Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur
The
Mehrangarh Fort is the most impressive fortress in Rajasthan. The 5 km
long ramparts of the fort, perched on a 125 metre - high rocky cliff in
the middle of the city, has four gates which can be approached by a
winding road. The fort offers a panoramic view of the surrounding
landscape. Inside the fort, one can see magnificent palaces adorned with
intricately carved panels and latticed windows. The palaces have
evocative names, like Moti-Mahal, Phool-Mahal, Sheesh-Mahal, Sileh-Khana
and Daulat-Khana. To match their character. These Palaces house a
fabulous collection of trappings of Indian royalty - Palanquins,
Elephant Howdahs, miniature paintings of various schools, music
instruments, costumes and furniture.Umaid Bhawan Palace, Jodhpur
At
the start of the 20th century, a western-style palace was built to help
people of Jodhpur during famine. It took 16 years for the palace to take
shape. This stately mansion with nearly 350 rooms and an imposing
central dome has the distinction of having been one of the largest
private residences of the world. The opulent edifice in sand stone is
now partly the residence of the descendants of Jodhpur Kingdom, while
the rest of the monument is home to star hotel and a museum. The museum
houses a rare collection of rocks, watches, fine china, ornate mirrored
furniture, glass and crystal ware and photographs.Jaswant Thada, Jodhpur
This cluster of royal cenotaphs in white marble built in 1899 A.D. in memory of Maharaja Jaswant Singh II, also houses the portraits of various kings who ruled Jodhpur in the past.
Mandore, Jodhpur
Mandore
was the capital of the ancient Marwar Empire, prior to the foundation of
the city of Jodhpur. Extensive gardens with the rock terraces make this
historic city even more enchanting. The soaring temple shaped memorial
to Maharaja Ajit Singh here is the largest and the finest of all the
cenotaphs of Jodhpur rulers. It houses the "Hall of Heroes"
which contains 16 figures of Hindu deities and local heroes on horse
back.Girdikot and Sardar Market, Jodhpur
These colourful markets with tiny shops dotting the narrow lanes are situated in the heart of the city. The markets have a wide range of handicrafts on offer, making them a popular haunt for shoppers.
Kailana lake, Jodhpur
The charming picnic spot with a small artificial lake is situated on the Jaisalmer road, 11 km from the city. It is delightful spot to watch the sunset from.
Bal Samand Lake, Jodhpur
Originally constructed as a bund by Balak Rao Parihar and enlarged by Maharaja Sur Singh, this spot overlooks a fine artificial lake. The Bal Samand lake is located 7 km from city.
