Princely States of Jodhpur

With ages-old ravishing forts and palaces, ancient temples, scenic landscape, and rich cultural & traditional heritage, Jodhpur is a princely state in India that has been intriguing tourists from around the globe for years. The city has to showcase umpteen architectural masterpieces constructed during the royal India. Here we will endeavor to unearth why this city is so peachy.

Popularly known as the “Sun City”, Jodhpur is a historic city, roots back to 1459 AD when it was founded by Rao Jodha – the fifteenth ruler of the Rathore clan. This seductive city is also known as the “Blue City” for the blue colour that elegantly decorates many of the houses in the old city area. Jodhpur is the second largest city in the Indian state of Rajasthan that is divided into two parts, namely the old city and the new city. A 10 km long 16th century wall, having eight gates, encompasses the old city. The atmospheric new city stretches well beyond the walled city that captivates the tourists’ eye-balls.

The old city is really blue! Inside the city is snarl of spiraling medieval streets, aroma of incense and roses, with sprawling bazaars (local market) selling almost everything from sarees to shoes, trumpet and temple decorations to crafts, spices and tea. Moreover, tourists can relish savory local foods served with the essence of Rajasthan’s pleasing hospitality.

Apart, Jodhpur city has lots of enticing places, forts and monuments to enthral the tourists. Some of the prominent attractions of the city are:

The Mehrangarh Fort

Spread over 3 miles, the mighty Mehrangarh Fort is situated atop 125 meter elevated hill at the center of the city. This magnificent fort itself was constructed by Rao Jodha in 1459 AD following an advice from a holy man to move his capital to a hilltop safety because the one thousand years old Mandore fort was deteriorating steadily which was no longer thought-out a safe place for the capital. This alluring fort elegantly mirrors the majesty of the royal India.

A six meters thick wall had built up encompassing the fort for unassailable safety. The wall still witnesses the cannon marks it had once endured. Other exquisite places that must not be missed during the Mehrangarh fort visit are: The gallery that wonderfully portraits the splendid history, the royalty and the rich cultural heritage of Rajasthan. Daulat Khana, Elephant’ Howdahs, Palanquins, the Turban Gallery, Armoury and Painting. Exploring each of these sections would definitely be your life’s treasured memories.

The Jaswant Thada

The Jaswant Thada is a specimen of architectural brilliance in India, built in the 19th century as the mausoleum of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II. Usually known as the “Taj Mahal of Mewar”, the famous Jaswant Thada is built using intricately carved sheets of marbles. The outside surface of the monument is finely polished that radiates soothing glow when the sunrays fall on it.

The Umaid Bhawan Palace

The enticing Umaid Bhawan Palace was built between 1929 – 1947 by Maharaja Umaid Singh. The 347-roomed alluring palace is placed on the highest point in Jodhpur. The palace boasts on its architectural excellence with fusion of Indian and European style of architecture.

The former royal family still use a part of the palace as a residence, while the other parts have turned into a museum and Taj Palace Hotel.

The Rai Ka Baag Palace

The Rai Ka Baag Palace is another prominent tourist attraction in the princely state of Jodhpur. The palace was built in 1663 AD by the queen of Maharaja Jaswant Singh I, Hadiji, and located near the Raika Bag Palace railway station.

Also worth exploring are Balsamand Lake, Kailana Lake, Rao Jodha Desert Rock Park, Mandore Gardens, Clock Tower and many more. You could also tranquilize your shopping spree as the city offers a host of unique handicrafts, silver jewelry, antiques, miniature and so on.

You can explore Jodhpur by traveling any of the three itineraries of Maharajas’ Express – The Jewels of India, The Indian Splendour or The Heritage of India.

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