Toorji Ka Jhalra

Toorji Ka Jhalra built in 1740, generally called stepwell of Jodhpur, is a mind boggling design of stepwell, one of only a handful few residual structures delineating the conventional water the board system of Jodhpur. This structural ponder was built by the ruler associate of Maharaja Abhaya Singh, an indication of the well-established convention of the locale where illustrious ladies were responsible for directing general society water works. The plan and architecture enable spectators to appreciate the way of life of the prior ages who had utilized it in its prime, with the site filling in as the neighborhood watering opening for now is the right time.

This 250-year-old architecture of Toorji ka Jhalra was made using the well-known rose-red sandstone found in Jodhpur. In excess of 200 feet top to bottom, it was once decorated with mind boggling carvings of moving elephants, medieval lions, cow waterspouts, and specialties that indicated different divinities. There were two dimensions of access and a different tank which were intended to get water from the wheel system controlled by the bullocks. Its noteworthy plan draws in numerous travellers, and is viewed as a fun place by local people and guests to take part in innocuous, recreational water amusements so as to beat the warmth.

History of the Stepwell
This impressive stepwell known as Toorji ka Jhalra was constructed by Jodhpur’s ruler Maharaja Abhay Singh Ji’s spouse Maharani Tanwar Ji in the year 1740. She was better known by the name Toorji Ji among the people of Jodhpur. Baolis or step-wells were built by the ladies of the royal families as an ancestral tradition. This stepwell of Toorji was another one in the continuity of that tradition and was a part of the water harvesting system of the city. Fetching water from such water bodies had always been among the most important daily tasks of women in those times. A sense of community prevailed in them while they all gathered at such places to discuss daily kinds of stuff. It still needs some attention for raising its importance for the tourists, as most of the common visitors just skip this location due to the marvelous Mehrangarh Fort, which is just 3 kilometers from here.

Architecture of Toorji Ka Jhalra
Toorji Ka Jhalra, like many other stepwells, was designed to accommodate the fluctuating water table. The structure is made such that it provides access to groundwater all through the year. The architecture includes a series of diverging and converging steps leading to the water table. The entire well is made up of red sandstone and runs over 200 feet deep. It has two access levels of water and a separate tank at the bottom. The stepwell originally had a Persian Wheel which was driven with the help of bullocks by making them walk in a circle over the platform on the top to draw water. Toorji Ka Jhalra also has tiny chambers/ cabinets under most staircases that probably were used to keep a lantern or light a fire to aid climbing up and down during the night. The Jhalra is also adorned with sculpture of Gods, Goddesses and animals. The water spouts in the stepwell are also carved out of stone. The topmost level has a patio in the traditional Chhatri style. The two levels of the stepwell also have protruding Jharokhas and a corridor from where one can get a good top view of the well. The walls have some carvings but the structure mostly is simple yet quite elegant.

Best Time to Visit Toorji ka Jhalra
The best time to visit the spot is during the early morning hours or during the evening for enjoying the chilling vibes of the place. People are found swimming and diving into the waters from the raised platforms which gives a sense of happy life.

How To Reach Toorji Ka Jhalra
Toorji ka Jhalra is located in Gulab Sagar Makrana Mohalla on Sutharo ka Bas Road in Jodhpur. From the city centre, the attraction is located about 4.5 kilometres away and can be accessed via the NH 62 – Ratanada Road route. There is another route, which is a longer road, to the stepwell that goes through NH 62 – Harish Joshi Marg (6.2 kilometre stretch from the city centre). The Jodhpur Bus Station and the Jodhpur Airport are located about 6 kilometres away from Toorji Ka Jhalra. The Railway Junction is just about 2.5 kilometres away from it. Public transport works just fine for tourists to reach the attraction. Many reach the central area of Sardar Market or Ghanta Ghar and explore the region till the stepwell on foot. But taxis or auto rickshaws can be easily hired in Jodhpur or one can also take a local bus ride.