Jodhpur Places To Visit

Places to Visit in 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, Mandore Garden 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, Umaid Bhawan Palace Jodhpur.

Mehrangarh Fort
The Mehrangarh Fort sits on a 125m hill with battlements that touch the sky. It is an imposing bastion that rises above the Blue City. You enter via Jayapol (Victory Gate) into a vast complex of courtyards and palaces. All the structures here are shining examples of Rajput architecture starting with Sheesh Mahal (Palace of Mirrors). This was Maharaja Ajit Singh’s bed chamber, intricately decorated with mirror work. The ceiling is adorned with spherical European chandeliers while the arches have painted gesso panels depicting scenes from Hindu mythology.

Jaswant Thada
A centotaph like none other, the pristine white Jaswant Thada was built in the 19th century by Maharaja Sardar Singh in memory of his father. The beautiful onion-shaped domes of this majestic structure made of pure white marble are a great example of Rajasthani craftsmanship.

Umaid Bhawan Palace & Museum
One of the world’s largest royal residences, the Umaid Bhwan Palace needs no introduction. Perched on a sprawling 26 acres on Chittar Hill on the outskirts of Jodhpur, the palace was commissioned by the King Umaid Singh to provide employment to his famine stricken subjects. The gigantic art-deco palace designed by British architect Henry Vaughan Lanchester featuring 347 rooms was finally completed in 1943. While most of the palace was converted into a luxury hotel, a part of it functions as a museum. You can see photos of the inaccessible parts of the palace here. It has a brilliant collection of weapons and clocks that is worth checking out. Don’t miss the king’s vintage car collection on display at the front lawn.

Mandore Gardens
For a relaxing time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, head to Mandore Gardens, located only 9 km away from the city. Onion-domed chhatris and verdant gardens dotted with deep-red cenotaphs of the kings of Jodhpur make for quite a visual treat. One of the most intriguing cenotaphs is that of Maharaja Dhiraj Ajit Singh that fuses the elements of Buddhist and Jain style of architecture. This magnificent pillared structure is with carved elephants and many other sculptures. It was here that 64 of Ajit Singh’s wives and concubines commited sati upon his death.

Balsamand Lake
Just 5 km away from the main city, the 12th century water reservoir built by the royal family as a part of summer retreat. It makes for an picnic spot outside the city. Surrounded by all kinds of fruit trees, the summer palace next to the lake now functions as a five-star heritage hotel.

Ghanta Ghar
What the Big Ben is to London, the Ghanta Ghar is to Jodhpur. A famous landmark in the old city, it is enclosed by the vibrant and chaotic Sadar Market. Hole-in-the wall shops bustling with activity as you walk down the narrow alleys. The distinct architecture lends this 19th century market a lovely old world charm. Shopaholics will find Ghanta Ghar one of the most electrifying places to visit in Jodhpur.