The city of Jodhpur, located in the middle of the Thar desert, is part of the state of Rajasthan. Because of the blue color of the houses, it is often called the “Blue City”. Jodhpur was founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, the head of the Rathore clan. The Kingdom of the Rathore’s was once known as Marwar, the "land of death." Jodhpur was built as the new capital of the kingdom of Marwar, and replaced the old capital, the city of Mandor, whose ruins can be seen today near the garden of the same name.

Jodhpur is an ancient and very beautiful city in India, tangled medieval streets intertwined in it, which, it seems, never leads to where you want to get. They smell like incense, roses, and sewers, there are shops and bazaars where everything is sold, from pipes and temple decorations to tobacco and saris. Traditionally, the blue color denoted the house of a brahmana, but those who are not Brahmanas, by law, must also paint houses in blue. This shade emits an incomprehensible light, and, in addition, is believed to be able to drive insects away.

Attractions in Jodhpur: -

Mehrangarh Fort: - “Fortress of the Sun”, one of the most magnificent buildings in India and, without a doubt, the largest and most impressive fort in this country. In almost every major city in India, there is a fort or its ruins. So, you will not surprise by this. But Mehrangarh is impressive - huge, majestic, it rises above the whole city. The fort was built in the XV century. You can get to him on foot from the Old Town or on a rickshaw. The fort is open to visitors from 9:00 to 17:00.

Jaswant Thada: - Not far from the fort is another attraction - the Jaswant Thada Mausoleum, which was built in 1899. Inside is the tomb of Maharaja Jodhpur Jaswant Singh II. The mausoleum is more like a magnificent palace. Openwork, carved, made of snow-white marble, it shines in the bright sun.

Gardens of Mandora: - This place is located on the southern outskirts of Jodhpur. Mandor was the ancient capital of Marwar before the founding of Jodhpur. From the past greatness, there is practically nothing left. Today, these are ancient gardens with tombs of the Maharajas. On the territory there is the Hall of Heroes - a wall with bas-reliefs of Hindu gods. The garden itself is also very beautiful, and the tombs resemble openwork temples with turrets.

Umaid Bhavan: - This is a huge palace, one of the largest private residences in the world. It was completed in 1943 by the Maharaja Jodhpur family to replace Fort Mehrangarh as a royal residence. Umaid Bhawan was erected by a British architect who combined Indian and European styles in his work. The palace simply impressed with its size - it occupies an area of ??about 10 hectares and consists of 347 rooms.

The clock tower: - This is in the center of the Sardar market in the Old Town. This is perhaps the most modest of all the attractions of Jodhpur. You can go up and see the city from a height. Not only the tower itself is remarkable, but also the colorful noisy market located around.

Mahamandir: - A huge abandoned temple, located near the station. This is a complex structure, consisting of many carved arbores. Unfortunately, the city authorities are not particularly watching him, and the structure is gradually declining.

Jain Mahavira Temple: - Temple of the Jains. Like other temples of this religion, it is very beautiful, with many carved details. Be sure to visit this temple to see the fine stone carvings. Inside is a large statue of Mahavir, the founder of Jainism. This religion preaches non-violence and a total prohibition of harming any living thing. Jains strive to perfect the soul for eternal bliss.

Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park: - This park located near the fort. The park is quite large, has many hiking trails. At the entrance, you can take a guide. On the territory there are ruins of ancient walls, you can see the local flora and fauna.

Lake Balsamand: - The surroundings of Jodhpur are famous for their lakes. One of them can be seen 3 km from the fort - this is Lake Balsamand. Around him lies a park in which citizens often have picnics. Near the lake there is a luxurious hotel with a restaurant and pool.

Foods in Jodhpur: -

The food in Jodhpur is the same as in the whole of Rajasthan. There are a lot of restaurants and cafes, however, like street food. Most dishes are vegetarian, but you can also find meat. Street food is represented by points with scrambled eggs. Be sure to try the local Mircea bada (stuffed with potatoes, chili peppers in batter) and kachori (pies with vegetables). Masala tea is also sold at every step. Rajasthani sweets can be found in any shop - everything is delicious, try it!

Jodhpur's traditional dishes are made from homemade unleavened planarian cheese, vegetables, milk or cream. Try the Rajasthani Thali - a huge rice dish with many sauces. This often includes desserts.

Shopping in Jodhpur: -

Shopping for Jodhpur will appeal to all lovers of antiquity and oriental wealth. This is very pleasant, the tourist does not need to go anywhere specifically - most of the shops are in the old part of the city. In addition, there is also the Sardar market, and the streets of the Blue City consist entirely of small shops. The city has several medium-sized shopping centers, but they do not shine with the choice of brands.

Fabrics and sarees, spices, puppets and handicrafts, Figurines, paintings, photographs, decor items, and Silver products and a few of the famous items of Jodhpur.

Festivals in Jodhpur: -

Gangaur: - This is a famous festival of the whole state, a holiday of spring, harvest and family. Many women and girls dress up in colorful clothes and hold a parade dedicated to the goddess Gauri.

Marwar Festival: - Festival of Traditional Music and Dance. Celebrated in the month of October.

Best Time to Visit Jodhpur: -

Traveling to Jodhpur, as in principle to other cities in the state of Rajasthan, in which it is located, is best from the beginning of October to the beginning of April, because during this period temperatures rarely exceed 30-32 degrees Celsius. And the most ideal time to visit Jodhpur is from December to February.

How to Reach Jodhpur: -

By Air: - Jodhpur Airport operates flights from Delhi and Bombay with transfers in Jaipur and Udaipur, respectively. The airport is located just 5 km from the city.

By Train: - Jodhpur Junction Main Station is 1.5 km from the city center, and can even be reached on foot. There is a bus stop near the station.

By Road: - Buses come to Jodhpur from different cities. There are many stops, it is better to just tell the driver where you need to get out, and he will stop in the nearest place. Travel offices are located near the train station (see map). Here you can easily buy a ticket for any private bus. You can come to Jodhpur by car with a driver, but try to choose short distances.