Jodhpur Tourism – Sightseeing Places To Visit In Jodhpur

Mehrangarh Fort: Mehrangarh Fort was built by Rao Jodha( founder of Jodhpur city) around 1460; initially its name was Mihirgarh which literally means fort of God Sun, the name symbolized the connection of Rathore Rajput clan with God Sun as his descendants. It is situated at the height of nearly 125 meters on a hilltop known as Bhaurcheeria; it was built on such a height to ensure its safety from enemies, this elevation has provided natural defense making it one of the invincible forts of Rajasthan. It is believed that the foundation of this proud fortress was laid by Goddess Karni herself on the invitation of Rao Jodha which she eventually accepted. This fort is located at the center of the city, hence very easy to reach. Mehrangarh fort is the center of attraction for tourists because of breathtaking views of Jodhpur city from here, rich museum & turban gallery. Mehrangarh fort is also a National Geological Monument, just another feather in its hat.

Ummaid Bhavan Palace: Ummaid Bhavan Palace is the residence of the royal family of Jodhpur. It is the youngest royal palace built in India in 1929, with the noble idea of providing employment to people Maharaja Ummaid Singh; when the foundation of any job is laid with such noble intentions, a miracle is created. This fiercely large palace is standing on 26 acres of land, every step, every brick in this royal palace witnesses the golden era of royalty. Today there are 3 wings in this palace one is serving as museum other is the residence of erstwhile royal family & third one is an exotic hotel of Taj Group. It has 347 rooms each with distinguished architecture, the palace was built using sandstone, marble, granite & Burma teak for wooden work. Museum in palace posses many arms & ammunitions crafted using precious materials like ruby, diamond, sapphire, emerald, rhino horn, ivory, gold & silver.

Jaswant Thada: Jaswant Thada is cenotaph built in 1899 by Maharaja Sardar Singh of Jodhpur princely state in the loving memory of his father Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, this cenotaph was manufactured using white marble is an extraordinary example of Mughal & Rajput architecture craftsmanship. Jaswant Thada has beautiful marble gazebos, garden, a small lake & obviously a very fine view of Mehrangarh Fort.

Mandore Garden: Mandore garden is located at a distance of 9 km in the north of Jodhpur city, Mandore is known as the former capital of kings of Jodhpur. Before the founding stone of Jodhpur was laid by Rao Jodha Mandore was the capital of former kings. Mandore garden is a big lush green garden with the monuments like cenotaph of various kings of Jodhpur among them the cenotaph of Maharaja Ajit Singh built in 1793 is most gorgeous & celebrated. To the level of amazement a shrine of the demon king, Ravana is also present in here, as a sect of local Brahmins believe that Ravana was their son-in-law because Ravana’s wife Mandodari was born & brought up here hence giving the name to the place Mandore. Mandore garden is counted as the main tourist attraction of Jodhpur because of its significantly beautiful monuments, government museum & magnificent temples.

Balsamand Lake: Balsamand Lake is one of best & scenic lake of Jodhpur, it is located at a distance of 5 Km from Jodhpur city center. This 1 km long lake was built by Gurjar-Pratihar kings to meet the water needs of their kingdom. A small but beautiful palace was built too which acted as the asylum for kings during the hot summers of Rajasthan. Surrounded by lush green gardens this lake is a total bliss for tourists visiting Jodhpur. Palace on the banks of this river has been now converted into a heritage hotel now accommodating tourists looking for peace, royal feel & architectural beauty; dinner on the banks of lakes surrounded by greenery is a lifetime experience. One can easily spot a dancing peacock, jackal, wild boar & other wild animals & birds here, making this destination favorite of photography enthusiasts.

Arna Jharna: Arna Jharna often known as The desert museum of Rajasthan is an open museum on the hilltop at a distance of km from Jodhpur city center, this unique museum is spread in a whopping area of 10 km2 ; unlike other museums in India this museum focuses on the open space & live concept. Many artists perform here in order to introduce Rajasthani culture to people visiting here. A large collection of things used in day-to-day life in a desert region can explore here. A view of 360o can be observed from the museum which could be a beautiful experience.