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Jodhpur

The imperial city of Jodhpur, founded in the year 1459AD, is named after the founder, Roa Jodha. The city, set at the edge of the Thar Desert echoes of tales of antiquity. The Rajput clan of this place claims themselves to be the descendents of Rama, the hero of the Ramayana.

Jodhpur, the fortress city was a major trade center during the 16th century, and is now the second largest city of Rajasthan graced with palaces, forts and temples, all of which brings back to life the historic romantic aura of the city. The turban wear and the folk costumes adds mystic colour to the city.

Location
The city is located in the Thar Desert in western Rajasthan at a distance of 332 km of Jaipur and 621 kms from Delhi.

Climate
The temperature of Jodhpur ranges from a maximum of 40°C in the summers to a minimum of 11°C, with an average rainfall of 359.5 mm. November and March are the best time for a journey to Jodhpur with pleasant and sunny days.

Major Attractions

Mehrangarh Fort - One of the collossal forts of India constructed on the sloppy terrains of the Aravalli hills, the fort speaks epics of red sandstones. Set on the 125 meter high hilltop, it can be reached by an upbent road. The fort built originally in the early part of the 19th century displays its exquisitely carved panels and porches and the decorated wall in the Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, and Daulat Khana.

The fort has its own appeal with brilliantly stained glass, narrow stair cases built to access the royal residence and the crafted furnitures and palanquins. The three gates of the fort commemorates the victory of the fort over its enemies.

The Umaid Bhawan Palace - The Palace is also known as the Chittor Palace since it is built with sandstone brought from Chittor in the 20th century. The palace took 16 years to get completed, and has a western touch as it was designed by the British Royal Institute of Architects. The palace has 300 rooms along with its own theater, 8 large dinning rooms and a banquet hall of 300 seating capacity. The ball rooms is designed in western style and the swimming pool with mosaic of zodial symbols. Now the Palace has been converted to a heritage hotel and still houses the royal family.

Balsammand Lake & Palace - This 19th century sandstone palace built on the hillocks facing Balsammund lake is one unique place that offer the pleasure of recreation in a palace by the side of a beautiful lake. Created by Maharaja Sur Singh as a summer retreat it is finely carved with latticed windows that allows the breeze to flow in to the interiors of the palace .The dome structured embarkments offers a fantastic view of the hills .The palace being situated in Mandora enjoys the calm life away from the city.

Marwar Festivals - The Marwar festival is held in the month of September and October when the full moon is seen. The festival reforms the Marwar territory in to dance and festivity with lively performance by the artists on folk music and traditional culture. Visitors often go to the place to view the festival in its full blossom.

Nearby Attractions

Mehrangarh Fort Museum - The Government Museum or the Mehrangarh Fort Museum is adorned with opulent accumulation of weapons, fabric, midget portraits, paintings and sculptures of Jain Tirthankars. Most prominent ones to go for a closer view are the Palanquin Gallery and Howdah Gallery which treasures ancient age specimens.

Shopping
Jodhpur is famous for its tie and dye work, hand woven carpets, leather shoes with embroidery work and puppets. Sadar Market is the main shopping area, with many shops allured with silver ornaments, marble stone work and clay work.