Tourist Attractions Jodhpur

Located on the foothill of a sandstone hillock, the city of Jodhpur seems like an oasis in the vast desert. Jodhpur is one of the favorite tourist destinations in Rajasthan. People from India as well as all over the world visit Jodhpur every year. There are a number of tourist attractions in Jodhpur, enchanting the tourists. Jodhpur tourist spots stand as a living proof of the splendor, traditions and culture of the Jodhpur. The glorious past of Jodhpur is personified through the various forts, palaces and other monuments of Jodhpur. The main places to see in Jodhpur Rajasthan are:

Mehrangarh Fort: 
Situated on a steep hill, Mehrangarh fort is one of the largest forts in India. Thebeauty and the grandeur of numerous palaces in the fort narrates a saga of hard sandstones yielding to the chisels of skilled Jodhpuri sculptures. Mehrangarh Fort,spreading over 5 km on a perpendicular hill and looking down 125 meters, presents a majestic view on city horizon.It was built on advice of a saint in 1459 to establish an impregnable head-quarter. This Fort is one of the best in India with its exquisitely latticedwindows, carved panels, elaborately adorned windo

ws and walls of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, royal costumes, furniture and the cannons on the fort’s ramparts are well preserved.

Umaid Bhavan Palace: 
One of the fascinating palaces of Jodhpur is the Umaid Bhavan palace. Maharaja Umaid Singh constructed it in 20th century. A part of the palace has now been converted into a ho

tel and a museum.

The romantic looking UmaidBhawan Palace was actually built with the purpose of giving employment to the people of Jodhpur during a long drawn famine. The royal family of Jodhpur still lives in a part of the palace.Another part of the palace houses a well-maintained museum, displaying an amazing array of items belonging to the Maharaja and the royal family – weapons, antiques & fascinating clocks, crockery and trophies.

Jaswant Thada: 
Jaswant Thada lies to the left of the Mehrangarh fort complex. It is a royal cenotaph made up of white marble. It was built to commemorate Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Some rare portraits of the former rulers of Jodhpur are also displayed here.Close to the fort complex, lies Jaswant Thada. This 19th century royal cenotaph built in white marble in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II and three other cenotaphs, stand nearby. The cenotaph of Maharaja Jaswant Singh holds the rare portraits of the rulers and Maharajas of Jodhpur. A visit inside the cenotaphs, with some villagers of the region, would bring forward the reverence they still hold for their brave kings.

Jodhpur Lakes

The most peaceful and relaxing place for a person is by the lakeside. The tranquility of the water lends calmness to the mind in this hectic and forever running world. Whenever we go on a holiday trip, we are trying to get away from the maddening pace of the world. What better way to compose and comfort the mind than visiting a lake.

Jodhpur lakes offer you their placidity to sooth as well as refresh your mind. There are a number of famous lakes around Jodhpur, Rajasthan. Following are the names of some of these lakes:

• Balsammand Lake
• Kaylana Lake
• Sardar Samand Lake

Make sure to visit these lakes, while in Jodhpur. They are a virtual treat to the eye. Most probably, you will get a sense of composure and serenity after spending some time there.

Balsammand Lake Jodhpur

The Balsammand Lake in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is a popular picnic spot, encircled by hills. It is an artificial lake built in 1159 AD. Balsammand Lakeis approximately 7 kms from the main city, on the Jodhpur - Mandore road. This lake isapproximately one kilometer long, fifty meters wide and fifteen meters deep. Next to the lakestands the Balsammand Palace, an artistic eight-pillared palace with three entrance gates. Maharaja Sur Singh got the palace constructed in 1936, as a summer pavilion.

All around the lake are lush green gardens. You can also take a walk through the trees, the rose beds and around pools covered with lilies. Also in the garden are the groves of mango, guava, papaya, plum, banana, pomegranate and other fruits. An artificial cascading waterfall brings water from the reservoir to the gardens. The embankments of the lake, in front of the palace, have domed structure that offers fabulous views of the lake. One will also get to see the peacocks, blue bulls, jackals and hundreds of fruit bats in the trees.

Approximately 2 km from the city and on the way to the lake, is the Maha Mandir. A hundred pillared temple, it is dedicated to Lord Shiva. A walled town is built around the temple. The lake is a must-see picnic spot, enchanting tourists with the cool breeze blowing through the lush greenery around the lake. The peaceful surroundings of BalsammandLake will leave you at peace with yourself.

Kaylana Lake Jodhpur

Kaylana Lake in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is located 8 kms to the west of Jodhpur on the Jaiselmer road. Pratap Singh, the then Prime Minister ofJodhpur, got the lake constructed in 1872. This artificial lake is spread over 84 square kms. Where the lake now lies, was once an area having palaces and gardens of two rulers of Jodhpur. They were destroyed to make the Kaylana Lake. Near to the lake is a Dak Bungalow of PHED, the Irrigation department. There are also boating facilities available for the tourists here.

An ideal picnic spot for tourists, this lake offers a breathtaking view of the sunset. At that time the sky looks like a canvas splashed with spectacular colors. Kaylana Lake is the perfect place to relax or have picnics. If you are interested in birds, then, this place will further interest you. Also known by the name of Pratap Sagar, the area around this lake was once full of wild bears. It served as a secured hunting place for the royal members. But, with the increase in population it has not remained so.

Don’t even try to swim in this if you are not an expert swimmer. Better still, don’t swim at all. Many youngsters trying to swim across this deep lake have lost their lives. Inspite of this, Kaylana Lake is a charming picnic spot. The beauty of this place will keep on lingering with you for a long time after your visit.

Sardar Samand Lake Jodhpur

Near to the city of Jodhpur is the Sardar Samand Lake. The lake lays 60-kms south-east of Jodhpur off the Jodhpur - Pali route. The scenery of this lake is fascinating. SardarSamand Lake attracts countless varieties of migratory birds. So, if you are a bird watcher, this is the place to be. Also enchanted by its placid waters are tourists who come to enjoy peace and solitude of the place.
While on your way to Sardar Samand Lake from Jodhpur, one may even spot feely roaming wildlife of the region, especially the Black Buck, Neelgai and Chinkara. Even the rote presents you with an interesting drive, keeping you entranced. The countryside with its lively villages and smiling village folk offers you taste of the region’s hospitality. The route also passes through the Bishnoi villages, an old community.

The lake as well as the route to the lake, provides a virtual treat to photographers. On a hill overlooking the Sardar Samand Lake, stands the summer palace of Maharaja Umaid Singh. It was once the hunting lodge of the royal Jodhpur family. It has now been converted into the Sardar Samand Lake Resort. The resort offers some of the most breathtaking views of the magnificent lake.

Fairs and Festivals of Jodhpur

Jodhpur fairs and festivals seem to express the rich culture and traditions Rajasthan. A number of festivals are celebrated in Jodhpur. However the most famous Fairs and festivals in Jodhpur, Rajasthan are:• Marwar Festival •
Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival• Nagaur FairThe Marwar festival is the most talked about and popular festival in Jodhpur. And Nagaur Fair is almost the second biggest fair in India. And the International Desert Kite festival, even being quite recent, is very famous in and around India. These Jodhpur, India fairs and festivals are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Be it young children or the old people, all of them take part in the pomp and show. They serve as a platform to perform local customs that have been there since times immemorial. So, if you are planning to visit Jodhpur, try to come at such a time so as to experience the popular fairs and festivals here.

Accommodation in Jodhpur

The problem of places to stay inJodhpur can be easily tackled. There are a number of Hotels inJodhpur. Accommodation inJodhpur, Rajasthan is available to suit tourists of every budget. Low budget accommodation is also easily available in Jodhpur.Following are some of the popularJodhpur, India Hotels:

• Hotel Karni Bhawan
• Hotel Ajit Bhawan
• Ghoomar Hotel
• Umaid Bhawan Palace
• Ratanada Polo Palace
• Taj Hari Mahal Jodhpur
• Rajputana Palace
• Raj Basera

Apart from these, there are a number of low budget hotels also for accommodation. Still other options for staying include Guest houses. Anywhere you stay in Jodhpur, you will always feel at home.

Marwar Festival Jodhpur:The most popular Jodhpur festival is the Jodhpur Marwar Festival. It is held every year in memory of the heroes of Rajasthan. Marwar Festival of Jodhpur, Rajasthan was originally known as the Maand Festival. The festival is held in the month of Ashwin. Ashwin is a Hindu month between September-October. The Marwar festival in Jodhpur, India is celebrated during the full moon of Sharad Poornima. It goes on for two days.The main attraction of this festival is the folk music centered on the romantic lifestyle of Rajasthan’s rulers. The music and dance of the Marwar region is the main theme of this festival. The folk dancers and singers assemble at the festival and provide lively entertainment. These folk artists give others a peek into the days of yore, of battles and of the heroes who still live on through their songs.Among other attractions at the festival, is the camel tattoo show and polo. The venue of this festival includes the famous Umaid Bhawan Palace, Mandore and Mehrangarh Fort. Jodhpur International Desert Kite Festival.

The International kite festival of Jodhpur:

Rajasthan began only a few years. However, even in such a short span of time, it has become quite popular. In the Jodhpur International Desert Kite festival, the best kite flyers from India as well as rest of the world take part. The aim is to show of your kite flying skills. A lot of excitement surrounds this festival. Generally, the date of this Kite Festival in India is 14th January (Makar Sankranti). It is a three-day festival, held at the Polo Ground in Jodhpur. Air Force helicopters also release a large number of kites from above. Hundreds of schoolchildren also release balloons. During the kite festival, the sky gets filled up with kites of various designs and colors. There is a lot of enthusiasm among the people also regarding this festival. It reaches the highest point when a kite gets cut. The festival has the following two competitions.

Nagaur Fair:

The Jodhpur Nagaur Fair is the second biggest fair in India. The fair goes on for eight days. Nagaur Fair of Jodhpur, Rajasthan is held every year during the month of Jan-Feb. It is popularly known as the Cattle fair of Nagaur. This is because the Nagaur Fair is mainly all about trading of animals. Approximately 70,000 bullocks, camels and horses are traded every year in this fair. The animals lavishly decorated and even their owners dress up wearing colorful turbans and long moustaches. Other trading in the Nagaur Fair in Jodhpur, India consists of sheep to Marwari horses to spices. Some other attractions include the Mirchi bazaar (largest red-chilly market of India), wooden items, iron-crafts and camel leather accessories. There is a lot of sports activity also in the fair. The sports range from tug-of-war, camel races to bullock races to cock fights. Nagaur fair is also famous for its jugglers, puppeteers, storytellers, etc. For further entertainment, there is the folk music of the Jodhpur echoing throughout the fair

Accommodation in Jodhpur

 

The problem of places to stay inJodhpur can be easily tackled. There are a number of Hotels inJodhpur. Accommodation inJodhpur, Rajasthan is available to suit tourists of every budget. Low budget accommodation is also easily available in Jodhpur.Following are some of the popularJodhpur, India Hotels:

• Hotel Karni Bhawan
• Hotel Ajit Bhawan
• Ghoomar Hotel
• Umaid Bhawan Palace
• Ratanada Polo Palace
• Taj Hari Mahal Jodhpur
• Rajputana Palace
• Raj Basera

Apart from these, there are a number of low budget hotels also for accommodation. Still other options for staying include Guest houses. Anywhere you stay in Jodhpur, you will always feel at home.

Jodhpur Culture

Jodhpur is set at the edge of the Thar Desert. This imperial city echoes with tales of antiquity in the emptiness of the desert. In the past, it was the capital of the Marwar state, founded in 1459 A.D. by Rao Jodha – the chief of the Rathore clan of Rajputs. A high wall -10 km long with 8 gates and innumerable bastions encompasses the city. It was once a major trade center. Jodhpur is now the second largest city of Rajasthan. Regarding the Jodhpur culture, the Jodhpuri people are amongst the most hospitable people of India. They have a typical Marwari accent.The lifestyle in Jodhpur, India is quite fascinating. The folks there wear nice and lovely multihued costumes. The women folk wear wide gathered skirts and a hip length jacket, with three quarter length sleeves, covering the front and back. Women are also love to wear jewelry on many parts of their body. They particularly like to wear specific type of jewelry like the ones worn on the feet, head, forehead, ear, nose, neck, arms, wrist, fingers, waist, etc. Another one of the unique features of the culture of Jodhpur, Rajasthan is the colorful turbans worn by men. The popular tight, horse riding trousers, ‘Jodhpurs’, took their name from this city only. The main languages spoken here are Hindi, Marwari and Rajasthani.
The graceful palaces, forts and temples strewn throughout the city bring alive the historic grandeur of this city. Lending a romantic aura to Jodhpur, are its exquisite handicrafts, folk dances, folk music and the brightly attired people. The desert people are quite affable. With their sweet smiles and warm hospitality, they win the hearts of the tourists. The famous Marwar festival brings out the festive spirits of the people of this city. The bazaars of Jodhpur have a range of items from tie & dye textiles, embroidered leather shoes, lacquerware, antiques, carpets and puppets to the exquisite Rajasthani textiles, clay figurines, miniature camels and elephants, marble inlay work and classic silver jewellery.

 

 

Jodhpur Cuisine

 

 

Jodhpur has a number of restaurants and eating-places. You can every cuisine in Jodhpur, ranging from Indian to Chinese to Continental to Mughlai cuisine. While there, do not forget to try the famous Kachouri (a snack eaten with chutney). Those with a sweet tooth should try laddoos, which simply melt in your mouth. And not to forget, do have a tall glass of buttermilk or ‘lassi’.A number of Indian delicacies have also originated inJodhpur. Following are some of the famous Jodhpur cuisines. Read on to know “What to eat in Jodhpur, Rajasthan”:

• Makhaniya Lassi
• Mawa Kachori
• Pyaaz Kachori
• Hot & Spicy Mirchibada (A preparation made with potato, onion, chili and gram flour)
• Panchkuta.

Jodhpur is also famous for its sweets. It is like a tradition in Jodhpur to first have something sweet and then proceed on to the main course. The sweet hospitality of Jodhpuris known as Mithi Manuhar. Maybe this is the reason for the sweet tone of the people ofJodhpur.

Some of the popular sweets of Jodhpur are:

• Mave ki Kachori
• Besan ki Chaaki
• Maakhan Vade

Regarding eating out in Jodhpur, India some of the shops where you can find quality as well as variety in sweets are:

• Janta Sweet Home
• Jodhpur Sweet Home

Shopping in Jodhpur

Jodhpur is famous now, all over the world for handicrafts in wood, iron and camel bone.There are a lot of fabric shops, selling ‘bandhini’ (very fine tie & dye), hand block prints, silver shops selling jewellery by weight, and antique shops.
The Sadar Market near the clock tower gives immense shopping pleasure to the local as well as the visitors.The colourful but hectic bazaar consists of many narrow lanes, lined with tiny shops. Look for the tie & dye textiles, embroidered leather shoes, lacquerware, antiques, carpets and puppets. Here one can buy exquisite Rajasthani textiles, clay figurines, miniature camels and elephants, marble inlay work and classic silver jewellery.Most Popular Items of JodhpurAntiques
Bandhini
Footwear
Mathaniya’s Red Chilli

Jodhpur is a veritable shopper’s paradise. There are so many markets to fulfill your thrust of shopping viz. Tripolia bazaar, Sarafa bazar, Sardarpura Market, Sojati Gate, National Handloom is most popular departmental shop where one will find all types of accessories and cloths situated in Nai Sarak and if you are tired with shopping take Jodhpur speciality- Mrichi bada and some sweets available near this shop. Jodhpur is home to many talented and skilled craftsmen like textile dyers, metal engravers and’die-makers, and probably the last of the tailors of the classic ‘Jodhpur’ breeches. Specially Jodhpuri suit gives you a royal identity to your dressing.

 For Tourist Interest

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTERSRegional Tourist Office(Jodhpur Division) – Tourist Research Centre, Hotel Ghoomar, High Court Road,Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Tel. – +(91)–0291–2545083Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation Ltd. (RTDC) -

Tourist Centre, Hotel Swagatam, Office Annexe Near Railway Station, Jaipur – 302 006 (Rajasthan) India .
Tel. – +(91)-141-2203531 / 2202586 / 2202152; Fax – +(91)-141-2201045.

Department of Tourism, Government of Rajasthan (DOTGOR) -

Paryatan Bhawan, Govt. Hostel Campus, M.I. Road Jaipur 302 001 (Rajasthan) India
Tel. – +(91)-141-2370180 / 2371142 / 2371223; Fax – +(91)-141-2376362

Tourist Reception Centre -

Rajasthan Tourism Bikaner House, Near India Gate New Delhi - 110 001 India
Tel. – +(91)-11-23381884 / 23389525 / 23386069; Fax. – +(91)-11-23382823

How to Go – Jodhpur

 

AIR: The airport is 5km from city centre. The Indian Airlines Office is south of the Centre on Airport Road and is open daily from 10 am to 1pm and 2 pm to 4.30 pm. It has flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Udaipur and Jaipur.RAIL/TRAIN The city is well connected by the railway lines and trains are available from all major cities in the country for here. The booking office is on Station Road, between the railway station and Sojati Gate. The office is open from Monday to Saturday from 8 am to s pm and only until 1.45 pm on Sunday.ROAD: RSTC buses and private luxury buses connect Jodhpur with almost all major places of Rajasthan.

Local Transport: Means of transport in Jodhpur include Taxis, Auto-rickshaws, Tongas. Taxi stand is near the main railway station. Auto-rickshaws are best suited for traversing the narrow lanes of the old city. Jodhpur is a good place to explore by bicycle.

Jodhpur Weather

Jodhpur Climate is of an extreme type, with the variations in temperature range being very high. Weather in Jodhpur, Rajasthan is dry and hot, a typical desert weather. The average annual rainfall is approximately 32 cm. In summer, the maximum temperature is around 42 deg and the minimum temperature is around 37 deg C. In winters, the maximum temperature is around 27.5 deg C and the minimum temperature is around 15.5 deg C. Jodhpur is bright and sunny throughout the year. The best season to visit the city is between October and March, when the climatic conditions in Jodhpur, India are the best.