Jodhpur, once the capital of the former princely state of Marwar, is now the second largest city of Rajasthan.
Flanked on its western side by the Meherangarh fort and on the eastern side by the stately sandstone palace of Umaid Bhawan, the monuments, temples and gardens of Jodhpur depict a multi-faceted grandeur.
Founded in 1459 by Rao Jodha, Jodhpur gradually grew around the towering Meharangarh fort. A flourishing trading center in the 16th century, Jodhpur is still one of the leading centers of wool, cattle, camels, salt and agricultural crops. It boasts of some very fine reminders of its glorious past - palaces, temples and other elegant monuments of architectural and historical value.
This formidable fort is among the best in India with exquisitely latticed windows in residential apartments within. Carved panels and porches, elaborately adorned walls and windows of Moti Mahal, Phool Mahal, Sheesh Mahal, Sileh Khana and Daulat Khana seem to make the madieval splendor come alive. A collection of musical instruments, palanquins, furniture and cannons on the fort's ramparts are well preserved.
Close to the fort lies this 19th century royal cenotaph, built in white marble, in commemoration of Maharaja Jaswant Singh. Rare portraits of Jodhpur's rulers are also displayed here.
The only palace to be built in the 20th century, as a famine relief project which gave employment to people for 16 years. Its sculpted lawns with sandstone pavements and bougainvillea bushes, are a soothing sight in the midst of this desert city. The palace now runs as a hotel, though a part of it has been retained as a museum and part as royal residence.
The former capital of Marwar, north of Jodhpur. Worth seeing are the old cenotaphs and caves in the crags which once sheltered ascetics. The exquisite landscaped gardens come alive with peacocks and monkeys and the sprawling greenery. Set against a rocky wall is a pillared compound, housing the "Hall of the Heroes" and "Shrine of 330 million Gods".
OSIANLocated at about 65 kms. from Jodhpur, The temples of Osian belong to two periods. The Jain Mahavir Temple is unique among the Osian temples, with the vaulted design of its hall-ceiling. The main Sachiya Mata Temple was constructed in 1178 AD and has a shikhar clustered by two rows of turrets and a large assembly hall.
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