There is something magical about Jodhpur and you realize this the moment you set your eyes on the palatial beauty of its architecture and wade through its sun-kissed alleyways. Perched atop a rocky cliff, the city of Jodhpur serves as an oasis of beauty amidst the vast sandy desert. Fondly dubbed as the 'Sun City,' the imperial of Jodhpur, with its rich culture, splendor and historical legacy definitely serves as a testimony of Rajasthan's glorious historical past. The palatial palaces, rambling forts, majestic temples and other monuments offer a sneak-peek into the exotic spectrum of the city's heritage. Added to this are the irresistible shopping attractions of this place, which is nothing short of a visual treat. However, the joys of Jodhpur aren't just restricted to sightseeing and shopping alone. Come here, dunk your jaws in princely feast, and savor the authentic Marwari cuisine. Go ahead and explore the article to know more about tourist attractions in Jodhpur.
Tourist Attractions In Jodhpur
Mehrangarh Fort
Mehrangarh Fort, located in heart of the city, is one of the finest and most attractive forts in India. The glorious fort, situated on a hillock at a height of 125 m, gives a birds view of the entire city. Spread over an area of 5 km, the fort has seven beautiful gates to welcome its vistors. Huge number of tourists visits this place every year to have a glimpse of Rajput glory. Along with the vast collections of artillery system, the fort is home to some of the spectacular palaces like Phool Mahal, Moti Mahal and Sheesh Mahal. As you keep wandering in the fort area, don't forget to explore the stunning museum, which boasts of a wide collection of books, literature and some of the unique and best handicrafts.
Umaid Bhawan Palace
Umaid Bhawan Palace, another interesting landmark of Jodhpur, is situated at the top of Chittar Hill and allures tourists by its stunning beauty and amazing architecture. A 20th century monument, the palace was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh in order to provide employment to nearly 3000 famine hit people of Rajasthan. Built between 1923 and 1940, the palace is highly praised for its rose sandstone and marble structure, which adds a romantic appeal to this lavishly carved palace of Jodhpur. Popularly known as Chittar Mahal by locals, presently the palace serves as the residence to former rulers, while a part of it stands tall as a heritage hotel and the remaining part of it has been converted into a museum where you can enjoy the wonderful display of royal swords, war costumes, miniature paintings and noted antiques.
Jaswant Thada
Jaswant Thada, located near Mehrangarh Fort, acts as a spectacular example of Rajput glory. The monument, built in 1899 in the memory of famous Rajput ruler Jaswant Singh II, serves as the shrine of the king. As per the legends, Maharaj Jaswant Singh succumbed to injuries in this place during the fight with the great Mughal king Jahangir. The white marble beauty of the cenotaph has the power to captivate your attention with intricate latticework, elaborate carvings, mesmerizing gardens and brilliant portraits of great Jodhpur rulers. A separate section dedicated to the brave queens of Jaswant Singh who committed sati on death of king adds grandeur to the monument with the beautiful sculptures and ornamented pillars. With all the captured beauty in its womb, Jaswant Thada is the must visit place on your trip to Jodhpur.
Mahamandir Temple
Situated at Mandore Road, the Mahamandir temple is an architectural gem. Constructed in the year 1812, the magnificent temple is renowned for its carvings on stones, sculptures and elaborate pillars ornamented with attractive yogic postures. As you enter the temple, the serenity of the surroundings makes you lose yourself to the divine blessing of Lord Shiva situated in the shrine.
Rai Ka Bag Palace
Rai Ka Bag Palace, situated near city's railway station, was constructed in 1663 by Hadiji, the queen of King Jaswant Singh I. It was one of the favorite places of Jaswant Singh II, where he has spent most of his life. Later in 1883, during the visit of Swami Dayanand Saraswati, arrangements were made in this palace for his public audience who came to listen his divine speech.
Government Museum
Among the list of appealing tourist attractions of Jodhpur, the government museum is the most attractive landmark, which seeks attention of every tourist of the city. Situated in Umaid public garden in High Court Road, the museum was built during the reign of Maharaja Umed Signhji. The beautiful architecture of the museum houses wide collection of weapons, royal clothes, handicrafts, miniature portraits and sculptures. Along with innovative collected works, there is a public library and zoo in the lush green Umaid gardens. If you like to explore the major attractions of museum then you can pay a visit on any day expect Friday and national holidays from 10 am to 5 pm.
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