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| Jodhpur -The Sun City |
Jodhpur, the former capital of Marwar state, was founded in 1459, by Rai Jodha, the chief of Rathore clan of Rajputs. The origin of this legendary town can be traced back to Mahabharata times. It finds mention as northern Marwar in Janglades. Since 13th century, it has been known as Marudesh or Marwar, a desert of sand made immortal by the Rathores, who claim direct descent from Lord Rama. This bastion of Rathores is set on the threshold of the Thar-the Great Indian Desert and was once the part of the celebrated silk route from central Asia to the sea ports of Gujarat.
The historical town is a homogeneous blend of five hundred years of tumultuous history, rich traditions and modernity. Originally, the city was surrounded by a wall that extended upto 10kms, with eight gates facing in various directions. Today, the remains of the wall can be seen only at few places, as the city has grown extensively. The walled city is set at the foot of the Mehrangarh Fort and a tour through the winding lanes and brimming bazaars of the 'old city' is quite an experience. A spectacular view of the city can be obtained from the battlements of the magnificent fort. The city is also know for its thriving handicraft industry and promises you a delightful encounter with an array of tempting art and craft creations. The exquisite handicrafts makes Jodhpur a treasure trove for shopper's. The Jodhpuri cuisine is also an experience in itself as people overhere are fond of delicacies. No wonder the city is studded with plenty of fine sweet shops and restaurants. Tasting a hot mirchi bada and delicious mawe ki kachori is considered a must for every tourist.
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Getting there
Airways : Connected with Delhi, Mumbai Jaipur & Udaipur.
Railways: Well connected with important cities of India.
Roadways: Well connected with major cities of Indian.
Facts About Jodhpur
Area : 29 sq. km.
Languages : Rajasthani, Hindi & English.
Temperature : Summer Mean Max. 42.2C Mean Min 36.6C
Clothing : : Summer Light Tropical Winter Woollen.
Exploring Jodhpur!
Mehrangarh Fort
The magnificent Mehrangarh or the 'Sun' fort was founded by Rao Jodha in 1459 AD., when he shifted his capital from Mandore on the advice of a hermit. The imposing fort perches atop a 115 m. high hill, above the city and overlooks the rugged and rocky terrain. It is a standing sentinel to the grandeur of the past, invincible and dauntless in its league with time. The impregnable fort is reached after a steep climb through seven imposing gates (the fourth is missing now, destroyed). The sturdy walls are 6 to 36 metres high and 3 to 21 metres wide. The entrance from Loha Polo s marked with sati handprints. Jodhpur's chequered history provided its queens with several occasion to prove their fidelity. Marks of cannon balls fired by the invaders can still be seen on the fort walls. There are several cenotaphs commemorating the sacrifices of the brave Rajputs, who laid their lives while guarding the fort.
The palace within is adorned with long intricately carved panels and latticed windows exquisitely wrought from red sandstone. There are also various residences and public offices. The 16th century Moti Mahal (Pearl Palace) was built by Sur Singh. Sringar Chowki, the marble coronation seat is immediately visible here in a courtyard on the right hand side, before the main palaces. Every rulers since Rao Jodha has been coronated here. other important apartments within are-Phool Mahal (Flower Palace) or Darbar-e Khas (Hall of private audience), Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana with a rice varied collection of palanquins, folk music instruments, costumes, furniture and an impressive armoury. Chandan Mahal has some superb palaces in the zenana. The spectacular display of ancient cannons on the ramparts near Chamunda Devi temple on the far end is the most popular Hindu shrine of the city. Large number of devotees visit the shrine especially during the Navratris.
Jaswant Thada
This magnificent white marble memorial was built in 1889, in the memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh ll. The ornately carved cenotaph lies near the fort and nestles on a low hillock, standing out in complete contrast with its surroundings. Inside the cenotaphs are fine portraits of successive rulers of Marwar and a complete genealogical table of the royal family of Jodhpur.
Umaid Bhawan
This spectacular palace sprawling over an area of 26 acres was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh between 1929-1942. It was built as a famine relief project which costed over Rs.1.5 crores. H.V. Lancaster and J.R. Lodge were the chief architects, who created this perfectly symmetrical, formal building. It bears a stamp of solidity of state architecture and is a splendid example of Indo-colonial and art deco style of the 30's. The unique feature of this palace is the fact that hand chiselled sandstone blocks have been put tighter in a special system of interlocking and there is no mortar binding.
A portion of the palace has been converted in a hotel. There is also an excellent museum, housing models of aeroplanes, weapons, antique clocks and bob watches, priceless crockery and hunting trophies. Both sections retain the ambience of royal splendour.
Girdikot & Sardar Market
It is the heart of the city, full of life and vigour. The colourful bazaars retain the medieval flavour of a trading town. The busy narrow lanes around are dotted with tiny shops deal in handicraft items.
Maha Mandir Temple
The magnificent temple is situated on the Mandore road and is known for its architecture is of the shrine is quite unique and original in style. The entire structure is supported by 84 intricately carved pillars, ornamented with detailed designs and figures depicting various posture of yoga.
Government Museum
It is housed in a stately building in the center of the Umaid Public Garden. The museum exhibits a rich collection armoury, textiles, local arts and crafts, miniature paintings, portraits, manuscripts and images of Jain Tirthankaras.
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