| Jodhpur Travel |
|
Set Amidst the Thar Desert, the second largest city of Rajasthan, Jodhpur is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Rajasthan. Rao Jodha founded the former capital of the Marwar state, the city of Jodhpur in 1459 AD. As you travel through the Jodhpur city, you get well acquainted with the fortification of the city done with 10 km long wall and 8 gates.
The majestic forts, palaces and temples retain the historic and royal grandeur of the city of Jodhpur. The delicate and intricately made handicrafts, folk dances, folk music and the people in the traditional attire of Rajasthan make the city quite attractive and picturesque in every sense. The two-day Marwar Festival held here in Jodhpur, once in a year, is another principal event that pulls the tourist traffic towards Jodhpur.
|
You can also shop around the markets in Jodhpur with a unique stock of handicrafts. The memorable souvenirs include the tie and dye fabric, velvet products, embroidered 'jutis' or slippers in suede and other exclusive handicraft items. The most popular stuff in Jodhpur is the baggy-tight horse-riding trouser, also called as Jodhpuri. |
| |
| Fairs & Festivals in Jodhpur |
Marwar Festival (16- 17th October, 2005)
Held in October in Jodhpur, this annual, event attempts to showcase the art culture of the Jodhpur region. It ids devoted almost exclusively to song and dances, and the Maand Festival has become a part of this huge region celebration. |
| |
Jodh pur History
Set at the edge of the Thar desert, the imperial city of Jodhpur echoes with
tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. Once the capital of the
Marwar state, it was founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha-chief of the Rathore clan
of Rajputs who claimed to be descendants of Rama - the epic hero of the
Ramayana. The massive 15th century A.D. Mehrangarh Fort looms on the top of a
rocky hill, soaring 125 Mts. Above the plains. The city is encompassed by a high
wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions. A major trade centre of
the 16th century A.D. the fortress-city of Jodhpur is now the second largest
city of Rajasthan.
Jodhpur Culture
While the graceful palaces , forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur, exquisite handicrafts , folk dances music and the brightly attired people lend a romantic aura to the city. The jumble of wide winding streets are flanked with pavement stalls. The lifestyle in jodhpur is unusually fascinating with folks wearing lovely multihued costumes, artistically designed. Women folk wear wide gathered skirts and a hip length jacket, with three quarter length sleeves , covering the front and back. The colorful turbans worn by the men folk add more color to the city . It was from here that the popularity worn baggy - tight, horse riding trousers - 'Jodhpurs', took their name.
|
| |
| General Information of Jodhpur |
By Air
Jodhpur is well connected to all the major cities which includes Delhi, Mumbai, Calcutta, Jaipur, Udaipur.
By Bus
Rajasthan Roadways run very comfortable deluxe & air conditioned buses from Delhi (Bikaner House, Nr. India Gate) to Jodhpur. The roads are very good, and it takes around 8-9 hrs from Jodhpur. You can also come by taxi.
By Train
Jodhpur is on the Broad Gauge and hence connected to all the metro cities of India. There are daily trains from Jaipur, Delhi, Mumbai & Kolkata.
Shopping in Jodhpur
The usual Rajasthani handicraft are available here, but Jodhpur specialises in antiques. The Ajit Bhawan with the Umaid Bhawan and the well known Abani Handicraft is next to Tourist Bungalow. You will be hard pressed to find any bargains, though this is no reflection on the generally excellent quality of the goods available. The tie and dye fabric, embroidered ‘jutis’ or slippers in suede, cancel skin, velvet and more color to the city. It was form here that the popularly worn baggy-tight horse riding trousers, - "Jodhpurs", took their name. |
| |
| Places to See in Jodhpur |
Mehrangarh Fort
The 5 km long majestic fort on a 125 metre high hill is one of the most impressive and formidable structures. Although invincible from the outside, the fort has four gates approached by a winding road. Within the fort are some magnificent palaces with marvelously carved panels, latticed windows and evocative names. Not worthy of these are the Moti Mahal, the Phool Mahal, the Sheesh Mahal, the Sileh Khana and the Daulat Khana. These palaces house a fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty including a superb collection of palanquins, elephant hawdahs, miniature paintings of various schools, musical instruments, costumes and furniture.
Jaswant Thada
A cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in 1899 A.D. in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Within the main cenotaph are the portraits of various Jodhpur rulers.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
The only 20th century palace built under the famine relief project that gave employment to famine struck population. The palace was completed in 16 years. This opulent edifice in sandstone is still the residence of the former rulers with a part of it running as hotel and remaining part as a museum.
Girdikot and Sardar Market
These colourful markets with tiny shops dotting the narrow lanes are situated in the heart of the city and are popular for a wide range of handicrafts, making them the favorite haunt of shoppers.
Museum
The museum has an exquisite ensemble of paintings, sculptures and antique weapons.
Balsamand Lake and Gardens (5 km)
A pretty lake built in 1159 A.D. A splendid summer Palace stands by the lake side surrounded by beautiful gardens. An idyllic spot for excursions.
Mandore (8 km)
The ancient capital of Marwar has cenotaphs of the Jodhpur rulers. The Hall of heroes has fifteen figures carved out of the rock on the wall which represent Hindu deities. Its beautiful gardens with high rock terraces make it a popular picnic spot.
Mahamandir Temple (9 km)
Built in 1812 A.D. it is noteworthy temple with 84 carved pillars.
Kailana Lake (11 km)
The beautiful lake is an ideal picnic spot.
Dhawa (45 km)
A wildlife sanctuary with the largest number of Indian antelopes.
Luni Fort (20 km)
Now converted into a heritage hotel, this fort and its surroundings are worth a visit
|
|
|
