year 1156 AD. This is because the yellow sand and the sandstone used to make the structures in this city which give it golden yellow appearance.

Attractions

Famous for beautiful forts and palaces, lakes, gardens and of course influential sand dunes, Jaisalmer offers the glimpse of multi-colored culture and a touch of preserved heritage.

1. Jaisalmer Fort : Famously known as Golden Fort or “Sonar Quila” of Rajasthan, Jaislmer Fort was built up by the founder of city, Maharawal Jaisal Singh in year 1156 AD, the same year the city was founded. The fort ranks amongst the largest forts in the world. The hues of golden and yellow mixed sandstone blend with the ambience of Sun offer something magical and marvelous look to the Fort. The Fort stands tall and proud displaying the marvel of Rajasthani architecture.

2. Bada Bagh : Bada Bagh means ‘Big Garden’. The garden constructed for cremations of the member of Royal families. With the great number of beautiful Cenotaphs, the garden offers an impressive view during sunrise and sunset. I suggest you don’t miss to capture these stunning moments on you camera

3. Patwon-Ki-Haveli : Located near to Jaisalmer Fort, these five-storied mansions are masterpieces of Architecture. With the first of its kind in Jaisalmer, these havelis were constructed by an acclaimed merchant Guman Chand Patwa for his 5 sons. The outstanding and finest art can be seen in the walls of corridor of each story. The entire adorn construction adds tremendous impression of heritage and culture of the city. Constructed with yellow sandstones, one of the Havelis is now converted into museum and occupied by Rajasthan government with offices of Archeological Survey of India and State Art and Craft.

4. Sam Sand Dunes : The most astonishing tourist attraction of Jaisalmer, Sam Sand Dunes is an excellent spot to loose yourself in the desert safari. Either by Jeep or by Camel, you can enjoy the safari during the picturesque sunrise and sunset on the desert. Located near to the Thar Desert, the Sam Sand Dunes is becoming a major tourist attraction of Jaisalmer. Enjoy your safari on camelback in breathtaking sand peaks. You can also put yourself in the desert camps for a night to make your trip more adventurous and memorable. From Royal to budget, there are many camps where you can stay for a night. A cultural and musical event is organized for the guests by each camp. To see the Rajasthani culture closely, you must attend these activities.

5. Gadisar Lake : Built in the 14th century by Maharawal Gadsi, this freshwater lake was once the main source of drinking water for entire town. Located a kilometer away from the fort, the lake is now a tourist spot with many beautiful shrines around the bank of the lake. The people of the bygone era depended on this tank for their water needs. Famous among the photographers, this is a great spot to capture some splendid snapshots of Jaisalmer Fort in the morning when the ambience of fort blends with golden glitters of sun. Apart from the stunning views, you can also take a ride of boating and enjoy your trip.