JODHPUR VACATIONS

Jodhpur - Emerald in Sand

Rising majestically over the wrapping sand dunes of the Thar is the fascinating city of Jodhpur. The impressive Mehrangarh Fort lies perched on top of a hill rising in tears from the rocky and rugged terrain. Situated on the edge of the Thar desert protected by Jaisalmer on its west, Barmar, Jalor and Pali in the south, Bikaner in the north and Nagaur on the east, Jodhpur is a major tourist attraction and the second largest city of Rajasthan. Renowned for its opulent forts and palaces, the city established in 1459 is named after its founder Rao Jodha, a chief of the Rajput clan. The city's defence system was one of a kind bordered by a 10 km long stone wall and more than 100 towers surrounded by defensive battlements.

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Mehrangarh Fort
Perched atop a steep hill, Mehrangarh is one of the largest and most beautiful forts in India. The ancient fort stands as a mock narrator of the rich past and the glory of a bygone era where skilled craftsmen and sculptures constructed opulent palaces that each narrate a saga of its own. Seven giant gates lead to the inside of the majestic fortress which still bear the marks of many a fierce battles fought to establish supremacy. The fort could never be conquered inspite of repeated attempts, a fact not too surprising after witnessing the unvanquishable walls which are an incredible 17 feet thick and 68 feet high at places.

Jaswant Thada
Situated on the way to the fort is the elegant marble memorial of Maharajah Jaswant Singh II - Jaswant Thada. Commissioned by his son and successor, maharajah Sardar Singhji, the opulent structure is also often referred to as the Taj Mahal of Marwar. The primary memorial has been built like a temple adorned with intricately done murals of scenes depicting the life in those days. The glory of the snow white structure has remained preserved and even today the sun rays reflecting of it present a refreshing sight.

Umaid Bhawan
The gilded Umaid Bhawan palace has remained preserved with beautiful corridors, staircases and hallways, one of the major reasons that evokes the curiosity of tourists. A wondrous construction in beige sandstone, the palace was commissioned by Maharajah Umaid Singh in 1928 and designed by the British Royal Institute of Architects, a reason for the perfect fusion of the myriad architectural characteristics it displays. There is so much to admire and awe at, such as the royal ballrooms, huge dining enclosures, magnificent furniture, crystal chandeliers, stained glass windows, tiger and deer skins adorned on the walls and much much more.

Mandore
The former capital of Marwar, Mandore, situated just 9 km from Jodhpur, is a fascinating blend of lush gardens, royal cenotaphs, beautifully sculpted temples and age old ruins. The opulently constructed cenotaphs built in the memory of members of the royal family are intricately carved structures with colorful murals of gods, goddesses and other figures from Hindu mythology adorning the walls. The largest of the cenotaphs is consecrated to maharajah Ajit Singh.